Marstons Chicken Shop
Restaurant | Huddersfield | England | United Kingdom
Best fried chicken in Yorkshire
The "Marstons Chicken Shop" in Huddersfield, England, is a legendary fast-food restaurant that has earned cult status in the region since its founding in 1985. It is a family-run business established by John Marston, a former farmer who previously worked in dairy and beef cattle farming before turning to chicken. Under the leadership of his daughter Hazel and her family, the establishment has become a staple of the culinary landscape of West Yorkshire. It is known for its exceptionally tasty, freshly prepared chicken dishes and attracts not only locals but also visitors from further afield who are willing to stand in line for this special taste experience.
Takeaway with friendly service
"Marstons Chicken Shop" is not a traditional sit-down restaurant but a takeaway that focuses entirely on takeout. The interior is simply designed, emphasizing preparation and quick service. The atmosphere is often described as lively, especially on busy days when long queues form at the counter—a testament to the store's popularity. There is a small parking lot outside, which is often full, further highlighting the demand for its food. The lack of seating is rarely seen as a drawback by guests, as most enjoy their meals either in their cars or take them home to eat.
Chicken dishes with homemade sauces
The menu revolves around chicken in various forms, with fried dishes at its core. Particularly popular are the chicken wings, praised for their crispy coating and juicy, flavorful taste—often hailed as the best fried chicken one can find in Yorkshire. The chicken fillet burger is another highlight, generously filled and combinable with a variety of homemade sauces such as Cajun mayo or garlic mayonnaise, adding a special touch. The chips are also well-regarded, thick-cut and perfectly fried, with the chicken gravy considered the absolute star—thick, salty, and so delicious that many describe it as better than the well-known KFC version. For those seeking something healthier, a roast chicken option is also available and well-received.
Popular fast food restaurant in Huddersfield
Service is a central component of "Marstons'" success. The staff is known for their friendliness and efficiency, even during busy times. Noteworthy are small gestures, such as refunding a discount when guests forget to mention their perks—like those for Huddersfield Town season ticket holders on match days. However, on hectic days, there can be wait times, and some visitors recommend ordering by phone in advance to avoid the queue. Ordering via a dedicated app is also possible, streamlining the process for regular customers and reducing wait times.
Chicken wings and chicken gravy
Guest opinions are predominantly positive, with the quality of the chicken, generous portions, and unique flavor repeatedly highlighted. Many rave that "Marstons" outshines major chains like KFC, and some even claim it's the best fried chicken in all of England. However, there is occasional criticism: Some find the chips thinner and less impressive than in the past, and sometimes the area outside the shop is noted to be less inviting due to litter. Nonetheless, enthusiasm prevails, and many visitors have been returning regularly for decades.
A special aspect of "Marstons Chicken Shop" is its origin story and family connection. What began as a spontaneous idea—a joke about opening a chicken shop—became a reality when Hazel discovered an ad for frying equipment, prompting the family to develop the concept. The chickens come from local sources, emphasizing freshness and quality, and the secret spice blend used since the beginning is a well-guarded family recipe. The establishment has also gained a reputation as a "hidden gem," known beyond the borders of Huddersfield, with fans willing to travel long distances to enjoy the food.
