The Best Fish Fries In New Jersey You Didn’t Know About
The scent of frying fish drifts through the salt air, mingling with the sound of waves and laughter from nearby docks. Plates arrive piled high with golden fillets, flaky inside and perfectly crisp outside.
Along the coast of New Jersey, small seafood shacks and family-run kitchens keep this tradition alive. Each one tells a story of patience, skill, and pride – proof that the best meals often come from the places closest to the sea.
1. Atlantic Offshore Fishery – Point Pleasant Beach
Right off the docks, this Point Pleasant Beach treasure in New Jersey brings the ocean straight to your plate without any fancy fuss. Fishermen unload their daily hauls just steps away, which means the flounder and cod you’re eating might have been swimming hours ago.
The batter is light and never greasy, letting the natural sweetness of the fish shine through. Grab a picnic table outside and watch boats come in while you eat.
2. The Ark Pub & Eatery – Point Pleasant Beach
This neighborhood pub has been quietly perfecting their fish fry recipe for years, and locals treat it like a well-kept secret. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, where regulars chat with newcomers like old friends.
Their beer-battered fish comes with hand-cut fries that are worth the trip alone. The portions are generous without being overwhelming, and everything tastes homemade because it actually is.
3. Black Whale Bar & Fish House – Beach Haven
Beach Haven’s hidden treasure sits where salty New Jersey air meets the sizzle of perfectly fried seafood. The Black Whale has that weathered coastal charm that makes every meal feel like a mini vacation.
Their fish fry features a signature seasoning blend that adds just enough kick without overpowering the delicate fish. Sunset dining here turns a simple meal into something memorable, especially when paired with their homemade sauces.
4. Keyport Fishery – Keyport
Keyport’s working waterfront still thrives at this no-frills fishery that’s been feeding families for generations. There’s something honest about a place where fishermen and office workers stand in the same line for lunch.
The fish is fried to order, which means you might wait a few extra minutes, but that first bite makes it worthwhile. Simple preparation lets quality ingredients do the talking here.
5. The Anchor Fish & Chips – Laurence Harbor
Tucked away in Laurence Harbor, this New Jersey spot brings authentic fish and chips culture to the Jersey Shore. The owners clearly understand that great fish fry is about technique, timing, and temperature working together perfectly.
Their coating achieves that satisfying crunch that stays crispy even as you work through your meal. The vinegar and malt options on each table show they’re serious about traditional flavors.
6. The British Chip Shop – Haddonfield
Haddonfield might seem like an unexpected place for outstanding fish fry, but this British-inspired shop proves location isn’t everything. The recipe comes straight from the UK, where fish and chips is practically an art form.
Each order arrives steaming hot with that distinctive golden color that signals perfect frying. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it easy to become a regular.
7. Josie Kelly’s – Somers Point
Somers Point locals have been gathering at Josie Kelly’s for years, drawn by consistently excellent food and waterfront views in New Jersey. The fish fry here balances tradition with just enough creativity to keep things interesting.
Fresh local catches get priority on the menu, changing with the seasons and what boats bring in. The casual vibe encourages lingering over your meal while watching boats drift by.
8. Roy’s Fish Fry – Irvington
Irvington’s best-kept culinary secret serves up fish fry with soul food flair that’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew. Roy’s has that neighborhood spot energy where everyone seems to know each other’s usual order.
The seasoning here packs flavor that builds with each bite, complemented by sides that deserve their own spotlight. This is comfort food that actually comforts.
9. The Chippery – Union
Union might not touch the ocean, but The Chippery brings fresh seafood inland with impressive dedication to quality. The name says it all – this New Jersey place specializes in doing one thing exceptionally well.
Their fish arrives fresh several times weekly, ensuring that landlocked location doesn’t compromise flavor. The hand-cut chips and house-made tartar sauce complete an experience that rivals any coastal spot.
10. Inlet Café – Highlands
Highlands’ Inlet Café operates with that unpretentious charm that often signals genuinely good food ahead. The menu is compact, focusing on a few things done really well rather than trying to please everyone.
Their fish fry comes on fresh rolls that complement rather than compete with the star ingredient. Local fishermen stop in regularly, which tells you everything about the quality and authenticity.
11. The Crab’s Claw Inn – Lavallette
Lavallette’s beloved institution has been frying fish since before many current diners were born. The Crab’s Claw maintains that old-school shore dining vibe where everything feels timeless and comforting.
Their recipe hasn’t changed much over the decades because, frankly, it doesn’t need to. Generations of families return here, creating memories over platters of golden, crispy fish that taste like summer itself.
12. The Committed Pig – Morristown
Morristown’s gastropub scene includes this surprising contender that elevates fish fry beyond basic expectations. The Committed Pig approaches traditional dishes with creative touches that enhance rather than obscure classic flavors.
Their fried fish appears in various forms, from tacos to sandwiches, each showcasing perfectly executed technique. The craft beer selection pairs beautifully with anything from the fryer, making this a destination worth the drive.
