A Garston chippy said it is “delighted” after it was named Watford Observer readers’ favourite for the second time in two years.

Ocean’s Pearl in Garston Park Parade has been awarded ‘Your Favourite fish and chip shop 2024’ in our annual competition highlighting notable businesses around the town.

The family-run business was founded in South Oxhey in 2005, before it made the move to the north of the town in 2020 during the pandemic.

Owner Serhan (third from right) with Ocean’s Pearl staff Bethany, Evie, Tiya, Ibrahim, and Ozod.Owner Serhan (third from right) with Ocean’s Pearl staff Bethany, Evie, Tiya, Ibrahim, and Ozod. (Image: Ocean's Pearl) Owner Serhat Sadak, 49, said “It’s great to have the community support us. We are a bit hidden and not on a high street so most of our customers are locals or regulars. 

“People come, enjoy the food and then tell their friends so word of mouth is another way of advertising for us. As well as winning this award!"

The chippy previously won the award in 2022, and is also among one of the highest rated around Watford according to TripAdvisor, as residents have given it an average score of 4.5 based on 167 reviews.

Ocean's Pearl staff when it won previously in 2022.Ocean's Pearl staff when it won previously in 2022. (Image: Ocean's Pearl) One Ocean's Pearl customer praised its "outstanding quality of food" as well as the "friendly service" from staff. 

Serhat said reading the positive comments made him “happy”, adding: “It makes you realise that you are doing a good thing.”

The owner said winning the award proved that their dedication to serving "high-quality" food had been "worthwhile".

“We will continue to ensure our customers are kept happy,” he added. “I would like to thank all our customers who have supported us especially during times of hardship.

“Business has been good and we are making do. It is always a bit quieter coming out of summer, but going into winter it will start to pick up." 

'Your Favourites' is an annual competition run by the Watford Observer which asks reader to vote for their treasured local businesses.

Anytime Fitness Bushey has already won the award in the gym category this year, while Café Amici in Croxley Green said it was "extremely happy and proud" to be named readers' favourite café in June.