Best Fish and Chips in Dublin

Crispy, golden, and wrapped in tradition, fish and chips have long held a beloved place in the culinary heart of Dublin. Whether enjoyed as a seaside snack or cozy takeaway on a rainy day, no Dublin food tour would be complete without sampling fish and chips.

Fish and chips was introduced to Ireland by the British in the late 19th century. It was quickly embraced by Irish communities. Especially working-class families who appreciated an affordable, satisfying meal made fresh from the waters that surround the island. Over time, it’s become an Irish institution, and a celebrated street food in Dublin.

What Makes Great Fish and Chips?

To understand what makes fish and chips great, we have to closely look at each of the primary ingredients, and the condiments that complement their flavors

Irish Fish

Of course, it is the most critical ingredient and in Ireland that means traditional favorites like fresh cod, haddock, or plaice. These Irish-caught fish have a mild flavor and flaky texture. The fillets are then coated with a light, crispy batter and fried fresh to golden perfection without being soggy or greasy.

The Chips

In Dublin chips are hand-cut, thick like steak fries and then perfectly deep fried until they’re crispy on the outside with fluffy on the inside. Then typically given a sprinkle of salt or a drizzle of malt vinegar. This brings out the flavor of the Irish-grown potatoes, while also helping to cut the richness of the deep fried chips.

The Sides & Condiments

Mushy peas are a very common side dish for Irish fish and chips. They’re most common at sit down chip shops and box take-away restaurants.

Along with malt vinegar, many Irish chip shops also offer tangy tartar sauce, as a condiment for the fish. Some also offer an in-house curry sauce or garlic-mayo sauce for those who like a bold kick.

Best Fish and Chip Shops in Dublin

From humble seaside chip shops to takeaway spots and sit down restaurants, the following are some of the best places to enjoy fish and chips in Dublin.

Leo Burdock

Photo credit: Leo Burdock

Established in 1913, Leo Burdock is Dublin’s oldest chipper and a beloved culinary institution. While there are several locations throughout Dublin, the chip shop near Christ Church Cathedral is the most popular.

They offer a truly traditional fish and chips experience. I appreciated the generous portions of fish coated in thick, golden batter. The fish and chips are deep-fried in lard, which I thought added to the richness of the authentic Irish flavors.

Leo Burdock (€10–20) – 2 Werburgh St, Christchurch Pl, Dublin, D08 HC82, Ireland.

The Seafood Café by Niall Sabongi

Photo credit: The Seafood Café by Niall Sabongi

Located in the heart of Dublin, The Seafood Café offers a contemporary seafood dining experience, including an elevated sit-down take on fish and chips. The dining room has a relaxed, modern ambiance that adds to the experience.

While not a traditional chipper, I appreciated that their fish and chips were made with fresh, locally sourced fish coated in a light crispy batter. The hand-cut fries were made from Irish potatoes, and their earthiness gave me a sense of the Irish terroir. The selection of creative house made sauces was also a nice touch, and I really like the aromatic lilt of the garlic mayo sauce.

The Seafood Café by Niall Sabongi (€15–30) – Unit 11 Fownes St Upper, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 EC60, Ireland.

Romayo’s

Photo credit: Romayo’s

Romayo’s has several locations in Dublin, but my heart belongs to Romayo’s Santry in the north end of the city. They manage to perfectly combine Italian and Irish culinary traditions, offering a diverse menu that includes standout fish and chips.

I like that their fish is made to order, so you never get a portion that’s soggy or greasy. They also double fry their chips, which gives them an exceptionally crisp exterior and a soft fluffy interior. The selection of traditional sauces is nice, but I’m always on the lookout for some of their more creative options, like their in-house curry sauce.

Romayo’s (€15–30) – Swords Rd, Santry, Dublin, D09 A9TT, Ireland

Final Thoughts & Recommendations

Fish and chips are a beloved comfort food staple in Ireland and a quintessential experience for a Dublin food tour. Whether you grab a quick bite from a traditional chipper or sit down at a renowned seafood restaurant, each spot brings its own flavor and flair to this classic dish. For the most authentic experience, consider pairing your meal with a pint of Guinness or a glass of Irish cider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of fish is used in traditional Irish fish and chips?

Irish fish and chips typically use Atlantic cod, which has a mild flavor and flaky texture. Haddock is also popular and sometimes preferred for its slightly sweeter taste.

Do fish and chip shops in Dublin offer gluten-free options?

Yes, several fish and chip shops in Dublin like Beshoff Bros now offer gluten-free batter options and even dedicated fryers to avoid cross-contamination. It’s always best to check in advance or ask staff to ensure your dietary needs are met.

What is the difference between an Irish chipper and a seafood restaurant?

An Irish chipper is a casual takeaway spot specializing in fish and chips, with perhaps some other menu items like burgers, sausages, and other fried favorites. Whereas a seafood restaurant, on the other hand, is usually a sit-down experience with a wider, more refined menu that happens to also include an elevated take on fish and chips.

Are there late-night fish and chip shops in Dublin?

Yes! Dublin has a solid late-night chipper culture. Many chippers in areas like Temple Bar, Camden Street, and O’Connell Street stay open well past midnight. This makes them a popular stop for night owls and post-pub snacks.