Fish & chip shop named one of best two in Wales
A CHIP shop has won the honour of being named one of the best two in Wales.
Penaluna’s Famous Fish and Chips in Hirwaun has been shortlisted as one of the country’s best in the Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award.
The shop, in High Street, has been listed alongside Hennighan’s Top Shop in Machynlleth in the category of the 2018 National Fish and Chip Awards – known as the Oscars of the industry. They will now compete for their place in the final and a chance to claim the ultimate honour of being crowned number one in the UK.
The shop, which serves all of the usual items expected from a chippie, as well as gluten-free options and a wide array of breakfasts, was assessed against a variety of judging criteria including menu development and innovation, sustainable sourcing policies, staff training processes and marketing activity.
Owner Lee Penaluna said: “We’re delighted to be included in the Top 20 Independent Fish and Chip Shops in the UK for 2018.
“This is our seventh consecutive year in the top 60 which is a reward for the work our frontline team do.
“There are so many good fish and chip shops in Wales which makes it so much better customers can enjoy good quality traditional fish and chips in so many places.
“It’s a hard market for takeaways.
“This competition makes shops look at their whole business and helps us all to improve.
“We’ve taken a few extra steps and obtained the NFFF Quality Award and MSC certification for chain of custody. Our thanks go to our staff, customers and suppliers for their support and encouragement.”
The awards are organised by Seafish and chief executive Marcus Coleman said: “Fish and chips are Britain’s national dish, loved by millions across the country.
“With their origins dating back to the 1860s, we’re proud to continue raising the quality with this competition, ensuring that the high-quality standards that have helped make it the national’s favourite dish continue to be met for generations to come.
“Our Fish and Chip Shop of the Year Award is the highest accolade for a fish and chip shop to win.
“This category is renowned for its fierce competition and our top 20 showcase the best talent that there is in the sector right now.
“As Wales’ top shops go head-to-head to secure their place in the final I’ll look forward to seeing who fries out on top.”
The winner will be announced at the awards’ 30th anniversary ceremony in London in January.