Located at 317 Brockley Road, this local favourite is one of only 40 fish and chip shops across the UK to be selected, highlighting its dedication to quality food, outstanding customer service, and sustainable practices.
“We’re all very chuffed and very excited to be shortlisted,” manager Kyriacos Karoulla told the News Shopper, “soon it will be narrowed down to the top 20, and we would like to be on that.”
The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF) awards are the gold standard in the fish and chip industry, assessing entrants on industry knowledge, customer care, sustainability, and product quality.
Brockley’s Rock has built a reputation not just for its award-winning fish and chips, but also for its commitment to sustainability.
Partnering with MSC-certified seafood providers, the shop ensures that each order supports responsible fishing practices, contributing to the health of global fish stocks.
Kyriacos said: “We’ve been an MSC chip shop for over 10 years now.
“Overfishing is real, but we use stocks that are certified, like those from the Barents Sea, which are traceable and sustainable from sea to plate.”
The shop’s journey began on July 4, 2011, when it transformed from a Chinese takeaway into a Fish & Chip shop.
Kyriacos added: “We started from scratch, and I’ve learned from some incredible people over the years.
“The shop is my interpretation of fish and chips.
“I wanted to have the food in a biodegradable box, so as you’re eating, it will be intact and not all just mush to avoid sweating from that plastic bag”.
The shop’s diverse menu caters to a wide range of dietary needs, offering gluten-free options from Sunday to Thursday, a vegan menu available daily, and healthier grilled options.
This inclusivity has helped build a loyal customer base.
“I think we get every kind of customer – our locals have supported us right from day one, and we still have these customers,” Kyriacos said.
Beyond the food, Brockley’s Rock is known for its strong sense of community.
He added: “We’re a big part of the community supporters.
“We always try and give back to the community with every available option.
“This includes sponsorships for local festivals and events like the Brockley Open Studios, as well as meal vouchers for school fundraisers.”
The team at Brockley’s Rock is a close-knit group, with some staff members having been with the business for over six years.
“My brother’s been with me for about 11 years now, and we’ve got a great team that has a real bond,” Kyriacos shared.
“Occasionally, we go out for drinks, and we make sure everyone is happy at work. Overall, it’s like a big, happy family.”
Now, Brockley’s Rock faces the next phase of the competition, where the shortlist will be narrowed down to 20, then to a final 10.
The ultimate winner will be revealed on February 26 at a ceremony at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London.
Other contenders include Stones Fish and Chips in Acton, Newington Fish Bar in Ramsgate, and Harrison’s Fish & Chip Co. in Oxford.
Kyriacos said: “I first found out we were nominated on Tuesday [October 15], when I received an email.
“I was away, and I just started dancing once I’d seen the email.”
“No matter the outcome, we’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far.
“Being shortlisted is already a win for us and our community, and we’re excited to see what the future holds.”
