Bath’s culinary reputation has received another boost after a cherished restaurant secured a place among the UK’s top 10 fish and chip establishments in the latest Fry Awards.
As 2026 approaches, Fry Magazine has revealed its exclusive rankings, with Bath’s popular seafood venue proudly flying the flag for the city in the restaurant category. The demanding judging criteria—involving months of anonymous inspections and evaluating everything from food standards and hygiene to service and value—means only venues achieving 96% or above qualify, and this establishment made the grade.
Now in its 13th year, the Fry Awards honour the country’s finest, and this year The Scallop Shell emerges as a genuine Bath treasure. Local gastronomes have plenty to cheer about, as the city’s standing for exceptional cuisine receives official recognition on the national platform.
This marks not the first occasion The Scallop Shell has garnered such acclaim – celebrity chef Marco Pierre White frequents the venue, famously saying: “My favourite restaurant in all of Wiltshire and Somerset is, without question, The Scallop Shell – it serves just the finest food,” according to their website.
Inside diners will discover a welcoming space characterised by timber finishes, with a shabby chic atmosphere, and a menu focusing on seafood. Despite its inland location rather than a traditional coastal setting, the restaurant has claimed one of the premier positions in the awards, demonstrating that exceptional fish and chips can originate from across the UK.
One glowing TripAdvisor review says: “Had a wonderful meal here last night with my husband. First visit, and I would recommend it to anyone. Ate in the little room upstairs, which was lovely.
“Our food was delicious. The best cod in batter I’ve had. Great service too. You can tell all the staff are proud of the restaurant and their food. Would visit again next time we’re in Bath.”
Another diner said: “This restaurant really is exceptional in every way. Beautiful, cosy decor and the most delicious food served by friendly and attentive staff. The beetroot salad was SO yummy, and our fish and chips were fresh and so well cooked.”
A satisfied patron recently described their experience as faultless, commenting: “Probably one of the best date nights we’ve had. Our server Nina was fantastic; she was very attentive and checked in on us. The food was beautifully presented and fresh. Thank you for the lovely hospitality; we will return!”.
The Scallop Shell champions locally sourced, sustainable seafood delivered fresh from British waters, with a proprietor deeply invested in the regional culinary landscape. Spanning two levels, the establishment features an intimate upper dining space available for exclusive bookings, whilst the entire venue welcomes guests during lunch and evening service throughout the week – closing at 3pm on Sundays only.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
