As the national food of this island, generations of Brits have tucked into fish and chips on an evening. It truly is a staple of life here.

So it should come as no surprise to anyone just how many chip shops in the county claim to be Kent’s best – at this stage, you’d have a hard time finding one who says otherwise.

Newington Fish Bar in Ramsgate is no exception but, unlike many of its peers, there is some evidence to back up their claim.

Earlier this week, the Thanet eatery found itself receiving some fantastic news when it was awarded a place in the finals of the National Fish and Chips Awards in the ‘Field to Friers’ category.

In simpler terms, it is one of three restaurants in the UK (alongside one in Aberdeen and one in Stockport) which has seemingly mastered the art of the perfect chip.

It comes less than a year after the Newington Road takeaway was given a spot on a list of the top 50 fish bars in the UK – alongside two others from Kent.

It’s certainly hard to ignore the noise coming from this plucky place tucked away in the middle of town, but is it really deserving of the crown of Kent’s best?

There’s only one way to find out.

On a cold, drizzly day in Ramsgate, stepping inside the venue, which has about ten or so tables tucked away at the back, was a welcome pleasure.

The midday dinner rush had seemingly passed and I was greeted by a trio of jolly women all thriving on playing host to the locals.

I placed an order for a large cod and chips along with a drink and within five minutes I was out of there – very swift indeed.

But as speedy as the service was, and clean and friendly as the place is, the reality is we needed to focus on the food.

Even for a large meal, when the dish arrived it felt like a true whopper and it became one of those situations where even looking at it began to fill me up.

Regardless, I’m delighted to report that it truly was a first-class meal.

The chips were slightly crispy and golden on the outside with a fine coat of salt and vinegar and a gorgeous, fluffy filling.

Put those elements together, it’s not difficult at all to see why this place is lauded for its way with a potato.

Don’t get me wrong, I like a french fry but you can’t beat a proper bulky chip when it’s done properly.

As for the cod, it really was the sort of delicacy which melts in your mouth.

The batter was light and flavoursome but didn’t take the focus away from the fresh fish boasting the typical taste which we’ve come to know and adore.

The only complaint I could have would be the price of £16.90 for the meal and a drink - over a tenner for a large cod alone - but that is an issue every fish bar is having up and down the country.

With portion sizes more than capable of feeding two sharing would make the price much more modest, and could well be worth couples or families making the journey.

But at the end of my dining experience, I’m reminded of why I’m here. Does Newington Fish Bar offer Kent’s best?

Truth be told, while I loved it it’d be hard to officially rule it as that – though it is certainly up there.

That’s not me attempting to talk down Newington Fish Bar, but rather demonstrate just how good Kent has it when trying to find the quintessential version of the takeaway.

In most towns, you’ll find a ridiculously understated chip shop with flaking paint on the walls that has become part of the fabric of the community and offers some of the freshest, tastiest produce which puts big chains to shame.

It’s a fantastic tradition, and long may the habit of everyone claiming their chippy is the best continue.