14 Fish Fry Restaurants That Make New Mexico Delicious
New Mexico might be famous for its chile peppers and enchiladas, but there’s another culinary treasure hiding in plain sight: incredible fish fry spots. From crispy battered cod to succulent shrimp baskets, these restaurants prove that landlocked doesn’t mean flavor-locked.
Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or adventurous seafood creations, these fish fry havens will satisfy your hunger and leave you planning your next visit.
1. Hook It Up Fish & Chips, Albuquerque
This spot doesn’t mess around when it comes to delivering authentic British-style fish and chips with a New Mexico twist. Hook It Up Fish & Chips serves up flaky cod wrapped in a golden, crunchy batter that shatters at first bite.
The chips are thick cut and perfectly seasoned, making every mouthful a nostalgic trip across the pond.
Their tartar sauce is tangy without being overpowering, and the portions are generous enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetite. You’ll find yourself scraping the basket for every last crispy bit. Casual vibes meet serious flavor here, and it’s exactly what Albuquerque needed.
2. Slapfish, Albuquerque
Where fast-casual meets gourmet, this seafood joint flips the script on typical fish fry fare. Slapfish brings California coastal energy straight to the heart of New Mexico with bold flavors and sustainable sourcing. Their fried fish is impossibly light, with a delicate crust that lets the fish shine through.
The menu offers playful twists like lobster rolls and fish tacos alongside classic fried baskets. Everything tastes ocean-fresh despite being hundreds of miles from the nearest coast.
It’s proof that innovation and tradition can coexist beautifully on one plate, and your taste buds will thank you for the adventure.
3. Mariscos Altamar, Albuquerque
Did you know that some of the best fish fry in New Mexico comes with a Mexican flair? Mariscos Altamar transforms simple fried seafood into a fiesta of flavors with zesty seasonings and fresh accompaniments.
Their whole fried fish arrives crispy-skinned and tender inside, served with rice, beans, and tortillas for a complete meal.
The shrimp are plump and perfectly breaded, with just enough kick to keep things interesting. Every dish feels like a celebration, bursting with citrus, cilantro, and chile. When you want your fish fry with a side of adventure, this is where you head.
4. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Albuquerque
Though it’s a chain, this spot delivers consistently excellent Southern comfort food that hits different after a long day. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store knows its way around a fish fry, serving up tender catfish with a cornmeal crust that’s both crunchy and flavorful.
The sides are what elevate the experience, from creamy mac and cheese to tangy coleslaw. The rocking chairs on the porch and country store vibes add charm to your dining experience.
You’ll leave feeling satisfied in both belly and soul. Sometimes familiar is exactly what you need, and they nail it every single time.
5. Dick’s Pub & Restaurant, Las Vegas
When you venture to Las Vegas, New Mexico, this local favorite becomes a must-visit for anyone serious about their fried fish. Dick’s Pub & Restaurant has been a community staple for years, serving hearty portions of beer-battered fish that’s crispy outside and flaky within.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly regulars and staff who treat everyone like neighbors.
Their fish fry special draws crowds from across town, and for good reason. The quality never wavers, and the prices remain refreshingly reasonable. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why small-town dining can’t be beat.
6. Chili Hills Restaurant, Moriarty
Are you ready for a roadside stop that actually exceeds expectations? Chili Hills Restaurant in Moriarty serves travelers and locals alike with generously portioned fish fry that’s worth the detour.
Their fried fish comes with a New Mexico twist, offering green chile as an optional topping that transforms the entire dish.
The diner atmosphere is classic Americana, complete with friendly service and cold drinks. Everything is cooked fresh to order, so expect a short wait that’s absolutely worth it. This is highway dining done right, proving that great food doesn’t require a big city address or fancy decor.
7. Farley’s, Las Cruces
Hence the buzz around this Las Cruces institution, where elevated comfort food meets impeccable execution. Farley’s takes fish fry seriously, using high-quality ingredients and expert technique to create dishes that feel both familiar and refined.
Their fried seafood platter showcases multiple varieties, each prepared with care and attention to detail.
The restaurant strikes a perfect balance between casual and upscale, making it ideal for any occasion. The fish arrives golden and greaseless, with sides that complement rather than compete. When you’re in Las Cruces and craving something special, this is your destination for memorable seafood.
8. Crazy Fish, Albuquerque
Tucked away in Albuquerque’s dining scene, Crazy Fish brings coastal vibes to the high desert with their exceptional fish fry offerings. Their catfish is seasoned to perfection, with a crunchy cornmeal coating that stays crispy bite after bite.
The menu goes beyond basic fried fish, featuring hush puppies, coleslaw, and fries that complete the Southern-style experience. Locals rave about the generous portions and reasonable prices that keep families coming back weekly.
The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxed dinner where you can actually taste the care put into every dish. Service is friendly and fast, so you won’t wait long to dig into your meal.
9. Mariscos La Playa, Albuquerque
When you want fish fry with a Mexican twist, Mariscos La Playa delivers authentic coastal flavors right in the heart of Albuquerque. Their pescado frito features whole fried fish seasoned with traditional spices that transport you straight to the beaches of Mexico.
The crispy texture paired with fresh lime and homemade salsa creates an unforgettable combination. Beyond whole fish, they offer fried fish tacos that are light, flaky, and packed with flavor.
Families appreciate the welcoming environment and the chance to introduce kids to seafood prepared the way Mexican coastal communities have enjoyed it for generations. The prices remain affordable despite the high-quality ingredients and preparation methods used throughout the kitchen.
10. Pelican’s West of Albuquerque, Albuquerque
However you slice it, this neighborhood gem has been quietly serving some of the best fried seafood in town for years. Pelican’s West of Albuquerque specializes in Southern-style catfish that’s been fried to crispy perfection and seasoned with a secret blend that keeps locals coming back.
The hushpuppies are legendary, with a slightly sweet interior that complements the savory fish beautifully.
Service feels like visiting family, with staff who remember your order and genuinely care about your experience. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, letting the food do all the talking. It’s comfort food at its finest.
11. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Albuquerque
Bringing Louisiana’s famous seafood traditions to New Mexico, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen offers a fish fry experience that rivals anything you’d find in the bayou. Their catfish platter arrives golden brown with a perfectly seasoned crust that crackles with every forkful.
The restaurant specializes in Cajun-style preparations, meaning bold spices and rich flavors dominate each plate. Hush puppies come alongside your fish, adding that authentic Southern touch people drive across town to enjoy.
Though it’s part of a chain, the quality never wavers, and the atmosphere feels upscale without being stuffy. Expect to spend a bit more here, but the portion sizes and taste make it worth every penny for a special occasion.
12. Red Lobster (Albuquerque – Coors Bypass), Albuquerque
Sometimes you just want reliable, consistent fried seafood, and Red Lobster on Coors Bypass delivers exactly that every single time. Their hand-battered fish is light and flaky inside with a golden exterior that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy.
The endless shrimp promotions often include fried options, letting you sample different preparations in one visit. Cheddar bay biscuits remain a crowd favorite, perfectly complementing any fried seafood order you choose.
Families love the kid-friendly menu and predictable quality that takes the guesswork out of dinner plans. While some might overlook chain restaurants, this location maintains high standards and friendly service that make it a solid choice for satisfying fish fry cravings without surprises.
13. Farley’s – Roswell, Roswell
Down in Roswell, Farley’s has earned its reputation as the go-to spot for comfort food done right, including some seriously good fried fish. Their fish and chips feature thick, flaky pieces of white fish wrapped in a beer batter that’s crispy without being overly thick.
What sets them apart is the attention to details like hand-cut fries and homemade tartar sauce that elevates the entire plate. The portions are generous enough to satisfy even the hungriest diners after a day exploring alien attractions.
Locals consider it a Roswell institution, where tourists and residents alike gather for honest, delicious food in a relaxed setting. The prices stay reasonable, making it easy to bring the whole family for a satisfying meal.
14. El Pinto Restaurant, Albuquerque
Famous for New Mexican cuisine, El Pinto surprises many visitors with their fantastic fried fish options that blend Southwestern flavors with classic preparation techniques. Their pescado frito comes with green chile on the side, creating a unique fusion that celebrates both traditions beautifully.
The beautiful patio setting adds to the experience, especially during sunset when the desert sky puts on a show. Fresh ingredients and careful seasoning ensure every piece of fish tastes light and flavorful rather than heavy.
This restaurant proves that fish fry doesn’t have to follow one formula, innovation and regional pride can create something truly special. Whether you’re a local or visiting, El Pinto offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else in the state.
