16 West Coast Fish & Chips Spots Led By A Hidden California Seafood Shack
Nothing beats the simple pleasure of perfectly fried fish paired with crispy chips while gazing at ocean views. The West Coast offers some of the freshest seafood in America, from hidden shacks to iconic establishments that have served generations of hungry visitors.
Join us as we explore 16 must-visit fish and chips destinations from California to Washington, each with its own special take on this classic comfort food.
1. Andria’s Seafood – Ventura, CA
In Ventura Harbor, this unassuming seafood shack serves what locals swear is the best fish and chips in California. Fresh-caught fish gets dipped in a secret batter recipe that’s been perfected over 30+ years.
Grab a seat on the dockside patio and watch fishing boats unload their daily catch while you feast. Andria’s generous portions will satisfy even the hungriest seafood lovers!
2. Ivar’s Acres of Clams – Seattle, WA
Since 1938, this Seattle institution has been serving spectacular seafood on the waterfront. Founder Ivar Haglund’s quirky personality lives on in both the restaurant’s atmosphere and its consistently delicious fish and chips.
Seagulls hover hopefully nearby as diners crack into perfectly golden cod fillets. A visit to Seattle isn’t complete without experiencing this Pacific Northwest landmark that combines fresh-caught flavors with stunning Elliott Bay views.
3. Spud Fish & Chips – Seattle, WA
What began as a tiny beach shack in 1935 has grown into a Seattle legend without losing its charm. Family-owned for generations, Spud’s serves classic fish and chips wrapped in paper, just like they did during the Great Depression.
Lines form early for their signature wild Alaskan cod dipped in a light, crispy batter. Simplicity is the secret here – just fresh fish, hand-cut potatoes, and decades of perfecting their craft.
4. Point Loma Seafoods – San Diego, CA
Watching fishing boats dock right outside while you dine makes Point Loma’s fish truly dock-to-dish. Operating since 1963, this family-run market and restaurant offers spectacular views of San Diego Bay and the marina.
Beyond excellent fish and chips, you’ll find an impressive fresh seafood counter. Locals know to arrive early to beat the crowds drawn by their lightly breaded fish that maintains the perfect balance of crispy exterior and flaky interior.
5. Pacifica Fish House – Pacifica, CA
Waves crash dramatically against the shoreline just feet from your table at this oceanfront gem. Situated on Pacifica Pier, dining here feels like you’re floating above the Pacific Ocean itself.
Order the local rockfish and chips while watching surfers tackle the waves below. Foggy days add mystique to the experience, creating a cozy atmosphere as you warm up with perfectly fried seafood and stunning, unobstructed ocean panoramas.
6. Barbara’s Fishtrap – Half Moon Bay, CA
Housed in a charming wooden building that appears to have been plucked straight from a New England postcard, Barbara’s has been a Half Moon Bay institution since 1971. Fishing boats bob gently in the harbor just outside the windows.
Weathered fishing nets and buoys adorn the walls, creating an authentic maritime atmosphere. Generous portions of hand-battered cod arrive piping hot alongside thick-cut fries that locals drive for hours to enjoy.
7. Local Ocean Seafoods – Newport, OR
Perched on Newport’s working waterfront, Local Ocean takes sustainability seriously. Fishing vessels deliver their catch directly to the restaurant’s kitchen, often visible through large windows overlooking the bay.
Chalkboards list the day’s offerings and which local boat caught each fish. Hand-cut Alaskan cod gets a light panko crust before frying, resulting in exceptionally crispy fish that pairs perfectly with house-made tartar sauce and spectacular Yaquina Bay views.
8. The Codmother Fish & Chips – San Francisco, CA
British expat Suzanne Acevedo brings authentic UK-style fish and chips to Fisherman’s Wharf from her cheerful food truck. Lines form early for her newspaper-wrapped cod, fried in a beer batter recipe she brought from across the pond.
Seagulls circle hopefully as tourists and locals alike squeeze lemon over golden fish. Don’t miss the unique fish tacos – a brilliant fusion creation featuring fried cod in soft tortillas with garlic-lime sauce.
9. Spenger’s Fresh Fish Grotto – Berkeley, CA
Walking into Spenger’s feels like stepping into maritime history. Founded in 1890 by German immigrant Johann Spenger, this Berkeley landmark has served seafood to generations of Bay Area families.
Nautical artifacts collected over 130+ years adorn the walls – ships’ wheels, vintage photographs, and even a 34-pound abalone shell. Regulars recommend the classic cod and chips paired with their famous sourdough bread for an authentic taste of old California.
10. South Beach Fish Market – Newport, OR
Fishing boats unload their catch just steps from this no-frills market and eatery on Newport’s south side. Locals deliberately avoid telling tourists about this hidden gem where you can watch your fish being cleaned and prepared.
Grab a spot at one of the picnic tables outside and keep your eyes peeled for sea lions in the harbor. Massive portions of perfectly fried fish come with house-made coleslaw that provides the perfect tangy contrast.
11. Fisherman’s Wharf Fish & Chips – Monterey, CA
Sea otters play in the kelp beds visible from your table at this Monterey institution. Located on historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf, seals bark noisily as they beg for scraps while fishing boats bring in the day’s catch.
Locally caught rockfish gets a light, crispy coating that enhances rather than masks the delicate flavor. Grab a window seat to enjoy panoramic bay views while savoring some of California’s freshest seafood in this charming maritime setting.
12. Little Chinook’s – Seattle, WA
Salmon reigns supreme at this dockside spot in Seattle’s Fishermen’s Terminal. Commercial fishing vessels surround the small eatery where actual fishermen gather to enjoy the fruits of their labor.
Unlike most fish and chips spots, wild Alaskan salmon is the star here. Lightly breaded and fried to perfection, it offers a uniquely Northwestern twist on the classic dish. Watch fishing crews mend nets and prepare for sea while enjoying truly boat-to-plate dining.
13. Fishermen’s Grotto – San Francisco, CA
Founded in 1935 by Sicilian immigrant Mike Geraldi, this Fisherman’s Wharf landmark claims to be San Francisco’s first sit-down seafood restaurant. Red checkered tablecloths and vintage photographs create a charming old-world atmosphere.
Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase spectacular Golden Gate Bridge views. Generations of the same family still prepare traditional recipes, including their famous lightly battered cod served with thick-cut fries and a side of nostalgia for old San Francisco.
14. The Reel Fish Shop & Grill – East Bay, CA
Jazz music fills the air at this modern East Bay spot that blends traditional seafood with Southern influences. Fishing rods and vintage reels decorate the walls alongside black-and-white photos of California’s fishing history.
Cajun spices add unexpected kick to their beer-battered cod. Families gather around large tables to share “seafood boils” alongside the excellent fish and chips. Don’t miss their unique sweet potato fries option that perfectly complements the crispy fish.
15. Dockside Fish & Chips – Santa Cruz, CA
Surfers fresh from catching waves mix with tourists at this casual spot near the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. Picnic tables overlooking the beach create the perfect setting for enjoying ultra-fresh seafood while watching the sunset.
Order at the counter, then listen for your name to be called. Local rockfish comes encased in a light, crispy batter that shatters satisfyingly with each bite. Homemade tartar sauce and malt vinegar options complete this quintessential California beach experience.
16. Jake’s Famous Crawfish – Portland, OR
Stepping into Jake’s feels like traveling back to 1892 when it first opened. Dark wood paneling, brass fixtures, and white-aproned servers create an old-world Portland atmosphere that’s remained largely unchanged for over a century.
While famous for crawfish, Jake’s fish and chips showcases wild-caught Pacific cod in a light tempura batter. Portland’s oldest restaurant continues to draw locals and visitors alike who appreciate the historic ambiance combined with consistently excellent seafood preparations.
