Across the U.S., finding great fish and chips may seem like a coastal luxury, but these chains prove otherwise. Whether you’re looking for a quick seafood fix or craving a nostalgic meal that tastes like it came from an English fry shop, these places deliver. From national fast-food staples to hidden regional gems, each of these restaurants serves up surprisingly satisfying fish and chips that have earned loyal followings. Perfectly fried fish, crispy potatoes, and tangy sauces come together to make these chains a must-try for seafood lovers on the go.
1. Culver’s
Culver’s has developed a quiet but devoted fan base for its North Atlantic cod dinners and sandwiches. Their two-piece fried cod meal comes with buttery crinkle-cut fries and a side of coleslaw, offering a balance of texture and flavor that feels more sit-down than fast food. The fish itself is flaky and mild, wrapped in a golden, crunchy batter that doesn’t overpower. Many customers say it’s one of the best fish options available at a major chain. Its reliable quality, generous portions, and clean presentation make it a go-to spot during Lent and beyond.
2. Long John Silver
Long John Silver’s may feel like a throwback, but their classic battered fish and chips still satisfy. With a menu built around wild-caught Alaskan pollock, the chain serves up generously portioned fish with a signature crispy coating that people have loved for generations. The meal usually comes with hushpuppies, fries, and tartar sauce, making it a filling and familiar option. While not fancy, it consistently delivers comfort food quality and remains one of the most accessible places to get fried fish across the country.
3. Arthur Treacher
Although its footprint has shrunk considerably, Arthur Treacher’s still has a cult following for its distinctly British-style fish and chips. The batter is light yet crisp, the fish is tender, and the chips are cut thick and fried to a golden brown. A few remaining locations in Ohio and New York continue to serve this classic meal, making it a nostalgic stop for those who remember its heyday. For many, it’s the closest thing to traditional English fish and chips available without crossing the Atlantic.
4. Red Lobster
Red Lobster is known for its cheddar bay biscuits and seafood platters, but their fish and chips deserve more recognition. The meal features wild-caught cod, hand-battered and fried to a golden crunch, served with seasoned fries and tartar sauce. It’s a simple offering but surprisingly well-executed, especially in a sit-down setting. The consistency across locations and wide availability make it a dependable option for seafood lovers looking for a solid fish and chips plate outside of fast food chains.
5. Captain D’s
Captain D’s has over 500 locations and continues to win over seafood fans with its broad menu and strong fish offerings. Their batter-dipped fish fillets are crispy on the outside and tender within, served alongside seasoned fries, hushpuppies, and classic sides like green beans or coleslaw. While not exclusively focused on fish and chips, the chain’s consistent quality and quick service make it a great choice for those seeking a satisfying seafood fix without the wait or the cost of a full-service restaurant.
6. Gordon Ramsay Fish and Chips
Gordon Ramsay Fish and Chips has brought upscale energy to the classic dish with locations in Las Vegas, Orlando, and beyond. With thick pieces of sustainably sourced cod, hand-cut chips, and chef-designed dipping sauces, this chain offers a premium take on a comfort classic. The rice flour batter ensures an extra crisp texture, and the fry baskets come packed with flavor and flair. Though more expensive than other entries on this list, the quality and presentation make it a standout option for foodies and fans alike.
7. Legal Sea Foods
Legal Sea Foods, based out of Boston, has earned a reputation for serving some of the freshest seafood in the country. Their fish and chips plate features flaky, wild-caught cod dipped in a crisp, golden batter and paired with thick-cut fries and tangy house-made tartar sauce. Known for its commitment to quality and traceability, Legal Sea Foods offers a more elevated dining experience while keeping the classic feel of this beloved dish intact. Whether you’re dining in their full-service restaurants or grabbing takeout, the consistency and flavor have made it a favorite for seafood lovers looking for authenticity and quality across the East Coast and beyond.
8. Ivar
Based in Seattle, Ivar’s has long been a Pacific Northwest favorite. Their fast-casual fish bar locations serve wild-caught Alaskan cod or halibut in crunchy batter alongside thick, crispy fries. The taste of the sea comes through in every bite, and their tartar sauce is a customer favorite. While mostly regional, the brand’s reputation for quality and freshness makes it a must-visit for anyone traveling through Washington state. Ivar’s combines quick service with authentic flavor, making it a rare gem in airport terminals and local neighborhoods alike.
9. Skippers
Skippers is another seafood-focused chain based in the Pacific Northwest that has quietly maintained a devoted customer base. Their fish and chips are made with care, using wild-caught fish and a seasoning blend that sets them apart. The portions are generous, and the batter is light enough to let the flavor of the fish shine through. Though not as well-known nationally, Skippers’ decades-long presence and focus on quality have made it a regional treasure for those who know where to look.
10. Black Bear Diner
Known more for its hearty breakfasts and roadside Americana feel, Black Bear Diner surprises diners with its dependable fish and chips plate. The meal features beer-battered fillets, crispy French fries, and house-made tartar sauce, all served in oversized portions. While not a seafood chain, their fish and chips consistently earn praise from guests looking for a comforting, well-executed plate. The warm, cozy setting and reliable flavor make it an unexpected but welcome addition to the list of worthy fish and chips chains.