Two fish and chip shops were among 18 takeaways to win accolades at last night’s Just Eat Restaurant Awards held at The Londoner Hotel in Leicester Square.
Chris’s Fish and Chips in Barwell won the Outstanding Achievement Award, introduced exclusively this year to recognise the Leicester chippy for consistently delivering exceptional food and customer service, even during times of personal hardship.
Judges particularly praised owner Strad Kyriacou who, after seeing the stress and anxiety caused by the pandemic to people close to him, embarked on a mental health course so he could better support his family and also recognise customers that might be struggling too.
It is the eighth Just Eat Award for Chris’s.
Family-run O’ My Cod in Bridgend scooped the gong for Best Takeaway in Wales. Launched just 18 months ago, judges described it as a “pillar of the community” for not only delivering top quality fish and chips but also supporting those in need.
Owners Kelly and Christopher Western regularly provide warming and hearty meals to local homeless people in the area, and fundraise for local charities – Hope Rescue for abandoned dogs and the Tŷ Hafan children’s hospice.
Strad Kyriacou of Chris’s Fish and Chips commented: “We’re really emotional, the chip shop is a key part of our community and we try to give, as much as we get, back. To be recognised for everything that we do is amazing.”
Christopher Western of O’ My Cod added: “It’s great to have won the award, for the fish and chip shop industry in Wales and for our staff and family, because we are a family business. We hope more customers will also come to try our food.”
Formerly the British Takeaway Awards, the event champions the hardworking and passionate individuals delivering food and going above and beyond for the community they serve.
The awards were hosted by TV presenter and comedian Joel Dommett, with a host of celebrity guests in attendance including First Dates maître d Fred Siriex as well as Just Eat’s judging panel: fashion guru-turned-TV chef Gok Wan MBE, chef and Great British Menu judge Andi Oliver, and Michelin-trained, TikTok sensation Poppy o’Toole.
As well as 12 regional awards, there were five judges’ awards for categories including Best Newcomer and Best Vegan Restaurant, plus Best Takeaway in Britain. This went to Yorkshire-based Munchies, which is said to be famous locally for its premium smash burgers and legendary shakes
