10 Chain Restaurant Fish Sandwiches Made With 100% Real Ingredients

Fast food fish sandwiches with real ingredients?

Yes, really. While some spots still dish out suspiciously spongy patties, others are quietly serving wild-caught pollock and hand-cut cod like it’s no big deal. What used to be the sketchiest item on the drive-thru menu might just be the cleanest catch of all.

So before you assume that fish sandwich is a frozen fraud, brace yourself, these chains are actually doing it right, and it’s kind of shocking.

1. McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish

Forget what you’ve heard!

In reality, the famous square sandwich is made with Alaskan pollock that was captured in the wild. This jewel with a tartar top hasn’t altered much since 1962.

McDonald’s seafood isn’t very nice, but it comes from sustainable fisheries since it has been certified by the Marine Stewardship Council. The unique steamed bun? It’s the covert tactic that keeps followers loyal.

2. Wendy’s Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich

North Pacific wild-caught pollock gets the royal treatment with a panko breadcrumb coating that shatters with each bite.

Wendy’s seasonal offering appears during Lent but deserves year-round status.

How does Wendy’s stand out? By adding dill pickles and a creamy dill tartar sauce that perfectly complements the light fish flavor. The premium toasted bun elevates this beyond typical fast-food fare.

3. Culver’s North Atlantic Cod Sandwich

Wisconsin’s favorite burger joint doesn’t mess around with its fish! Hand-cut, hand-battered Atlantic cod fillets get fried to order – never sitting under heat lamps.

Even if it costs a little more than other brands, the difference is immediately apparent. Seafood perfection is made with Wisconsin cheddar, shredded lettuce, and tartar sauce from a family recipe. Culver’s cod sandwich is a great option if you value the flavor of freshly caught fish.

4. Arby’s Crispy Fish Sandwich

Surprised to find quality fish at the roast beef palace? Arby’s wild-caught Alaskan pollock comes with a crunchy coating that puts other fast-food fish to shame.

Where Arby’s truly wins is portion size – their substantial fillet extends beyond the bun! Topped with shredded lettuce and tartar sauce on a toasted sesame seed bun, it’s a seafood slam dunk that proves Arby’s isn’t just about the meats.

5. Burger King Big Fish Sandwich

Flame-grilled burgers might be their claim to fame, but BK’s fish game deserves recognition! Their 100% white Alaskan pollock fillet comes breaded with panko crumbs for maximum crunch factor.

What makes this royal fish special? The brioche-style bun and tangy tartar sauce create a balanced flavor profile.

Though often overlooked on the menu, seafood lovers might be shocked to discover this hidden gem among the Whoppers.

6. Burger King Fiery Big Fish Sandwich

Heat seekers, rejoice! This spicy variation kicks things up several notches with the same quality Alaskan pollock base as its milder sibling.

The game-changer? A fiery sauce that tingles without overwhelming.

Crisp lettuce provides cooling relief between bites of the panko-crusted fish. When regular fast-food offerings bore your taste buds, this spicy alternative delivers excitement without sacrificing ingredient quality. Napkins definitely required!

7. Popeyes Classic or Spicy Flounder Fish Sandwich

Chicken sandwich royalty expanded their kingdom with genuine Atlantic flounder filets! Hand-battered in Popeyes’ signature Southern coating, these seasonal sensations create lines when they appear.

Unlike competitors using pollock, flounder offers a more delicate texture and sweeter flavor profile. Choose between classic or spicy mayo versions – both feature barrel-cured pickles on buttery brioche. When available, these limited-time treasures are worth hunting down!

8. Long John Silver’s Classic Fish Sandwich

Alaskan pollock, 100% wild, is used in this sandwich, which originates from the fish experts themselves. Authentic taste is delivered by this crispy masterpiece coated in their trademark batter, which has been in use since 1969.

Pickles’ tart crunch properly balances the richness. Quality seafood is the foundation of LJS’s reputation, whilst other businesses provide fish as an afterthought on their menus. The ideal fish sandwich is the result of their decades of skill, making the special journey worthwhile.

9. Dairy Queen Wild Alaskan Fish Sandwich

Beyond Blizzards and dipped cones lies a surprisingly solid seafood option! DQ’s wild-caught Alaskan pollock gets a crispy breading that maintains its crunch, even under tartar sauce.

Served on a warm toasted bun with crisp lettuce, this sandwich proves Dairy Queen understands more than just desserts. The generous fish portion satisfies hungry appetites, making it a solid choice when you’re craving something from the sea rather than the grill.

10. Whataburger Whatacatch Sandwich

The well-known burger joint in Texas doesn’t skimp on fish! Each mouthful of the Whatacatch’s large Alaskan pollock fillet shatters wonderfully due to its light, crispy covering.

What makes Whataburger unique? by combining classic tartar with their famously creamy pepper sauce. Fresh tomato and lettuce give the fish a garden-fresh contrast. This local gem consistently provides Texans with high-quality fish between buns.