The Quest for the Best Fast Food Fish Sandwiches: A Taste-Tested Adventure
When it comes to fast food, we often think of burgers, fries, and chicken nuggets. But in the aquatic realm of quick bites, the unsung hero is the fish sandwich. Not all fish sandwiches are created equal, and with the Lenten season frequently spotlighting seafood options, it’s time to dive in and explore the best options available. Join me as we plunge into a taste test of some top contenders for the best fast food fish sandwich!
Long John Silver's: A Classic Choice
What’s On It?
Alaskan pollock
Pickles
Tartar sauce
Price:
$5
When I embarked on this journey to find the crème de la crème of fast food fish sandwiches, Long John Silver's (LJS) immediately came to mind. As the only fast-food chain that exclusively focuses on seafood, it felt essential to include. Although I didn’t have a location nearby, Gallery Media Group’s ad operations associate, Vince Gervasi, stepped in to share his tasting experience.
Vince reported that “the texture of the fish itself wasn’t bad,” which is encouraging. However, the overwhelming breading was a recurring theme in his assessment: “A few of my bites were nothing but hollow, fried breading with no fish.” Sounds like a seafood sandwich could use a little more fish power!
Moreover, he noted that “the mayo paired well and enhanced the fish flavor,” indicating LJS does deliver in some areas. Yet, he felt that a little more emphasis on the fish itself, combined with a crispier, toasted bun, could significantly uplift the whole experience.
McDonald's: The Iconic Filet-O-Fish
What’s On It?
Alaskan pollock
Processed cheese
Tartar sauce
Steamed bun
Price:
$4.39
Ah, the ever-so-familiar Filet-O-Fish from McDonald's—a staple for fast food enthusiasts and a classic pick during Lent. The sandwich combines a crispy piece of Alaskan pollock with a slice of melted cheese, creamy tartar sauce, and a steamed bun.
But nostalgia aside, how does it hold up in our taste test? The fish is usually flaky and tender, providing a satisfying bite that pairs beautifully with the sauce. However, some may argue that its texture is more mushy than crispy—leaving us yearning for that perfect crunch.
Wendy's: The North Pacific Cod Sandwich
What’s On It?
North Pacific cod
Lettuce
Crispy Dill pickle
Tartar sauce
Premium bun
Price:
$5.99
Wendy's makes waves with its recently introduced North Pacific Cod Sandwich. This newcomer shines with a beautiful, golden-brown panko breading that promises a satisfying crunch with every bite.
The fish is thick and juicy, evoking a delicious oceanic freshness, while the dill pickles lend a nice contrast to the overall flavor profile. Taste testers appreciated the premium bun—soft yet sturdy—complementing the sandwich without overpowering it. If you're looking for a well-rounded fish sandwich that delivers on both taste and texture, Wendy's feels like a strong contender.
Burger King: The Big Fish
What’s On It?
Breaded fish fillet
Lettuce
Tartar sauce
Sesame seed bun
Price:
$4.49
Burger King gets in on the action with its Big Fish sandwich. Unlike its rivals, BK's offering may not be as acclaimed, but it has its fans. The fish fillet is covered in a hearty breading that gives it a bold outer layer, and while the taste is relatively standard, it fares well when topped with fresh lettuce and ample tartar sauce.
However, if you’re temperamental about the freshness of your seafood, this sandwich may leave you feeling just lukewarm. The flavor’s familiarity can both comfort and disappoint, depending on your expectations.
Conclusion: A Fishy Conclusion
In the world of fast food fish sandwiches, Long John Silver's somewhat faltered under excessive breading, while McDonald's Filet-O-Fish reminded us of nostalgia—though it lacked a satisfying crunch. Wendy's North Pacific Cod Sandwich emerged as a strong contender, balancing flavor and texture, while Burger King's Big Fish received mixed reviews.
Ultimately, each positive and negative review adds to the collective soundtrack of our taste testing journey. So, which fast food fish sandwich reigns supreme? Only one way to find out—get out there and taste-test for yourself. Dive deep into these options, and may the yummiest fish sandwich win!
