The Best Fried Fish Sandwiches In Every State According To Reviews

If you're traveling in the United States and get a craving for a fried fish sandwich, you can be sure there's something delicious nearby, no matter where you are. How can we be so sure? Because we examined a wide range of customer reviews from Yelp and TripAdvisor to determine the best fried fish sandwich in every single state. Some sandwiches attract customers to low-key restaurants, while others are part of an extensive menu that includes sides, snacks, cocktails, and other tasty dishes. All of them are worth the trip.

While each state has its own take on fried fish, a few regions deserve special mention for innovative takes on fried fish sandwiches. Cajun cuisine gets rave reviews from many diners, although these can be regional specialties. Coastal regions tend to have more access to fresh fish, which can mean delicious dishes and sandwiches. But even landlocked states bring amazing flavor and spices to create fried fish that is a must-try when you're in the area.

With over 1,000 Yelp reviews, Felix's Fish Camp is a bona fide success. This restaurant is right on the bay and serves local, fresh seafood daily. Its fried fish sandwich boasts tasty filets served on a toasted po'boy with lettuce, tomato, mayo, and a side of fries. In addition to fish, Felix's also serves shrimp, oyster, and fried crawfish sandwiches. While you're there, be sure to enjoy live music at the boathouse bar.

felixsfishcamp.com

(251) 626-6710

1530 Battleship Parkway, Spanish Fort, AL 36527

This restaurant specializes in burgers, with the popular Homer burger topping the list. But don't sleep on the delicious fish sandwich. It features beer-battered halibut, coleslaw, pico de gallo, and Havarti, and comes slathered with a creamy jalapeño dressing that gives it a bit of kick. Or swap halibut for salmon and order the grilled salmon Alaskan burger.

alaskanburger.com

(907) 677-4373

5121 Arctic Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503

Oscar's Pier 83 is known for its tasty fish and casual atmosphere. Fried fish options abound here, with just about every type of fish you can think of. The fried fish sandwiches, called Fish-Wiches, incorporate many of these options: You can get a Fish-Wich with catfish, mahi mahi, haddock, tilapia, cod, ahi tuna, or get a classic po' boy with fried shrimp, clams, or oysters.

op83.com

(602) 843-6820

18589 N 59th Ave #111, Glendale, AZ 85308

With walls adorned with trophy fish, this restaurant on Little Rock's waterfront is the perfect place to get a variety of seafood dishes. Its fried fish sandwiches, called "poor boy loafs," include catfish, shrimp, and oyster, all of them delicious and freshly cooked. Each dish is served with fries and hushpuppies, a Southern fish fry staple. 

flyingfishinthe.net

(501) 375-3473

511 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201

Not only does this restaurant in sunny San Diego have fried fish sandwiches, they also serve fried fish po' boys, including shrimp and oyster varieties, along with East Coast favorites, like lobster-based dishes. They're all served on toasted split-top rolls. Owner Peter DeCoste has been in the business for over 40 years and brings all that expertise to bear on Pete's.

bostonpetes.com

(619) 255-8940

3382 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104

Sure, it's a burger joint, but reviewers love the fish sandwich at The Cherry Cricket. Featuring beer-battered cod served on a brioche bun, it might just be the best fish sandwich in Denver. Plus, burgers are fully customizable here, so load them up with whatever you want. The restaurant — which was voted best burger and fries in Denver — has a few locations around town, including Cherry Creek, Littleton, and Ballpark.

cherrycricket.com

(303) 322-7666

Multiple locations

More than 600 Yelp reviews sing the praises of this restaurant, which serves Southern comfort and soul food in generous proportions. Try the fried fish sandwich with catfish, tilapia, or whiting — you can't go wrong with any of them. The prices (in the $6-$7 range) are hard to beat. There are also fried fish plates, sides, and desserts. You can even get delivery if you're in the neighborhood.

sandrasnextgeneration.com

(203) 787-4123

636 Congress Ave, New Haven, CT 06519

Some of the most popular dishes at this restaurant include fish and chips, lobster rolls, and crab cakes. The fish filet sandwich is the star here, though; it comes on a potato bun and boasts cheese and tartar sauce. Or opt for the lobster roll or crab cake sandwich. Matt's ambiance is bright and airy with beachy decor — perfect for enjoying said sandwich. You can also order online or arrange catering.

mattsfishcamplewes.com

(302) 644-2267

34401 Tenley Ct, Lewes, DE 19958

Garcia's Seafood Grille is family-owned and serves many traditional seafood dishes. The restaurant is also part of the fish market, and over 1,400 enthusiastic Yelp reviews make it clear it succeeds in both forms. You can get fried mahi mahi, shrimp, or grouper sandwiches here, all of which are delicious. There are also many other seafood entrées on the menu worth checking out — like the grilled salmon fillet and seafood platter.

garciasmiami.com

(305) 375-0765

398 NW North River Dr, Miami, FL 33128

Six Feet Under has delicious food, including fried fish, fried chicken, and sides, plus a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor dining. The fried grouper sandwich is of particular interest; many customers hail it as full of flavor and delicious texture. Take note — there are two Atlanta area locations, and the menu varies slightly at each. Both locations serve the fish sando, plus shrimp po-boys and catfish tacos.

sixfeetunder.net

Multiple locations

At Umeke's Fish Market Bar & Grill, you can order the day's fresh catch as a fried tempura fish sandwich, topped with furikake aioli. It's a perfect taste of Hawaii — plus, it comes with a side of fries. The restaurant also has a nice selection of local Hawaiian beers on draft, which goes perfect with fried fish. If you fall in love with Umeke's main restaurant in Kona while on vacation, make sure to stop by the airport location before heading back home.

umekesrestaurants.com

Multiple locations

At Country Bay Bistro, the seafood selection is massive. But if you're craving a fish sandwich, the restaurant has you covered. You can choose from a fried cod po' boy, a shrimp po' boy, or an oyster po' boy to get your fried seafood fix. Enjoy your sandwich, along with fries and veggies, in the coastal ambiance of the restaurant's indoor dining area.

countrybaybistro.com

(208) 378-8080

1749 S Cole Rd, Boise, ID 83709

The secret recipe breading is the star at Lawrence's, which is famous for its fried shrimp. Unlike many of the sandwiches on this list, Lawrence's fish sandwich is made with perch. The family-owned restaurant has been around since the 1950s and has four locations around Chicago. The Canal Street location is even open 24 hours a day, so you can always get your fried fish sandwich fix. 

lawrencesfishandshrimp.com

Multiple locations

With over 900 reviews on Yelp, Caplinger's has a fish counter that includes traditional fish as well as some that are harder to find, such as calamari steaks and king crab legs. So what are these traditional fishes? Caplinger's serves walleye, catfish, cod, ocean perch, whiting, shrimp, tilapia, grouper, and whitefish on sandwiches, plus a variety of fried fish platters. Can't decide? Get more than one.

caplingersfreshcatch.com

(317) 288-7263

Multiple locations

With traditional pub fare, the fish and chips at Angry Goldfish Pub and Eatery are one of its top-selling dishes. One of its most famous sides is its sriracha-flavored goldfish crackers. It's not hard to see where this restaurant gets its name, but you will leave happy with your meal choice. You may not find the fried fish sandwich on the everyday menu, but it's sometimes served as a mouthwatering special.

angrygoldfishdsm.com

(515) 288-2358

2301 Southwest 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315

The fried catfish po'boy at The Burger Stand is delicious, served with Creole slaw with a bit of kick, pickle relish, and a tomato. It comes with mayo made in-house as well as greens to give the sandwich a bit of crunch. The Burger Stand also occasionally runs specials with different variations like the Baja fish sammie, featuring pollock coated in Tajin with cabbage, chipotle crema, and pineapple-cucumber pico de gallo.

burgerstandrestaurants.com

Multiple locations

This restaurant specializes in fried fish, so you can be sure that it's been perfected, from the crispy batter to the flaky fish. On sandwiches, it offers fried scrod, catfish, tilapia, and haddock. It also serves a variety of tartar sauces, fries, and hushpuppies. Just be sure to save room for dessert and get an order of the delectable beignets covered in powdered sugar (cinnamon sugar is another option).

fishhouselouisville.com

(502) 568-2993

1310 Winter Ave, Louisville, KY 40204

With over 10,000 Yelp reviews, Oceana Grill is a standout in the state for Cajun and Creole-style cuisine. You can try its popular fried seafood or Taste of New Orleans platters. For handhelds, Oceana Grill serves po'boys with fried catfish, shrimp, oysters, or even gator. Plus, it's located right in the heart of the famous New Orleans French Quarter. What better way to enjoy New Orleans?

oceanagrill.com

(504) 525-6002

739 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Oysters and lobster may be popular, but the fried oyster bun and the fish sandwich are also tasty options at this seafood restaurant with over 4,000 Yelp reviews. The fried fish sandwich can even be made gluten-free upon request. Check out the massive block of Maine granite at the bar featuring the day's offerings of oysters and shellfish. For baseball lovers, there is another smaller location in Boston at Fenway Park.

eventideoysterco.com

Multiple locations

This casual dining spot dates back to the 1920s when it opened as a general store. Today, it serves pub fare, including a fried cod sandwich that comes with coleslaw and tartar sauce. You'll also find a crab cake sandwich and grilled tuna steak sandwich on the menu. But for us, the fried cod is the move here. You can choose between fries, potato chips, red potato salad, extra coleslaw, or fresh vegetables as a side.

davispub.com

(410) 268-7432

400 Chester Ave, Annapolis, MD 21403

Does fried lobster qualify as fried fish? For Yankee Lobster's fried lobster roll, we'll allow it. Besides fried, you can order a hot buttered lobster roll or lobster melt, both sautéed in butter. Other delicious options include a fried fish sandwich, the Yankee fish sandwich with extra fixins, a crab cake sandwich, a crab meat roll, and a "crobster" roll with both crab and lobster on top. But if you're looking for fried goodness, try this non-traditional banger.

yankeelobster.co

(617) 345-9799

300 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210

This food truck has casual fare, including take-out lunch and dinner plates. The Fisher Fwy. fish sandwich includes fried catfish, haddock, or perch, but is only available on Fridays. You'll find shrimp po-boys on the regular menu, along with fish and chips and loaded seafood empanadas. It also offers catering and special events dining options. Detroit 75 Kitchen is a food truck and on the casual side, but it provides picnic table seating with large umbrellas.

detroit75kitchen.com

(313) 843-3215

4800 W Fort St, Detroit, MI 48209

Fried fish sandwiches, calamari, fish tacos, and fried catfish are some of the most popular dishes at Sea Salt Eatery, which has over 800 reviews on Yelp. While the food is delicious, the scenic location in Minnehaha Regional Park puts this restaurant on top. It's seasonal and only open in the late spring, summer, and early fall. Choose between a fried catfish or haddock po'boy or a fried haddock sandwich served in a hot dog bun. 

facebook.com/seasalteatery

(612) 721-8990

4825 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417

Fatty's offers a variety of po'boys and sandwiches, including the catfish po'boy served with lettuce, tomato, mayo, and pickle with fries on the side. Try the panko-fried crab cake sandwich or blackened shrimp po'boy for something different. You can even get its delicious food catered or reserve one of its private rooms for a special celebration. There are locations in Mississippi and Louisiana.

fattysseafood.com

Multiple locations

There are plenty of delicious options on the lunch menu at Lula Southern Cookhouse, including catfish, shrimp, and tasty macaroni and cheese. It serves a variety of po'boys, including fried shrimp and fried catfish. You'll be treated to amazing views of Kansas City when dining in person at the restaurant or when hosting a special event in its space. 

lulakc.com

(816) 648-0808

1617 Main St Suite 100, Kansas City, MO 64108

The indoor dining room or outdoor patio are perfect places to enjoy a fried shrimp or fried catfish po'boy from Phatty's. They are served on French bread from Gambino's in New Orleans and topped with lettuce, tomato, and a dill cream sauce. The dill cream sauce gives this sandwich a unique twist from classic po'boy flavors. Not craving fish but still want seafood? Splurge on a lobster roll if you're feeling a little fancy.

phattysmt.com

(406) 702-1888

1603 Grand Ave, Suite 145A, Billings, MT 59102

There are three locations of Shuck's Fish House in the Omaha area. Each serves numerous options for fried fish, including appetizers, po'boys, platters, and the popular "codwich" special. You can also catch an ahi tuna sandwich, crab roll, lobster roll, or salmon BLT at Shuck's. It was voted the best seafood in Omaha by Omaha Magazine in 2024 and got first place for seafood in the 2023 Omaha's Choice Awards. Those are bona fides we're comfortable with. 

shucksfishhouse.com

Multiple locations

Try a fried catfish po'boy from Gritz Cafe for an authentic taste of Southern food in Sin City. It's served with lettuce, tomato, and a secret special sauce on a grilled hoagie roll. If you're feeling fancy, go for the fried shrimp "Rich Boy" sandwich on a croissant, which comes with the same toppings. Both are served with grits or fries.

gritzcafe.com

(702)255-4748

1911 Stella Lake Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89106

Casual options, such as fish and chips, burgers, and sandwiches, make this a great place to enjoy lunch. The Barley House is known for burgers, but the fried haddock sandwich gets plenty of attention. It has a beer and curry batter plus cheese, lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce on a brioche bun. The lobster BLT and fish tacos are also popular options.

thebarleyhouse.com

(603) 228-6363

132 N Main St, Concord, NH 03301

There are plenty of fish sandwich options at Crockett's, including whiting, catfish, flounder, porgie, and tilapia. No matter which variety you choose, the price doesn't change, and each sandwich comes with two slices of bread on the side. There aren't a lot of bells and whistles, just great fried fish.

crockettsfishfry.com

(973) 746-2114

162 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07013

The fried fish sandwich at Bubba's 33 is made with Atlantic cod fried in a Boston lager beer batter and served on a crispy toasted hoagie roll. You can add all the fixins, including tomato, lettuce, pickle, onion, and tartar sauce. You can find the fried fish sandwich at Bubba's 33 at multiple locations in New Mexico and 13 other states.

bubbas33.com

Multiple locations

An authentic seafood market with more than 1,600 reviews on Yelp, Lobster Place has so much more than just lobster. Of course, if it's lobster you're looking for, you can't go wrong with the lobster rolls here. The crispy fish sandwich is made with fried barramundi and served with lettuce, pickles, and tartar sauce on a sesame bun. Other handheld options include a shrimp katsu sandwich, salmon smashburger, and spicy scallop roll. Ordering at the fish counter or the convenient outside pickup is also part of the experience.

lobsterplace.com

(212) 255-5672

75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011

Fish Bites Seafood is known for its fresh seafood, which you can also get at its fish market to take home. The fish and chips, as well as the customizable fish bites basket, are two tasty options on the menu. But the fish bites po'boy and the crabby samie sandwich are two must-try menu items.

fishbitesseafood.com

(910) 791-1117

6132 Carolina Beach Rd, Wilmington, NC 28412

In addition to having a great bar selection, Beer & Fish Company in Fargo serves a tasty fried fish sandwich. Choose between cod and walleye, or upgrade for a few dollars more for halibut. Each sandwich comes with American cheese, pickle, lettuce, and tartar sauce as well as your choice of side. There's also a lobster roll with tarragon butter if you're willing to shell out a little more. 

beerandfishcompany.com

(701) 532-1342

230 Roberts Alley, Fargo, ND 58102

The fried fish sandwich at Tim's Tavern is made with Atlantic cod and comes in a regular or jumbo size. You can add a slice of cheese for just $1 more. A Cajun-style fried shrimp po'boy is also a popular menu choice if fish doesn't catch your eye that day.

timstavern.com

(330) 455-6306

3323 Parkway St. NW, Canton, OH 44708

The fried catchfish sandwich is served on a toasted Gambino's roll along with lettuce, tomato, pickle, and remoulade. You can also get fried gator, shrimp, or crawfish tails on your po'boy or as tacos. And if you're a carb lover — rejoice! The fish sandwiches here comes with both fries and hush puppies so you don't have to pick.

thecatchseafood.com

Multiple locations in Oklahoma and Texas

With more than 8,500 reviews on Yelp and two locations, Screen Door is a favorite for southern cooking, especially their fried fish sandwiches which are served with slaw and pickles. The sandwich here is encrusted in cornmeal, ensuring its crispy texture. Some of its top dishes include fried oysters over cornbread, fried chicken, and the popular Screen Door plate. It also makes many of its sauces in-house.

screendoorrestaurant.com/east-side/

(503) 542-0880

2337 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214

For halal cuisine, Saad's in Philadelphia is a fantastic option with a popular fried fish dish. The fish wrap and fried tilapia plate both stand out on the menu but it also serves a traditional fish sandwich and fish hoagie. Everything at the restaurant, which began as a food truck, is homemade. Get a side of hummus and falafel for the ultimate Middle Eastern feast. 

saadhalal.com

(215) 222-7223

4500 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19139

Clams are a popular menu item at this casual spot but the N.E. fish sandwich is also a tasty option for those looking for a fried fish sandwich. The best part about this spot? The more classic sandwich is made with locally caught flounder and served with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce. You can also opt for a Caribbean fish sandwich, which features mango and peach salsa with a chipotle aioli.

monahansri.com

Multiple locations in Rhode Island

Sometimes simple is better, and in the case of fried fish sandwiches, simple is delicious. At CudaCo. Seafood House in Charleston, the fish sandwich (called Sandy), is a fried flounder masterpiece. The fish overflows the Martin's potato bun and comes garnished with American cheese, tarter sauce, pickles, and Crystal hot sauce. This is a McDonald's Filet-O-Fish, only upgraded. And for those not feeling flounder that night, the restaurant will substitute a tuna steak (served rare).

cudaco.com

(843) 789-3105

765 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412

Traditional Irish cuisine is on the menu at The Blarney Stone Pub, which also features outdoor seating and a large selection of beers. The fibber's fish sandwich with ale-battered cod is a must-try and comes with slaw and waffle fries. The crispy fish is perfectly balanced by the acidity of malt vinegar and lemon-dill tartar sauce. 

blarneyirishpub.com/sioux-falls

Multiple locations in North Dakota and South Dakota

Next time you're in Music City, track down the Ed's Fish House food truck to get your hands on their famous whiting fish sandwich, which they've been serving since 1972. It's battered in Ed's own cornmeal seasoning and served on white bread with mustard, hot sauce, onions, and pickles, plus cheese if you want to add it. 

edsfishouse.com

(615) 977-2748

2806 Smith Springs Rd, Nashville, TN 37217

You can enjoy fresh seafood right alongside the beach at Miller's, which has more than 1,800 reviews on Yelp. The restaurant has been around since 1976 and perfected fried fish appetizers, po'boy sandwiches, and platters. Popular dishes include fried shrimp, fish tacos, fried fish, and the Seawall special platter. The fish po'boy comes with either fried or grilled fish but we recommend the fried option (of course). 

millersseawallgrillgalveston.com

(409) 763-8777

1824 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550

The deep-fried halibut sandwich is served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce. This is a no-frills sandwich — just classic flavors executed well. The sandwich comes ala carte but you can upgrade to a combo with a side and a drink for a few dollars more. If you love the fish, try a platter with other fried fish varieties or in a family basket.

summerhayshalibut.com

(801) 424-9000

4870 S. Highland Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84117

While the burgers and hot dogs are delicious, the fried haddock sandwich at Al's French Frys is delicious and the ambiance is truly one-of-a-kind. The diner-style establishment was founded in the 1940s, by Al of course, and has been in business frying up burgers, fish, and fries ever since. Be sure to order a side of freshly made onion rings as well.

alsfrenchfrys.com

(802) 862-9203

1251 Williston Rd, South Burlington, VT 05403

Where else can you go for a fishing trip, stop by the fish market, and order a fried flounder sandwich all in the same place? Dockside in Virginia Beach is a hidden gem and the fried fish sandwich is as fresh as they come. It's served with your choice of fries, coleslaw, or potato salad. You can also upgrade it by adding three jumbo fried shrimp on top for the ultimate seafood sandwich. 

fishingvabeach.com

(757) 481-4545

3311 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

It makes sense that a Seattle-based seafood restaurant would have plenty of options. In fact, Seattle Fish Company has several grilled and fried fish sandwiches on the menu, including three types of fish for the fried fish sandwich (cod, salmon, halibut). But in our opinion, the fried halibut sandwich is the way to go at Seattle Fish Company. You can dine in or takeout, as well as order fish to be delivered right to your door. You can't go wrong with the salmon sandwich, cod sandwich, or oyster po'boy, either.

seattlefishcompany.com

(206) 938-7576

4435 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116

At Coleman's Fish Market, which has been around since 1914, you can order a basic fried fish sandwich or a deluxe fried fish sandwich with tartar sauce on a whole wheat bun. There are also two types of fish for the sandwiches: Canadian White and Pollack. Their fried fish is also sold by the pound and comes with extra bread. We're suckers for this level of simplicity (and deliciousness).

colemansfishmkt.com

(304) 232-8510

2226 Market St, Wheeling, WV 26003

In proper Wisconsin tradition, Final Approach has a Friday fish fry that gets rave reviews — particularly for the beer-battered cod which is served on rye bread with coleslaw and fries on the side. If you're not feeling cod that Friday, no worries. The restaurant also offers fresh perch as an option. You can dine in or get it through the drive through option. Be sure to visit on Fridays, however, since these specials are only available once each week.

finalapproachmilwaukee.com

(414) 744-7060

4959 S Howell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207

Sanford's has a lengthy sandwich menu, but the tasty po'boys are the way to go. You can choose between cod, crawfish, catfish, shrimp, or chicken, all of which are served on a delicious hoagie roll. But in our opinion, cod or catfish is the way to go. For a more classic po'boy option, choose catfish. However, the cod is also a tasty option if you're looking for a meatier fish. 

facebook.com/casper.sanfords

(307) 315-6040

61 SE Wyoming Blvd, Casper, WY 82609

This list of the best fried fish sandwiches in each state is based primarily on customer reviews. After all, who better to weigh in than happy customers who have tried the fish and returned for more? Some have received recognition in the form of local awards or top lists on customer-based sites. But the true testament comes from the numerous pictures of happy customers having fun and the empty plates they leave.

Some restaurants have been around for many years, which is a testament to their great service and food. Others are newcomers offering new flavors or options to the local food scene. When the restaurant was attached to a fish market or fish charter, we made sure to mention it since that means fresh fish and a delicious sandwich. Fish fry events were popular since they tend to have a great batter and setup, as well as all the sides you might like to see with your fried fish sandwich.