Los Angeles' Best Fried Fish [Updated 2026]

There’s something magical about biting into perfectly fried fish—the crispy exterior giving way to tender, flaky goodness inside. Having spent years scouring every corner of LA with my trusty fork in hand, I've uncovered some true gems that are just too good to keep to myself.

I’ve rolled up my sleeves and reviewed 12 top spots, from cozy beach shacks to upscale eateries, each serving up their own take on this beloved dish. Whether you're a lifelong Angeleno or just visiting, you can trust my expertise to guide you to the tastiest fried fish that this vibrant city has to offer. Let’s dive into the deliciousness together!

Catch 21

My recent visit to Catch 21 was an exhilarating dive into the world of fried fish! 🎣 This charming spot offers a symphony of flavors, featuring fish that's perfectly crispy and seasoned to perfection. The beer-battered cod stole the show with its light, flaky texture and an addictive crunch. Complemented by zesty house-made tartar sauce, each bite was a delightful revelation. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff made the experience even more enjoyable. If you're on the hunt for LA's best fried fish, catch this gem before it swims away! 🌊✨

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Pico Seafood

At Pico Seafood, I was greeted by the alluring scent of sizzling fish that danced through the air. I opted for their crispy battered cod, which arrived golden and perfectly flaky. Each bite was a delightful symphony of flavors—the light crunch contrasted wonderfully with the tender fish inside. The accompanying tartar sauce was the perfect blend of creaminess and tang to elevate the experience. Each fried morsel made me feel like I was dining at a beachside shack, despite being in the heart of the city. For a satisfying fried fish adventure, Pico Seafood is definitely a must-visit!

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The Fish Market

Stepping into The Fish Market felt like diving into a treasure trove of coastal flavors. Their fried fish is nothing short of a delightful revelation! The lightly battered fillets boast a perfectly crispy exterior that encases tender, flaky fish—each bite makes you want to dance! Paired with their house-made tartar sauce, this dish sings with freshness. The vibrant atmosphere adds to the charm, making it an ideal spot for fish lovers. If you’re looking for a satisfying fried fish experience in LA, The Fish Market deserves a spot on your must-try list. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Fish Only

Fish Only truly captures the essence of crispy perfection! The golden-battered fish glistens, enticing you from the moment you step inside. I opted for their signature fried cod, which was a delightful symposium of textures—crispy on the outside, wonderfully flaky within. Each bite transports you to the coastal shores, where freshness reigns supreme. The accompanying tartar sauce is a tangy marvel, elevating the dish to another level. With a casual vibe and a menu that’s focused yet compelling, Fish Only serves up a delicious experience that leaves you craving more. This gem is definitely one of LA’s fried fish must-tries!

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Rick's Fish & Seafood Market

Rick's Fish & Seafood Market in Los Angeles is a delightful gem for fried fish lovers! The moment I stepped in, the tantalizing aroma of freshly fried seafood enveloped me, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey. I opted for their signature fried catfish, which arrived golden and crispy, perfectly seasoned, and flaking beautifully with each bite. The accompanying tartar sauce was a zesty touch that elevated the flavor profile. The casual atmosphere and welcoming staff made my visit even more enjoyable. If you’re on the hunt for mouthwatering fried fish, look no further than Rick’s! It’s a must-try!

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Charlie's Fish & Chip

At Charlie's Fish & Chip, I was greeted by the irresistible aroma of golden batter sizzling away. The cod was perfectly flaky and wrapped in a delightfully crunchy crust that made each bite a tasty adventure. The homemade tartar sauce had a refreshing zest that complemented the fish beautifully. I couldn’t resist pairing my meal with their hand-cut fries, which were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. This spot truly knows how to elevate fried fish to an art form. If you're searching for a reliable fry in LA, Charlie’s should be at the top of your list!

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Kim's Fish World

Stepping into Kim's Fish World felt like uncovering a hidden treasure of the coasts. Their crispy fried catfish was a revelation, boasting a golden-brown crust that crackled delightfully with each bite. The seasoning was masterfully balanced, allowing the fresh fish to shine without overwhelming the palate. The accompanying tartar sauce was creamy and zesty, a perfect dip for those juicy morsels. As for the atmosphere, it radiated a warm, casual vibe, making it a great spot for a midweek treat. If you’re hunting for the best fried fish in LA, don't miss out on this gem—it's a culinary catch!

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Johnny's Shrimp Boat

Johnny's Shrimp Boat truly captures the essence of coastal dining right in the heart of Los Angeles. The moment I stepped in, the aroma of perfectly fried fish tantalized my senses. I opted for their signature fish sandwich, which boasted a crispy exterior while keeping the tender, juicy fish intact. Each bite was a delightful balance of seasoning and freshness. The homemade tartar sauce added an extra kick of flavor, elevating the entire meal. If you're on the hunt for scrumptious fried fish, make sure to drop anchor at Johnny’s. You won’t leave disappointed; it’s a real treasure!

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Happy Fish Market

My visit to Happy Fish Market was nothing short of delightful! The moment I stepped inside, the crispy aroma of frying fish enveloped me like a warm hug. I ordered the panko-crusted cod, and it was sheer perfection—golden, flaky, and bursting with flavor. Each bite was a crunchy celebration that beckoned me to savor every mouthful. The seasoning was subtle yet impactful, allowing the fish’s natural taste to shine through. Their house-made tartar sauce was a stellar companion, adding a delightful tang. If you're in search of crave-worthy fried fish, make sure to pay them a visit!

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Fisherman's Outlet

At Fisherman’s Outlet, the aroma of the ocean beckoned me as I entered this bustling haven. Their fried fish—golden, crispy, and flaky—was nothing short of spectacular! I savored the Generous portions of perfectly seasoned cod, nestled in a light, crunchy batter that danced on my tastebuds. The accompanying tartar sauce added a delightful tang, elevating every bite. The vibrant ambiance and friendly service made this experience even more enjoyable. If you're in search of fried fish that leaves you hooked, look no further than Fisherman’s Outlet! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Fish Grill - Beverly

At Fish Grill - Beverly, I was greeted by the inviting aroma of perfectly seasoned batter. I dove into their crispy beer-battered fish, which boasted a golden exterior and tender, flaky flesh inside. Each bite was a delightful crunch, complemented by their zesty tartar sauce that added a touch of tang. The casual vibe and friendly staff made my meal feel like a delicious escape. For anyone in pursuit of the ultimate fried fish experience, this spot is a must-try in the city! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this seafood delight.

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Fish King

At Fish King, the aroma of sizzling fried fish envelops you as soon as you step in. I indulged in their crispy fish and chips, and let me tell you, each bite was a delightful crunch followed by the flaky tenderness of fresh fish. The breading was perfectly seasoned, providing a savory kick that had me reaching for more. Their house-made tartar sauce was an exceptional accompaniment, bringing a tangy balance to the dish. The laid-back vibe and friendly staff made my visit even more enjoyable. For anyone craving top-notch fried fish, Fish King is certainly a go-to destination!

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