Three celebrated fish and chip shops from the West Midlands have been honoured as some of the very best in the country, securing coveted spots in the Fry Awards 2026 top 50 takeaways list.
Celebrated Local Winners
The prestigious awards, now in their fourteenth year, have recognised excellence across the UK's takeaway and restaurant scene. For the West Midlands region, the three establishments that made the elite list are Fiddlers Elbow Fish & Chips in Leintwardine, Herefordshire; Harley’s Fish Bar in Great Barr, Birmingham; and The Big Chippy in Dudley, West Midlands.
Harley's Fish Bar, a beloved local institution, shared its pride on social media. The team posted on Facebook: “We’re incredibly proud to share that Harleys Fish Bar has officially been named one of the Top 50 Fish & Chip Takeaways in the UK for 2026.” They highlighted their long-standing heritage, adding, “Saggs has been serving local generations since 1982, and those same values of hard work, pride, and putting customers first are at the heart of everything we do today.”
The Rigorous Judging Process
Earning a Fry Award is no simple feat. The organisers revealed that selections were based on months of secret assessments by mystery diners. Takeaways, restaurants, and mobile units were scrutinised on a comprehensive range of criteria including:
- Food quality and taste
- Cleanliness of the premises
- Staff knowledge and service
- Overall value for money
- Ease of ordering and service
- Social media engagement and presence
Only operators achieving the highest scores receive an award, making it a highly sought-after industry accolade. The pass mark for the takeaway category this year was an exceptionally high 97%, with several businesses reportedly achieving a perfect 100% score.
A Triumph for Regional Quality
This recognition places these three West Midlands businesses at the pinnacle of the UK's fish and chip industry. Their success underscores the enduring popularity and high standards of the classic British takeaway within the region. The awards also highlight the critical importance of consistent quality, customer service, and community values in achieving national acclaim.
The full list of winners across the top 50 takeaways and top 10 restaurant categories showcases the best of British fish and chips, with the West Midlands firmly represented by its three deserving champions.
