If one Australian state can brag about its fish and chips, it’s Queensland. Miles of coastline filled to the brim with some of the finest seafood the world knows, and plenty of hidden coastal gems just waiting to be discovered, the Sunshine State has plenty to offer. These are the top picks for fish and chips in Queensland, as crowned in the delicious. 100.
“Market” may be a bit of a stretch, but this petite fishmonger does receive deliveries from fishermen six days a week and all catch is filleted on-site. They’ve amassed a loyal following, so be prepared for a wait at peak times. Fish choices include gold band snapper, cod, whiting and barramundi. Salads are made inhouse, as are sauces. They also use a dedicated gluten-free fryer. 5/823 Sandgate Rd, Clayfield; clayfieldseafood.com.au.
The largest supplier of fresh seafood on the Gold Coast, and one of the oldest, has a head start when it comes to quality seafood, buying straight from the trawlers. It’s unfancy and old school – put in your order for battered, crumbed or grilled and add a few extras, like battered mussels or a housemade fish cake, then nab a table under the Norfolk pines overlooking the Broadwater. 371 Marine Pde, Labrador; facebook.com/charisseafood.
This seafood-forward restaurant neighbours the docks where the local fishing fleet tie up. While the menu features seafood in multiple forms, including grilled fish of the day, the locally fished pearl perch, beer-battered or crumbed and served in a paper “newsprint” cone with chips, a side salad and homemade tartare sauce will impress the staunchest traditionalist. 25 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba; fishonparkyn.com.au.
The owners of this Townsville favourite are over-qualified, being both fisheries social scientists and commercial fishers. They fillet the fish, from top selling spanish mackerel, to wild-caught barra, themselves, thicker than the norm to ensure the fish stays moist and holds together while being cooked. Their “secret” batter is popular and regulars know to add handcut potato scallops to the order. 2/1 Rose St, North Ward; tobinfishtales.com.
Costa’s changed ownership 18 months ago and the continued patronage of loyal regulars signals the high standards of this award-winner remain. The house fish is snapper, but you can choose other freshly filleted options. All the side salads and sauces are made in-house and there are pleasingly retro addons like potato scallops and the divisive pineapple rings. 1B/108 Old Cleveland Rd, Capalaba; 1B/108 Old Cleveland Rd, Capalaba; costasseafood.com.au.
