Where to Find the Best Fish and Chips in the United States

Fish and chips may have crossed the Atlantic from Britain, but America has embraced it with open arms and hungry appetites. From cozy pubs to bustling market stalls, these seven spots have perfected the art of crispy batter and flaky fish. Each brings its own twist to the classic, proving that this simple dish can be anything but ordinary. Here’s where to find the best fried seafood feast worth traveling for.

Jack’s Fish Spot: Seattle’s Hidden Treasure

Inside the chaos of Pike Place Market, Jack’s Fish Spot is a quiet gem. The fish rotates with the daily catch, always sustainable and always fresh. A spiced batter enhances the natural sweetness of whatever comes in that morning. Hand-cut fries provide a hearty base, and a choice of zesty sauces lets you customize each bite. The market buzzes around you, but at Jack’s counter, all that matters is the plate in front of you. It’s Seattle at its best.

The Codmother: San Francisco’s Seafood Gem

Tucked away in San Francisco, The Codmother has built a loyal following around one principle: freshness. Locally sourced fish arrives daily, then gets dipped in a delicate batter that fries up light and shatteringly crisp. The temperature control is precise, keeping the fish impossibly moist while the exterior turns that perfect golden brown. A squeeze of lemon or a swipe of zesty aioli takes it over the top. Tourists and locals alike line up for a taste of the sea, and it’s easy to see why.

The Pub: A Taste of Britain in Pembroke Pines

At The Pub, authenticity is the whole point. Fresh cod gets wrapped in a light, golden batter that shatters with every bite, revealing tender, succulent fish underneath. The chips are hand-cut, slightly thicker than average, with that perfect contrast between crispy edges and fluffy centers. Homemade tartar sauce, bright with capers and lemon, cuts through the richness and ties everything together. It’s the kind of meal that transports you across the ocean without leaving Florida.

Ye Olde King’s Head: A Los Angeles Classic

Santa Monica’s Ye Olde King’s Head has been serving traditional fish and chips for decades, and its loyal customers wouldn’t have it any other way. The beer batter adds a deep, savory complexity that sets these fillets apart. The chips are twice-cooked, crisp outside and soft within. Don’t skip the malt vinegar or pickled onions, they’re the authentic British touches that complete the experience. It’s a classic for a reason.

Portland Fish Market: Freshness Redefined

At Portland Fish Market, the fish comes from waters just hours before it hits the fryer. That pristine freshness is the star, and the batter knows its supporting role. A blend of flour and secret spices creates a delicate shell that lets the fish shine through. The chips are fried twice, first low for tenderness, then high for crunch, a detail that shows just how much care goes into every order. Tangy, herb-flecked tartar sauce finishes the plate. It’s simple, perfect, and unforgettable.

Britannia Pub: British Comfort in Santa Monica

Another Santa Monica entry, Britannia Pub offers a cozy, welcoming spot for authentic British fare. The cod is coated in a beer batter that fries up light and airy, giving way to tender, flaky fish underneath. The chips are thick and satisfying, the kind you want to steal from someone else’s plate. Served with malt vinegar or house tartar sauce, it’s a faithful tribute to the original. The warm pub atmosphere makes it feel like a home away from home.

Arthur Treacher’s: A Classic Reimagined

Arthur Treacher’s has been a fish and chips institution for generations, but it hasn’t stopped evolving. Using Alaskan pollock, the fish gets a seasoned batter that adds savory depth while keeping things light. The fillets come out golden, juicy, and perfectly crisp. The fries are hand-cut and double-fried for maximum crunch. A squeeze of lemon or a dollop of tangy tartar sauce brings it all together. It’s tradition, updated just enough to feel fresh.

These seven spots prove that fish and chips, for all its simplicity, has endless room for interpretation. Whether you crave authenticity, freshness, or a modern twist, there’s a plate out there with your name on it.