Marco Pierre White visits award-winning Trenchers Restaurant in Whitby
Award-winning Whitby fish and chips restaurant Trenchers welcomed a familiar face when chef and TV personality Marco Pierre White visited with family and friends.
The restaurant, on New Quay Road, is a place White has returned to on several occasions over the years.
During his visit, he took time to chat with fellow diners, pose for photographs and praise both the food and the atmosphere.
He described his crab starter and fish and chips as “the best he had enjoyed in a very long time” — high praise from one of the most respected foodie figures in world cuisine.
It was another feather in the cap for Trenchers after the business was named one of the UK’s top 10 Fish and Chip Restaurants in the Fry Awards 2026.
Sophie Wilkinson, who was working at Trenchers at the time, said: “Marco his family and friends were a real joy to have with us.
"He’s always hugely complimentary and takes time with our customers.
"We love having him here.
"Taking the time to praise the staff means so much to them all - we are still on a high from his words.”
White also spoke fondly about his childhood memories of Whitby, saying the town will always hold a special place in his heart through some very memorable times - it was clear the town had touched him and left an indelible mark, said Sophie.
Trenchers manager Andrew Wilkinson said Marco’s visit was particularly meaningful as he approaches a personal milestone at the restaurant.
“My 25-year anniversary working at Trenchers, Whitby comes a little later this year, and Marco’s visit really is a statement of everything we aim to offer.
"Our customers loved seeing him too, and they are a huge reason why Trenchers continues to win awards and receive high praise at this level from such a legendary figure,” he said.
"We’re incredibly grateful to them for their continued support.”
White, 64, was born in Leeds and made history in 1995 as the youngest chef ever to be awarded three Michelin stars.
He remains one of the most influential figures in British cooking, and his return visits continue to underline Trenchers’ reputation as one of the UK’s leading fish and chip destinations.