A 60-YEAR- OLD artisan bakery which branched out into creating the perfect portion of fish and chips just four years ago has scooped itself a regional accolade.
Mary Lambert, in Hartlepool, won the Fish and Chip Restaurant of the Year Award after being voted top fryers by members of the public.
It beat of stiff competition from dozens of other eateries – including established sole trader chippies – in the Teesside and East Durham region.
Owners, father and daughter team Eric and Phillippa, say their secret is using only freshly caught fish, along with a special recipe batter.
Eric, Phillippa, and the staff were all delighted to win the competition run by a local newspaper.
He said: “We’ve only been doing fish and chips for four-and- a-half years and we’ve come out on top – we’re very very pleased.
“We only use fresh cod and haddock delivered daily from Hartlepool quay, not frozen fish like a lot of fish and chip shops
“It just makes all the difference because the fish is so much whiter, more delicate and delivers a superior taste. Once tasted there really is no comparison.
“Our special recipe batter is golden and light and compliments the fish without heaviness.”
He added: “When we started this venture we felt there was a gap in the market for a higher quality take away, and restaurant.
“We have high standards, produce high-quality fresh products cooked to order, and have an amazing team whose customer service is second to none.
“All of that together is what makes the difference.”
Mary Lambert – which was also added to the top 50 fish and chip UK eateries, was ‘highly commended’ by the National Fish and Chip Awards, and received a quality award from the National Federation of Fish Fryers – has many strings to its ever-growing bow.
As well as serving up fish and chips to eat in or takeaway, the modern restaurant – based in Villiers Street, next to York Road’s Hartlepool Central Library, also serves breakfast and afternoon teas, provides corporate catering, and supplies companies such as restaurants and hotels via a telephone ordering, online delivery, or click and collect, service.
This is all on top of its renowned pastries, artisan breads, sandwiches and cakes – including a growing trend of allergen-free products.
High-class illy Italian coffee, beers and wines are also now a firm favourite by diners.
Mary Lambert can accommodate up to 90 diners, including a booking service for parties, or business meetings, from breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and early dinner.