Canned sardines have come a long way since their reputation as salty, oily survival food. Today, they range from bland and rubbery to buttery, ocean-sweet, and totally crave-worthy.
Whether you’re loading toast, tossing them in pasta, or savoring them straight from the tin, choosing the right brand makes all the difference.
Here’s a flavor-forward journey through 20 sardine brands—ranked from the ones you’ll regret to the tins you’ll dream about.
1. Great Value
This budget option delivers exactly what the name suggests—basic sardines that fill a plate but not the palate. The fillets often run dry, with a mushy texture and a metallic tang that lingers longer than you’d like.
They’re best disguised in strong sauces or cooked into casseroles, where their flavor can hide behind bolder ingredients. For everyday eating, there are better fish in the sea—even at low prices.
2. Beach Cliff
Beach Cliff sardines come in classic sauces and are easy to find, but the experience is often underwhelming. The fish tend to be overly salty and dense, sometimes tough around the edges.
The tomato version adds a little life, but texture and taste rarely go beyond utilitarian. If nostalgia draws you in, pair it with lots of hot sauce and toast.
3. Polar
Polar sardines vary wildly from tin to tin—sometimes pleasantly meaty, sometimes soft and vaguely fishy. Their oil-packed version performs better, lending some richness to an otherwise forgettable bite.
These aren’t bad, but they lack consistency, and that makes them a gamble when shopping.
4. Season Brand
A go-to in many supermarkets, Season Brand gets points for availability and variety. The flavor is mild and clean, but the fillets are often too soft, bordering on mushy.
They work well in recipes—especially mashed into spreads—but on their own, they don’t leave a lasting impression.
5. Goya
Known for its pantry staples, Goya’s sardines come in multiple sauces but often deliver too much brine and not enough nuance. The chili version brings heat, though the texture can be grainy and overcooked.
Still, for cooking into beans or rice, they add protein and punch without breaking the bank.
6. Bumble Bee
These sardines play it safe—no surprises, but no fireworks either. They’re firm but not flaky, and they carry a pronounced fishiness.
Best used in fritters or stews where other ingredients can take the lead. They’ll do in a pinch, just don’t expect elegance.
7. Brunswick
A favorite across Canada, Brunswick sardines are reliable and sturdy. The fillets hold together nicely and have a subtle, smoky note.
Their sauces are hit or miss, but the fish is often higher quality than you’d expect at the price. They’re a dependable mid-tier option.
8. Crown Prince
This brand leans traditional, with clean-tasting sardines in olive oil that deliver a well-rounded bite. The texture is consistent—firm without being chewy.
Their skinless, boneless version is smooth and easy to use in salads or pasta. A solid pick for those who like mild, no-fuss fish.
9. Chicken Of The Sea
Surprisingly decent, these sardines are tender with a clean ocean flavor and minimal aftertaste. They’re packed simply and offer good structure.
While they don’t lead the pack, they’re approachable for sardine newbies and shine with lemon and cracked pepper.
10. Wild Planet
Wild Planet wins sustainability points—and delivers on taste, too. Their sardines are plump, deeply savory, and lightly smoked for a gourmet edge.
Each tin is packed with care, making these a top pick for those who want clean protein and bold flavor with a conscience.
11. Ortiz
Elegant and unmistakably Mediterranean, Ortiz sardines are hand-packed and soaked in quality olive oil. The result is silky texture and a light briny sweetness.
They’re made for slow, savoring bites on a slice of sourdough with nothing more than lemon and sea salt.
12. Bela
These Portuguese tins are eye-catching on the shelf—and even better on the tongue. The fillets are tender, and the piri-piri version adds a subtle heat.
They feel like a treat without the premium price tag. Expect balance, richness, and just the right chew.
13. Matiz
Matiz sardines have a cult following for good reason. They’re thick, buttery, and almost melt under a fork.
The Spanish olive oil adds body, and their slightly sweet flavor works beautifully in both rustic and refined dishes.
14. Angelo Parodi
This old-world Italian brand delivers delicate fillets with an almost creamy mouthfeel. The oil is light, the salt perfectly balanced.
With each tin wrapped in vintage gold paper, they feel like a small luxury—and taste like one too.
15. Trader Joe’s
Affordable and shockingly high in quality, Trader Joe’s sardines are plump, mild, and gently briny. The olive oil version is especially satisfying.
They’re a pantry staple for sardine fans, perfect for topping toast or tossing in a salad.
16. King Oscar
The Norwegian king of sardines lives up to its royal name. These tins are filled with petite, perfectly cooked fillets that fall apart like poached fish.
Their smoked and Mediterranean-style options bring depth and richness—ideal for snacking straight from the tin.
17. Nuri
These iconic Portuguese sardines are packed in spice-infused oil that’s as craveable as the fish itself. Each tin is hand-wrapped and bursting with bold, savory heat.
Flaky and full-bodied, they’re a main event, not just a meal add-on.
18. Cole’s
Ethical sourcing and gentle preparation make Cole’s stand out. The sardines are moist and silky, with complex ocean flavor.
With varieties like lemon and smoked paprika, they’re a fantastic choice for tapas or artisan sandwiches.
19. Scout
This Canadian newcomer makes sustainable sardines stylish. Packed with chef-driven sauces like zesty tomato or miso glaze, Scout brings freshness to the shelf.
The fillets are supple and rich, tasting more like a bistro dish than a canned snack.
20. Jose Gourmet
These Portuguese beauties are the crème de la crème. Soft yet meaty, their flavor is balanced, buttery, and deeply savory.
With artful packaging and pristine quality, Jose Gourmet turns a humble tin into an unforgettable culinary experience.