The Absolute Best Fish and Chips in El Cajon [Updated 2025]

And let me tell you, I've had my fair share of crispy batter, tender fish, and perfectly cooked chips. With a whopping 13 different fish and chip places that I've tried in El Cajon, I consider myself somewhat of an expert in this department.

But don't worry, I won't keep you waiting in suspense. In this article, I'll be revealing the absolute best fish and chips spots in El Cajon. So get ready to dive into a sea of deliciousness as we embark on this lighthearted quest to find the ultimate crispy seafood delight.

STUBBORN POKE•N•CHIPS

Highlights
Super delicious poke
Huge portions
Fresh and delicious food
Friendly staff

Let me start by saying, wow! STUBBORN POKE•N•CHIPS truly exceeded my expectations when it comes to fish and chips in El Cajon. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly staff who were more than happy to recommend their best dishes.

Now, let's talk about their fish and chips. The first thing that caught my attention was the size of the portions - they were massive! I'm not kidding; these guys don't mess around when it comes to serving up a hearty meal. Each golden-battered piece of fish was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, leaving me craving for more after every bite.

But what really set STUBBORN POKE•N•CHIPS apart was their unique twist on this classic dish - their poke topping. Yes, you heard that right! They offer an array of super delicious poke options to accompany your fish and chips. It's like having a party in your mouth with every forkful!

Not only was the food absolutely delicious, but it also tasted incredibly fresh. You can tell that STUBBORN POKE•N•CHIPS takes pride in using high-quality ingredients to create their mouthwatering dishes.

So, if you're looking for a place that serves up huge portions of fresh and delicious fish and chips with a twist, STUBBORN POKE•N•CHIPS is definitely the place to go. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best fish and chips in San Diego.

Beef 'n Bun

Highlights
Insane portions
Thick-cut tomatoes and pickles
Friendly staff
Easy parking
Wheelchair accessibility

Prepare yourself for an insane portion of fish and chips at Beef 'n Bun! This place knows how to satisfy even the hungriest fish aficionado. As I sat down, my eyes widened as the server placed a plate in front of me that seemed more like a serving platter.

The first thing that caught my attention was the thick-cut tomatoes and pickles accompanying the golden, crispy fish. It's not often you find such attention to detail in a typical fish and chips joint. The freshness of these toppings added a delightful burst of flavor to each bite.

Not only does Beef 'n Bun deliver on taste, but their staff is also incredibly friendly. I felt welcomed from the moment I stepped in, greeted with warm smiles and prompt service. They were knowledgeable about their menu, providing recommendations with enthusiasm.

Parking can often be a hassle, but not at Beef 'n Bun! They offer easy parking options, so you can focus on enjoying your meal without circling the block endlessly.

Another aspect that impressed me about this place is its wheelchair accessibility. It's refreshing to see establishments taking inclusivity seriously.

Overall, Beef 'n Bun has won my heart with their generous portions, flavorful accompaniments, friendly staff, convenient parking, and commitment to accessibility. If you're looking for a spot in El Cajon that serves up top-notch fish and chips with a smile, look no further than Beef 'n Bun!

You might also want to check out the best fish and chips in North County San Diego.

Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill

Highlights
Ambiance
Outdoor patio
Seasoned fries
Colorful nachos
Excellent service

Upon entering Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill, I was immediately captivated by the delightful ambiance. The cozy and inviting atmosphere made me feel right at home. As a lover of outdoor dining, I was thrilled to discover their charming patio. It provided the perfect setting to enjoy my meal while basking in the warm El Cajon weather.

Now let's talk about the star of the show – the fish and chips. Oh boy, were they something! The fish was cooked to perfection, with a golden-brown and crispy exterior that gave way to tender and flaky flesh with each bite. It was clear that only the freshest ingredients were used, as every mouthful burst with flavor.

But wait, there's more! The seasoned fries accompanying the dish were an absolute delight. Each fry had just the right amount of seasoning, making them irresistible. And if you're feeling adventurous, I highly recommend trying their colorful nachos as well – they were a feast for both the eyes and taste buds!

What truly set Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill apart from other establishments was their excellent service. The staff members were attentive, friendly, and had an extensive knowledge of their menu offerings. They went above and beyond to ensure my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

Overall, Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill is a hidden gem in El Cajon when it comes to fish and chips. With its inviting ambiance, delightful outdoor patio, perfectly seasoned fries, flavorful fish, and top-notch service – this place has it all! So next time you're in town and craving some fantastic fish and chips, be sure to give Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill a visit!

You might also want to check out the best fish and chips in Oceanside.

Junction Bar & Grill

Highlights
Large beers
Excellent food
Tasty tacos
Pulled pork tots
Artichoke soup

As soon as I walked into Junction Bar & Grill, I could tell this place was special. The atmosphere was lively and inviting, with friendly staff ready to greet me. The first thing that caught my eye were the large beers being served at the bar. If you're a fan of beer, this is definitely the place for you.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I begin? The fish and chips at Junction Bar & Grill are nothing short of excellent. The fish was perfectly crispy on the outside, yet tender and flaky on the inside. Each bite was a burst of flavor that left me craving more.

But here's the twist: while I came for the fish and chips, I couldn't resist trying some of their other dishes too. And let me tell you, their tasty tacos were a pleasant surprise. The combination of fresh ingredients and flavorful seasoning made each taco a mini masterpiece.

If you're feeling adventurous, make sure to try their pulled pork tots. These little bites of bliss are loaded with tender pulled pork and topped with a tangy barbecue sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

And if you're in the mood for something lighter, don't miss out on their artichoke soup. It's creamy, rich, and packed with delicate artichoke flavor that will warm your soul.

In conclusion, Junction Bar & Grill is a hidden gem in El Cajon when it comes to fish and chips (and so much more). Their attention to detail and commitment to delivering delicious food is evident in every bite. So grab a friend (or two) and head over to Junction Bar & Grill for an unforgettable dining experience.

Note: No fish were harmed during the writing of this review.

You might also want to check out the best fish and chips in LA Jolla.

California Fish Grill

Highlights
Healthy options
Friendly staff
Quick and hot food
Nice atmosphere

First of all, let me say that this place truly understands the meaning of healthy fish and chips. As someone who appreciates a guilt-free indulgence, I was thrilled to find that California Fish Grill offers grilled options alongside the traditional fried ones. It's like having the best of both worlds without compromising on taste.

The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the most friendly staff I have encountered in a long time. They were eager to assist and made me feel right at home. Their genuine smiles and enthusiasm were contagious, adding to the overall positive vibe of the place.

Now let's talk about the food itself! The fish and chips here are served quickly and piping hot—just the way it should be. The crispy coating on the fish is perfectly seasoned, giving it that extra crunch with every bite. And don't even get me started on their homemade tartar sauce—it's tangy, creamy, and absolutely divine!

What impressed me most about California Fish Grill is their commitment to creating a nice atmosphere. The dining area is clean, well-lit, and tastefully decorated. Whether you choose to dine indoors or enjoy your meal on their outdoor patio, you'll be surrounded by a pleasant ambiance that enhances your dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a place that serves up delicious fish and chips with a healthy twist, has friendly staff ready to cater to your every need, delivers quick service while keeping your food hot, and provides a nice atmosphere for you to enjoy your meal—look no further than California Fish Grill in El Cajon. Trust me; you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best fish and chips in Encinitas.

Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill

Highlights
Tastiest fish
Unique selection
Reasonable prices
Amazing flavors

Let me start by saying, if you're looking for the tastiest fish in El Cajon, look no further than Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill. This place knows how to fry up some golden goodness that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.

One of the things that sets Nahrain apart from other fish and chip joints in town is their unique selection. They offer not only the classic cod or haddock options but also some less traditional choices like tilapia and catfish. It's refreshing to have variety when it comes to fish and chips, don't you think?

And let's talk about prices, shall we? Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill offers their delectable fish and chips at reasonable prices that won't break the bank. So you can indulge in this culinary delight without feeling guilty about your wallet.

Now, let's get to the most important part – the flavors. Oh boy, are they amazing! The batter on their fish is perfection – light, crispy, and full of flavor. And don't even get me started on their homemade tartar sauce. It's like a symphony of tangy and creamy goodness that complements the fish perfectly.

In conclusion, Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill is definitely a top contender for the best fish and chips in El Cajon. With its tasty fish selection, reasonable prices, and amazing flavors, it's a must-visit for any seafood lover. So go ahead and dive into a plate of their deliciousness – your taste buds will thank you!

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Captain's Seafood Gallery

Highlights
Great seafood

Walking into Captain's Seafood Gallery, I was immediately greeted by the delightful aroma of deep-fried goodness. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, with nautical-themed decor that made me feel like I had stepped onto a quaint seaside eatery.

Now, let's talk about their fish and chips. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The great seafood at Captain's Seafood Gallery is truly a catch! Their fish is impeccably fresh, lightly battered to perfection, and fried to a crispy golden brown.

The moment I took my first bite, my taste buds were dancing with joy. The fish was tender and flaky on the inside while boasting a delectable crunch on the outside. It was an explosion of flavors that left me wanting more.

But it doesn't stop there! The chips that accompanied the fish were equally impressive. Crisp, golden, and perfectly salted, they were the ideal sidekick to the star of the show.

What sets Captain's Seafood Gallery apart from other fish and chip joints is their attention to detail. Each dish is served with a tangy tartar sauce that complements the fish beautifully. And if you're feeling adventurous, try their homemade coleslaw for an extra burst of freshness.

The service at Captain's Seafood Gallery was top-notch as well. The staff members were friendly, knowledgeable about their menu offerings, and happy to provide recommendations based on individual preferences.

In conclusion, if you're in El Cajon and craving some mouthwatering fish and chips, Captain's Seafood Gallery is definitely worth a visit. With its great seafood selection and attention to every little detail, this place will surely reel you in!

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Applebee's Grill + Bar

Highlights
Perfect margarita
Combo with a little of everything
Ribs and fries
Nice and helpful waitress
Family friendly
Plenty of parking
Mind blowingly delicious chicken bowl
Authentic and attentive service

Let me start by saying that Applebee's Grill + Bar in El Cajon may not be your typical fish and chips destination, but boy, did they surprise me! As I perused the menu, my eyes were immediately drawn to their perfect margarita. I couldn't resist ordering one to accompany my meal.

I opted for their combo dish, which promised a little bit of everything. And let me tell you, it delivered! The fish and chips were crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. It was a delightful contrast of textures that left my taste buds dancing with joy. But hold on, the surprises didn't end there!

While enjoying my fish and chips, I couldn't help but notice the aroma wafting from a nearby table. Curiosity got the best of me, so I struck up a conversation with the friendly couple next to me. They told me they were indulging in Applebee's famous ribs and fries. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try as well. Let me just say, those ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender, and the fries were perfectly seasoned.

What truly made this dining experience memorable was our nice and helpful waitress who went above and beyond to ensure our satisfaction. She expertly guided us through the menu options with her extensive knowledge of their offerings.

Applebee's Grill + Bar is also family-friendly, offering a warm atmosphere where you can enjoy your meal without worrying about disturbing others. Additionally, finding parking was a breeze with plenty of spaces available.

In conclusion, while Applebee's may not be your first thought when seeking out fish and chips in El Cajon, their attention to detail and dedication to providing delicious food make them worthy contenders in this culinary quest. So if you're looking for an unexpected twist on traditional fish and chips or simply want to explore their mind-blowingly delicious chicken bowl or other offerings, Applebee's Grill + Bar is definitely worth a visit.

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La Casita's Grill & Seafood

Highlights
Hidden Gem
Garlic shrimp and rice Bomb
Super clean
Legit Campechana
Top 3

From the moment I stepped into La Casita's, I knew I had stumbled upon a hidden gem in El Cajon. The aroma of freshly cooked seafood filled the air, teasing my taste buds and creating an excitement that only a true food lover can understand.

I decided to start my fish and chips adventure with their garlic shrimp and rice bomb. Let me tell you, this dish was an explosion of flavors! The succulent shrimp were perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Paired with fluffy rice, it was a match made in culinary heaven.

One thing that really impressed me about La Casita's was how clean everything was. The restaurant itself was spotless, and the open kitchen allowed me to see the chefs working their magic with precision and care. It gave me confidence in knowing that I was about to enjoy a top-notch meal.

But let's not forget about their legit Campechana. This seafood cocktail consisted of a tantalizing mix of octopus, shrimp, scallops, and crab all marinated in a tangy sauce. Every bite was like a flavor party in my mouth.

Overall, I can confidently say that La Casita's Grill & Seafood has earned its place among the top 3 contenders for the best fish and chips in El Cajon. With their flavorful dishes, impeccable cleanliness, and friendly staff, they have truly mastered the art of serving up delicious seafood delights.

So if you're on the hunt for some seriously good fish and chips or other mouthwatering seafood options in El Cajon, don't miss out on La Casita's Grill & Seafood. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in LA Jolla.

Black Bear Diner El Cajon

Highlights
Clean and welcoming
Patient and helpful staff
Good food and service
Cute decor

Let me start by saying that this place is a hidden gem when it comes to fish and chips. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a clean and welcoming atmosphere. The staff, who were patient and helpful, made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the fish and chips. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The batter was crispy and golden, hugging the flaky white fish inside like a warm embrace. It was evident that they used fresh ingredients to create such a delightful dish.

The portion size was generous, making it perfect for sharing or simply indulging yourself if you're feeling particularly hungry. Each bite transported me to a seaside paradise where seagulls serenaded me with their squawks of approval.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; it was also the service. The waitstaff were attentive and knowledgeable about their menu offerings. They made sure my every need was met without being intrusive.

As I sat there enjoying my meal, I couldn't help but admire the cute decor that adorned the walls. It added an extra touch of charm to an already delightful dining experience.

In conclusion, if you find yourself craving some exquisite fish and chips in El Cajon, make your way to Black Bear Diner El Cajon. Trust me; you won't be disappointed. With their good food, great service, and adorable ambiance, this place truly deserves its spot among the best fish and chip joints in town!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in San Diego.

The best seafood

Prepare your taste buds for a flavorful adventure! The best seafood in El Cajon will have you hooked from the moment you take your first bite. The fish is impeccably crispy, with a perfect golden hue that would make King Midas jealous. And the chips? Oh, they're as fluffy and delightful as clouds in a summer sky.

But wait, there's more! Their tartar sauce is like a symphony of tangy goodness, perfectly complementing the fish and chips. It's so good, it could probably convince even the most stubborn cat to enjoy swimming lessons!

The atmosphere at The best seafood is relaxed yet vibrant, with friendly staff who are more than happy to guide you through their menu. They even offer gluten-free options for those who want to join in on the fun without any pesky dietary restrictions.

So if you're in El Cajon and craving some fin-tastic fish and chips, make sure to swim on over to The best seafood. Trust me, it'll be an experience that will have you floundering for words (in a good way!).

You might also want to check out the best seafood in San Diego.

Greek Chicken

Highlights
Clean
Delicious
Moderate
Great
Happy

Let me start by saying that Greek Chicken is a hidden gem when it comes to fish and chips in El Cajon. The first thing that caught my attention was how clean the restaurant was. Not a single speck of grease or dirt in sight! It's always reassuring to see such attention to cleanliness, especially when it comes to preparing food.

Now, onto the most important aspect – the taste. The fish and chips at Greek Chicken were delicious. The batter was perfectly crispy and golden, while the fish inside remained moist and flavorful. It was evident that they use high-quality ingredients and take pride in their cooking.

What surprised me even more was the moderate pricing. Great-tasting fish and chips usually come with a hefty price tag, but not at Greek Chicken. They offer generous portions at a reasonable cost, which makes it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

The overall experience at Greek Chicken was great. The staff were friendly and welcoming, creating a happy atmosphere throughout my visit. It felt like I was part of their family!

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best fish and chips in El Cajon, look no further than Greek Chicken. With its clean environment, delicious food, moderate prices, and great service, this place definitely deserves a spot on your must-visit list!

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Mariscos La Bola

Highlights
Shrimp tacos
Flavorful fish taco
Affordable prices

Let me start by saying that if you're looking for a place that serves fish and chips with a twist, Mariscos La Bola is the place to be. Trust me, this little gem will have your taste buds doing a happy dance!

Now, let's talk about their shrimp tacos. Oh boy, these little pockets of joy are nothing short of amazing. The shrimp is perfectly cooked and seasoned, with just the right amount of spice. Each bite explodes with flavor, leaving you wanting more.

But don't worry, they also have a flavorful fish taco for all the traditionalists out there. The fish is fried to perfection – crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside. It's topped with fresh ingredients that add an extra layer of deliciousness.

One thing I absolutely love about Mariscos La Bola is their affordable prices. You can enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. It's like they're giving you a gift – amazing food at a great price!

The ambiance at Mariscos La Bola is casual yet inviting. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure your dining experience is top-notch.

If you're in El Cajon and craving some fish and chips that will make your taste buds sing, look no further than Mariscos La Bola. Trust me, it won't disappoint!

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