The Best Fish and Chips in Columbus List

Columbus knows its way around a pub, but the fish and chips search is a serious one, especially when a Friday Lenten crowd can clear a fryer before you finish your first pint. We waded through the standards at Fado, the polished oyster counters downtown, and the seasoning-forward fry shacks on the east side to separate the cod from the haddock, so to speak.

A few things became clear: the tartar sauce matters more than anyone admits, and a proper hand-cut fry is non-negotiable. That said, we also found one spot where the curry sauce upstages the fish entirely.

Here’s the plate.

Matt and Tony's Kitchen x Tavern

Highlights
Great food options
Comfortable atmosphere
Large servings
Tasty and crispy appetizers
Friendly service

When it comes to fish and chips in Columbus, Matt and Tony's Kitchen x Tavern truly hits the mark! Upon entering, I was welcomed by a comfortable atmosphere that sets the stage for a delightful culinary adventure. The menu boasts a variety of sumptuous options, but I knew I had to dive into the classic fish and chips.

One bite of their crispy, golden fillets left me singing praises. The fish was expertly cooked, boasting a perfect batter that was both crunchy and light. With large servings that could easily satisfy even the heartiest of appetites, I found myself completely immersed in the flavors. The tartar sauce was the perfect companion, adding a zesty kick that made each bite even more enjoyable.

I must also mention the friendly service that accompanied my meal. It’s always a delight when the staff seems genuinely enthusiastic about the food they serve. To top it off, their tasty and crispy appetizers were a great way to whet the appetite before the main event.

In short, if you're on the hunt for exquisite fish and chips in Columbus, Matt and Tony's Kitchen x Tavern is a must-visit destination that I can wholeheartedly recommend!

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COLO Market & Oyster Bar Downtown

Highlights
Great quality seafood
Delicious fish 'n chips
Amazing raw oysters experience
Limited seating with great vibes
Happy hour oyster pricing

COLO Market & Oyster Bar Downtown has quickly become one of my favorite go-to spots for fish and chips! From the moment I stepped inside, I was welcomed by a lively atmosphere that perfectly complements the menu's offerings. The fish 'n chips here are nothing short of remarkable. The fish is delightful—crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside. I couldn't help but relish every bite!

While enjoying my meal, I noticed the great quality seafood they serve, which ensures that every dish is a taste sensation. The potato chips are light and airy, making them a perfect companion for the fish.

Although the seating is somewhat limited, the ambiance creates a unique vibe that makes the meal even more enjoyable. I did indulge in their delicious raw oysters, an experience I would highly recommend to any seafood lover. To top it off, their happy hour oyster pricing is the cherry on top!

If you’re searching for a delightful twist on a classic dish, look no further than COLO Market & Oyster Bar Downtown. This spot truly elevates the fish and chips experience, and I can’t wait to return for more!

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Barley's Brewing Company

Highlights
Friendly and attentive staff
Great beer selection
Busy and lively atmosphere
Convenient parking nearby
Potentially high parking fees

During my recent gastronomic adventure to Barley's Brewing Company, I was eager to dive into their celebrated fish and chips, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The moment I walked in, the friendly and attentive staff welcomed me with genuine smiles, setting the tone for an enjoyable meal.

As I settled in, I couldn’t help but admire their great beer selection; it paired perfectly with my crispy, golden fried fish. The batter was delightfully light and flaky, allowing the tender fish to shine through. Each bite was a crispy delight, evoking a playful dance on my taste buds.

The busy and lively atmosphere added to the experience, with friends and families sharing laughter over hearty meals, making it a top choice for a casual outing. I must admit, finding convenient parking was a breeze, although I did encounter some potentially high parking fees, which is something to keep in mind.

Overall, my visit to Barley’s proved worthwhile, and their fish and chips earn a worthy spot among the best in Columbus. I left feeling satisfied, with a smile on my face and memories of a delightful dining experience.

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South Village Grille

Highlights
Relaxing atmosphere
Delicious food options
Attentive and friendly staff
Highly recommended sushi
Ideal for gatherings

At South Village Grille, the fish and chips take center stage, and let me tell you, it’s a show worth watching! The atmosphere is relaxed, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day. As I settled in, I was greeted by attentive and friendly staff who immediately made me feel at home.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the meal: the fish and chips. The batter was perfectly crisp and golden, encasing succulent pieces of fish that were delightfully flaky. Each bite was a harmonious blend of crunch and tenderness, leaving my taste buds dancing with joy. The side of chips was equally impressive—golden fries that had just the right amount of seasoning.

What’s more, South Village Grille isn’t just about fish and chips; they have a fantastic selection of delicious food options, including highly recommended sushi for those looking to try something different!

Whether you’re on a casual outing or gathering with friends, this spot delivers a delightful dining experience. For me, South Village Grille stands out as a hidden gem, making it a top contender in my quest for the best fish and chips in Columbus!

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The Pearl

At The Pearl, the fish and chips experience is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. The battered cod is perfectly crispy and golden, while the fish inside remains tender and flaky. Their hand-cut fries are equally noteworthy, seasoned just right to complement your meal. What truly stood out was the house-made tartar sauce, elevating the dish to new heights. The atmosphere is both cozy and lively, making it a great spot to savor this classic dish. If you're on a quest for the best fish and chips in Columbus, The Pearl is a must-visit!

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Marino's Seafood Fish & Chips

Marino's Seafood Fish & Chips is a delightful gem in Columbus that serves up a wonderful plate of crispy perfection. The batter-wrapped cod was golden and crunchy, while the fish inside was remarkably flaky and fresh. I couldn’t resist diving into the accompanying tangled fries, which were just as vividly seasoned and as satisfying as the fish itself. Dipped in their homemade tartar sauce, each bite was a savory delight! The cozy atmosphere and friendly service added to the experience, making Marino's a must-visit for anyone seeking the best fish and chips in the city. What a treat! 🍽️

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The Old Mohawk

The Old Mohawk is a gem nestled in Columbus, serving fish and chips that truly celebrate this classic dish. The battered cod is light and crispy, perfectly paired with thick-cut fries that have just the right amount of crunch. The meal is served with a side of tangy tartar sauce that elevates the experience. What sets this place apart is its inviting atmosphere and friendly staff, making you feel right at home. If you're in search of comfort food done right, The Old Mohawk is a must-visit for fish and chips lovers. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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The Walrus

Nestled in the heart of Columbus, The Walrus serves up a delightful twist on the classic fish and chips. The battered cod is golden and crisp, perfectly complemented by a side of zesty tartar sauce that makes each bite a joy. The thick-cut fries are fluffy on the inside, golden brown on the outside, and addictive enough to warrant seconds. What truly sets The Walrus apart is its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, all of which enhance the dining experience. If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate fish and chips, this spot should be at the top of your list!

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The Old Bag of Nails Pub - Bexley

At The Old Bag of Nails Pub - Bexley, I discovered a delightful twist on the classic fish and chips. The crispy beer-battered cod practically danced on my plate, golden and inviting. Each bite revealed flaky tenderness, perfectly paired with their hand-cut fries that were both fluffy and crunchy. What truly stood out was the house-made tartar sauce, a zesty companion that elevated the dish. The cozy ambiance and friendly service made for a wonderful experience. If you’re on a quest for top-notch fish and chips in Columbus, this spot is definitely a must-visit!

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Chicago Fish and Chicken

When I stepped into Chicago Fish and Chicken, the enticing aroma of fried goodness hit me instantly. Their fish and chips combo is a feast for the senses! The batter is perfectly crispy, encasing moist, flaky fish that dances on the palate. The chips? Golden, crunchy, and utterly satisfying. I appreciated the generous portion size, too – perfect for sharing or indulging solo! Paired with a tangy tartar sauce, this dish is a delightful experience that captures the essence of comfort food. If you’re on the hunt for a tasty fish and chips, Chicago Fish and Chicken definitely puts a playful twist on the classic!

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Brothers Chicken & Fish

Brothers Chicken & Fish offers a delightful twist on the classic fish and chips that left me craving more. The golden, crispy batter encasing the flaky fish was perfectly seasoned, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite. Their hand-cut chips were delightfully fluffy and lightly salted, complementing the fish beautifully. What stood out was the zesty tartar sauce, which elevated the dish to new heights. The ambiance is casual and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a hearty meal. For anyone seeking a fun, flavorful experience, Brothers Chicken & Fish delivers wonderfully on the fish and chips front!

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Shrimp Lips Seafood and Chicken

Shrimp Lips Seafood and Chicken is a delightful gem in the heart of Columbus! I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of fried fish as I stepped inside. Their fish and chips features perfectly crispy batter that envelops the tender cod, resulting in a heavenly bite. The chips were fluffy inside and golden brown, a splendid sidekick! Accompanied by a tangy tartar sauce that elevates the dish, I found myself savoring every moment. While primarily known for shrimp, their fish dish holds its own. If you're looking for a fun twist on a classic, Shrimp Lips is certainly worth a visit! 🌊🍟

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SoCal Kitchen + Bar

At Socal Kitchen + Bar, the fish and chips were a delightful surprise! The crispy beer-battered cod arrived golden brown, perfectly flaky on the inside. Accompanied by house-made tartar sauce, each bite was a flavor celebration. The crispy fries had just the right amount of seasoning, complementing the dish splendidly. The lively ambiance and friendly staff added to the overall experience, making it feel like a joyous coastal escape in the heart of Columbus. If you're on the hunt for satisfying comfort food, Socal is a must-try destination for fish and chips!

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Cap City Fine Diner and Bar

During my visit to Cap City Fine Diner and Bar, I was captivated by their crispy fish and chips. The golden batter encasing the white fish was delightfully crunchy, while the flaky interior melted in my mouth. Accompanied by perfectly seasoned fries and a zesty tartar sauce, each bite was a tantalizing delight. The ambiance combined classic diner charm with modern flair, making it a perfect setting for this culinary adventure. Overall, Cap City serves up a satisfying twist on a beloved classic that's definitely worth a visit for any fish and chips enthusiast in Columbus!

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Fado Irish Pub

At Fado Irish Pub, I found a fish and chips experience that leans decidedly traditional, and that is precisely its charm. The fillet arrived with a batter that was admirably crisp, offering a satisfying shatter before yielding to moist, flaky fish within. The accompanying chips were sturdy and well-suited for dunking into the malt vinegar they provided, a touch I appreciated. While the tartar sauce was competent, it was the house-made curry sauce that truly elevated the plate, adding a gentle warmth. The pub's high-ceilinged, lively atmosphere made for a pleasant lunch. It is not the flashiest rendition in Columbus, but it is a reliable, honest plate of comfort. Worth seeking out if you are near Easton.

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