Stephenson’s Market Plaice Crook named best fish & chip shop

Fish and chips may be a popular dish for many but for the Stephenson’s on South Street in Crook, the much-loved British staple runs in their blood.

For five generations, the family of Paula Stephenson have served up the battered delicacy and diners have raved about their “little gem” of a restaurant that serves the “best” fish and chips “for miles”.

The Stephenson’s Market Plaice team including Graeme, 59, Paula and Adam Stephenson, 24 and Abbie Docherty, 21. (Image: PAULA STEPHENSON) And now, their shop Stephenson’s Market Plaice has been named the ‘Best Fish & Chip Shop’ at England’s Business Awards at a glitzy ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Newcastle on March 16, leaving the team “over the moon”.

Owner Paula told The Northern Echo: “We have a real loyal group of customers. You could put your watch by some people in terms of when they come in. We always know their orders. 

“And that’s how we got this award – it was the customers who put us forward. When we first found out we were nominated and got the letter we asked our customers to vote for us.”

Stephenson’s Market Plaice. (Image: PAULA STEPHENSON) By the time the ceremony rolled around, Paula admitted the team was “hopeful” they could pull it out the bag.

She added: “The ceremony on the evening was a whirlwind. We didn’t know who we were up against until that night. 

The award won by Stephenson’s Market Plaice. (Image: PAULA STEPHENSON)

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“Some of the other nominees were on the coast. We were up against some really big shops and we’re just a small family business so it was really nice to be nominated. 

“Everybody has been delighted for us – some have even said they knew we would win!

“But, it is just a lovely surprise and everyone is over the moon about it – we’re very proud.”