Northumberland fish and chip shop named among top 50 in the UK

Carlo’s of Alnwick is listed in Fry Magazine’s 50 best fish and chip takeaways - the only chippy in Northumberland to make the prestigious list.

Adam Alexander and Andrew Watt, co-owners of Carlo’s, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to make this elite list and it is testament to all the hard work and dedication of our staff that this was possible.

"Here at Carlo’s whether it’s our fish and chips, our artisan gelato or indeed our coffee we strive for freshness and quality always.”

To make the 50 Best, Carlo’s had to impress a mystery diner who visited unannounced and marked the chippy on over 40 aspects of their business, from the quality of the food and customer service to their social media presence and their Covid safe practices.

Carlo’s scored an impressive 98% with the mystery diner particularly praising the excellent, freshly cooked food, the smart and professional staff and covid safe measures.

“The chips were not greasy and were very tasty. The fish was flakey and perfectly white throughout……..the meal was extremely tasty and enjoyable with the food well wrapped and piping hot,” the mystery diner noted, adding: “The staff were friendly, polite and professional. Service was excellent with a committed and well managed approach.”

Reece Head, competition organiser, said: “Without doubt, the last 12 months have been tough for fish and chip takeaways and many will not have dealt with this level of crisis management before.

“Allowed to stay open during the pandemic, there was a lot they had to implement in a very short space of time to operate in a Covid safe manner. Many had to flip their businesses to click and collect and delivery, serve at the door, introduce card payments and work in much smaller teams, but they did and they kept the nation fed including our elderly and vulnerable, those shielding and our key workers.

“This year’s judging criteria took into account these changes and we’re delighted to acknowledge that, despite the difficulties and added pressure, Carlo’s never let standards drop. During this pandemic they have been at the heart of their community, with a smile on their faces and hot food in their hands.”

The dramatic events of the pandemic are having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers and consequently the advertising that we receive. We are now more reliant than ever on your support through buying our newspaper. If you can, please pick up a copy of the Northumberland Gazette when you are at the shops. Thank you.