I Took A Trip Along New Jersey’s Back-Bay Coast To 14 Fish-And-Chips Joints (5 Waterfront Locations)
New Jersey’s back-bay coast is a treasure trove for anyone chasing the perfect fish-and-chips.
I followed the winding roads and salt-scented breezes, stopping at small shacks and longtime local favorites that line the shore.
Some spots sit right on the water, where you can watch boats drift by while enjoying golden, crispy fish straight from the fryer.
Others hide a few streets inland, proving that incredible seafood doesn’t need a postcard view to impress.
Each stop revealed its own charm, from hand-battered fillets to generous portions of fries and hush puppies.
This journey through New Jersey reminded me why locals are so fiercely loyal to their seafood spots.
Back-bay charm and perfectly fried fish make every detour worth it.
1. Back Bay Ale House (Waterfront) — Atlantic City (Waterfront)
Perched right where the bay meets the buzz of Atlantic City, this spot knows how to fry fish properly.
The building sports a classic coastal look with weathered wood siding and big windows that frame water views you could stare at for hours.
Their beer-battered cod comes out impossibly crispy, paired with thick-cut fries that have just the right amount of crunch.
Locals swear by the fish tacos too, but the traditional fish and chips plate is what keeps people coming back weekend after weekend.
You’ll find it at 800 North New Hampshire Avenue in Atlantic City, where the deck seating lets you watch boats drift by while you eat.
Fun fact: the building once served as a bait shop before transforming into this beloved seafood haven.
The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for families or anyone wanting good food without the fuss.
2. Irish Pub — Atlantic City
Walking into this place feels like stepping into a genuine pub somewhere across the Atlantic.
Dark wood paneling, brass fixtures, and vintage beer signs create an authentic vibe that sets it apart from typical beach town eateries.
The fish and chips here stay true to traditional Irish preparation, with a light, flaky batter that doesn’t overpower the fresh fish inside.
Their hand-cut chips arrive hot and perfectly salted, served in a paper-lined basket that somehow makes everything taste better.
Located at 164 St. James Place in Atlantic City, this pub has been serving comfort food and cold pints for years.
The Guinness stew is another crowd favorite, but visitors specifically seeking great fish and chips won’t leave disappointed.
Interestingly, the original owner imported the bar itself from Dublin back in the 1980s.
The cozy interior makes it ideal for cooler evenings when waterfront dining loses its appeal.
3. Dockside Kitchen (Waterfront) — Ocean City (Waterfront)
Right on the water in Ocean City, this kitchen serves up seafood with views that make every meal feel like a special occasion.
The modern coastal design features clean lines, nautical accents, and an open layout that brings the outdoors inside beautifully.
Their signature fish and chips plate showcases locally caught fish whenever possible, fried to golden perfection with a secret blend of seasonings in the batter.
The waffle fries are a fun twist on the classic side, and they pair wonderfully with the house-made tartar sauce.
Find this gem at 3400 Boardwalk in Ocean City, where the covered patio offers protection from sun and occasional summer showers.
The lobster roll also draws serious attention, but the fish and chips remain the most ordered item on the menu.
The owners renovated an old snack shack into this polished establishment just five years ago, and the transformation is impressive beyond words.
4. Bob’s Grill — Ocean City
Since 1944, this no-frills grill has been feeding hungry beachgoers without any pretense or fancy decorations.
The simple diner-style building features checkered floors, red vinyl booths, and a counter where you can watch the cooks work their magic on a massive flat-top griddle.
Bob’s keeps things straightforward with their fish and chips: fresh fish, simple batter, and fries that taste like your grandma made them.
Nothing complicated, nothing trendy, just solid food done right every single time.
You’ll spot it at 2nd Street and the Boardwalk in Ocean City, where lines form during peak summer hours but move surprisingly fast.
The breakfast menu gets equal love from regulars, though the fish and chips remain available all day long. Remarkably, the same family has owned and operated this place for three generations now.
The cash-only policy and vintage decor remind you that some things are better left unchanged over the decades.
5. Mud City Crab House — Manahawkin
Tucked away in Manahawkin, this crab house knows that fish and chips deserve as much attention as their famous steamed crabs.
The rustic building resembles an old fishing shack, complete with crab trap decorations and weathered signs covering every available wall space.
Their fish and chips feature thick pieces of cod with a cornmeal-dusted coating that adds extra texture and flavor.
The Old Bay seasoned fries are a local favorite, bringing that signature Maryland spice to a Jersey classic.
Located at 1575 Route 72 West in Manahawkin, this spot attracts both locals and travelers heading to Long Beach Island.
The all-you-can-eat crab feast gets most of the attention, but smart diners know the fish and chips hold their own against any competition.
The name comes from the muddy marshlands surrounding the area, which produce some of the sweetest crabs on the East Coast.
Paper tablecloths and buckets of shells create a casual, fun atmosphere perfect for messy, delicious eating.
6. Ship Bottom Shellfish — Ship Bottom
Everything about this place screams authentic Jersey Shore seafood joint.
The compact building sits just blocks from the beach, painted in cheerful colors that stand out against the typical shore architecture around it.
Fresh fish arrives daily, and you can taste the difference in every crispy, flavorful bite of their fish and chips.
The hand-cut fries come from real potatoes peeled right in the kitchen, and the portions are generous enough to share if you’re not super hungry.
Head to 1501 Long Beach Boulevard in Ship Bottom to experience this local favorite firsthand.
Their raw bar selection is impressive, but the fried seafood keeps people driving from neighboring towns regularly.
Interestingly, the building started as a small fish market before expanding into a full restaurant operation in the early 2000s.
The casual counter-service setup means you can grab your food quickly and head straight to the beach if that’s your plan for the day.
7. Mike’s Seafood & Dock Restaurant (Waterfront) — Sea Isle City (Waterfront)
Boats pull right up to the dock here, and sometimes your dinner was swimming in the ocean just hours before it hits your plate.
The two-story building features a large deck upstairs with panoramic water views that make sunset dinners absolutely magical.
Mike’s beer-battered fish and chips are legendary among regulars, with a light, crispy coating that stays crunchy even as you work through the generous portion.
The seasoned boardwalk fries complete the experience perfectly, especially when dipped in their tangy homemade coleslaw.
Find this waterfront treasure at 4222 Park Road in Sea Isle City, where the fishing boats docked outside prove the seafood’s freshness.
The stuffed flounder also draws rave reviews, but first-timers should definitely start with the fish and chips.
The owner actually fishes commercially during the off-season, bringing that authentic waterman knowledge to every dish served.
The nautical decor feels genuine rather than forced, probably because real fishing gear hangs on the walls.
8. Deauville Inn (Waterfront) — Strathmere (Waterfront)
Sophistication meets seaside charm at this elegant waterfront establishment that’s been a Strathmere landmark since 1895.
The Victorian-style building boasts wraparound porches, white columns, and an upscale ambiance that elevates the typical shore dining experience significantly.
Despite the fancy surroundings, their fish and chips remain approachable and delicious, featuring flaky white fish in a delicate tempura-style batter.
The truffle parmesan fries add a gourmet touch that matches the inn’s refined atmosphere while still honoring the dish’s humble origins.
You’ll discover it at 201 Willard Road in Strathmere, where the sunset views over the bay create Instagram-worthy moments nightly.
The lobster mac and cheese is another standout, but the fish and chips prove that simple dishes can shine in upscale settings.
Amazingly, five generations of the same family have owned this inn, maintaining its reputation for quality throughout the decades. T
he dress code is smart casual, so maybe skip the beach flip-flops for this particular stop.
9. Sax at the Reeds — Stone Harbor
Contemporary elegance defines this upscale spot where the modern design incorporates floor-to-ceiling windows and sleek furnishings that complement rather than compete with the beautiful surroundings.
The open kitchen concept lets you watch chefs prepare your meal with impressive skill and precision.
Their fish and chips get a sophisticated makeover with panko crust and served alongside sweet potato fries that add color and flavor variety.
The presentation is restaurant-quality gorgeous, but the taste is what really matters, and this version delivers on all fronts.
Located at 9601 Third Avenue in Stone Harbor, this restaurant sits inside The Reeds hotel, offering refined dining without stuffiness.
The tuna tartare appetizer is spectacular, but don’t overlook the fish and chips just because you’re in a fancy setting.
The chef trained in several Michelin-starred restaurants before returning to the Jersey Shore to create accessible fine dining.
The outdoor terrace provides a perfect middle ground between casual and dressy for those warm summer evenings by the water.
10. Lucky Bones Backwater Grille — Cape May
Quirky and fun, this grille embraces a playful pirate theme without going overboard into tacky territory.
The building features reclaimed wood, colorful murals, and a laid-back vibe that instantly puts everyone in vacation mode regardless of the actual day of the week.
Their fish and chips come with a Caribbean twist, incorporating island spices into the batter that give familiar flavors an exciting kick.
The yucca fries offer an alternative to traditional potatoes, and the mango salsa on the side adds fresh, tropical brightness to every bite.
Find this unique spot at 1200 Route 109 in Cape May, where the creative menu goes beyond typical shore fare.
The jerk chicken tacos are wildly popular, but the fish and chips show off the kitchen’s ability to reinvent classics successfully.
The owners traveled extensively through the Caribbean before opening this place, and those influences shine through in unexpected, delicious ways.
Live music on weekends adds to the festive atmosphere that makes this place feel like a mini-vacation.
11. Fin’s Bar & Grille — Cape May
Sports bar meets seafood shack at this lively spot where TVs line the walls and the fish is always fresh.
The industrial-chic design combines exposed brick, metal accents, and Edison bulb lighting that creates a hip yet comfortable environment for watching games or catching up with friends.
Classic beer-battered fish and chips reign supreme here, served with crispy fries and enough malt vinegar to satisfy even the pickiest traditionalists.
The portions are massive, easily enough for two people to share if you’re ordering appetizers too.
Located at 1208 Route 109 in Cape May, this grille attracts a younger crowd looking for good food and cold beer in equal measure.
The buffalo shrimp appetizer flies out of the kitchen, but the fish and chips remain the most reliable choice on the menu.
Interestingly, the building used to house an auto repair shop before its transformation into this popular dining destination.
The long bar and communal tables encourage socializing, making it perfect for groups or solo diners who don’t mind making new friends.
12. Cape May Fish Market — Cape May
Half fish market, half casual eatery, this place lets you buy fresh seafood to cook at home or enjoy it prepared right there.
The no-frills setup includes picnic tables, paper plates, and a straightforward menu that focuses on quality ingredients rather than fancy presentations or complicated preparations.
Their fish and chips are as fresh as it gets, with fish that was likely swimming that very morning.
The simple preparation lets the natural flavors shine through, and the hand-cut fries are cooked in clean oil that doesn’t leave any greasy aftertaste whatsoever.
You’ll find it at 710 Sunset Boulevard in Cape May, where locals shop for dinner ingredients and tourists discover authentic shore dining.
The seafood selection in the market side is incredible, but the prepared food counter offers convenience when you’d rather not cook on vacation.
The family running this operation has been in the fishing business for four generations, so they know good seafood inside and out.
BYOB policy keeps costs down and lets you pair your meal exactly how you prefer it.
13. Mad Batter — Cape May
Housed in a stunning Victorian mansion, this breakfast and lunch spot brings unexpected elegance to casual shore dining.
The ornate interior features original woodwork, stained glass windows, and period-appropriate furnishings that transport you back to Cape May’s golden age as a resort destination for wealthy Victorians.
While famous for brunch, their lunch menu includes outstanding fish and chips with a gourmet touch.
The tempura batter is exceptionally light, and the accompanying garlic aioli and truffle fries elevate this working-class dish into something truly special and memorable.
Located at 19 Jackson Street in Cape May, this restaurant occupies one of the town’s most photographed historic buildings.
The stuffed French toast dominates breakfast orders, but lunch visitors should absolutely try the fish and chips for a different perspective.
The building dates back to 1882 and has survived fires, storms, and changing tastes while maintaining its architectural integrity. The garden patio offers a quieter alternative to the bustling interior dining rooms during busy summer months.
14. Two Mile Crab House (Waterfront) — Wildwood Crest (Waterfront)
Sprawling across the waterfront, this crab house offers multiple dining areas including a tiki bar, indoor dining room, and expansive deck.
The tropical-themed building features bright colors, palm tree decorations, and a fun atmosphere that captures the carefree spirit of summer at the shore perfectly.
Their fish and chips are solid and satisfying, with thick pieces of cod fried until golden and served with seasoned fries.
While the steamed crabs get most of the glory here, the fish and chips provide a great option for anyone not in the mood for messy crab-cracking.
Find this waterfront favorite at 3407 Park Boulevard in Wildwood Crest, where the sunset views and tropical drinks create a vacation vibe.
The crab dip appetizer is dangerously addictive, but save room for the fish and chips if that’s what you came for originally.
The building sits right on the Intracoastal Waterway, and watching boats cruise by while you eat never gets old, no matter how many times you visit this popular spot.