The Absolute Best Fish and Chips in Costa Mesa [Updated 2026]

You see, I’ve sampled the crispy, golden delights from 12 of the top spots in town, and let me tell you, my taste buds have been on quite the adventure! As someone who’s spent countless hours hunting down the perfect batter and the freshest fish, I’ve honed my palate to know what truly makes a fish and chips dish shine.

With a mix of personal favorites and hidden gems, I’m here to help you navigate Costa Mesa’s vibrant culinary landscape. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, trust me—your next favorite meal is waiting just around the corner!

Simply Fish

Highlights
Clean and welcoming atmosphere
Award-winning fish and chips
Perfectly crispy fries
Attentive and friendly service
Unique blue decor

Simply Fish in Costa Mesa has swiftly climbed to the top of my list for the best fish and chips in town, and it’s not hard to see why. The moment I stepped inside, the clean and welcoming atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm fish and chip blanket. The unique blue decor added a delightful twist that made the place feel both cozy and vibrant.

Now, let’s talk about the main attraction: the fish and chips themselves. These are award-winning, and for good reason! The fish was exquisitely golden brown, boasting that perfect crunch that every aficionado dreams of. I could hardly resist diving in, and the succulent flavor left me wanting more—it was simply delightful.

And those fries? Don’t even get me started! They were perfectly crispy, a beautiful accompaniment to the main event.

What truly set my visit apart was the attentive and friendly service. The staff made me feel right at home, always checking in but not overbearing. Overall, Simply Fish offers a delightful experience that transforms a simple meal into an unforgettable culinary journey. If you find yourself in Costa Mesa, this spot should be your next stop for fish and chips!

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Wild Goose Tavern

Highlights
Lively and welcoming vibe
High-quality ingredients
Excellent service
Great drink selection
Cozy rustic atmosphere

Review of Wild Goose Tavern - The Fish and Chips Haven in Costa Mesa

Recently, I had the pleasure of indulging in the beloved fish and chips at Wild Goose Tavern in Costa Mesa, and let me tell you, it was a delightful journey for my taste buds! As soon as I walked in, the lively and welcoming vibe enveloped me, instantly making me feel at home. The cozy rustic atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for a hearty meal.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the fish and chips. You'll find succulent pieces of fish that are fried to golden perfection. The batter is light yet crispy, allowing the high-quality ingredients to shine through. Each bite bursts with flavor. Pair it with their homemade tartar sauce, and you're in for a treat!

What truly stood out, besides the food, was the excellent service provided by the staff, who were friendly and attentive. The great drink selection complemented my meal perfectly, making this experience even more enjoyable. If you're hunting for the best fish and chips in Costa Mesa, I wholeheartedly recommend Wild Goose Tavern. It's not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience!

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Baja Fish Tacos

Highlights
Best Ensenada-style tacos
Impressive food quality
Clean and tidy establishment
Friendly and hardworking staff
Must-visit in Costa Mesa

Baja Fish Tacos is a delightful gem, well-known for its Ensenada-style tacos that capture the essence of coastal flavors right here in Costa Mesa. Stepping inside, I immediately noticed the place was exceptionally clean and tidy, giving a welcoming atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The friendly and hardworking staff truly enhanced my experience, making me feel like a valued guest rather than just another customer.

Now, let's talk about the stars of the show: the fish and chips. Their battered fish was perfectly crispy without feeling greasy, a true testament to their impressive food quality. While often overshadowed by their tacos, the fish and chips here should not be underestimated. The flaky fish, paired with a side of golden fries, was nothing short of delightful.

Overall, Baja Fish Tacos may be renowned for their tacos, but their fish and chips deserve a spotlight of their own. This bustling spot is a must-visit for anyone craving a tasty coastal meal in Costa Mesa. So, if you're on the hunt for delicious fish and chips, make sure Baja Fish Tacos is on your list—you won't be disappointed!

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Lobster Grill

Highlights
Helpful service and staff
Good lobster to mac ratio
Only takeout and delivery
Fries received positive note

Lobster Grill Review

When you step into Lobster Grill, you're greeted not just with the tantalizing aroma of fried seafood but also with exceptional service from a friendly staff, who genuinely seem to be delighted to take your order. My enthusiasm peaked as I anticipated their signature fish and chips, eager to explore their unique twist on this classic dish.

The star of the show was undoubtedly the lobster. Perfectly cooked, it melded beautifully into the sizable portion of golden, crispy fish, making my taste buds dance with joy. With just the right lobster to mac ratio, each bite was a delightful surprise. Amidst the seafood symphony, the fries stole a few moments of my affection—crunchy on the outside and fluffy within, they complemented the meal perfectly.

While the restaurant primarily offers takeout and delivery, this did not take away from the experience; rather, it felt like a culinary treasure to enjoy in the comfort of my own home. If you’re in search of a top-notch fish and chips in Costa Mesa, Lobster Grill is a must-try destination that beautifully marries flavor and quality in every bite!

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Durty Nelly's

Highlights
Attentive and kind staff
Engaging atmosphere
Amazing beer selection
Friendly service
Good-sized menu

Durty Nelly's quickly captured my heart with its engaging atmosphere and inviting charm. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by attentive and kind staff who made sure I felt right at home. The buzz of laughter and clinking glasses complemented the delightful aroma wafting from the kitchen, setting the perfect stage for a memorable meal.

Now, let's talk about the fish and chips! The battered fish was wonderfully crispy, boasting a golden hue that made it hard to resist. Each bite revealed a juicy and flaky interior that left me savoring every morsel. Paired with a generous portion of perfectly fried chips, this dish encapsulated the essence of comfort food.

And if you're a beer enthusiast, you won’t want to miss their amazing beer selection—it pairs seamlessly with the savory goodness of the fish and chips. What truly stood out during my visit was the friendly service, which added an extra sprinkle of joy to my dining experience. If you find yourself yearning for a hearty plate of fish and chips in Costa Mesa, Durty Nelly's is a haven that won't disappoint!

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OCC Captain's Table Restaurant

Highlights
Inconsistent dining experiences
Difficult reservation process
High prices for disappointing meals
Learning experience for staff
Longtime patron disappointments

OCC Captain's Table Restaurant promised a delightful evening of fish and chips, but alas, it turned into a culinary rollercoaster. Upon entering, I was greeted by a quaint nautical theme that suggested a charming meal was on the horizon. However, from the start, I sensed an air of chaos—the reservation process was more complicated than solving a Rubik's Cube!

Once seated, anticipation built for the main attraction: the fish and chips. Unfortunately, the fish arrived a bit limp, lacking that golden crunch that’s essential for this classic dish. The batter, while flavorful, fell short in texture, revealing a disheartening inconsistency that seemed to plague much of the dining experience.

Despite the drawbacks, I could see that the staff were navigating their own learning curves. There's potential here, but it seems there’s still a ways to go before this restaurant can consistently deliver a meal worthy of its coastal charm. Prices ran high, especially for the disappointment served on my plate. Though I’ve been a longtime patron, this visit was a teaching moment. Overall, OCC Captain's Table has some work to do before they can earn a spot at the top of my Costa Mesa fish and chips ranking!

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Costa Contemporary Kitchen

Highlights
High Quality Food
Authentic Peruvian Cuisine
Polite and Attentive Service
Perfectly Cooked Meat
Delicious Accompanying Sauces

Costa Contemporary Kitchen dazzled me with its unique take on the classic fish and chips. Upon entering, I was immediately charmed by the friendly and attentive staff, who made me feel right at home. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for indulging in a good meal.

When my order arrived, I was thrilled to see the perfectly golden fish nestled beside a generous serving of crispy fries. The filet was cooked to perfection, flaunting a light, airy batter that crunched deliciously with each bite. It’s clear that the kitchen prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, which greatly enhances the overall flavor.

But what truly elevated the experience were the accompanying sauces—each was a delightful surprise that complemented the crispy cod beautifully. My favorite was a tangy tartar that had a hint of lemon, adding a delightful zing.

Overall, Costa Contemporary Kitchen captures the essence of fish and chips while weaving in a touch of creativity. If you’re in Costa Mesa and craving this beloved dish, I highly recommend treating yourself to this culinary gem. It’s a delightful indulgence that I can't wait to revisit!

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Populaire Modern Bistro

Highlights
Authentically French Modern Menu
Prompt and Attentive Service
Lively Atmosphere
Delicious Signature Salads
Unique Flavor Combinations

Review of Populaire Modern Bistro's Fish and Chips

As an aficionado of fish and chips, stepping into Populaire Modern Bistro was like entering a delightful culinary playground. Their approach to this classic dish is anything but typical, as they fuse modern French flair with traditional British charm. The fish, lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, was incredibly tender and flaky, leaving my taste buds dancing with delight.

What truly set this dish apart was the unique flavor combinations they incorporated. It was not just about the fish; the accompanying chips offered a delightful crunch, seasoned to perfection, enhancing every bite. Oh, and let’s not forget the impeccable service! The staff was prompt and attentive, making sure I was well pampered throughout my visit, which added to the overall lively atmosphere of the bistro.

As I savored my meal, I couldn't help but appreciate how Populaire balances authentic French modern cuisine with the essence of a beloved classic. If you're on the hunt for the best fish and chips in Costa Mesa, this spot is a must-visit. Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to indulge in their delightful creation—you won’t regret it!

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OC Fish Grill

Highlights
Tasty salmon plate
Unbelievable portion sizes
Variety beyond just fish
Nice ambiance
JAZZ night on Fridays

OC Fish Grill has certainly made a splash in the Costa Mesa culinary scene, and I couldn't wait to dive into their offerings. Upon stepping inside, I was welcomed by a relaxed ambiance that made me feel right at home, perfect for a casual meal.

As I flipped through the menu, I was taken aback by the unbelievable portion sizes—talk about value for your money! I opted for their fish and chips, intrigued by the crispy, golden batter that enveloped the fresh catch. Each bite was a joyous crunch, perfectly paired with their homemade tartar sauce that had a delightful kick.

But don't overlook their tasty salmon plate, either! If you're feeling adventurous, OS Fish Grill offers a range of seafood beyond just fish, which makes it an excellent choice for non-traditional seafood lovers like myself.

And if you're looking for a fun night out, you might want to check out their Jazz night on Fridays—a perfect blend of good food and smooth tunes! Overall, OC Fish Grill ticks all the boxes for a fantastic fish & chips experience. Go ahead, make a trip; your taste buds will thank you!

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The Butchery Quality Meats

Highlights
Fresh Cuts of Meat
Unique Spices
Top Quality Steaks
Complimentary Sausages
Great Sandwiches Available

At The Butchery Quality Meats, I stumbled upon a delightful surprise in the heart of Costa Mesa's vibrant culinary scene. While this meat haven is primarily known for its superb selection of steaks and fresh cuts, it also offers an unexpected twist on the classic fish and chips. Picture this: expertly fried fish, golden and crisp, paired with their house-made tartar sauce, which is infused with a unique blend of spices that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

The ambiance is warm and inviting, a perfect setting to enjoy their flavors. I was thrilled to discover that while I came for the fish and chips, I couldn’t resist sampling their top-quality steaks and delicious sandwiches. Each bite reaffirmed the commitment to quality that The Butchery stands for. The complimentary sausages they offered were an added bonus, showcasing their superb meat craftsmanship.

In a city filled with fish and chips options, this spot is an unexpected gem. If you find yourself in Costa Mesa, do yourself a favor and step into The Butchery — you might just find the best fish and chips you never knew you were craving. Deliciousness awaits!

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Quattro Caffé

Highlights
Authentic Italian Dining
Cozy and Elegant Atmosphere
Generous Portions for Sharing
Quick and Friendly Service
Great for Family Gatherings

Quattro Caffé is a delightful surprise nestled in Costa Mesa, and during my latest culinary adventure, I had the pleasure of sampling their fish and chips—a dish that has me raving! Upon entering, I was greeted by a cozy and elegant atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both casual dining and family gatherings.

As I settled in, the quick and friendly service made me feel right at home, a comforting touch that can elevate any dining experience. When the generous portions of fish and chips arrived, I was instantly captivated. The batter was light and crispy, encasing flaky, tender fish that practically melted in my mouth. It was a harmonious blend of flavors that would make anyone swoon!

Quattro Caffé’s rendition of this classic dish is a testament to their commitment to quality and authenticity—even an Italian café can showcase the best of British cuisine! Whether sharing a platter with friends or indulging solo, I found myself enchanted by each bite. If you’re in Costa Mesa and craving fish and chips, Quattro Caffé is undoubtedly a destination worth visiting!

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Terrace by Mix Mix

Highlights
Exceptional flavors
Impeccable presentations
Welcoming atmosphere
Quick and reliable service
Elegant terrace seating

From the moment I stepped into Terrace by Mix Mix, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly put me at ease. The elegant terrace seating is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while soaking in the vibrant surroundings of Costa Mesa. Now, let's get to the star of the show: the fish and chips.

The dish presented itself with a visually stunning flair, a testament to the kitchen's attention to detail. The batter was light and crispy, encasing fresh fish that flaked beautifully with each bite. The balance of flavors was exceptional, showcasing a masterful blend of seasoning that elevated the classic dish to new heights. Don’t forget about the sides — the perfectly prepared chips complemented the fish wonderfully, adding that essential crunch with each mouthful.

What truly impressed me was the impeccable service. The staff was attentive and quick, making my visit feel seamless and enjoyable. If you’re on the hunt for fish and chips that are both playful and elegant, I highly recommend making your way to Terrace by Mix Mix for an unforgettable dining experience. It's a delightful twist on a beloved classic!

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