Fish sandwiches at fast food spots can be really hit or miss. Some are fresh and amazing, while others might make you wish you’d picked something else from the menu. I’ve tried them all – from the classic McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish to newer options popping up at different chains. Here’s my honest take on which ones are worth your money and which ones you might want to skip, ranked from worst to absolute best.
Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s beer battered fish sandwich falls flat
Coming in at the bottom of our list is the Beer Battered Fish Sandwich from Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s. What should be a simple combination of fried fish and fixings somehow misses the mark in almost every way. The fish itself often tastes like it’s been sitting under the heat lamp for too long, resulting in a less-than-fresh experience that no amount of tartar sauce can save.
The breading, while promising to be crispy and beer-flavored, often turns out soggy and oddly salty. Many customers report that the fish tastes stale and overly salty, making it hard to finish the sandwich. The excessive salt seems to be trying to mask the lack of real fish flavor.
The bun situation doesn’t help matters either. It’s often too dry or, paradoxically, gets too soggy from the moisture of the fish and sauce. The lettuce is typically limp, and the tomato, when included, adds little more than a watery texture that further compromises the structural integrity of the already struggling sandwich.
Even the tartar sauce, which could potentially save a mediocre fish sandwich, lacks the tangy zip needed to elevate the overall taste. The ratio of sauce to fish is often uneven, leading to bites that are either too dry or swimming in sauce. At its price point, you’d be better off trying almost any other option on our list.
Sonic fish sandwich swims in mediocrity
Sonic’s fish sandwich represents a missed opportunity to stand out in the fast food fish sandwich game. The Alaskan pollock filet is breaded with panko, which sounds promising on paper, but the execution often falls short. The fish itself seems to lack any distinct flavor, making you wonder if you’re eating fish at all.
Reviews consistently mention that the sandwich lacks any real fish flavor, even with the addition of crispy panko breading. The breading itself can be inconsistent – sometimes it’s crispy as advertised, other times it’s oddly soft, suggesting quality control issues at different locations.
The toppings don’t do much to salvage the situation. While you get the standard lettuce, pickles, and tartar sauce, they seem to be going through the motions rather than working together to create a memorable sandwich. The tartar sauce particularly disappoints, lacking the punch needed to wake up the bland fish.
The bun is perhaps the most average part of an already average sandwich. It’s not bad, but it’s not good either – it’s just there, holding everything together without adding anything to the experience. When a fast food chain known for its creative drinks and sides produces such a forgettable fish sandwich, it’s hard not to feel disappointed.
White Castle fish slider needs more than size adjustment
White Castle’s attempt at a fish sandwich comes in their signature slider size, which might seem like a good idea for those wanting a smaller portion. However, the Panko Breaded Fish Slider falls into many of the same traps as its larger competitors, just in a more compact format. The small size actually works against it, as there’s less room for error in a tiny sandwich.
Critics point out that while the fish slider is budget-friendly at around $3, it’s ultimately unremarkable. The panko-breaded Alaskan pollock patty is often dry, and the addition of cheese seems more like an afterthought than a necessary component.
The slider bun, while soft and perfectly sized for the fish patty, doesn’t bring much to the table. It’s the same bun used for all their sliders, and while that consistency works for their burgers, the fish really needs something more substantial to stand up to the breading and provide a better eating experience.
One positive note is that you can add your own tartar sauce, allowing for some control over the moisture level. However, this customization option doesn’t make up for the fundamental issues with the slider. The small size means you get less fish, less breading, and ultimately less satisfaction than you might from a full-sized fish sandwich.
McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish shows its age
The McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish holds a special place in fast food history as the original fast food fish sandwich, but nostalgia can only carry it so far. While it’s a consistent option you can find at virtually any McDonald’s, the sandwich hasn’t evolved much since its introduction, and it shows in both its simple construction and basic flavor profile.
Recent reviews give it a mediocre 4 out of 10 rating, citing its bland taste and lack of crispiness as major drawbacks. The fish patty, while made from sustainably sourced Alaskan Pollock, often lacks the satisfying crunch you’d expect from a fried fish sandwich.
The half slice of American cheese remains a puzzling addition that many customers find unnecessary. The cheese often melts into a texture that doesn’t complement the fish, and its processed flavor can overpower the already mild fish taste. The steamed bun, while soft, tends to become too mushy, especially if the sandwich sits for more than a few minutes.
The tartar sauce is applied inconsistently – some sandwiches are drowning in it while others barely have a dollop. This inconsistency can make or break your experience, as the sauce is crucial for adding moisture and flavor to the otherwise plain sandwich. At its best, it’s an okay option when you’re craving fish; at its worst, it’s a reminder of how far fast food fish sandwiches have come.
Dairy Queen’s Wild Alaskan needs a flavor boost
Dairy Queen’s Wild Alaskan Fish Sandwich sits squarely in the middle of our rankings, but not for any particularly positive reasons. The sandwich suffers from a identity crisis – it’s not bad enough to be memorable for the wrong reasons, but not good enough to stand out in an increasingly competitive fast food fish sandwich market.
Testing reveals a score of just 4.5 out of 10, with excessive tartar sauce being a major complaint. The sauce distribution is often uneven, leading to some bites being overwhelmed with sauce while others remain dry. This inconsistency makes each sandwich a gamble.
The fish itself is relatively bland, despite being made with Alaskan pollock. The breading lacks the satisfying crunch that makes a good fish sandwich great, often becoming soft and unappetizing shortly after preparation. This texture issue significantly impacts the overall eating experience, making it feel more like a chore than a treat.
The standard toppings of crisp lettuce and bun are fine but unremarkable. They do their job without adding anything special to the mix. For a chain known for its desserts and creative food offerings, the fish sandwich feels like an afterthought – something added to the menu because other fast food restaurants have one, rather than because DQ had an amazing fish sandwich to share.
Arby’s King’s Hawaiian fish deluxe shows potential
Arby’s King’s Hawaiian Fish Deluxe represents an interesting twist on the standard fast food fish sandwich formula. The use of a King’s Hawaiian roll as the bun shows some creative thinking, but the execution doesn’t quite live up to the promise. The sweet bun adds a unique flavor element, but it sometimes overwhelms the mild fish taste.
Reviews indicate this sandwich scores a modest 4.5 out of 10, with the overly sweet bun being a common criticism. The fish portion itself is decent – a crispy-fried Alaskan pollock fillet that’s generally well-cooked, but it struggles to stand out against the dominant sweetness of the bun.
The toppings include fresh lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce, which are applied in reasonable proportions. The vegetables add necessary freshness and crunch, while the tartar sauce provides tanginess that helps balance the sweet bun. However, the overall combination sometimes feels like it’s trying too hard to be different rather than focusing on making a really good fish sandwich.
The sandwich’s price point puts it in line with premium fast food offerings, but the experience doesn’t quite justify the cost. While it’s not a bad sandwich by any means, it feels like a missed opportunity to create something truly special. The concept is solid, but the execution needs some fine-tuning to really make it work.
Wendy’s crispy panko fish shows promise
Wendy’s entry into the fish sandwich market brings some interesting elements to the table with their Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich. Using wild-caught Alaskan pollock and coating it in crispy panko breadcrumbs shows attention to quality ingredients. The fish portion is generous, and the breading actually manages to maintain its crunch longer than many competitors.
Recent tastings rank this sandwich highly for its perfect balance of flavors and quality ingredients. The panko breading provides a satisfying crunch that elevates the entire eating experience, while the fish itself remains flaky and moist inside its crispy coating.
The toppings are well-thought-out, with crisp lettuce, pickles, and a dill tartar sauce that adds just the right amount of tang without overwhelming the fish. The addition of American cheese might seem unnecessary to some, but it actually melts nicely and adds a creamy element that works surprisingly well with the other components.
The buttery bun deserves special mention – it’s toasted just enough to add another layer of texture while remaining soft and fresh enough to maintain its structure. The overall construction shows that Wendy’s put real thought into creating a fish sandwich that could compete with the best in the market.
Popeyes classic flounder makes waves
Popeyes brings their chicken sandwich expertise to the fish game with their Classic Flounder Fish Sandwich. Unlike many competitors who use Alaskan pollock, Popeyes opts for flounder, which brings a slightly different flavor profile to the table. The fish has a mild, sweet taste that pairs well with their signature crispy breading.
Customer feedback highlights the sandwich’s winning combination of a properly marinated flounder filet and crispy breading. The marinade helps keep the fish moist while adding subtle flavor notes that make each bite more interesting than your typical fast food fish sandwich.
The brioche bun is a step above standard fast food fare, adding a touch of buttery richness that complements the fish without overwhelming it. The classic barrel-cured pickles provide a nice acidic contrast, while the tartar sauce adds creaminess and tang in just the right proportions. Each element seems carefully chosen to work together.
While some might find the breading a bit thick compared to other options, it manages to stay crispy longer than most competitors. This crispiness, combined with the quality of the fish and toppings, makes for a sandwich that’s consistently satisfying and worth ordering again.
Burger King’s fiery big fish brings the heat
Burger King’s Fiery Big Fish takes everything good about their regular Big Fish sandwich and kicks it up a notch with some welcome heat. The spicy version manages to add just enough kick to make things interesting without overwhelming the delicate fish flavor. It’s a smart twist on the classic formula that actually improves the original.
Reviews score this sandwich an impressive 8.5 out of 10, putting it near the top of the fast food fish sandwich hierarchy. The breading stays remarkably crispy, and the spicy sauce adds an exciting dimension that sets it apart from standard tartar sauce options.
The fish portion itself is substantial and well-cooked, maintaining its moisture despite the added heat elements. The lettuce and pickles provide necessary cooling crunch, while the toasted brioche-style bun holds everything together nicely. The balance between spicy and savory makes each bite interesting without becoming overwhelming.
What really makes this sandwich stand out is how all the elements work together. The heat builds gradually, the fish stays moist, the vegetables remain crisp, and the bun manages to contain everything without falling apart. It’s a testament to good sandwich engineering that elevates it above most other fast food fish offerings.
Culver’s North Atlantic cod sets new standards
Culver’s takes fish seriously with their North Atlantic Cod Sandwich, and it shows in every aspect of its construction. Starting with hand-cut, hand-battered cod sourced from the Barents Sea, this sandwich represents what happens when quality ingredients meet careful preparation. The result is a fish sandwich that often feels more like something you’d get at a sit-down restaurant.
Reviews consistently praise the sandwich for its fresh-tasting fish and perfect cooking. The cod is flaky and moist, while the batter provides a satisfying crunch without being too heavy or greasy. Each sandwich is cooked to order, ensuring you get the freshest possible experience.
The hoagie roll sets this sandwich apart from competitors who use standard burger buns. It’s toasted and lightly buttered, providing a sturdy yet soft foundation that complements rather than competes with the fish. The addition of Wisconsin cheddar cheese might seem unusual, but the subtle sharpness actually works well with the mild cod.
The house-made tartar sauce deserves special mention – it’s tangy and fresh, with just the right balance of creaminess and zip. Combined with crisp shredded lettuce, every element works together to create a consistently excellent fish sandwich experience that keeps customers coming back.
Long John Silver’s classic fish takes the crown
It shouldn’t come as a huge surprise that a restaurant specializing in seafood makes the best fast food fish sandwich, but Long John Silver’s Classic Fish Sandwich still manages to impress. Using their signature hand-battered Alaskan pollock, they’ve created a sandwich that stands head and shoulders above the competition. The difference is apparent from the first bite.
Earning top marks with an 8.5 out of 10 rating, this sandwich nails all the essential elements. The fish is consistently fresh and flaky, with a light, crispy coating that adds texture without overwhelming the delicate fish flavor. Unlike some competitors who use pressed fish patties, you can actually see and taste the natural fish flakes here.
The simple combination of tartar sauce and pickles might seem basic, but it works perfectly. The tartar sauce is creamy with just the right amount of tang, while the pickles add a bright, acidic crunch that cuts through the richness of the fried fish. There’s no need for unnecessary additions when the basics are done this well.
The toasted roll holds everything together without drawing attention to itself, allowing the fish to remain the star of the show. Every element serves a purpose, creating a sandwich that proves sometimes the simplest approach is the best – as long as you start with quality ingredients and prepare them properly.
When it comes to fast food fish sandwiches, some definitely swim while others sink. The best ones focus on quality fish, proper cooking techniques, and simple but well-chosen toppings. While personal taste always plays a role, you really can’t go wrong with the top picks on this list. Whether you’re craving something classic or spicy, there’s a fish sandwich out there that’s worth your time and money.
