Seattle’s Best Fish and Chips: A Deep Dive
Seattle, a city known for its fresh seafood, offers some truly exceptional fish and chips. From classic renditions to innovative takes on the British staple, the Emerald City boasts a variety of options to satisfy any craving. This article explores some of the best places to find delectable fish and chips in Seattle, ensuring you have a guide to finding the perfect crispy, flaky, and utterly satisfying meal.
What Makes Great Fish and Chips?
Before diving into specific restaurants, it’s important to understand the qualities that define excellent fish and chips. The fish should be fresh, ideally cod or halibut, with a flaky texture that melts in your mouth. The batter should be light, crispy, and not overly greasy. The chips (fries) need to be perfectly cooked – fluffy on the inside and golden brown on the outside. Tartar sauce and malt vinegar are essential accompaniments, complementing the richness of the fish and chips.
Top Spots for Fish and Chips in Seattle
Seattle has a wide array of establishment offering amazing fish and chips from casual to fancy dining spots.
Ivar’s Acres of Clams (Pier 54)
A Seattle institution, Ivar’s is renowned for its consistent quality and stunning waterfront views. While famous for its clam chowder, Ivar’s also serves up classic fish and chips using sustainably sourced cod. The batter is light and crispy, and the chips are thick-cut and perfectly seasoned.
Spud Fish & Chips
With multiple locations throughout the Seattle area, Spud Fish & Chips has been a local favorite since 1935. They are known for their simple, no-frills approach, focusing on fresh ingredients and perfectly executed cooking techniques. Spud serves various types of fish from Cod to Salmon.
The Salmon Bay Fish & Chip Company
Located in Ballard, this spot offers a more refined take on fish and chips. They use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and offer a variety of fish options, including salmon and halibut. Their chips are hand-cut and twice-fried for extra crispness. They offer gluten free options as well.
Rain City Burgers
Beyond their namesake burgers, Rain City Burgers also serves up surprisingly good fish and chips. Using fresh Alaskan cod, they create a satisfying and flavorful dish that rivals many dedicated fish and chips shops.
A Brief History of Fish and Chips
The origins of fish and chips can be traced back to England in the 19th century. According to Wikipedia, fried fish was introduced to England by Jewish immigrants, while chips (fried potatoes) were already a popular street food. The combination of the two quickly became a working-class staple.
FAQs
What kind of fish is typically used for fish and chips in Seattle?
Cod and halibut are the most common choices, although some restaurants also offer salmon, rockfish, and other types of seafood.
What is the best way to eat fish and chips?
Traditionally, fish and chips are enjoyed with malt vinegar and tartar sauce. Some people also add ketchup or lemon juice.
Are there any gluten-free fish and chips options in Seattle?
Yes, several restaurants, including The Salmon Bay Fish & Chip Company, offer gluten-free batter and preparation methods.
Where can I find the most authentic British-style fish and chips in Seattle?
While Seattle fish and chips is influenced by British tradition. Authentic British fish and chips are difficult to come by. Search using “British style fish and chips” as a search term to potentially find those restaurant.
What are the average prices for fish and chips in Seattle?
Prices vary depending on the restaurant and the type of fish used, but expect to pay between $15 and $25 for a standard order.
Summary
Seattle’s diverse culinary landscape offers a plethora of options for fish and chips enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a classic, no-frills experience or a more gourmet take on the dish, the city has something to satisfy every palate. From the waterfront views at Ivar’s to the locally sourced ingredients at The Salmon Bay Fish & Chip Company, exploring the best fish and chips spots in Seattle is a delicious journey worth embarking on.
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