8 Chains That Fail at Fried Fish and 5 That Absolutely Nail It

In the world of fast food, fried fish has become a staple, offering a crispy, flavorful escape from the usual burger and fries. While some chains have perfected the art, delivering juicy, well-seasoned delights, others unfortunately fall short, leaving diners disappointed with bland or greasy offerings. This article explores eight chains that struggle with their fried fish offerings and five that have truly mastered it.

1. Long John Silver’s

Once a beloved name in fast-fried fish, Long John Silver’s has seen better days. These days, diners are often met with a greasy batter that overwhelms the mystery fillet inside. While the crunch might be present, the flavor seems lost in a sea of oil.

Some patrons reminisce about the chain’s heyday, but nostalgic memories are not enough to mask the current quality drop. The fish often lacks seasoning and the accompanying sides do little to elevate the meal.

If you’re nostalgic, it might be worth a visit, but don’t set your expectations too high.

2. Captain D’s

Captain D’s, a seafood chain once celebrated for its offerings, now feels like a forgotten relic. The fish often arrives rubbery and the sides can be overwhelmingly salty, giving a sense of dining from the freezer aisle instead of fresh.

Many find the dining experience reminiscent of a bygone era, where the promise of seafood was a treat. However, the current quality doesn’t quite live up to those vintage standards.

Fans of the chain may still find solace in the nostalgia, but new diners might be left wanting more from their meal.

3. Dairy Queen

Dairy Queen is renowned for its Blizzards, but its attempt at a fried fish sandwich leaves much to be desired. The sandwich often arrives sad and soft, reminiscent of food that’s languished under a heat lamp for too long.

While the brand excels in sweet treats, its foray into savory offerings, especially fried fish, doesn’t quite hit the mark. The sandwich lacks the crispness and flavor one hopes for.

Despite its shortfalls, Dairy Queen remains a favorite for dessert, though its savory items, such as this, leave room for improvement.

4. McDonald’s (Filet-O-Fish)

The Filet-O-Fish holds a nostalgic place in many hearts, yet its composition today can be underwhelming. The fish patty is often thin, with cheese that’s more sad than satisfying, and a bun that’s steamed to oblivion.

Despite these shortcomings, the sandwich maintains a cult following, driven largely by nostalgia rather than quality. The combination of flavors, while iconic, tends to lack the bold freshness many crave.

For loyal customers, it’s a cherished memory. However, for new tasters, it might feel like a taste of the past without the innovation of today.

5. Arby’s

Arby’s seasonal fish sandwich is a gamble. When it’s good, it can be satisfying, but when it’s off, the experience is truly lacking. The sandwich often ends up bland and mushy, struggling to hold together.

Arby’s, known for its meats, seems to falter when it ventures into seafood territory. The inconsistency can be frustrating for diners seeking a reliable fish sandwich experience.

For those willing to take the risk, there are occasional gems, but the unpredictable quality may leave some diners turning back to more familiar menu items.

6. Culver’s (Inconsistent Cod)

Culver’s offers a fried cod that can be delightful on a good day, yet disappointingly soggy on others. The inconsistency in quality seems to vary widely by location, making it tough to know what to expect.

When fresh, Culver’s cod can be a treat, showcasing a crispy exterior and flavorful fish. However, this isn’t always the case, and some diners find themselves with a less-than-ideal serving.

For those near a consistently good location, it’s worth the risk. However, if your local Culver’s misses the mark, you might want to skip it.

7. Burger King

The Big Fish sandwich from Burger King promises size, but often delivers too much bread and too little flavor. The bun overshadows the fish patty, which itself is barely seasoned and lacks crunch.

Though Burger King excels in other areas, its fried fish offering doesn’t match up to the competition. Many find the sandwich to be more bread than fish, leaving taste buds unsatisfied.

For a quick meal, it suffices, but for those seeking robust seafood flavor, other options might deliver a more fulfilling experience.

8. Checkers / Rally’s

Checkers, or Rally’s depending on your locale, serves up fried fish that often disappoints. The primary issue lies in the flavor—it frequently tastes as if it was cooked in oil used for everything else on the menu.

The greasy texture and off-putting fishy taste can deter many would-be diners. While Checkers shines with its fries, their fried fish isn’t a standout.

For patrons seeking a diverse menu, there are better options within the chain. But for a fried fish fix, this might not satisfy the craving.

9. Popeyes

Popeyes, primarily celebrated for its chicken, surprises with its Cajun-seasoned fried fish. When available, this offering is crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, with breading that adheres perfectly.

Unlike many competitors, Popeyes manages to infuse each bite with a burst of spices, creating a memorable seafood experience. The consistent quality makes it a favorite among fried fish enthusiasts.

For those lucky enough to find it on the menu, Popeyes delivers a fried fish that rivals its famous chicken, making it worth seeking out.

10. Raising Cane’s (Fish Fridays Only)

Raising Cane’s, most known for chicken, excels with its limited-time fried fish available on Fish Fridays. The fish is consistently crisp, boasting a peppery bite that satisfies seafood lovers.

While it might play second fiddle to their chicken, the fish offers a delightful change of pace. Fried to order, it showcases an attention to quality.

Those familiar with Cane’s appreciate the novelty of the Friday offering, making it a delightful surprise for regular patrons and new visitors alike.

11. White Castle (Surprise Winner)

White Castle, famed for its sliders, delivers a surprisingly tasty fried fish option. Their small fish sliders are crispy on the outside, with a mild and flaky interior.

The balance of sauce to bun works beautifully, ensuring each bite is satisfying. While it might not be the first place seafood comes to mind, it impresses those willing to give it a try.

For fans of the chain, it’s a welcome addition to the menu. Others may find a new favorite slider that exceeds expectations.

12. Cracker Barrel

Cracker Barrel, known for its homestyle cooking, offers fried catfish or cod that delights. The crispy cornmeal coating and well-seasoned fish provide a comforting dining experience.

Paired with sides that complement the main dish, the meal feels complete and satisfying. Cracker Barrel excels in delivering a taste of home with its seafood offerings.

For those seeking a nostalgic meal with reliable quality, Cracker Barrel’s fried fish is a dependable choice, reminding diners of classic, hearty meals.

13. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers

Freddy’s might fly under the radar, but their fried fish sandwich is a consistent winner. Crispy and flavorful, it satisfies with each bite, enhanced by their signature tangy sauce.

While many flock to Freddy’s for burgers and custard, the fish sandwich is an underrated gem that keeps diners coming back for more.

For those seeking something different, Freddy’s provides a delightful surprise, blending quality with taste, much to the satisfaction of their patrons.