8 New York Chains Serving Real Whole Fish Sandwiches
New Yorkers know good seafood, and whole fish sandwiches are making a splash across the city. These aren’t your typical fast-food fish patties; we’re talking authentic, whole fish fillets with all the fixings.
From classic British-style fish and chips to gourmet seafood creations, these eight spots are serving up the real deal.
1. Famous Fish Market – The Bronx Legend
Hidden in the Bronx since 1974, this family-run spot serves whiting sandwiches that locals line up for rain or shine. The fish comes fresh daily, lightly battered, and fried to crispy perfection.
Their secret? A decades-old recipe and dedication to quality that hasn’t changed. Each sandwich comes wrapped in wax paper with a side of their famous hot sauce that packs just the right punch.
2. Sea Breeze Fish Market – Brooklyn’s Fresh Catch
What started as a simple fish stall has evolved into a Brooklyn institution. Their whiting sandwich comes on a soft roll with the fish hanging gloriously over the edges – a true mark of authenticity.
Each fish is cleaned and fried while you wait. The no-frills approach means you’re getting pure flavor without unnecessary extras. Just tartar sauce, hot sauce, and perfectly fried fish.
3. Sable’s Smoked Fish – Upper East Side Elegance
Breaking the fried fish mold, Sable’s serves an elevated open-faced smoked fish sandwich that will change how you think about fish between bread. Their Norwegian salmon option melts in your mouth with each bite.
The sandwich comes with all the traditional fixings – capers, red onion, and cream cheese on freshly baked bread. A squeeze of lemon brightens everything up for a perfect lunch experience.
4. Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips – Celebrity Chef Creation
The famous chef’s take on the British classic doesn’t disappoint! The cod is sustainably sourced and coated in a crisp batter that shatters with each bite. Served on a soft roll with housemade tartar sauce, it’s fish and chips reimagined.
What makes it special is the attention to detail – from the perfectly cooked fish to the subtle malt vinegar infusion in the batter. Even the pickles are made in-house for that extra touch.
5. Make My Fish – Customization Kings
This newer chain has gained fans by letting you build your perfect fish sandwich from scratch. Choose your fish (flounder and sea bass are standouts), your bread, and toppings from their extensive bar.
The fish is grilled, not fried – a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Their signature green herb sauce adds brightness to every creation. Bonus points for their commitment to sustainable fishing practices.
6. A Salt & Battery – British Fish Sandwich Perfection
This West Village chip shop serves authentic British-style fish sandwiches that would make Londoners proud. Their cod and haddock are imported fresh and fried in a traditional beer batter that’s impossibly light and crispy.
The sandwich comes on a soft roll with mushy peas – a British staple. A splash of malt vinegar and a sprinkle of salt is all you need to complete this classic. Pair it with a proper cup of tea for the full experience.
7. Crave Fishbar – New York, NY
Crave Fishbar’s tempura-battered hake sandwich is a brunch-only stunner that blends crisp texture with bold flavor. The fish is light and flaky, encased in a golden crust that crackles with every bite.
It’s served on a soft potato bun with pickled vegetables and house-made sauce that adds a tangy punch. The sandwich has become a cult favorite among seafood lovers looking for something upscale but unfussy.
8. Harlem Shake – New York, NY
Harlem Shake’s fried codfish sandwich is a thick, juicy fillet tucked into a toasted bun with classic fixings. It’s a nod to old-school comfort, served with a side of nostalgia and a dash of Harlem swagger.
The fish is perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden crisp, making it a standout on a menu known for burgers and shakes.
