I Explored Pennsylvania’s Lake Erie Shore For 14 Fish-And-Chips Spots (4 Had Breezy Waterfront Views)
Pennsylvania’s Lake Erie shoreline is a treasure trove for anyone craving crispy, golden fish and perfectly salted fries.
I spent the day hopping from one charming spot to the next, tasting flaky fillets and hand-cut chips while the lake breeze kept things refreshingly cool.
Some restaurants perch right on the water, letting you watch waves lap the shore as you dig in.
Others hide just a block or two away but deliver flavors that rival the waterfront views.
From cozy, no-frills shacks to bustling family-run joints, each stop offered a unique slice of Lake Erie’s culinary charm and seaside magic.
1. Presque Isle Fish & Farm — Erie, Pennsylvania
Freshness defines every plate at this farm-to-table spot where the fish gets delivered daily and the vegetables come straight from local gardens.
The building sports a modern rustic design with reclaimed wood beams and large windows that flood the dining room with natural light.
You will find their beer-battered cod basket is famous for its light, crunchy coating that never gets soggy, paired with thick-cut fries dusted with sea salt.
Located at 2769 W 8th St in Erie, this stop sits close enough to Presque Isle that it fits easily into a day near the park.
The chef sources perch and walleye from Lake Erie fishermen, so the menu changes based on what the boats bring in.
Fun fact: the restaurant’s herb garden out back supplies fresh dill and parsley for their house-made tartar sauce, which regulars swear is the best in the county.
2. Plymouth Tavern — Erie, Pennsylvania
Stepping inside feels like entering a classic neighborhood pub where everyone knows your name and the jukebox plays Springsteen on repeat.
The tavern occupies a brick building dating back to the 1940s, with vintage beer signs covering the walls and a long mahogany bar that has seen decades of laughter and conversation.
Their Alaskan cod fish and chips come in a basket so generous you might need a to-go box, served with coleslaw that has just the right amount of tang.
Find this gem at 1109 State St in Erie, tucked into a residential neighborhood where locals gather after work.
The batter recipe has stayed the same for over thirty years, using a secret blend of seasonings that the owner refuses to reveal.
Interestingly, Plymouth Tavern started as a speakeasy during Prohibition, and some regulars claim the original bar still hides a secret compartment behind the third stool from the left.
3. The Brewerie at Union Station — Erie, Pennsylvania
Grand architecture meets craft beer in this converted train station where vaulted ceilings soar overhead and original tile work reminds you of the building’s historic past.
The space features exposed brick, iron railings, and massive windows that once welcomed travelers rushing to catch their trains.
Their signature fish and chips use a beer batter made with their own amber ale, creating a rich golden crust that pairs perfectly with hand-cut russet potato fries.
You will find this brewpub at 123 W 14th St in Erie, right in the heart of downtown where the old railway hub once connected the region.
The menu lists several fish options, but the haddock basket remains the crowd favorite, especially when paired with one of their house-brewed IPAs.
Local lore says a ghost named Eddie still roams the upper floors, left over from the station’s heyday when he worked as a porter in the 1920s.
4. Shoreline Bar & Grille — Erie, Pennsylvania (waterfront views)
Spectacular bay views greet diners at this waterfront gem where the outdoor seating area stretches right up to the water’s edge.
The restaurant features a casual beach-house design with light wood furniture, nautical blue accents, and large windows that frame the shimmering lake beyond.
Their fish and chips use fresh Lake Erie perch when available, lightly breaded and fried until golden, paired with crispy sweet potato fries that add a touch of sweetness to the savory fish.
Located at 2 Sassafras Pier in Erie, this spot sits right on the bayfront.
The menu changes seasonally, but the fish basket remains a year-round staple that locals order again and again.
Fun fact: the restaurant installed underwater lights along their dock that attract schools of fish at night, creating an impromptu aquarium effect that delights kids and adults alike as they dine on the deck above.
5. Ugly Tuna Tavern — Erie, Pennsylvania
Quirky decor and a laid-back vibe make this tavern a favorite among college students and families alike, with tuna-themed artwork covering every available wall space.
The building itself is a converted house painted bright blue, impossible to miss as you drive down Peach Street.
Their fish and chips feature crispy panko-crusted cod that stays crunchy even after sitting for a few minutes, served alongside seasoned waffle fries that disappear faster than you can say tartar sauce.
Located at 1010 Peninsula Dr in Erie, this spot sits in the Presque Isle area, making it an easy stop before or after time near the water.
The menu also offers a spicy Cajun version of their classic fish basket, dusted with paprika and cayenne for those who like a little heat.
Surprisingly, the restaurant started as a sushi bar before pivoting to pub food, and the owner kept the tuna theme as a playful nod to those early days.
6. The Colony Pub & Grille — Erie, Pennsylvania
Waterfront dining reaches new heights at this breezy spot where the outdoor patio offers unobstructed views of Presque Isle Bay and sailboats drifting past.
The building features a contemporary design with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, a wraparound deck, and nautical touches like rope accents and driftwood centerpieces.
Their fish and chips showcase thick cuts of Atlantic cod fried to perfection, accompanied by truffle-infused fries that elevate the entire dish.
You will discover this restaurant at 2670 W 8th St in Erie, positioned right on the water where sunsets paint the sky in shades of orange and pink.
The kitchen prides itself on sourcing sustainable seafood, and the chef changes the fish selection based on seasonal availability.
Fun fact: the Colony originally opened as a small ice cream stand in the 1950s before transforming into the upscale grille it is today, though they still serve soft-serve cones in the summer months.
7. Two45 Waterfront Grille — Erie, Pennsylvania (waterfront views)
Upscale dining meets lakeside relaxation at this sophisticated restaurant where white tablecloths and elegant lighting set the tone for a special evening out.
The building boasts a modern architectural design with clean lines, a stone fireplace, and an expansive patio overlooking the marina where yachts bob gently in their slips.
Their gourmet fish and chips feature panko-crusted halibut served with hand-cut truffle parmesan fries, elevating the classic dish to fine-dining status.
You will find this restaurant at 55 West Bay Drive in Erie. Fish and chips show up as a more elevated plate here, keeping the comfort-food spirit while matching the setting.
The wine list is extensive, and the sommelier can recommend the perfect pairing for your seafood selection.
Interestingly, the chef trained in London and brought back authentic British fish and chips techniques, though he adds his own creative twists using local ingredients and upscale presentations that make each plate look like a work of art.
8. Oasis Pub — Erie, Pennsylvania
Cozy booths and dim lighting create an intimate atmosphere at this neighborhood watering hole where the bartender remembers your drink order after just one visit.
The pub occupies a simple brick building with a neon sign out front and wood-paneled walls inside that give it a retro 1970s charm.
Their fish and chips arrive piping hot with a crispy beer batter coating Icelandic cod, served with steak fries and a side of homemade coleslaw that adds a refreshing crunch.
Find this local favorite at 3122 W Lake Rd in Erie, placed well for anyone looping around the west side of town toward Presque Isle.
The Oasis keeps things simple with a straightforward menu focused on doing a few dishes really well, and their fish basket consistently ranks among the best in town.
Interestingly, the pub got its name because the original owner grew up in Arizona and wanted to create a cool refuge from the desert heat, even though Erie gets plenty of snow each winter.
9. Bay House Oyster Bar & Restaurant — Erie, Pennsylvania (waterfront views)
Nautical elegance defines this waterfront establishment where ship wheels, vintage maps, and porthole windows transport you straight to the New England coast.
The restaurant occupies a beautifully restored building with a wraparound porch, weathered shingles, and a prime location right on the bay.
Their fish and chips highlight sustainable Atlantic cod with a light tempura-style batter, served alongside garlic herb fries and a lemon aioli that brightens every bite.
Located at 6 Sassafras Pier in Erie, this stop fits the “breezy waterfront views” promise far better than the draft address.
The kitchen takes pride in serving only the freshest catches, and the chef personally selects fish from local suppliers each morning.
Fun fact: the building once served as a private boathouse for a wealthy Erie family in the early 1900s, and you can still see the original iron hooks in the ceiling where they used to hang fishing nets and equipment.
10. McGarrey’s Oakwood Cafe — Erie, Pennsylvania
Family-friendly warmth radiates from this longtime neighborhood favorite where the staff treats everyone like extended relatives and the portions could feed a small army.
The cafe sits in a simple brick building with a red awning, checkered curtains in the windows, and a homey interior filled with mismatched chairs and local sports memorabilia.
Their fish and chips feature generous portions of beer-battered haddock with a mountain of seasoned fries, plus coleslaw and a dinner roll that comes with every basket.
Located at 1624 W 38th St in Erie, this spot has served the community for decades, building a loyal following that spans generations.
The menu offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but Friday fish fry nights pack the place with families who know good value when they see it.
Fun fact: the original owner, Mr. McGarrey, was a former Navy cook who learned his fish-frying technique aboard an aircraft carrier, and his grandson now runs the kitchen using the same recipes.
11. The Cork 1794 — Erie, Pennsylvania
Historic charm oozes from every corner of this elegant establishment housed in a building that dates back to Erie’s earliest days as a frontier settlement.
The restaurant features exposed stone walls, antique chandeliers, dark wood furnishings, and a wine cellar visible through a glass floor panel.
Their fish and chips showcase a sophisticated take on the classic with champagne-battered cod, truffle-dusted fries, and a caper-dill remoulade that adds bright, briny notes.
You will discover this spot at 900 West Erie Plaza Drive in Erie. Fish and chips appear as a refined take when you want something classic without the casual setting.
The Cork pairs their seafood with an impressive wine selection, and the knowledgeable staff can guide you toward the perfect bottle.
Interestingly, the building served as a general store, a bank, and even a speakeasy before becoming a restaurant, and during recent renovations, workers found old prohibition-era bottles hidden behind a false wall in the basement.
12. The Skunk & Goat Tavern — North East, Pennsylvania
Whimsical and welcoming, this tavern sports a name that makes everyone do a double-take and a menu that keeps them coming back for more.
The building is a converted farmhouse painted barn-red with black shutters, featuring a spacious interior with exposed beams, farmhouse tables, and quirky animal-themed artwork throughout.
Their fish and chips use locally caught Lake Erie walleye when in season, lightly breaded and pan-fried to preserve the delicate flavor, served with hand-cut fries and a tangy dill pickle slaw.
Located at 17 W Main St in North East, this stop sits right in town, a solid pick for a Lake Erie day trip that wanders beyond Erie proper.
The menu celebrates local ingredients, and the kitchen works with nearby farms to source vegetables and herbs.
Fun fact: the tavern got its unusual name from the owner’s childhood pets, a skunk named Pepper and a goat named Billy, who were apparently best friends and inspired the restaurant’s logo of the two animals sitting side by side.
13. Oliver’s Rooftop — Erie, Pennsylvania (waterfront views)
Sky-high views and trendy vibes collide at this rooftop hotspot where the cityscape spreads out below and Lake Erie glimmers in the distance.
The space features modern industrial design with metal railings, string lights overhead, and sleek furniture that looks straight out of a design magazine.
Their fish and chips arrive as a deconstructed plate with beer-battered cod strips, house-cut fries arranged artfully, and three dipping sauces including chipotle mayo, classic tartar, and spicy remoulade.
Find this rooftop gem at 130 E Front Street in Erie, perched above the bayfront area with views that match the build-up.
The bar serves creative cocktails that pair surprisingly well with fried seafood, and the DJ spins chill beats on weekend nights.
Surprisingly, the restaurant started as a private event space before opening to the public, and the owner had to convince the city council that a rooftop restaurant would be safe and successful in Erie’s sometimes harsh weather conditions.
14. The Park Tavern — Erie, Pennsylvania
Casual comfort reigns at this neighborhood gathering spot where the atmosphere stays relaxed and the food consistently hits the mark.
The tavern occupies a corner building with large windows, a wrap-around bar, and plenty of TVs for watching the game while you eat.
Their fish and chips come as a traditional British-style plate with malt vinegar on the side, featuring thick-cut cod in a crispy batter that crackles with each bite, paired with proper chips that are fluffy inside and golden outside.
Find this tavern at 3101 State St in Erie, situated in a busy commercial area where parking is plentiful and the crowd is always friendly.
The menu offers daily specials, but regulars know to order the fish basket on any day of the week because it never disappoints.
Interestingly, the owner spent several years living in London and became obsessed with authentic fish and chips, eventually bringing that passion back to Erie where he recreated the dish using the exact same type of malt vinegar and newspaper-style serving baskets he remembered from his favorite London chippies.