Cod
Cod has large, soft white flakes and a mild flavour. It’s the most popular choice in the south of England.
Haddock
Haddock has a slightly sweeter flavour and a finer, firmer flake. It’s the traditional favourite in Scotland and much of the north of England.
Where they come from
Most cod and haddock eaten in Britain comes from the cold waters of the North-East Atlantic, including the North Sea, the waters around Iceland and Norway, and the Barents Sea. Much of it is imported.
Which to choose for your event
If your guests are mostly from one part of the country, follow local taste. If they’re mixed, offer both, or choose one and keep the menu short for speed. Tell your caterer your preference.
How they cook
Both cod and haddock take batter well and fry beautifully. Cod’s larger flakes give a soft, juicy bite inside crisp batter. Haddock’s finer flakes hold together a little more firmly, and some people find the flavour slightly sweeter. Both should be cooked to order, so the batter is crisp when it’s served.
Other fish you might see
Some chip shops also offer plaice, hake, pollock or rock (huss). These vary by area and by what’s available. At events, a short menu of one or two fish keeps service quick.
Asking your guests
If you’re not sure which your guests prefer, think about where most of them come from. A wedding with lots of northern relatives might lean towards haddock; a southern office team might prefer cod. Or offer both, if your caterer can.
What to tell your caterer
Tell your caterer your preference when you book, and ask what they normally serve. They’ll confirm the menu with your quote.
A little bit of history
The north–south split is often linked to where fish was landed and sold in the past. Northern ports and markets traded a lot of haddock, while southern shops became used to cod. The habits stuck, and today many people still feel strongly about their local favourite.
Quick answers
Is haddock better than cod?
Neither is better: it’s taste and tradition.
Can we offer both?
Often, yes. Ask your caterer.
Planning an event? Tell us about it and we’ll check the date and send a quote.