The Magpie Cafe in Whitby is one of the most famous fish and chip shops in the whole of England. People travel far and wide to try their beautiful chips and crispy-battered fish.
Sitting right on the harbour across from the famous 199 steps, the chippy has become renowned for serving up some of the best fish and chips on the Yorkshire Coast, as well as offering fantastic views of the iconic seaside town.
The seafood restaurant comes highly commended by so many people, that it has made a big name for itself over the years. It first opened back in 1937, but the building goes all the way back to the 18th century, where it was previously used as a merchant’s house. The current owner, Ian Robson, began working there as a fish fryer back in 1979.
Instantly recognisable thanks to its distinctive black and white building overlooking the historic port of Whitby, the chippy is usually seen with queues out of the door as a result of its popularity – not only with new fans, but old ones too.
Why is The Magpie Cafe in Whitby famous?
Yorkshire Chef James Martin has praised The Magpie Cafe for its stunning fish & chips and hefty portions. In our eyes its not a trip to Whitby without paying it a visit. Located harbourside its renowned for its huge queues on the steps and streets with people early waiting some of the best fish and chips Whitby has to offer.
As well as serving up multi award-winning fish and chips, the restaurant serves up seafood chowder and other beautiful locally-sourced fish dishes, raising them above a lot of their competitors and showing exactly why they’ve been around for so many years.
Not your typical pop-in and pop-straight-back-out again chippy, guests can also enjoy a specially-selected wine menu, with many wines pairing perfectly with fish dishes.
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The Magpie menu also includes famous Whitby crab too, being offered as a Whitby Crab Bisque with a crusty bread roll and as a main dish served with chips.
Why is the Magpie Café called the magpie?
Opening back in 1939, the building dates back to 1750 and has a long history with the fishing and whaling industry. The name originates from a ghost magpie called Albert who has haunted the building since its days as a Shipping Office.
Can you book the Magpie Café?
But we all know what we really come to Magpie Cafe for – and that’s the traditional fish and chips, battered to perfection and perfect for a stroll around the historic town. And while we love the option of wine on the menu, it wouldn’t quite be a trip to their chippy without a can of Dandelion & Burdock or a can of Shandy to wash it all down with.
If you’d like to book a visit, you can do so via the website here.
