Deep frying makes everything taste glorious. The crispy, salty batter. The moist, almost velvety inside. Few dishes exemplify the glory of deep-fried food as good old fish and chips. Many restaurants use cod. Some use tilapia, pollack, or catfish, which usually comes fresh. Whatever fish goes into the dish, the meaty fillets, fried piping hot and dipped in malt vinegar or tartar sauce are simply irresistible, especially when paired with hand-cut fries. Read on to find out where to find these deep-fried delicacies in Hoboken + Jersey City.
Hoboken
Carpe Diem | 1405 Grand Street
This is a popular Irish pub on the northern tip of Hoboken. Its fish and chips are made from beer-battered tilapia and are paired with thick-cut chips. The pub is also famous for its buffalo wings.
Elysian Cafe | 1001 Washington Street
Elysian Cafe is a beloved French bistro with a crowd-pleasing fare. Popular pub food is served at the bar. Its fish and chips are made of cod fillets and are served with malt vinegar for dipping.
Finnegan’s | 734 Willow Avenue
Guests can savor fish and chips with homemade tartar sauce at this Irish bar nestled in the heart of Hoboken.
Moran’s | 501 Garden Street
Moran’s has Guinness and Smithwick’s on draft, along with Magner’s cider, and a full menu page dedicated to Irish whiskeys. The outdoor seating is fantastic when the weather is nice, making it the perfect spot to enjoy fish and chips outdoors.
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Mulligan’s | 159 1st Street
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One of the most frequented soccer bars in the area, Mulligan’s attracts crowds from all over New Jersey. Opt for the fish and chips with a pint of Guinness.
Willie McBride’s | 616 Grand Street
Willie McBride’s is a local favorite, tucked away on a quiet block in the heart of town. Known for serving traditional Irish fare year-round, the spot serves fish and chips paired with homemade slaw.
Wicked Wolf | 120 Sinatra Drive
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Wicked Wolf is a popular local bar, especially during football season, offering a variety of great bites, including fish and chips. HG loves visiting on Sundays for Sunday Funday.
Jersey City
Buddy’s JC | 247 Washington Street
This restaurant in downtown Jersey City features a range of menu delights, including fish and chips. Be sure to check out the selection of sweets after dinner.
City Diner | 31 Montgomery Street
City Diner is a laid-back and affordable local spot that makes all-day breakfast and comfort food-style meals. The fish and chips are made with beer-battered cod and are served with Creole slaw. Craft beer on tap is also available.
Ed + Mary’s | 174 Coles Street
This cozy spot in Hamilton Park is an easy-going neighborhood restaurant that serves American favorites with craft beer and creative cocktails. The fish and chips come with 12 ounces of cod.
Frankie | 264 Grove Street
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This stylish restaurant serves natural wines and craft cocktails along with a colorful Australian fare. The food menu can be loosely described as comfort food with trendy Mediterranean and Asian twists. The fish and chips is made from wild-caught pollock. What’s more unique is the dip, which mixes lemongrass in tartare sauce.
Grace O’Malleys | 140 Newark Avenue
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This lively spot located in the Pedestrian Plaza serves up its fish and chips using seasonal catches, and can be made either batter-fried or broiled.
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Harry’s Daughter | 339 Communipaw Avenue
Harry’s Daughter serves up fish and chips with a dill tartar sauce that HG loves. To complete the meal, add a draft Guinness.
Hudson Hound | 8 Erie Street
This large and popular Irish spot also has a location in NYC. The menu is part Irish classics (the shepherd’s pie is very popular) and part New American favorites. Its fish and chips (which uses cod) are one of the best in the area, according to some hardcore local fish and chip lovers.
Surf City | 1 Marin Boulevard
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Surf City is a fantastic seasonal destination on the Jersey City waterfront. With stunning marina and skyline views, it’s a must-visit at least once each season. The spot serves fish and chips accompanied by a refreshing slaw.
White Star Bar | 179 Warren Street + 230 Brunswick Street, Jersey City
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Many people come to White Star for its famous burgers, but the fish and chips are a great alternative for those who want an alternative to red meat. It uses Alaskan cod and is served with coleslaw and remoulade.