San Diego's Best Fish and Chips [Updated 2024]

From crispy beer-battered fillets to perfectly seasoned fries, there's nothing quite like a good fish and chips meal. Lucky for me, I've had the privilege of sampling 13 different spots across San Diego in search of that ultimate combination of flaky fish and crunchy chips.

So, if you're craving this classic dish and wondering where to find the best fish and chips in San Diego, look no further! Get ready to dive into my lighthearted guide that will reel you in on all the top contenders. It's time to embark on a mouthwatering adventure to uncover the hidden gems that make San Diego truly shine in the realm of fish and chips.

Ironside Fish & Oyster

Highlights
$1 oysters
Fish tacos
Outstanding service
Cool vibe
Steamed clams

Let me start by saying that Ironside Fish & Oyster definitely lives up to its reputation as a top-notch seafood joint. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a cool vibe that instantly made me feel at ease.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: their fish and chips. Oh boy, oh boy! The batter on the fish was light and crispy, providing the perfect contrast to the tender and flaky fish within. Every bite was like a little taste of seaside heaven. Magnifique!

But here's the twist: although I came for the fish and chips, it was their $1 oysters that stole the spotlight. These succulent little creatures were so fresh, they practically jumped off the plate and into my mouth. It felt like winning an underwater lottery!

To add some variety to my seafood extravaganza, I couldn't resist trying their fish tacos as well. And let me tell you, these babies were packed with flavor. The combination of perfectly seasoned fish, tangy slaw, and zesty sauce created a symphony of tastes that danced on my tongue.

What truly sets Ironside Fish & Oyster apart from other spots is their outstanding service. The staff went above and beyond to make sure every need was met and every question answered. Their knowledge about seafood was truly impressive – they could probably teach Poseidon a thing or two!

Last but not least, if you're a fan of steamed clams (and who isn't?), you're in for a treat at Ironside Fish & Oyster. Their steamed clams are cooked to perfection – tender, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying.

So if you find yourself craving some fintastic fish and chips in San Diego, look no further than Ironside Fish & Oyster. Trust me when I say it’s worth diving into!

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

Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant

Highlights
Quick service
Delicious food
Great deals
Relaxing seating

As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and quick service. No time wasted waiting around for my scrumptious meal! Speaking of the meal, let me tell you, it was nothing short of a culinary masterpiece.

The first bite of their fish and chips sent my taste buds into a frenzy. The fish was perfectly flaky on the inside while maintaining a crisp outer layer. The chips were golden brown and had just the right amount of seasoning. It was like fireworks exploding in my mouth with every bite!

What impressed me even more than the delectable food was the great deals that Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant offered. You don't have to break the bank to enjoy quality fish and chips here. They definitely understand that good food doesn't have to come at a high price.

To top it all off, the seating area provided a relaxing atmosphere. I could sit back, enjoy my meal, and take in the beautiful view of San Diego's waterfront. It felt like a mini vacation from reality.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best fish and chips in San Diego, look no further than Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant. With its quick service, delicious food, great deals, and relaxing seating, it is truly a hidden gem worth discovering. So go ahead and treat yourself to an unforgettable fishy feast!

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

Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Award-winning tacos
Wide variety of options
Cozy and inviting ambiance
Attentive staff

From the moment I stepped into Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill, I knew I was in for a treat. The cozy and inviting ambiance immediately put me at ease, and the attentive staff made me feel like a valued customer.

Now let's talk about the star of the show: their fish and chips. Oh boy, were they something to behold! The fish was so fresh that it practically swam onto my plate. The crispy golden batter encasing the flaky white fish was a work of art. Each bite transported me to fish and chip heaven.

But wait, there's more! Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is not just about fish and chips. Their menu boasts an array of options to satisfy every seafood lover's cravings. From award-winning tacos to succulent shrimp dishes, there is truly something for everyone.

What sets Blue Water apart from other seafood joints in San Diego is their commitment to sourcing only the freshest ingredients. You can taste the difference with every mouthful. It's no wonder they have developed such a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best fish and chips in San Diego, look no further than Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill. With their fresh seafood, wide variety of options, and delightful ambiance, this place has all the makings of a seafood lover's paradise. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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.

Water Grill San Diego

Highlights
Great dining experience
Clean and well-lit environment
Good portion sizes
Highly recommended

Water Grill San Diego truly offers a great dining experience for fish and chips enthusiasts like myself. As soon as I entered the restaurant, I was greeted by a clean and well-lit environment that immediately set the tone for an enjoyable meal.

Now let's talk about the main event – the fish and chips themselves. The portion sizes at Water Grill San Diego are generous, ensuring that you leave with a satisfied appetite. The fish is cooked to perfection, with a crispy golden batter that encases succulent and flaky white fish. Each bite is an explosion of flavors, leaving you wanting more.

What sets Water Grill San Diego apart from other establishments is their attention to detail. The fries accompanying the fish are not your average run-of-the-mill variety; they are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It's clear that they take pride in every aspect of their dish.

The friendly staff at Water Grill San Diego were knowledgeable about their menu and provided excellent recommendations. Their passion for serving quality seafood shines through in each dish they prepare.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an exceptional fish and chips experience in San Diego, look no further than Water Grill San Diego. With its great dining atmosphere, clean environment, good portion sizes, and truly delectable seafood, it comes highly recommended by yours truly – a self-proclaimed fish and chips connoisseur!

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

Gaslamp Fish House

Highlights
Excellent staff
Unique entrées
Macadamia calamari
Filling fish n' chips
Wonderful food quality

The moment I stepped into Gaslamp Fish House, I was greeted with a warm and genuine smile from the staff. Their hospitality instantly made me feel like a valued customer. As I perused the menu, I noticed they had a variety of unique entrées that went beyond your typical fish and chips options.

Curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to try their macadamia calamari as an appetizer. Let me tell you, it was a game-changer! The combination of the crunchy macadamia nuts and tender calamari created a delightful blend of textures. It was unlike any calamari dish I've ever had before.

Now onto the main event - the fish and chips. The portion size was incredibly generous, ensuring that even the heartiest of appetites would leave satisfied. Their fish n' chips were filling in both flavor and quantity. The fish was perfectly cooked, flaky on the inside with a light crispy coating on the outside. And let's not forget about those golden fries - they were simply divine.

One aspect that stood out to me about Gaslamp Fish House was their commitment to food quality. Every bite tasted fresh and well-seasoned, leaving me wanting more.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an exceptional fish and chips experience in San Diego, Gaslamp Fish House is definitely worth trying. With excellent staff, unique entrées like their macadamia calamari, and mouthwatering fish n' chips that will satisfy any seafood lover's cravings, this place is a winner in my book!

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

Shakespeare Pub

Highlights
Unforgettable World Cup experience
Delicious fish and chips
Traditional English breakfast
Attentive and friendly staff
Great atmosphere for sports-watching

Let me start by saying that my visit to Shakespeare Pub was an unforgettable World Cup experience. As soon as I stepped inside, the lively atmosphere and the cheers from passionate soccer fans engulfed me, creating an electric ambiance that complemented the delicious food.

Now, let's talk about their fish and chips. Oh boy, were they a treat for both the eyes and taste buds! The deliciously golden-battered fish was perfectly crispy on the outside while maintaining its tender flakiness on the inside. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with the fish melting in my mouth and leaving me wanting more.

To accompany this culinary masterpiece, they served thick-cut chips that were immaculately seasoned. These golden beauties had just the right amount of crunch and were an excellent companion to the succulent fish.

What impressed me even more was their commitment to offering a traditional English breakfast alongside their fish and chips. It's not every day you find such attention to detail in San Diego.

But it wasn't just the food that made my experience delightful; it was also the attentive and friendly staff who made sure everything went smoothly. Their knowledge of British culture added an extra layer of authenticity to my visit.

All in all, Shakespeare Pub is not only a fantastic place for sports-watching but also a hidden gem for finding some of San Diego's best fish and chips. So if you're craving a taste of England or simply want to indulge in some top-notch seafood delights, look no further than this charming establishment.

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

Bay Park Fish Company

Highlights
Amazing food
Friendly staff
Great atmosphere
Huge portions

Prepare to have your taste buds tantalized and your hunger satisfied because Bay Park Fish Company knows how to deliver a fish and chips experience like no other. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a friendly atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

Let's talk about the star of the show - the food. Oh my goodness, where do I begin? The fish was cooked to perfection, with a crispy golden batter that had just the right amount of crunch. Each bite revealed tender, flaky white fish that practically melted in my mouth. And let's not forget about the chips - thick-cut and perfectly seasoned, they were the ideal accompaniment to the fish.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; it was also the portions. They were absolutely massive! I found myself struggling to finish my plate, but every bite was worth it. If you're looking for value for your money, Bay Park Fish Company has got you covered.

One thing that really stood out during my visit was the friendly staff. They were knowledgeable about their menu and took the time to make sure each customer felt welcome and well taken care of. It's clear that this establishment prides itself on providing excellent service along with its delicious food.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the place to satisfy your fish and chips cravings in San Diego, look no further than Bay Park Fish Company. With their amazing food, friendly staff, great atmosphere, and generous portions, this hidden gem is truly deserving of its spot among the best fish and chips spots in San Diego. So go ahead and treat yourself - you won't be disappointed!

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

Mr. Fish & Chips

Highlights
Wonderful fish and chips
Generous and kind owner
Great customer service skills
Tasty and good quality food
Eco-friendly packaging

From the moment I stepped into Mr. Fish & Chips, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of freshly fried fish filled the air, enticing my taste buds and making me drool with anticipation. The owner greeted me with a warm smile and instantly made me feel at home.

Let's talk about the star of the show - the fish and chips themselves. Oh boy, were they wonderful! The fish was delicately battered, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It was clear that only the freshest catch had made its way onto my plate. Each bite was a burst of flavor that left me wanting more.

What truly impressed me about Mr. Fish & Chips was not just their food but also their commitment to customer satisfaction. The owner went above and beyond to ensure that every patron felt valued and appreciated. His great customer service skills were evident as he took time to chat with each customer, making them feel like old friends.

The quality of the food at Mr. Fish & Chips is top-notch. Their attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the perfectly cooked fries to the flavorful tartar sauce that accompanied my meal. Every bite was a delight for my taste buds.

In addition to serving up delicious fish and chips, Mr. Fish & Chips also gets extra points for their eco-friendly packaging. They use biodegradable containers and utensils, showing their commitment not only to providing great food but also to protecting our environment.

Overall, my experience at Mr. Fish & Chips was nothing short of fantastic! From the wonderful fish and chips to the kind owner who goes above and beyond for his customers, this place truly stands out as one of San Diego's best spots for this classic dish. So if you're looking for tasty fish and chips served with a side of warmth and hospitality, make your way down to Mr. Fish & Chips - it won't disappoint!

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

Munchy Express Food Truck

Highlights
Best dive in San Diego
Friendly staff
Delicious food
Affordable prices
Cares about customer satisfaction

As soon as I arrived at Munchy Express Food Truck, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. Nestled in a cozy corner of San Diego, this unassuming food truck has gained quite the reputation for having the best dive in town.

The staff at Munchy Express are not just friendly – they're like your long-lost pals who have an uncanny ability to make you feel right at home. They greeted me with warm smiles and eagerly took my order, ready to satisfy my fish and chips cravings.

And boy, did they deliver! The moment I took my first bite, I was transported to a seafood wonderland. The fish was tender and flaky on the inside while boasting a perfectly golden and crispy exterior. Each bite filled my mouth with an explosion of flavor that made me question why I hadn't visited Munchy Express sooner.

But what truly sets Munchy Express apart is their commitment to customer satisfaction. They offer this delectable dish at affordable prices, proving that top-notch quality doesn't have to come with a hefty bill.

In conclusion, Munchy Express Food Truck deserves every bit of praise it receives for its outstanding fish and chips. With its friendly staff, delicious food, and unbeatable affordability, it is undoubtedly one of the champions in San Diego's fish and chip scene. So if you find yourself craving this classic dish, do yourself a favor and head over to Munchy Express Food Truck – your taste buds will thank you later!

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

Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich

Highlights
Huge portions
Delicious and fresh
Great service
Authentic flavors
True to New England style

Walking into Pete's Seafood and Sandwich, I was immediately struck by the charming atmosphere. The walls were adorned with nautical decor, and the smell of delicious seafood filled the air. My taste buds were already tingling in anticipation.

I decided to start my culinary journey with an order of their famous fish and chips. Let me tell you, I wasn't disappointed. The portion size was ginormous. It seemed as though they had caught a whale just to serve it on my plate! Each bite was a delightful blend of crispy batter and tender, flaky fish that practically melted in my mouth.

What impressed me most about Pete's was their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients. It was evident that they take pride in sourcing their seafood from local vendors, resulting in a plate of fish and chips that tasted like it had just been plucked from the ocean.

The service at Pete's was top-notch as well. The staff members were friendly and attentive, making sure that I had everything I needed for a truly enjoyable dining experience.

As someone who has traveled extensively along the New England coast, I can confidently say that Pete's captures the authentic flavors of traditional fish and chips. They stay true to the New England style while adding their own unique twist.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a place that serves up massive portions of delicious and fresh fish and chips with a side of great service, look no further than Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich in San Diego. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

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

Pacific Beach Fish Shop

Highlights
Tons of choices
TKO is the best
Staff has good picks
Must-visit in PB

Upon entering the Pacific Beach Fish Shop, I was immediately overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices available. It was like being a kid in a candy store, but instead of candy, it was fish and chips! The menu boasted an impressive array of seafood options, from classic fish and chips to more adventurous items like shrimp tacos and fish burritos.

After much deliberation, I decided to go with their highly recommended TKO dish. Let me tell you, it lived up to its name! The perfectly battered Alaskan cod was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Each bite was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds. Paired with their homemade tartar sauce, it was a match made in seafood heaven.

What impressed me even more than the food itself was the knowledge and enthusiasm of the staff. They were more than happy to offer recommendations and share their personal favorites. Their passion for what they do truly shone through in every interaction.

If you find yourself in Pacific Beach craving some amazing fish and chips, Pacific Beach Fish Shop is an absolute must-visit. With its extensive menu, fantastic dishes like the TKO, and a staff that knows their stuff, this place is undoubtedly one of San Diego's finest spots for fish and chips. Trust me when I say that your taste buds will thank you for making this delightful culinary pilgrimage!

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

Crab Hut

Highlights
Love the spice
Wonderful service
Generous portions
Yummy fish and chips
Epic seafood boil

As soon as I stepped into Crab Hut, I knew I was in for a spicy treat. The aroma of their signature Cajun spices filled the air, making my taste buds tingle with anticipation. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and provided wonderful service throughout my visit.

When my order arrived, I was blown away by the generous portions of fish and chips on my plate. The golden-battered fish was perfectly crispy on the outside, while the inside remained tender and flaky. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavor that left me wanting more.

But it wasn't just the fish and chips that won me over at Crab Hut; their seafood boil is truly epic. With an assortment of succulent shrimp, crab legs, and mussels drenched in their secret sauce, it's a seafood lover's dream come true.

What sets Crab Hut apart from other places is not only their commitment to quality but also their ability to infuse every dish with unique flavors. They've perfected the art of balancing spices, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate.

In conclusion, if you're looking for yummy fish and chips in San Diego, look no further than Crab Hut. With their flavorful dishes, generous portions, and top-notch service, they have rightfully earned a spot on the list of the best fish and chip joints in town. So grab your bibs and get ready for a finger-licking good time!

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

Sally's Fish House & Bar

Highlights
Incredible seafood selection
Great service
Tasty drinks
Reasonable prices
Attentive and friendly waitstaff

From the moment I stepped foot inside Sally's, I was greeted with the most incredible seafood selection my eyes have ever feasted upon. It was like being a kid in a candy store, except instead of candy, it was all the treasures of the sea on display.

The service at Sally's was top-notch, with waitstaff that were not only attentive but also genuinely friendly. They made me feel like a VIP as they guided me through their extensive menu and helped me make my fish and chips dreams come true.

After perusing the menu, I decided to pair my crispy golden fish and chips with one of their tasty drinks. Let me tell you, those bartenders at Sally's know how to mix up a mean cocktail. My taste buds danced with delight as I sipped on my refreshing concoction while waiting for my food.

Speaking of which, when my plate arrived, I could hardly contain my excitement. The perfectly battered fish glistened under the soft lighting, its aroma filling the air around me. With one bite, I knew that this was something special. The fish practically melted in my mouth, leaving behind a symphony of flavors that left me wanting more.

And let's not forget about the reasonable prices! Often times, delicious seafood can come with a hefty price tag, but at Sally's Fish House & Bar, you get quality without breaking the bank.

Overall, my experience at Sally's Fish House & Bar was nothing short of fantastic. From the incredible seafood selection to the great service and tasty drinks - everything was simply delightful. If you're looking for an unforgettable fish and chips experience in San Diego, look no further than Sally's Fish House & Bar!

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