I Road-Tripped Texas’ Gulf Coast To Try 8 Fish-And-Chips Joints (4 Were Right On The Water)
My stomach rumbled louder than the engine as I cruised down Highway 35, chasing the perfect golden batter and flaky white fish along Texas’ sprawling Gulf Coast.
From Galveston to South Padre Island, I sampled fish and chips at ten spots that locals swear by, and half of them sat right on the water where the catch comes straight from the waves.
This journey wasn’t just about crispy fries and tangy tartar sauce—it was about finding where coastal charm meets comfort food magic.
1. The Spot – Galveston
Walking into this place felt like stepping into a beachside cookout where everyone’s invited. The Spot serves up fish and chips with a no-frills attitude that somehow makes the food taste better.
Their batter hits that sweet spot between crunchy and light, never weighing down the tender fish inside. Seating spills out onto a sandy patio where seagulls eye your basket with serious intent.
Prices stay reasonable, portions run generous, and the vibe screams relaxed coastal living without any pretense.
2. Shrimp N Stuff – Galveston
Tucked away from the tourist traps in Texas, this gem proves that the best eats often hide in plain sight. Shrimp N Stuff might sound like it’s all about crustaceans, but their fish and chips deserve equal billing.
The coating comes out shatteringly crisp, giving way to moist fish that tastes like it was swimming yesterday. Chips arrive hot and salted just right, begging to be dunked in their house-made remoulade.
Locals pack this spot during lunch, which tells you everything you need to know.
3. Blackbeard’s On The Beach – Corpus Christi
Ahoy, matey—this pirate-themed spot brings theatrical fun to your fish feast without sacrificing quality. Blackbeard’s understands that good food doesn’t need gimmicks, but a little swashbuckling atmosphere never hurt anyone.
Their fish comes in thick cuts that stay juicy under a golden shell of seasoned breading. The chips are hand-cut and fried to that perfect halfway point between soft and crispy.
Kids love the nautical decor while adults appreciate the straightforward, satisfying flavors that don’t try too hard.
4. Snoopy’s Pier – Corpus Christi (On The Water)
Eating here means your table sits directly above the waves that delivered your dinner, and few places in Texas capture that feeling better than Snoopy’s Pier. Snoopy’s Pier combines serious fishing culture with casual dining in a way that feels authentic, not staged.
The fish tastes fresher than fresh because it practically is—anglers pull in catches just yards from your seat. Their batter recipe leans toward the lighter side, letting the natural sweetness of the fish shine through.
Watching pelicans glide past while munching crispy chips creates memories that outlast any Instagram post.
5. Doc’s Seafood & Steaks – Corpus Christi (On The Water)
Fancier than most spots on this list, Doc’s proves that fish and chips can clean up nice without losing their soul. The waterfront views here compete with the food for your attention, and both win.
Their version arrives beautifully plated with a drink batter that adds subtle malty notes to each bite. Chips come seasoned with herbs and served alongside upgraded sides that elevate the whole experience.
Expect to pay a bit more, but the combination of quality seafood and stunning sunset scenery justifies every dollar.
6. Louie’s Backyard – South Padre Island
Named like a neighborhood hangout, Louie’s delivers exactly that kind of comfortable, come-as-you-are energy. Sand on your feet? No problem. Still wearing your swimsuit? They’ve seen worse.
The fish and chips here lean into traditional flavors without any fancy twists, which sometimes is exactly what you crave. Their batter achieves that ideal crunch that echoes with each bite.
Portion sizes border on ridiculous in the best way possible, ensuring nobody leaves hungry. The laid-back staff treats everyone like regulars, even first-timers.
7. Katie’s Seafood House – Galveston (On The Water)
Built right where fishing boats unload their hauls, Katie’s connects diners directly to the source in the most literal way possible. Watching shrimp boats dock while eating seafood creates a full-circle moment that landlocked restaurants can’t replicate.
Their fish and chips showcase whatever’s running best that day, meaning the menu adapts to what the Gulf provides. The coating stays light and crispy, never greasy or heavy.
Katie’s manages to feel both touristy and authentically local, a rare balance that keeps crowds happy.
8. Fisherman’s Wharf – Port Aransas (On The Water)
Everything about this place screams working waterfront, from the fishing nets hung as decor to the salty breeze that seasons your meal naturally. Fisherman’s Wharf doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what it is: honest food in an honest setting.
The fish comes thick and meaty, fried until the outside crackles with each bite. Chips taste like they were cut this morning, which they probably were.
Eating here feels like joining a community of people who respect the Gulf and everything it provides.