Yorkshire chef and presenter James Martin has had his say on the best fish and chip shop in the UK – and it might just split opinion. Anyone who’s visited Whitby, North Yorkshire knows there are two chippies that battle it out for the top spot, and it seems Martin has now added his two cents to the argument.
Born in Malton, Martin revealed that one Yorkshire coast eatery is pure “nirvana” for diners while speaking on LNER’s Routes podcast, hosted by Jenni Falconer, when quizzed about his favourite Yorkshire destinations. During the show, he championed The Magpie Café in Whitby, suggesting visitors opt for a large haddock accompanied by mushy peas, salt, vinegar and tartar sauce.
James Martin said: “Go to Whitby, you have to have fish and chips – I think at the Magpie. You’ve got to have a large haddock. A large haddock, mushy peas, your lemon, your tartar sauce, Sarson’s vinegar and your salt.”
He continued: “You sit there and the wind’s howling a gale. You open up this pot of gold and there’s this smell as the steam comes up and hits your nose. The wind’s howling, but as that steam hits your nose, you’re in nirvana – heaven – the absolute pinnacle of fish and chips.”
The Magpie Café is one of the most famous fish and chip shops in England, attracting visitors from far and wide for its beautifully crisp batter and golden chips.
Sitting right on the harbour opposite the famous 199 Steps, the chippy is renowned not only for its food but also for its stunning views of the seaside town. First opened in 1937, the building itself dates back to the 18th century and was once a merchant’s house. Current owner Ian Robson began working there as a fish fryer in 1979.
Instantly recognisable thanks to its distinctive black-and-white exterior overlooking Whitby’s historic port, the Magpie Café is rarely without a queue – a testament to its enduring popularity with both new visitors and loyal regulars.
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