14 New Jersey Carryout Fish Fry Windows Known For Hot, Crispy Lake Perch
Okay, full disclosure: I used to think “fish fry” was just, well… fried fish.
Then I discovered New Jersey’s underground scene of carryout fish fry windows-little walk-up spots tucked into parking lots, gas stations, and strip malls that serve up golden, crackly lake perch that tastes like a summer vacation on a paper plate.
There are exactly 14 of these no-frills gems known for one thing: piping-hot, super-crispy lake perch you can smell three parking spaces away.
And now?
I’m on a mission.
One bite at a time.
1. Keyport Fishery
Keyport Fishery stands proudly at 150 W Front St in Keyport, serving up some of the Garden State’s most legendary lake perch.
This family-run operation has been frying fish to golden perfection for decades, and locals swear by the crunch factor.
The secret lies in a perfectly seasoned cornmeal breading that locks in moisture while creating an audible snap with every bite.
Walk up to the carryout window and you’ll smell that unmistakable aroma of hot oil and fresh fish mingling in the salty air.
Orders come wrapped in classic paper, still steaming and ready to devour before you even reach your car.
The perch fillets are generous, never skimpy, and the tartar sauce recipe has been passed down through three generations.
People drive from neighboring counties just to grab a Friday night order.
Parking can get tight during peak hours, but the wait is always worth it.
Cash is king here, so come prepared.
2. Crockett’s Fish Fry
Nestled at 162 Bloomfield Ave in Montclair, Crockett’s Fish Fry brings Midwestern fish fry culture straight to North Jersey.
The owner spent years perfecting the lake perch recipe after falling in love with the dish during a trip to Wisconsin.
Each fillet gets a double dip in seasoned flour before hitting the fryer, creating layers of crispiness that stay intact even after cooling.
The menu is refreshingly simple, focusing on quality over quantity, with lake perch taking center stage.
Regulars know to order extra coleslaw because the tangy, creamy blend complements the fried fish like nothing else.
The carryout window operates with impressive efficiency, even during the Friday dinner rush when lines stretch down the block.
Prices remain reasonable despite rising seafood costs, making this spot accessible for families on any budget.
Don’t skip the hand-cut fries, which arrive hot and salty in generous portions.
3. Shore Fresh Seafood Market (Boro)
Shore Fresh Seafood Market sits at 703 Bridge Ave in Point Pleasant, combining a full-service fish counter with an exceptional carryout fry operation.
The lake perch here tastes incredibly fresh because the staff sources from trusted suppliers who prioritize quality over everything else.
A light, crispy batter allows the delicate flavor of the perch to shine through without being overwhelmed by grease or heavy breading.
I once watched a customer order six pounds for a family gathering, and the staff had everything ready in under ten minutes.
The market atmosphere adds to the experience, with cases full of shrimp, scallops, and whole fish creating a proper seafood vibe.
You can grab raw ingredients for home cooking or let the pros handle everything at the fry window.
The parking lot fills up fast on weekends, especially during summer when beach crowds descend on the area.
Portion sizes lean generous, so come hungry or plan to share.
4. Shore Fresh Seafood Market (Beach)
The Beach location of Shore Fresh Seafood Market operates at 57 Channel Dr in Point Pleasant Beach, offering the same stellar lake perch with a more vacation-friendly atmosphere.
This spot caters to beachgoers who want quality fried fish without the sit-down restaurant hassle.
The breading stays remarkably crispy even in the humid shore air, a testament to proper frying technique and oil temperature control.
Picnic tables nearby provide convenient seating for those who can’t wait to dig in.
The lake perch portions come with classic sides like corn on the cob and potato salad, making it a complete meal.
Summer weekends see the longest waits, but the staff moves orders through with practiced ease.
Local fishing charters often recommend this place to tourists looking for authentic Jersey shore seafood experiences.
The menu rotates slightly with seasonal catches, but lake perch remains a year-round staple.
Bring a cooler if you’re planning to enjoy your meal on the beach.
5. Atlantic Offshore Fishery
Atlantic Offshore Fishery holds court at 212 Channel Dr in Point Pleasant Beach, right where the fishing boats unload their daily hauls.
The proximity to working vessels gives this place serious credibility among seafood lovers who know their stuff.
Lake perch gets fried in small batches throughout the day, ensuring every order comes out piping hot and perfectly golden.
The breading recipe includes a hint of Old Bay seasoning, adding a Mid-Atlantic twist to the classic preparation.
You’ll often see commercial fishermen grabbing lunch here between trips, which tells you everything about the quality.
The carryout window opens early, making it possible to score fresh fried fish before most breakfast spots even unlock their doors.
Prices reflect the premium quality, but nobody complains when they taste the difference.
The staff knows regulars by name and remembers favorite orders, creating a neighborhood feel despite the touristy location.
Cash and cards both work here, thankfully.
6. Monte’s Fish Fry & Seafood Market
Monte’s Fish Fry & Seafood Market operates at 2119 Whitesville Rd in Toms River, serving landlocked residents who crave authentic fried lake perch.
The building might look unassuming from the highway, but step inside and the aroma of perfectly fried seafood hits you like a warm hug.
Monte’s uses a proprietary blend of seasonings in the breading that creates an addictive savory-sweet flavor profile.
The lake perch fillets arrive thick and meaty, never thin or skimpy like some places try to get away with.
Friday nights turn into a full-blown event here, with cars lined up around the building and families placing massive orders.
The market side offers fresh fish for home cooks, but most people can’t resist letting Monte’s crew do the frying.
Homemade coleslaw and macaroni salad round out the menu, both made fresh daily in-house.
The staff handles the chaos with remarkable calm, keeping wait times reasonable even during peak hours.
7. The Chippery (Jersey City)
The Chippery brings British fish and chips tradition to 156 Broadway in Jersey City, but the lake perch option steals the show.
This spot combines Old World frying techniques with New World ingredients, creating something truly special.
The batter remains light and crispy thanks to a recipe that includes sparkling water, which creates tiny air pockets during frying.
Urban professionals line up during lunch hours, grabbing quick orders before heading back to offices nearby.
The lake perch gets served with thick-cut chips that rival anything you’d find in London, crispy outside and fluffy within.
Malt vinegar sits on the counter for those who want the full British experience, though tartar sauce remains the popular choice.
The carryout window operates with speed and precision, perfect for city dwellers who value efficiency.
Prices hit the higher end, but the quality justifies every dollar spent.
Weekend crowds can get intense, so weekday visits offer the smartest strategy.
8. The Chippery (Elizabeth)
The Elizabeth location of The Chippery sits at 929 Westfield Ave, bringing the same excellent lake perch to a different neighborhood.
This outpost maintains identical quality standards while serving a more diverse customer base that includes families and blue-collar workers.
The frying oil gets changed religiously, ensuring no burnt or stale flavors ever compromise the delicate perch.
My cousin swears this location somehow makes the fish even crispier than the other spots, though the recipes are supposedly identical.
The portions lean toward generous, with most orders providing enough fish to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
Parking proves easier here than at the Jersey City location, with a small lot adjacent to the building.
The staff takes pride in presentation, wrapping everything neatly so nothing gets soggy during transport.
Regular customers often call ahead to avoid wait times, especially during the Friday dinner rush.
The menu expands beyond fish to include other fried favorites, but perch remains the star.
9. The Chippery (Union – Route 22)
The third Chippery location operates at 2698 Route 22 East in Union, catching highway travelers and locals alike with irresistible lake perch.
This spot benefits from high visibility and easy access, making it a popular stop for commuters heading home from work.
The lake perch preparation remains consistent across all three locations, with that signature light batter that never overwhelms the fish.
Drive-through convenience would be nice, but the quick carryout service makes up for the lack of automotive ordering.
The Route 22 location tends to be less crowded than the urban spots, offering shorter wait times without sacrificing quality.
Families often grab dinner here on the way back from shopping trips or sporting events.
The fish stays hot during longer car rides thanks to smart packaging that allows steam to escape without creating sogginess.
Side portions match the generous fish servings, ensuring nobody leaves hungry.
The location stays open slightly later than some competitors, perfect for those running errands after work.
10. Pete’s Fish Market
Pete’s Fish Market has been frying lake perch at 205 E 2nd St in Plainfield since before most competitors even existed.
The decades of experience show in every perfectly cooked fillet that emerges from the kitchen.
Pete himself still works the counter most days, greeting regulars and newcomers with equal warmth and enthusiasm.
The breading here leans toward the thicker side, creating substantial crunch that satisfies texture lovers.
Prices remain remarkably affordable despite inflation hitting seafood markets hard in recent years.
The neighborhood vibe makes this place feel like a community hub rather than just another carryout window.
Local churches often place massive orders for Friday fish fries, trusting Pete’s to feed entire congregations.
The lake perch quality never wavers, whether you’re ordering two pieces or twenty pounds.
Simple sides like french fries and hush puppies complement the fish without trying to steal the spotlight.
Cash payments get a small discount, encouraging old-school transactions.
11. Peter’s Fish Market
Peter’s Fish Market operates at 190 Godwin Ave in Midland Park, confusing some people who mix it up with Pete’s in Plainfield.
This Peter’s has carved out its own reputation for exceptional lake perch that rivals any spot in the state.
The frying technique here emphasizes high heat and quick cooking, sealing in juices while creating maximum crispiness.
Suburban families make this a Friday night ritual, with some ordering the same thing week after week without deviation.
The market side offers impressive variety, but the carryout window dominates the business during dinner hours.
Lake perch sandwiches provide a handheld option for those who want the full experience in bread form.
The tartar sauce recipe includes fresh dill and a hint of lemon, elevating it beyond standard mayonnaise mixtures.
Parking lot conversations often turn into impromptu gatherings as neighbors catch up while waiting for orders.
The staff remembers dietary restrictions and special requests, making accommodations without fuss or attitude.
12. Big Fish Lounge (Lake Hopatcong)
Big Fish Lounge sits at 24 Nolans Point Park Rd in Lake Hopatcong, offering actual lake views while serving lake perch in a delightful meta experience.
The irony of eating lake fish while looking at a lake isn’t lost on customers who appreciate the scenic setting.
The perch here gets a lighter touch than some competitors, with breading that whispers rather than shouts.
Summer brings boat traffic and beach crowds, turning the carryout window into a bustling hub of activity.
I remember stopping here after a day of swimming and thinking the fried fish tasted even better with tired muscles and sun-kissed skin.
The portions suit summer appetites, substantial enough to satisfy without leaving you uncomfortably full.
Local boaters often pull up to grab orders before heading back out on the water.
The casual atmosphere makes this spot feel more like a vacation destination than a simple carryout window.
Off-season visits offer a quieter experience while maintaining the same quality standards.
13. The Anchor Fish & Chips (South Amboy)
The Anchor Fish & Chips drops anchor at 715 Laurence Pkwy in South Amboy, serving lake perch that could convert even the pickiest eaters.
The nautical theme extends beyond the name, with maritime decorations creating a fun atmosphere around the carryout window.
Lake perch preparation here follows traditional methods while incorporating modern food safety standards that ensure consistent quality.
The breading includes a secret ingredient that adds subtle sweetness without turning the dish into dessert.
Families appreciate the kid-friendly menu options that pair well with the adult-sized perch portions.
The location near major roads makes this a convenient stop for people traveling through the area.
Friday specials often include discounted prices or bonus sides, rewarding regular customers with extra value.
The staff handles special requests with patience, whether you want extra crispy fish or light breading.
Takeout packaging keeps everything organized and prevents sauce containers from leaking all over your car.
The quality justifies repeat visits and loyal customer relationships.
14. Half Moon Point
Half Moon Point rounds out the list at 2154 Bridge Ave in Point Pleasant, bringing lake perch excellence to yet another shore location.
The waterfront setting adds ambiance that elevates the entire carryout experience beyond simple food pickup.
Lake perch here arrives with a golden-brown exterior that photographs beautifully, making it social media gold for food enthusiasts.
The crunch factor rates among the highest in the state, with breading that maintains integrity even after sitting for a while.
Outdoor seating options let you enjoy your meal with water views, though most people grab and go.
The menu keeps things focused, with lake perch taking center stage alongside a few other seafood classics.
Portion sizes reflect fair pricing, giving customers solid value without breaking the bank.
Local knowledge suggests visiting during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds that flock here during prime dinner time.
The staff maintains friendly efficiency even during the busiest rushes, never sacrificing hospitality for speed.