Darlington fish and chip shop named UK's best takeaway is expanding
Yarm Road Fish and Chips was named Fish and Chip Takeaway of the Year 2025 at the National Fish & Chip Awards in February, after a rigorous assessment process run by the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF).
The top prize recognises quality, innovation, and customer service in Britain's best-loved food industry.
The Yarm Road Fish and Chips team win Best Takeaway at the NFFF Awards 2025 (Image: NFF Awards) The chippy is owned by Graeme and Julie Burrell, and with the help of son Will, they have thrived for the past eight years.
On Friday, June 13, Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen visited the chippy to congratulate the family.
He said: "This is a fantastic local success story. Graeme, Julie and Will have built something really special - a family-run business that's proudly putting Darlington on the map.
"Winning a national award like this is no small feat, especially in such a competitive field. It shows the quality, the passion, and the work ethic behind every portion they serve.
"It's another example of the brilliant businesses we have across our region - and I can't wait to see their new restaurant open its doors very soon".
Graeme Burrell, son Will and staff at Yarm Road Fish and Chips pictured with Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen (Image: TVCA) Since Graeme and Julie opened the Darlington shop eight years ago, the family business has grown into a community staple attracting customers from far and wide.
During busy periods, the shop can fry up to 50 fish every 15 minutes, going through more than 600kg of chips in a single day. All dishes are cooked in traditional beef dripping, and the menu includes homemade fish cakes and the shop's signature crispy batter - which is a closely guarded family secret.
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Following their success in the Fish and Chip Takeaway of the Year 2025, the Burrell's are applying the finishing touches to a new restaurant expansion, after having purchased the former newsagents next door.
Graeme Burrell said: "We still can't quite believe we took the top prize – after the third and second place takeaways were named, we didn't think for a moment that we would have won first place. For our shop in Darlington to win is a dream come true.
"Our team have put their heart and soul into making this happen, and we're so proud to bring the award home to our town. The support from our customers and the wider community has meant the world to us".
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