Milwaukee's Best Fish and Chips [Updated 2026]

Each location I visited had its own unique twist on this classic dish, and trust me, I didn’t hold back in my quest for the perfect fry. With 12 top spots on my list, you can bet I’ve tasted everything from crispy beer-battered cod to mouthwatering tartar sauce that would make your grandma proud.

You might be wondering why you should take my word for it. Let’s just say I’ve spent years perfecting my palate, sampling everything this city has to offer. Whether you’re a lifelong Milwaukeean or just passing through, I promise you’ll find a new favorite spot to satisfy those fish and chips cravings!

Liquid Johnny's

Highlights
Crispy, thinly breaded fish
Exceptional walleye option
Fantastic outdoor atmosphere
Fast and friendly service
Delicious frickles to try

During my recent escapade into the world of fish and chips, I found myself at Liquid Johnny's, and let me tell you, it was a delightful catch! The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a charming, outdoor atmosphere that practically invited me to sit down and savor every bite.

I opted for their exceptional walleye, and oh, what a decision that was! The fish came with a perfectly crispy, thin breading that enveloped the tender, flaky filet beneath. Each bite was a melody of textures and flavors that danced on my palate. It was clear that this was no ordinary fish; the chef knew exactly how to treat walleye right.

But the adventure didn’t end there! I indulged in their delicious frickles—deep-fried pickles that added a playful twist to my meal. The service was impressively fast and incredibly friendly, making it a relaxing and enjoyable experience overall. While the menu offers more than just fish, if you’re in the mood for an unforgettable plate, Liquid Johnny's is undeniably one of Milwaukee's best spots for fish and chips! 🌊✨

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Lowcountry Milwaukee

Highlights
Great food quality
Lively atmosphere
Unique butter sauce experience
Requires better portion control
Lacking on-tap beer options

At Lowcountry Milwaukee, I was eager to dive into their renowned fish and chips, hoping for a culinary adventure. The moment I walked in, the lively atmosphere engulfed me, setting the stage for a delightful meal. I decided to try their famous fish and chips, and I must say, the quality of the food was commendable — crispy, golden batter enveloped flaky fish that practically melted in my mouth.

One of the standout features was the unique butter sauce that accompanied the dish. It added a rich depth of flavor that elevates the traditional experience, making each bite truly memorable. However, I did note that a bit of portion control could go a long way here; the serving felt generous to the point of overwhelming.

Despite the abundant flavors, I found myself wishing for more on-tap beer options to perfectly pair with my dish. Nonetheless, the experience at Lowcountry was undeniably enjoyable, showcasing their innovative take on a classic. If you’re a fish and chips enthusiast, this spot is well worth a visit — just be prepared to roll up your sleeves and dig in!

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O'Lydia's Bar and Grill

Highlights
Outstanding Friday fish fry
Perfectly prepared seafood
Great beer selection
Excellent potato pancakes
Versatile menu options

As I strolled into O'Lydia's Bar and Grill, I immediately felt the cozy, inviting aura that seemed perfect for a Friday night—the ultimate fish fry experience. Their fish and chips are renowned, and I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype. I opted for their outstanding Friday fish fry, and let me tell you, it didn't disappoint!

The fish was perfectly prepared: crispy on the outside, tender and flaky inside—a lovely dance of textures. With every bite, the rich flavors were brought to life, almost singing a harmonious tune of freshness and seasoning. I paired it with their enticing potato pancakes, which were delightfully crispy and served with homemade applesauce—a twist I didn't see coming, but one that enhanced the meal wonderfully!

To wash it down, the great beer selection offered some delightful pairings, perfectly complementing my meal. The versatility of their menu options also caught my eye; it’s clear they cater to every palate. All in all, my visit to O'Lydia's was more than just a meal; it was a tasty journey that solidified its place among the top spots for fish and chips in Milwaukee. Bravo!

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Red Lion British Pub on Tannery Row

Highlights
Delicious and beautifully presented
Affordable beer selections
Gracious and accommodating staff
Good value for the money
Convenient street parking

Upon stepping into Red Lion British Pub, I was drawn in by the warm and inviting atmosphere that immediately whispered, “Fish and chips haven’t been this good since you were last in the UK!” The presentation of the dish was a feast for the eyes—golden-brown battered fish nestled beside crispy fries that practically called my name.

The first bite was pure bliss; the fish was deliciously flaky and served hot, with the batter having just the right amount of crunch. Every mouthful was a delightful dance of flavors, leaving my taste buds humming. What truly sets Red Lion apart is not just the food but the affordable selection of beers that pair perfectly with the meal.

Moreover, the staff was refreshingly gracious and accommodating, eager to recommend their favorites. It felt as though I were being welcomed into a home rather than just a pub. A true gem for anyone looking for robust flavors without breaking the bank! If you find yourself in Milwaukee, make a pitstop at Red Lion—your taste buds will thank you for it!

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The Packing House

Highlights
Super awesome staff!
Great variety of whiskys
Delicious duck option
Cozy bar dining experience
Helpful directions provided

The Packing House in Milwaukee is a hidden gem that serves up some of the best fish and chips in town! From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted by an incredibly friendly staff, creating an inviting atmosphere that felt like dining with family. The bar's coziness added to the charm, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening out.

Now, let’s talk about the fish and chips! The crispy batter perfectly enveloped the flaky fish, striking a harmonious balance between texture and flavor. Each dip into the house-made tartar sauce was sheer bliss! What I found especially delightful was the duck option on the menu—a unique twist that I couldn't resist trying. Not to mention, their extensive whisky collection could make any dinner feel like a celebration.

Navigating to The Packing House was a breeze, largely thanks to the helpful directions provided by the staff. This place isn’t all about the food; it truly captures the essence of a vibrant Milwaukee experience. If you’re on a quest for the ultimate fish and chips, The Packing House should definitely top your list!

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Maxie's

Highlights
Decent happy hour options
Friendly, prompt service
Clean and lively atmosphere
Good flavor in dishes
Limited menu choices

Maxie's in Milwaukee is a delightful gem that offers a spin on the classic fish and chips experience. From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a lively atmosphere that instantly set the stage for a wonderful meal. I was impressed by the friendly and prompt service, making me feel right at home as I placed my order.

When it came to the fish and chips, the dish was beautifully presented, and the flavors were nothing short of impressive. The crispy batter encasing the flaky fish was perfectly seasoned, creating a lovely contrast. However, I did notice a limited menu that may not cater to all palates; nonetheless, what they offer is well-executed.

While Maxie’s offers decent happy hour options that enhance the dining experience, I found myself quite satisfied with just the fish and chips. In conclusion, if you’re in the mood for a noteworthy rendition of this classic dish, Maxie's is certainly worth a visit. With its combination of good flavor, cheerful ambiance, and attentive staff, it’s a place where I will happily return for my fish and chips cravings!

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Harbor House

Highlights
Stunning waterfront views
Generous portion sizes
Exceptional customer service
Fresh, high-quality seafood
Creative dessert presentations

Harbor House in Milwaukee is a delightful destination that combines stunning waterfront views with an exceptional culinary experience, making it a top contender for the best fish and chips in the city. As I took my seat, the picturesque scenery set the perfect stage for the meal ahead, and I was immediately greeted by attentive staff who made me feel right at home.

Now, let’s dive into the star of the show—the fish and chips. The generous portion size was impressive, with beautifully crisp, golden-battered fish that was succulent and fresh. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flaky fish complemented by golden, perfectly fried chips that could stand alone. It was evident that quality ingredients were used here, elevating the dish to new heights.

And just when I thought my meal couldn't get any better, I couldn’t resist trying one of their creative desserts. The delightful finish was a sweet symphony that left me smiling. Overall, Harbor House offers not only fantastic fish and chips but a complete dining experience that leaves a lasting impression. If you're in the mood for something special, this place should definitely be on your radar!

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Jackson’s Blue Ribbon Pub of West Milwaukee

Highlights
Amazing food with huge portions
Fantastic wings and fish dishes
Great casual hangout atmosphere
Friendly and attentive service
Ideal pre-game dining spot

Jackson's Blue Ribbon Pub of West Milwaukee is a delightful stop for anyone in search of stellar fish and chips in Milwaukee. From the moment I walked in, the welcoming atmosphere made me feel right at home. The casual vibe mixed with the energy of sports fans creates a perfect backdrop for a laid-back meal.

Now, let’s talk about the dishes. The fish and chips here are a sight to behold—humongous portions that are more than enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetite. Each piece of fish is coated in a golden batter that’s perfectly crispy without overshadowing the delicate flavor of the cod inside. The chips, fried to perfection, serve as the ideal sidekick, offering that comforting crunch.

But wait, there's more! Jackson’s offers other tasty options, like their fantastic wings, making it a prime spot for a pre-game dining experience. Add in the friendly and attentive service, and you have a winning combination. If you're searching for fish and chips that not only fill you up but also warm your heart, I highly recommend making a stop at Jackson’s—it might just become your new favorite!

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Brass Key Restaurant

At Brass Key Restaurant, I discovered a delightful twist on the classic fish and chips. The beer-battered cod was perfectly golden, with a crisp exterior that gave way to flaky, tender fish inside. Paired with thick-cut fries and a zesty tartar sauce, each bite was an indulgent treat. The cozy atmosphere, complete with friendly service, made the experience even more enjoyable. For anyone craving a tasty version of this beloved dish, Brass Key is certainly worth a visit. This spot definitely deserves a spot on the list of Milwaukee's must-try fish and chips!

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St. Paul Fish Company | Historic Third Ward, Milwaukee

St. Paul Fish Company in the Historic Third Ward is a delightful gem that serves up some of the best fish and chips in Milwaukee. The moment I walked in, the aroma of fresh seafood teased my senses. The batter on the fish was perfectly crisp and golden, making each bite a joyous crunch. The fish itself was moist and flaky, with a flavor that danced on my palate. Paired with tender chips and a zesty tartar sauce, this dish is comfort food elevated. If you're on the hunt for mouth-watering fish and chips, this spot should definitely top your list!

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Barnacle Bud's

At Barnacle Bud's, the fish and chips delivered a delightful punch of flavor! The beer-battered cod was perfectly crispy, enveloping tender, flakey fish that flirts with your taste buds. Accompanied by a generous portion of golden fries that were seasoned to perfection, this dish is a true siren’s call for seafood lovers. What really set this spot apart? The hospitable atmosphere and stunning river views that elevate your dining experience. Whether you're a local or just passing through, make this charming spot a stop for your next fish and chips adventure. You won’t be disappointed!

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Swingin' Door Exchange

At Swingin' Door Exchange, the atmosphere is as inviting as the crispy golden fish that graces their menu. Each bite of the battered cod delivers a perfect crunch, giving way to flaky tenderness that dances on your palate. The hand-cut fries are beautifully seasoned—golden, fluffy, and the ideal companion. Paired with their zesty tartar sauce, this dish is a delightful journey of flavors. Add in the friendly service and lively ambiance, and you have a winning combination. Swing on over for a fish and chips experience that's a catch worth celebrating! 🌊✨

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