Beloved Ballymena chippy named among the UK’s best as the only Northern Ireland shop in the 2026 National Fish & Chip Awards

A beloved Co Antrim chippy is again making waves on the national stage..as the only Northern Ireland shop nominated in the prestigious 2026 National Fish & Chip Awards.

The Merchant Fish & Chips on Linenhall Street in Ballymena, has been shortlisted as one of the UK’s top 40 takeaways.

Announced today (Wednesday), the shortlist marks the start of this year’s search for the Takeaway of the Year, one of 14 hotly contested categories celebrating excellence in the iconic British dish.

The Merchant stands proudly among entries from across the UK, including coastal favourites, city spots, and rural gems.

Backed by Seafood from Norway as principal sponsor, the awards shine a light on the finest fish fryers in the country. This year’s Takeaway of the Year category is supported by major industry names including Friars Pride, McWhinney’s Sausages, Henry Colbeck, and Seafood from Iceland.