14 Florida Restaurants Known For Outstanding Fried Fish
Florida’s coastline isn’t just famous for sun and sand; it’s where fried fish reaches legendary status.
From bustling shore towns to tucked-away inland gems, these 14 restaurants serve crispy, golden fillets that snap with flavor and melt in your mouth.
Think crunchy batter hugging tender, flaky fish, sides that feel like comfort on a plate, and sauces that elevate every bite.
Locals flock here for the kind of meals that taste like vacation, even on a Tuesday.
In Florida, fried fish isn’t just food, it’s an experience that combines tradition, skill, and that irresistible crunch you’ll keep chasing long after the last bite.
1. O’Steen’s Restaurant — St. Augustine
Locals have been lining up outside this unassuming spot since 1965, and the wait is always worth every minute.
The dining room feels like stepping into your grandmother’s house, with wood paneling and simple tables that have seen decades of happy customers.
Their datil pepper tartar sauce has become legendary in its own right, adding a subtle Florida kick that perfectly complements their fried shrimp.
The minorcan clam chowder starts many meals here, but everyone knows the real star is the fried flounder.
Each piece arrives with a coating so delicate and crispy that it shatters at first bite.
The building sits at 205 Anastasia Boulevard in St. Augustine, sporting a modest exterior that gives no hint of the culinary magic happening inside.
Interestingly, this family-run establishment closes for a few weeks each year so the staff can vacation together, a tradition that speaks volumes about their values.
2. St. Augustine Fish Camp — St. Augustine
Perched right on the Salt Run waterway, this casual spot offers dining with a view that makes every meal feel special.
Weathered wood and nautical touches give the restaurant an authentic Old Florida vibe that tourists and residents equally adore.
Their fried grouper sandwich has achieved near-mythical status, topped with lettuce, tomato, and a sauce that keeps people guessing at the secret ingredients.
The seafood platter lets you sample multiple fried options if you can’t decide on just one.
Sunset dinners here become memorable experiences as dolphins often swim past the outdoor deck.
You’ll find this gem at 3260 Yacht Club Drive in St. Augustine, where the building’s rustic charm matches the surrounding natural beauty perfectly.
The restaurant actually started as a bait and tackle shop before transforming into the beloved eatery it is today, and some original fishing memorabilia still decorates the walls.
3. Lee & Rick’s Oyster Bar — Orlando
Finding exceptional seafood in landlocked Orlando might seem unlikely, but this place proves that great fried fish doesn’t require an ocean view.
The interior channels a New Orleans vibe with exposed brick walls and a lively bar atmosphere that gets energetic on weekend nights.
Their catfish basket draws fans from across Central Florida, featuring cornmeal-crusted fillets that stay moist inside despite the crackling exterior.
The hush puppies served alongside might just steal the show, though that’s a tough competition.
Located at 5621 Old Winter Garden Road in Orlando, the restaurant occupies a converted house that adds unexpected charm to the dining experience.
The kitchen fries everything to order, which explains why your food arrives piping hot every single time.
Surprisingly, this oyster bar started as a tiny takeout counter before expanding into the full-service restaurant that now seats over a hundred hungry diners nightly.
4. Dockside Seafood Restaurant — Jacksonville Beach
Ocean breezes drift through this beachside institution where the fishing boats dock practically at the back door.
The open-air design features a massive covered patio where seagulls occasionally try their luck at scoring a french fry from distracted diners.
Fresh grouper arrives daily and gets transformed into their signature fried grouper fingers, which come with a choice of sauces that range from classic tartar to spicy remoulade.
The basket portions are genuinely huge, easily feeding two people if you add a couple of appetizers.
You’ll spot the place at 3599 St. Johns Avenue in Jacksonville Beach, housed in a building painted in cheerful coastal colors that practically shout beach vacation.
The casual atmosphere means flip-flops and swimsuit cover-ups fit right in with the dress code.
Fun fact: the restaurant’s location puts it close enough to the waves that during hurricane season, staff sometimes have to move furniture to higher ground.
5. Singleton’s Seafood Shack — Mayport (Jacksonville)
Nothing fancy happens here, and that’s exactly the point of this beloved fish camp that’s been feeding people since the 1960s.
Picnic tables under a basic roof shelter diners from sun and rain while they feast on some of the freshest seafood in North Florida.
The fried shrimp platter is what most regulars order, featuring local shrimp caught by the Mayport fleet that docks just down the road.
Everything gets fried in a light, crispy batter that doesn’t overwhelm the natural sweetness of the seafood.
Located at 4728 Ocean Street in Jacksonville, this shack sits in the working fishing village of Mayport where authenticity matters more than Instagram-worthy decor.
The no-frills building features weathered wood and a tin roof that’s seen countless coastal storms.
Interestingly, the restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations, so arriving early on weekends is practically mandatory if you want to avoid a serious wait.
6. Walt’s Fish Market & Restaurant South — Sarasota
Walking into this place feels like entering a time capsule from 1960s Florida, complete with vintage signs and a fish market counter up front.
The dining room keeps things simple with booths and tables that have hosted generations of Sarasota families celebrating everything from Little League victories to anniversaries.
Their fried mullet is a menu standout that honors Old Florida traditions, though the grouper and snapper options run a close second in popularity.
The coleslaw served on the side has a tangy sweetness that provides perfect contrast to the savory fried fish.
You’ll find this gem at 4144 South Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, where the modest exterior belies the quality happening in the kitchen.
The market side lets you buy fresh fish to cook at home, though once you taste their fried version, you might never want to attempt it yourself.
The restaurant still uses some of the original recipes from when it first opened decades ago.
7. Star Fish Company — Cortez
This waterfront spot operates in one of Florida’s last working fishing villages, where the boats you see from your table actually supply the restaurant’s kitchen.
Rustic wooden beams and nautical rope accents create an atmosphere that feels genuinely connected to the sea rather than manufactured for tourists.
The fried catch of the day changes based on what the local fishermen bring in, making every visit a slightly different experience.
Their grouper sandwich earns consistent raves, arriving on a toasted bun with all the classic toppings done exactly right.
Located at 12306 46th Avenue West in Cortez, the building sits right on the docks where you can watch pelicans and herons hunting for their own dinner.
The outdoor seating area offers some of the best sunset views in Manatee County.
Cortez Village itself dates back to the 1880s, and Star Fish Company proudly continues the fishing traditions that built this unique community one delicious meal at a time.
8. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill — Clearwater Beach
Bright tropical colors and beach-shack vibes make this spot impossible to miss as you stroll along Clearwater Beach.
The open-air design means sand on your feet is not just acceptable but practically encouraged while you dine.
Their grouper sandwich has won so many awards that the walls can barely hold all the plaques and certificates.
The fish gets fried to golden perfection and served on fresh bread with a special sauce that locals try desperately to recreate at home.
You’ll find this colorful joint at 7 Rockaway Street in Clearwater Beach, where the building’s laid-back architecture matches the relaxed Gulf Coast attitude perfectly.
Live music often fills the air on weekends, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The original Frenchy’s started as a small cafe in the 1980s, and this location carries on the tradition of serving outstanding seafood with a side of pure Florida fun and sunshine that keeps visitors coming back year after year.
9. Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill — Tarpon Springs
Positioned right on the Anclote River, this restaurant offers front-row seats to one of Florida’s most charming waterways.
The building features a massive deck that wraps around multiple sides, giving almost every table a water view complete with passing boats and jumping fish.
Their fried snapper basket showcases the local catch beautifully, with a light breading that lets the fish flavor shine through.
The key lime pie makes an excellent finish to your meal, though you might need to rest a bit before tackling dessert.
Located at 760 Dodecanese Boulevard in Tarpon Springs, the restaurant sits in the heart of this Greek sponge-diving community that adds unique cultural flavor to the area.
The interior decor mixes nautical elements with comfortable casual dining furniture that invites you to linger over your meal.
The name reportedly comes from the founder’s childhood nickname, and the playful spirit behind that moniker shows up in every aspect of the dining experience here.
10. Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar — Cape Canaveral
Space Coast visitors flock to this lively spot where the party atmosphere rivals the quality of the seafood.
The building sprawls across multiple levels, with both indoor and outdoor seating areas that can accommodate serious crowds on busy weekends.
Their fried fish tacos have developed a cult following, featuring flaky white fish in a crispy coating topped with cabbage slaw and a tangy sauce.
The seafood platter lets you sample multiple fried items if you’re feeling particularly hungry or indecisive.
You’ll find this popular destination at 628 Glen Cheek Drive in Cape Canaveral, housed in a colorful building that captures the fun-loving beach town spirit.
The bar area gets especially energetic during rocket launches, when crowds gather to watch the sky light up.
Rusty’s actually sits close enough to the port that cruise ship passengers sometimes stop by before or after their voyages, making it a true crossroads of Florida tourism and local seafood tradition.
11. Hogfish Bar & Grill — Stock Island (Florida Keys)
Calling this place laid-back would be an understatement, as the vibe here defines Keys casual with its sandy floors and picnic table seating.
The waterfront location on Stock Island puts you slightly off the main tourist path, which locals consider a major advantage.
Hogfish itself is the specialty here, a reef fish that gets fried to showcase its sweet, mild flavor that tastes unlike any other catch.
The K*ller Hogfish Sandwich has achieved legendary status throughout the Keys, drawing food pilgrims from Key Largo to Key West.
Located at 6810 Front Street on Stock Island near Key West, the restaurant occupies a funky building that looks like it grew organically from the landscape.
The outdoor setting means you dine surrounded by tropical breezes and the occasional curious iguana.
The owners actually catch much of the hogfish themselves, and the restaurant started as a simple fish stand before growing into the beloved institution that now represents everything people love about authentic Keys dining culture.
12. DJ’s Clam Shack — Key West
Tucked away from the Duval Street chaos, this small spot serves big flavors without the tourist trap prices or attitude.
The tiny building features limited seating, but most people grab their food to go and find a nearby spot to enjoy their meal.
Fried clams are obviously the star attraction, but the fried fish sandwich holds its own with perfectly seasoned coating and generous portions.
The casual counter-service setup keeps things moving quickly even during the lunch rush.
You’ll find this hidden gem at 900 Truman Avenue in Key West, occupying a modest structure that proves great food doesn’t require fancy surroundings.
The no-frills approach extends to the decor, which consists mainly of a menu board and some basic tables.
Despite the simple setup, DJ’s has earned a devoted following among locals who appreciate quality seafood at reasonable prices, and the shack’s reputation has spread through word of mouth rather than flashy marketing or social media campaigns.
13. Stinky’s Fish Camp — Santa Rosa Beach
Don’t let the name fool you, as this place smells like delicious fried seafood rather than anything unpleasant.
The rustic fish camp aesthetic features weathered wood and a laid-back Panhandle atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome from the moment they arrive.
Their fried grouper cheeks are a menu item that adventurous eaters shouldn’t miss, offering rich flavor in crispy little nuggets of perfection.
The standard fried fish baskets satisfy more traditional tastes with generous portions and excellent sides.
Located at 5011 East County Highway 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, the building sits along the famous scenic highway that connects charming beach communities.
The covered outdoor seating area provides protection from afternoon sun while keeping the breezy, open feel.
The quirky name actually comes from a childhood nickname, and that sense of humor carries through to the menu descriptions and the friendly service that makes Stinky’s feel more like a backyard fish fry than a commercial restaurant operation.
14. Stewby’s Seafood Shanty — Fort Walton Beach
Family-owned and operated since day one, this shanty serves up Panhandle hospitality alongside some seriously good fried seafood.
The building maintains a classic beach shack appearance with a tin roof and casual seating that encourages you to relax and take your time.
Fried amberjack is a specialty here that you won’t find on many menus, offering a meatier texture than most fried fish options.
The seafood platter feeds multiple people and showcases the kitchen’s ability to fry different types of seafood to perfection simultaneously.
You’ll find this local favorite at 351 Miracle Strip Parkway in Fort Walton Beach, where the unassuming exterior gives no hint of the culinary skills inside.
The shanty-style architecture fits perfectly with the Emerald Coast aesthetic.
Stewby’s has remained in the same family for generations, passing down recipes and techniques that keep regulars coming back while welcoming newcomers into what feels like an extended family gathering rather than just another restaurant meal along the tourist strip.