Darren Richards, operations director at Whitby’s Fish & Chip Restaurant in Rotherham, 3rd place for Restaurant of the Year 2026
What does Yorkshire Day mean to Whitby’s?
It’s a celebration of authentic regional culinary heritage, community pride, and traditional welcoming hospitality the Yorkshire way.
Our commitment and pride are in serving the finest quality fish in a homemade light and crispy golden batter, alongside Yorkshire-grown potatoes that must be twice cooked the traditional way, in beef dripping for a fuller flavour.
To accompany your meals, it must be the “Yorkshire Caviar”, our homemade mushy peas, steeped overnight and slow cooked, ready to be helped down by a piping hot pot of Yorkshire Tea, or John Smiths if the celebrations really take you.
Why do you think local chippies are still at the heart of communities?
Simply, fish and chips is a tradition!! There’s multi-generational love for the meal and a Friday night ritual, causing a gathering of families and friends. It happened in my grandparent’s house, my parent’s house and now in my own house.
The local chippy affords a genuine connection to some, with laughs along the way. Plus, most local chippies become an important first job opportunity for teenagers, as it was for me.
What is the most popular order at the restaurant?
It must be the regular cod and chips, homemade mushy peas and a pot of Yorkshire tea.
If someone has never visited Whitby’s before, what can they expect?
Fun. Family-friendly. Fantastic quality. Once you’ve been to Whitby’s we know you’ll be back. Whether you’re bringing the whole family, a coach party or just don’t fancy cooking, you’ll have a great experience at Whitby’s. Our aim is to get you to leave with a smile on your face… and coming back for more!
You can expect a high-quality, traditional British seaside dining experience inland. And a warm welcome in comfy air-conditioned surroundings. Excellent food prepared fresh to order, with a focus on traditional homemade choices, but also gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. It’s value for money with great service, fully accessible and a huge free car park.
Has a famous face from Yorkshire ever been to your restaurant?
Quite a few, but we never like naming names!
Will you be running any Yorkshire Day specials?
We will have a few specials on the restaurant boards for the day, but the staple cod and haddock will be flying over the pass.
Whitby’s Fish & Chip Restaurant
Poplar Way, Catcliffe, Rotherham, S60 5TR