The owner of Southampton's best chippy has won family bragging rights as well as the coveted title for 2025.

John-Henry Lee has had his Best Fry in West End named Daily Echo Fish and Chip Shop of the Year, beating J-Henry's in Hedge End, named after him but run by his brother Sonny and employing a number of family members.

Dad Shane Lee started the family business in Hedge End back in 1988, owning as many as seven sites at one time and winning a host of accolades over the years. 

(Image: John-Henry) READ MORE: Meet the chef behind Hampshire's number one cafe on Trip Advisor

But John-Henry takes the title this time - and it not about to let his family forget it!

He told the Daily Echo: "We've certainly had some fun in the family, saying we're the best in Southampton!

"It's brilliant. We're all really, really happy. Rewards like this make all the hard work worthwhile."

John-Henry has fish and chips in his blood, his early years spent above a shop his father managed in Heathrow. 

He fried his first piece of fish at the age of 11 and was an assistant manager at another site The Codfather, working with grandfather Henry, by 15.

(Image: John-Henry) Best Fry, in the High Street, has been open 14 years and is managed by Adrian Mikai.

John-Henry added: "The staff are delighted, they play a big part in this.

"We have years and years of experience and never cut corners, even with the rising cost of everything, wage increases, fish and oil being through the roof.

"We're not the cheapest fish and chip shop around, but we believe in good quality fish and chips, great customer service and a clean environment.

"Thanks to all the customers for their support over the years through some rough times like recessions, Covid and the cost of living crisis. So many places have closed down, so we feel very grateful to still be going strong and that wouldn't have been possible without the support of our customers.

The other short-listed shops were:

Fish & Co in Hinkler Road, Thornhill, Southampton

Harefield Fish Bar in Somerset Avenue, Southampton

Mike's Fish & Chips in Spring Lane, Bishopstoke

Paul's Plaice in High Street, Bishops Waltham

Scott’s Plaice in Gregson Avenue, Gosport

Sib's Fish and Chip Shop in Civic Centre Road, Southampton

Top Catch in Shirley Road, Southampton