The growing influence of street food presents a clear growth opportunity for fish and chip shops, says the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC), which has developed a range of Norwegian whitefish recipe ideas designed to help operators create bold specials and global flavour twists that build on the classic fish supper.
The ideas were brought to life at NSC’s recent Inspiration Day in London, where Michelin-starred chef Simon Hulstone cooked up crispy haddock hotdogs, poppadom-encrusted saithe and nori-wrapped tempura cod.
The initiative comes as street food-style eating has been identified as a key summer 2026 menu trend, with 54% of consumers interested in trying unique dishes when dining out.
Bjørn-Erik Stabell, UK director at the Norwegian Seafood Council, said: “Fish and chips will always be rooted in UK tradition, but the way people eat out is changing. Street-food-style menus and global flavours are influencing what customers expect, creating a clear growth opportunity for fish and chip shops.
“Through this chef-led inspiration, we want to show how Norwegian whitefish can help operators respond to those changes in a practical way. It’s not about replacing the classic fish supper, but giving customers more reasons to visit while keeping quality, provenance and value at the heart of the offer.”
The Fish Works in Largs, Ayrshire, already serves formats such as haddock bao buns and tacos, which it claims has helped keep the menu exciting and appeal to a younger generation. Owner Tiffany Irvin explains: “For fish and chip shops, innovation is about building on what people already love, and these serves give us a way to keep the menu fresh, create conversation and show just how versatile quality whitefish can be.”
Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers, highlighted the value of creative specials as a test-and-learn opportunity, adding: “Creative specials and limited-time dishes give fish and chip shops a useful way to test new ideas, build customer interest in-store and online, and keep the category moving forward without losing sight of what makes fish and chips special.”
For further menu inspiration and innovative Norwegian whitefish recipe ideas, visit Seafood from Norway’s recipe hub, including Spicy Cajun Fish Finger Brioche Roll, Fish and Chips Bites and Norwegian Cod Tacos.
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