12 Fried Fish Joints In California That Out-Of-Towners Should Know
California’s nearly 900 miles of coastline tell a story best experienced through food, and few dishes capture that story quite like perfectly fried fish pulled fresh from the Pacific.
From salty harbor towns to sun-drenched beach highways, generations of cooks have mastered the art of turning the day’s catch into golden, crackly perfection.
Along the coast, fried fish isn’t just a meal – it’s a ritual.
Family-run shacks, weathered piers, and roadside food trucks serve fillets wrapped in paper, meant to be eaten with sandy fingers and ocean views just steps away.
This isn’t fast food. It’s coastal tradition.
Some spots have been frying fish the same way for decades, drawing loyal locals who swear nothing tastes better after a long day near the water.
Others surprise travelers with unforgettable bites discovered by accident while cruising Highway 1 or wandering a busy waterfront. Simple ingredients. Serious flavor.
Whether it’s flaky cod, fresh halibut, or locally caught rockfish, these joints prove that when seafood is fresh and the fryer is hot, nothing else is needed.
California’s best fried fish spots don’t chase trends – they deliver comfort, crunch, and coastal nostalgia in every bite. One coast. Countless reasons to stop and eat.
1. Calico Fish House
Just steps from the Pacific Coast Highway, a relaxed beach-town atmosphere defines this coastal seafood stop where salty air and casual comfort go hand in hand.
Located at 16600 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92649, the setting feels perfectly suited for unfussy, flavor-forward seafood enjoyed at an easy pace.
Calico Fish House has earned a loyal following for its approachable menu built around classic fried fish, shrimp baskets, and hearty seafood plates that never overcomplicate things.
Their fried fish features a crisp, golden coating that gives way to tender, flaky flesh, making it an easy favorite among beachgoers and locals alike.
Outdoor seating keeps the ocean breeze part of the experience, while the laid-back service encourages diners to linger.
The menu balances comfort and freshness, offering familiar flavors done well rather than trendy reinventions.
Whether stopping in after a surf session or planning a casual coastal lunch, the restaurant delivers exactly what its setting promises: satisfying seafood, friendly energy, and a true Southern California beach vibe without pretension.
2. Seal Beach Fish Company
Ocean proximity shapes every detail at this welcoming coastal eatery, where fresh seafood and simple preparation take center stage.
Sitting at 1025 Pacific Coast Hwy, Seal Beach, CA 90740, the location makes it easy to pair a meal with a walk along the pier or a day near the sand.
Seal Beach Fish Company focuses on responsibly sourced, line-caught fish prepared with restraint, allowing natural flavors to shine.
The fried fish stands out for its light, crisp exterior that never overwhelms the delicate fillets inside, striking an ideal balance of texture and freshness.
The dining room feels bright and casual, attracting locals who value quality without fuss. Staff are knowledgeable and happy to discuss sourcing, reinforcing the restaurant’s connection to the ocean.
While the menu includes grilled and raw options, the fried fish and chips remain a reliable favorite for repeat visitors.
Everything about the experience feels intentional yet relaxed, making it a dependable stop for seafood lovers seeking honest cooking just steps from the Pacific.
3. Sea Pal Cove
Simplicity defines this no-frills harbor spot where the fish arrives fresh and the focus stays on quality over fancy presentation.
Sea Pal Cove operates at 32390 N Harbor Dr, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, right where fishing vessels unload their daily haul.
The menu keeps things straightforward: fish and chips served with homemade coleslaw that adds a tangy crunch to each bite.
Locals appreciate the consistent preparation and reasonable prices, making it a regular stop rather than just a tourist destination.
The batter comes out light and crispy, letting the mild flavor of the fish shine through without overpowering seasoning.
Seating might be limited during peak hours, but the turnover tends to be quick since most people come specifically for the food rather than lingering over drinks.
Fort Bragg’s cooler coastal weather makes this a cozy spot year-round, though bringing a light jacket for outdoor seating makes sense.
The working harbor setting feels authentic, with none of the polished tourist-trap vibe found in some coastal towns.
4. The Codmother Fish & Chips
British authenticity comes to San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf through this beloved food truck owned by a UK expat who knows proper fish and chips inside out.
You’ll find The Codmother at 496 Beach St, San Francisco, CA 94133, where the aroma of beer-battered fish draws a steady stream of hungry visitors.
The batter achieves that delicate balance of crispy exterior and light texture that doesn’t weigh down the tender fish inside.
Malt vinegar and tartar sauce come standard, letting diners customize their experience the traditional way.
The truck setup means no indoor seating, but nearby benches and the waterfront promenade offer plenty of spots to enjoy the meal.
Lines can stretch long during weekend afternoons, yet the operation moves efficiently, getting fresh batches out quickly.
Regulars often mention the generous portions and the fact that the fish stays hot and crispy even after a short walk to find seating.
Weekday mornings tend to be calmer, making it easier to grab lunch without the tourist rush.
5. Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe
Fresh-off-the-boat doesn’t get more literal than at this market and cafe where the daily catch determines what ends up on your plate.
Malibu Seafood sits at 25653 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, offering picnic table seating with sweeping Pacific views.
The fried fish comes lightly seasoned, letting the natural flavor speak for itself, paired with perfectly salted fries that arrive hot and crispy.
The market side means you can also buy fresh seafood to take home, making it a dual-purpose stop for locals and visitors alike.
Service follows a counter-order style where you place your order, grab a number, and wait for your name to be called.
The casual setup and ocean breeze create a relaxed atmosphere where flip-flops and swimsuits fit right in.
Timing a visit for late morning could mean beating the lunch rush while still catching prime sunshine on the patio. Seagulls patrol the area hopefully, so keeping an eye on your food makes sense if eating outdoors.
6. The Fishery
Operating as both a restaurant and retail fish market, this San Diego spot emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing in everything they serve.
The Fishery is located at 5040 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109, in the Pacific Beach neighborhood where beach culture meets serious seafood appreciation.
Their fried fish showcases whatever’s freshest that day, often featuring locally caught rockfish or Pacific cod prepared with a light, crispy coating.
The interior feels modern and clean, with an open kitchen where you can watch the cooking process unfold.
Menu options extend beyond fried preparations, but the fish and chips remain a customer favorite for good reason.
The batter stays light enough to let the fish’s natural sweetness come through, while the accompanying slaw adds freshness and crunch.
Parking in Pacific Beach can be tricky during summer weekends, so arriving by bike or planning for a short walk makes sense.
The restaurant’s commitment to sustainable fishing practices appeals to environmentally conscious diners who want to enjoy seafood responsibly.
7. The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar
Harbor views and Central Coast charm combine seamlessly at this waterfront restaurant overlooking Morro Bay’s bustling Embarcadero.
Positioned at 899 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442, the location places diners directly beside the water, with fishing boats and sea air enhancing every meal.
The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar has long been known for dependable seafood and a menu that balances comfort with quality.
Fried fish arrives hot and crisp, served in generous portions that make it a popular choice for both tourists and locals.
Large windows and outdoor seating allow guests to take in the bay while enjoying classic coastal fare.
The atmosphere feels relaxed and timeless rather than trendy, encouraging leisurely meals that stretch into sunset.
While the menu offers plenty of grilled and fresh options, the fish and chips remain a standout for their consistent preparation and satisfying flavor.
It’s an ideal stop during a Morro Bay visit, especially when paired with a stroll along the waterfront afterward.
8. Sam’s Chowder House
New England vibes meet California coastline at this Half Moon Bay destination that draws weekend crowds from San Francisco and beyond.
Sam’s Chowder House sits at 4210 CA-1, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Pacific.
The fried fish platter arrives beautifully presented, with crispy fish, hand-cut fries, and housemade tartar sauce that adds a tangy kick.
The restaurant’s design feels upscale-casual, where you can wear jeans but still enjoy white tablecloth service and an extensive wine list.
Reservations become essential during summer weekends when tourists flood the coast for beach time and seafood.
The lobster roll gets most of the attention, but the fried fish holds its own with a light tempura-style batter that stays crispy.
Sunset timing can make for a spectacular dining experience, with golden light streaming through those big windows.
The location also puts you minutes from Half Moon Bay’s beaches and the famous Mavericks surf break, making it easy to build a full coastal day around your meal.
9. Fisherman’s Outlet
In the heart of downtown Los Angeles, a long-standing seafood institution continues to prove that simplicity and consistency can outlast trends.
Operating from 529 S Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90013, the space is modest and unpretentious, keeping attention squarely on what matters most: the food.
Fisherman’s Outlet has been serving fried fish, shrimp, and combination plates for decades, earning a loyal following and official recognition as a city landmark.
The fried fish delivers a satisfying crunch with clean, straightforward flavor, paired with classic sides like fries and coleslaw that complete the experience.
Counter service keeps things efficient, making it a popular lunchtime stop for nearby workers and longtime regulars.
There’s a comforting familiarity to the menu, which hasn’t changed much because it doesn’t need to. Portions are generous, prices remain reasonable, and quality stays consistent.
The no-frills setting reinforces the restaurant’s old-school charm, reminding diners that well-made fried fish doesn’t require reinvention to remain memorable.
10. California Fried Seafood Kitchen
Comfort-focused seafood baskets anchor the menu at this casual neighborhood spot known for delivering indulgent fried favorites without unnecessary flair.
Located at 2352 S Sepulveda Blvd #209, Los Angeles, CA, the restaurant attracts locals looking for satisfying seafood that feels familiar and filling.
California Fried Seafood Kitchen specializes in golden-brown fish, shrimp, calamari, and combination plates that hit all the right comfort-food notes.
The fried fish features a crisp, sturdy batter that holds up well while protecting tender, flaky fish inside.
Generous portions make it easy to share, though many diners opt to keep their plates to themselves. Service is quick and straightforward, ideal for takeout or relaxed dine-in meals.
Seating is simple, keeping the focus on flavor rather than atmosphere. Regulars appreciate the dependable execution and value-driven portions that make repeat visits easy to justify.
When cravings call for classic fried seafood done right, this spot delivers without overthinking the experience.
11. The Fish Hopper
Monterey Bay views and consistently executed seafood have made this waterfront restaurant a reliable choice since the 1990s.
The Fish Hopper occupies a prime spot at 700 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, where large windows frame the bay and its resident sea otters.
Their fried fish combines a light panko crust with fresh Pacific catch, creating texture without heaviness.
The restaurant strikes a balance between tourist-friendly and quality-focused, managing to serve visitors while maintaining standards that bring locals back.
Heated outdoor seating extends the dining season into cooler months when fog rolls in off the water.
The menu offers variety beyond fried options, but the fish and chips remain a top seller for their reliable preparation and generous portions.
Cannery Row’s history as a sardine processing center adds context to any visit, with John Steinbeck’s literary legacy still present in street names and nearby museums.
Parking can be challenging during peak summer months, so using the nearby transit center or walking from downtown makes practical sense.
Sunset reservations book quickly, so planning ahead helps secure those coveted window tables.
12. Berth 55-Fish Market & Seafood Deli
Harbor views and dockside energy shape every visit to this Long Beach seafood market and deli overlooking the marina.
Set at 555 Pico Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90802, the location places diners right beside the water, with boats and sea air adding authenticity to the experience.
Berth 55 Fish Market & Seafood Deli combines fresh seafood counters with casual outdoor seating, creating an atmosphere that feels both lively and relaxed.
Fried fish plates are a highlight, arriving hot and crisp with clean flavor and satisfying texture.
Picnic-style tables encourage a laid-back, communal dining style that fits the waterfront setting perfectly.
The menu balances fried favorites with grilled options, allowing diners to tailor meals to their preferences without straying from seafood roots.
Affordable pricing and generous portions make it popular with locals, families, and visitors exploring the harbor.
The unpolished charm and marina backdrop give every meal a distinctly coastal feel, turning a simple fried fish plate into a memorable Long Beach experience.
