The Absolute Best Fried Fish in Baltimore [Updated 2025]

As I dove into the vibrant world of Baltimore's fried fish, I found myself on a delicious quest, sampling the crispy, golden treasures from twelve top spots across the city. Each tasting was a delightful adventure, revealing unique flavors and techniques that make our local cuisine so special.

With years of feasting and exploring under my belt, I’ve become a bit of a fried fish aficionado—trust me, I know what makes the perfect bite! Whether you’re a lifelong Baltimorean or just passing through, I’m here to share the hidden gems and well-loved classics that will have you craving more. Let’s get ready to discover your next favorite dish!

Sal & Son's Seafood Inc

Highlights
Fresh and made to order
Excellent traditional preparation
Great walk-up format
Delicious and affordable meals
Best crab cake in Baltimore

Sal & Son's Seafood Inc is a little gem that perfectly showcases Baltimore's culinary love affair with fried fish. As I stepped up to their walk-up window, the tantalizing aroma of freshly cooked seafood wafted through the air, instantly elevating my anticipation. What really sets this spot apart is their commitment to freshness—everything is made to order, ensuring you get the best flavors possible.

I opted for their fried fish sandwich, which was generously portioned and cooked to golden perfection. The batter was crisp, glistening in the sunlight, while the fish inside was tender and flaked beautifully with each bite. Pairing the fish with a side of their notorious crab cake—which is rumored to be the best in Baltimore—finished the meal on a divine note. That crab cake boasted an abundance of crabmeat and a perfectly seasoned crumb coating. Exquisite!

Not to mention, the prices are refreshingly affordable. For a delightful meal that showcases both tradition and a passion for seafood, Sal & Son's Seafood Inc is a must-visit. If you're on the hunt for fried fish done right, this spot will leave you craving more!

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Mama's On the Half Shell

Highlights
Outdoor seating available
Crispy crab egg rolls
Expertly crafted cocktails
Exceptional service experience
Must-try Maryland rockfish

Mama's On the Half Shell is a delightful gem nestled in Baltimore’s bustling restaurant scene. As I walked in, the vibrant atmosphere enveloped me, enhanced by the charming outdoor seating that beckons on warmer days. This place has more than just the famous Maryland rockfish; I couldn't resist trying the crispy crab egg rolls, a playful fusion that made my taste buds dance!

But let’s talk about the star of the show: the rockfish. Cooked to golden perfection, each bite was a crispy delight, bursting with the ocean's essence that embodies the spirit of Baltimore. Pairing this with one of their expertly crafted cocktails elevated the experience. The refreshing sips complemented the savory flavors beautifully.

What truly stood out was the exceptional service I received. The staff was knowledgeable and attentive, making me feel right at home. It’s clear that Mama's isn’t just about serving food; they're about crafting memorable dining moments.

Overall, Mama’s On the Half Shell earned its spot on my list of best fried fish in Baltimore. If you're in the area, do yourself a favor and savor the rockfish—it’s a delightful exploration of flavor you won’t soon forget!

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Thames Street Oyster House

Highlights
Fresh and Plump Oysters
Generous Crab Cake Portions
Friendly and Attentive Service
Delicious Bouillabaisse Special
Inviting Atmosphere in Fells Point

Thames Street Oyster House has made quite the splash on my culinary adventures through Baltimore. Nestled in the charming Fells Point area, the atmosphere is as inviting as a warm hug after a brisk walk by the harbor. As I settled in, I was immediately greeted by the friendly and attentive service that set a wonderful tone for my meal.

Of course, I didn’t come here just for the friendly faces—I was on a mission for the best fried fish! While the menu is seafood heaven, I couldn’t resist trying their generous crab cake portions. Each bite was a decadent delight, brimming with actual lumps of crab, and made me wonder if I’d found a contender for the best in town.

The fresh and plump oysters were another treat that pranced on my palate, showcasing the chef's commitment to quality. I also savored the bouillabaisse special, a bubbling masterpiece filled with perfectly fried morsels that danced joyfully in its robust broth. In short, Thames Street Oyster House is a gem that aptly blends flavor and fun, anchoring it firmly on my list of places for divine seafood!✨

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Happy Times Seafood

Stepping into Happy Times Seafood feels like entering a cozy gem where the aroma of fried fish dances through the air. I opted for the whiting, golden and crispy, with a satisfying crunch that led to tender, flaky goodness within. The secret seems to be their blend of spices, perfectly elevating this classic dish. Paired with a side of crispy fries, each bite was an explosion of flavor, making it clear why locals rave about it. If you’re seeking a cheerful vibe and outstanding fried fare, Happy Times truly lives up to its name—making every moment spent there a delighted one!

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Crazy Down Home Chicken and Seafood

At Crazy Down Home Chicken and Seafood, my taste buds were instantly captivated by their crispy fried fish. The batter was a delightful blend of spices, offering a perfect crunch while the fish inside remained incredibly moist and flaky. The secret seasoning truly elevates the flavor, making each bite an experience to savor. Paired with their homemade tartar sauce, it was a match made in fried fish heaven. The atmosphere exuded a cozy, welcoming vibe, perfect for enjoying delicious comfort food. If you're on a quest for top-notch fried fish in Baltimore, this gem should be at the top of your list!

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Angie's Seafood

Stepping into Angie's Seafood felt like reeling in a big catch. Their fried fish is a crispy revelation, with a golden-brown crust that crackles delightfully with every bite. The cod was impeccably flaky, maintaining a perfect balance of flavor and moisture. Each piece was generously sized, and I couldn't resist pairing it with their tangy tartar sauce. The casual, friendly atmosphere made the experience even more enjoyable. If you're on the hunt for outstanding fry, Angie's is a must-visit—where every bite feels like a little bite of seafood heaven. Don't miss it!

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Seafood Day to Day

During my visit to Seafood Day to Day, I was greeted by the delightful aroma of fresh seafood that instantly made my mouth water. The fried fish here is a true standout—lightly battered and perfectly crispy, with a tender, flaky interior that makes each bite a joy. The seasoning strikes a beautiful balance, complementing rather than overwhelming the dish. I couldn't resist pairing it with their house-made tartar sauce, which added just the right zing. The friendly staff further enhanced the experience, making me feel right at home. In the quest for Baltimore's best fried fish, Seafood Day to Day is a must-visit!

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Baltimore Seafood

Baltimore Seafood is a hidden gem that deserves a place in any fried fish lover's itinerary. The moment I stepped in, the satisfying aroma of sizzling fish made my mouth water. I ordered the whiting, and it was perfectly golden, with a crispy exterior that danced alongside the tender, flaky fish. Each bite was a delightful symphony of flavors, complemented by their tangy tartar sauce. The portions are generous, ensuring you won't leave hungry. With friendly staff and a fun, casual vibe, Baltimore Seafood is definitely worth a visit for anyone seeking the best fried fish in town!

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Choi's Seafood

Choi's Seafood is a hidden gem that truly elevates the art of frying fish. The moment I walked in, the aroma of the sea greeted me like an old friend. I opted for their crispy fried catfish, and it did not disappoint! The batter was perfectly seasoned, providing a delightful crunch with every bite. Paired with a zesty tartar sauce, this dish danced on my palate. The generous portion left me both satisfied and eager for more. If you're seeking the ultimate fried fish experience in Baltimore, make sure you stop by Choi's—it’s a taste of heaven on a plate!

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Jackpot Seafood

Jackpot Seafood is a true treasure trove for fried fish lovers! From the moment I stepped inside, the tantalizing aroma of perfectly seasoned batter filled the air. I dived into their golden fried catfish, and let me tell you, it was a crispy masterpiece—flaky on the inside and satisfyingly crunchy on the outside. The house-made tartar sauce added a delightful zing, elevating the flavors to new heights. With friendly service and a cozy ambiance, Jackpot Seafood is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious fried fish that feels like a warm hug. Don’t miss this gem in Baltimore!

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Koco's Pub

At Koco's Pub, I discovered a fried fish delight that sent my taste buds dancing! The Jumbo Lump Crab Cake stole the show, but the fried fish was equally impressive—crispy on the outside and flaky perfection within. Dressed in their tangy tartar sauce, every bite was a celebration of flavor. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff made for an enjoyable experience, complementing the delicious food. If you're seeking Baltimore's best fried fish, you simply can’t miss Koco’s. It's a spot that will have you coming back for more hungry for creatively crafted seafood!

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Jimmy's Famous Seafood

From the moment I stepped into Jimmy's Famous Seafood, the aroma of frying fish was absolutely tantalizing! Their fried fish platter offers a generous portion of crispy, golden-fried cod that practically melts in your mouth. The batter is seasoned to perfection, giving each bite an irresistible crunch. Paired with their house-made tartar sauce, it’s a match made in seafood heaven! The vibrant atmosphere and friendly service only enhance the experience, making it a must-visit for any fried fish aficionado. If you find yourself in Baltimore, don’t miss out on this frying phenomenon!

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