National Fish and Chip Day 2021: Best Ayrshire chippies as voted by readers

To mark National Fish and Chips Day today, we asked you, our readers, to tell us your favourite chippy - and you really didn't hold back.

With nearly 1,000 comments across all our titles and a barrage of locals eager to tell us what establishment gets their mouth watering, it was not an easy task whittling down the favourites.

But without further a-do, here are the 10 most popular, and perhaps best, chippies in Ayrshire as voted for by you.

Cafe Palazzo, Ardrossan

This chippy situated on Glasgow Street was undoubtedly a big-hitter. Having been trading for decades, Cafe Palazzo, or 'the Plaza' as it is affectionally nick-named by locals, also serves ice-cream and sweet treats if you fancy a sugar chaser. Lorna Walker backed the chippy, commenting, 'Cafe palazzo for me' and Stewart Paterson agreed, writing, 'palazzo ardrossan always been the best'.

The Chippy, Prestwick

This fish and chip shop in Prestwick received a lot of love from our readers. Located on Main Street, The Chippy offers 'cooked to order' grub 'right on the sea'. The fourth generation family fish and chip shop also boasts a welcoming family atmosphere. Elizabeth-Anne Fewster said, 'The Chippy at Prestwick is delicious' while Elizabeth Owen added, 'the only one I know that does gluten free.'

Nello's, Cumnock

You just can't beat a chippy tea, and in that respect, our readers were in agreement that Nello's has you covered. Margo Neish said the place was her favourite and Lisa Holmes said it was her go-to when she was 'in the shire'. This chippy is on Townhead Street so if you are nearby, this could be where to head.

Melbourne Fry, Saltcoats

Readers in the Three Towns were quite insistent that you simply cannot beat a chippy from the Melbourne Fry. Offering a traditional fish and chips experience, choose from a special fish, small fish or scampi supper. Like most of these chippies, the Melbourne also does takeaway meaning you can plate up from the comfort of your own home. Jean Morrison stated, 'Melbourne Fry is best in Ayrshire'.

Marco's, Ayr

Serving the people of Ayr and beyond since March 2012, this family run business offers a great spot to enjoy some food and drink by the seaside. Head to Marco's Facebook page for a sneak peak of what's on the menu but be warned as their snaps will have your stomach grumbling in a second! Dubbed the 'best chippy in town' by reader Iain Campbell, this chippy is definitely one to consider.

Mamma's Fish and Chips, Irvine

This much-loved chippy situated on Irvine's High Street prides itself on being 'at the heart of Irvine town year after year and for every little thing' including Marymass and the parades, Christmas shows and even the opening of the Magnum. Formerly the Victoria Café, Mamma's is committed to producing great grub served up in traditional newspaper wrapping. Have you ever been?

Albert's, Ardrossan

It seems Glasgow Street is a real hot-spot for delicious chippies as Albert's is another place that was mentioned time and time again. The family run business, which has been operating since 1972, delivers to Ardrossan, Saltcoats, Stevenston and West Kilbride. From crispy and fresh sea bass to a classic fish and chip combo - do you agree with our readers that it is one of the best in the biz?

Wellington Fish Restaurant, Ayr

This Scottish-Italian chippy in Ayr also came highly-recommended from locals. Those at Wellington say it is 'renowned as the fish and chip restaurant of choice for locals and visitors'. It was certainly Julie Ward's first choice as she wrote, 'The Wellington cafe, has always been my fav, probably always will be, love the fact its really not changed much since I was a wee tot'.

Brady's Fish and Chip Shop, Drongan

Reecently nominated for Ayrshire Retailer of the Year at this year’s Scottish Business Awards, readers refused to miss out Brady's as their chippy of choice. Positioned on Mill of Shield Road, the shop has recently opened a dessert counter, too, meaning that you can pick up a dessert straight after scoffing your fish and chips. 

Quality Fish & Chips, Stevenston

Last but certainly not least was this fish and chip shop in Stevenston which was backed by tens of readers who were quick to make it known that this is the place to go for a fish supper. To celebrate National Fish and Chips Day, the shop is even giving customers 10 per cent off on orders over £10 if they order directly. Quids in!