Craving something golden, crispy, and straight to the point? Arizona hides incredible fish fry gems where the batter crackles, the tartar sauce tangs, and plates come loaded without fuss.
Whether you lean classic or chase coastal flavors, these local haunts deliver simple comfort that hits every time. Let this list guide your next crunchy, satisfying bite.
Pete’s Fish & Chips – Phoenix, Arizona
Old-school, no-frills, and proudly local, Pete’s nails that craveable crunch. The batter is thin yet audibly crisp, hugging flaky fillets that steam when you break them open.
Grab a basket with thick chips and dunk everything in their famous sauce.
Expect quick counter service, red trays, and prices that feel refreshingly simple. You will see families, regulars, and lunch-break pros moving fast through the line.
It is the kind of place you visit when you want crispy satisfaction without ceremony.
Stick with the classic fish and chips or add a side of onion rings for extra crunch. Portions are generous, refills are easy, and the vibe stays easygoing.
Come hungry, leave happy.
Nelson’s Meat + Fish Phoenix – Phoenix, Arizona
Part market, part kitchen, Nelson’s keeps things ultra fresh and beautifully simple. Order fish and chips and you will taste clean flavors, crisp coating, and bright citrus cutting through each bite.
The fry stays light, letting the fish shine instead of hiding it.
Grab a seat at the counter and watch the action. Staff will happily guide you toward seasonal picks or house specialties.
Expect perfectly salted fries and a tangy house tartar that complements without overpowering.
Prices reflect quality, but the portions and freshness make it worth it. If you love options, the case of daily catch is a treat.
Come for lunch, stay for oysters, and leave plotting a return.
Knock Kneed Lobster – Phoenix, Arizona
Knock Kneed Lobster brings friendly nostalgia with a salty-sea shack vibe. The fish fry arrives hot and crunchy, perfectly seasoned with a satisfying snap.
Pair it with coleslaw and hush puppies for a full-on comfort feast.
You will notice locals chatting up the counter staff and grabbing big combination baskets. Shrimp and fish together make a solid duo if you crave variety.
The tartar leans creamy and herb-flecked, ideal for generous dipping.
Prices stay reasonable, and the pacing is relaxed. Expect a family-friendly crowd and plenty of parking.
It is the kind of place that feels like a tradition, even on your first visit.
Angry Crab Shack – Phoenix, Arizona
Known for Cajun boils, Angry Crab Shack also turns out a satisfying fish fry. The crust has an assertive crunch with a spicy kick that wakes up your palate.
Fries stay sturdy enough to hold sauce, which is exactly what you will want.
Pick your heat level and choose a dipping trio for fun. The atmosphere is loud in the best way, with paper-covered tables and plenty of napkins.
Grab a bib if you are mixing in boil items with your fry.
Service moves quickly despite the buzz. Shareable trays make this spot ideal for groups craving variety.
Leave room for hush puppies, because they disappear fast.
Chula Seafood – Scottsdale, Arizona
Chula sources directly from responsible fisheries, and you can taste that ocean-bright freshness. The fish fry features a delicate, well-drained crust that keeps each bite light.
Add a squeeze of lemon and you get crisp, clean, and deeply satisfying.
The menu changes, but fish and chips remain a sleeper favorite. Seating is casual, counter-order style, with fast, friendly service.
Expect thoughtful sides like crunchy slaw and herb-forward tartar.
Prices are fair for quality seafood in Scottsdale. Grab a seat near the window and watch plates fly out of the kitchen.
If you care about sustainability and crave crunch, this is your spot.
Buck & Rider Phoenix – Phoenix, Arizona
Buck & Rider brings polish to the classic fish fry without losing comfort. The batter is fragile and glassy, shattering with each bite over moist, flaky fish.
Malt vinegar and sea salt elevate things, while the fries arrive crisp and evenly browned.
Expect attentive service, a lively patio, and a raw bar that tempts before you order. The fish selection can rotate, keeping flavors vibrant.
Tartar sauce leans bright and balanced, nothing gloopy here.
Prices skew higher but feel justified by technique and ingredients. If you want date-night crispiness, this delivers.
Pair with a crisp lager or a citrusy spritz and linger.
Salt Cellar Restaurant – Scottsdale, Arizona
Descending into the Salt Cellar feels like discovering a coastal hideout in the desert. Their fish fry is sturdy and golden, with a seasoned crust that stays crisp to the last bite.
Coleslaw is crisp and lightly dressed, making a refreshing counterpart.
Service is old-school friendly, and the bar mixes a mean martini. Portions are generous, leaning classic rather than fussy.
The atmosphere whispers vintage charm that regulars love.
Come for a relaxed night when you want crispy without chaos. Prices are moderate for the area, and parking is easy.
You will leave planning a return visit for happy hour oysters.
The Kickin’ Crab Mesa – Mesa, Arizona
The Kickin’ Crab adds Cajun energy to a straightforward fish fry. Expect a crunchy exterior, juicy interior, and spice that lingers pleasantly.
Seasoned fries, lemon wedges, and a creamy sauce make easy companions.
It is lively, sometimes loud, and perfect for groups. You will find gloves and bibs if you wander into boil territory.
Staff recommends combos if you want shrimp alongside your fish.
Prices are friendly, portions generous, and refills quick. This is a weeknight hero when cravings hit hard.
Bring an appetite, and do not skip the extra sauce.
Pier 54 – Tempe, Arizona
Pier 54 pairs a satisfying fish fry with lake views that make everything taste better. The coating is crisp without heaviness, letting you enjoy every bite outdoors.
A cold beer, a breeze off the water, and sunset colors seal the deal.
Service is friendly and unhurried, especially on the patio. Expect classic sides and a zesty tartar that holds its own.
Weekend evenings fill quickly, so plan ahead if you want rail seating.
Prices are reasonable for the view, and portions suit a relaxed meal. You will want to linger after the last fry.
It is Tempe’s easygoing answer to crispy cravings.
Mariscos Playa Hermosa – Phoenix, Arizona
Mariscos Playa Hermosa brings coastal Mexican flair to the fish fry game. Expect lime, salsa, and a crackly crust that holds up under citrus.
The fish stays moist, with seasoning that leans bright and savory.
Order a michelada and prepare to linger. You can mix fried fillets with ceviche or shrimp for a greatest-hits spread.
The room buzzes with music, color, and friendly service that keeps plates moving.
Prices are fair, portions big, and the energy contagious. If you love bold flavors with your crunch, this place delivers.
Come hungry and leave very satisfied.