Unearth The Voyage
Tennessee might be known for hot chicken and barbecue, but the Volunteer State also boasts some impressive fish and chips offerings. From authentic British pubs to Southern-inspired seafood joints, these establishments have perfected the art of crispy batter and perfectly cooked fish. Whether you’re craving traditional cod with mushy peas or a Tennessee twist on the classic dish, these 11 spots deliver flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
Fleet Street Pub — Nashville’s British Treasure
Hidden in Nashville’s historic Printer’s Alley, Fleet Street Pub brings authentic British pub culture to Tennessee soil. Their Atlantic cod, hand-battered and fried to golden perfection, has locals and tourists alike making special trips just for a taste.
The generous portions arrive with hand-cut chips, traditional mushy peas, and house-made tartar sauce that elevates the entire experience. The rustic brick walls and warm wooden furnishings transport diners straight to London.
Fun fact: The pub is named after London’s famous Fleet Street, once the heart of British journalism. For the full experience, pair your fish with one of their imported British ales or stouts for a meal that would make any Londoner proud.
Dock Local — Downtown Nashville’s Seafood Star
Sailors would approve of Dock Local’s commitment to fresh-caught flavor in the heart of downtown Nashville. The moment their fish and chips arrive at your table, the aroma of perfectly fried batter announces something special is about to happen.
What sets Dock Local apart is their dedication to balance – crisp, light batter encasing flaky white fish that remains moist and tender. Golden fries with just the right amount of salt complete this maritime masterpiece. The portions satisfy even the heartiest appetites without overwhelming the plate.
The coastal-inspired decor featuring weathered wood, rope accents, and nautical blues creates an atmosphere that feels miles away from landlocked Tennessee, making your seafood adventure all the more authentic.
McNamara’s Irish Pub & Restaurant — Nashville’s Celtic Comfort
Step through McNamara’s doors and you’re transported to the Emerald Isle, complete with the aromas of properly prepared fish and chips wafting through the air. Live Irish music often accompanies your meal, creating an atmosphere that’s as authentic as the food.
Their cod fillets wear a Guinness-infused batter like a golden cloak, crispy outside while maintaining that crucial moisture within. The chips – thick-cut and perfectly fried – provide the ideal companion to dip into their house-made tartar sauce with just a hint of dill.
The family-run establishment takes pride in every plate that leaves the kitchen. Owner Sean McNamara, a Dublin native, ensures each dish honors Irish culinary traditions while satisfying Tennessee appetites.
The Lost Paddy Irish Pub & Restaurant — A Nashville Gem
Nashville’s The Lost Paddy might be the city’s best-kept secret for fish and chips aficionados. The moment your plate arrives, you’ll understand why locals describe their version as “amazing” – substantial pieces of cod encased in a whisper-light batter that shatters delightfully with each bite.
The pub’s cozy interior, with its dark wood paneling and emerald accents, provides the perfect backdrop for savoring their Irish-inspired cuisine. Their hand-cut potato wedges offer a heartier alternative to traditional chips, perfect for soaking up the malt vinegar.
Owner Patrick O’Malley brought his grandmother’s recipes from County Cork when he opened the pub in 2012. The authenticity shines through in every aspect, from the Gaelic phrases on the menu to the perfectly poured Guinness that pairs beautifully with your meal.
Boston Commons — Nashville’s New England Corner
Boston Commons brings a taste of Massachusetts to Music City with not just one but three different fish and chips variations. Choose from cod, haddock, or pollock – each sporting a distinct flavor profile and texture that seafood enthusiasts appreciate.
The restaurant’s bright, airy space features nautical blues and whites, creating a coastal vibe that feels transported from Cape Cod. Their signature beer batter incorporates Sam Adams for an authentic New England touch that creates an exceptionally crispy exterior.
What truly distinguishes Boston Commons is their commitment to sourcing sustainable seafood. The chips deserve special mention too – double-fried for that perfect combination of crispy outside and fluffy inside. Pair your meal with their housemade coleslaw for a refreshing counterpoint to the rich fish.
Fogg Street Lawn Club — Nashville’s Upscale Twist
The elegant Fogg Street Lawn Club might seem an unlikely place for outstanding fish and chips, but their refined version has developed quite a following. Icelandic cod, prized for its sweet flavor and firm texture, gets the royal treatment in a Carlsberg pilsner batter that creates an impossibly light, crisp coating.
The sophisticated setting features lush greenery and garden-inspired decor, offering a refreshing departure from traditional pub environments. Their twice-cooked chips arrive perfectly golden, served alongside house-pickled vegetables and a lemon-caper aioli that elevates the entire dish.
What began as a special menu item quickly became their signature offering due to overwhelming customer demand. The restaurant’s mixologists have even created a special gin and tonic pairing that complements the delicate fish flavors perfectly.
51 North Taproom — Nashville’s Craft Beer Companion
At 51 North Taproom, the fish and chips experience is all about perfect pairings. Their beer-battered cod harmonizes beautifully with their rotating selection of local craft brews, creating flavor combinations that keep regulars coming back.
The casual, industrial-chic space buzzes with energy as servers deliver generous portions of golden fish alongside seasoned fries. A unique touch: they offer both traditional fish and chips and a shrimp variation for those seeking something different.
The kitchen takes pride in their house-made tartar sauce, which features capers, dill, and a hint of lemon zest. Weekend visitors might catch live music while enjoying their meal – a true Nashville touch that makes dining here a multisensory experience. Their beer batter recipe remains a closely guarded secret that’s been perfected over years.
Calhoun’s — Knoxville’s Riverside Favorite
Perched alongside the Tennessee River, Calhoun’s has been Knoxville’s go-to spot for exceptional fish and chips for over three decades. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning water views that enhance the seafood dining experience.
Their beer-battered cod fillets arrive with a satisfying crunch that gives way to moist, flaky fish. The secret lies in their proprietary spice blend mixed into the batter, creating a distinctive flavor profile you won’t find elsewhere. Generous steak fries complete the plate, perfect for dipping in their signature remoulade sauce.
The restaurant’s warm wood interior and stone fireplace create a welcoming atmosphere year-round. Many regulars insist on starting with Calhoun’s famous ale-cheese soup before diving into the main course – a combination that’s become something of a local tradition.
Chesapeake’s Seafood Restaurant — Smoky Mountain Seafood Haven
Near the misty peaks of the Smoky Mountains sits Chesapeake’s, where mountain views and maritime flavors create an unexpected harmony. Their fish and chips plate stands out among a menu of seafood delights, featuring premium Atlantic cod in a light, crisp batter that shatters at first bite.
The restaurant’s elegant yet comfortable atmosphere, with its nautical touches and blue accents, provides a refreshing contrast to the rustic mountain surroundings. Their hand-cut chips receive a dusting of Old Bay seasoning, adding a distinctive East Coast touch to this British classic.
Chesapeake’s sources their seafood daily, ensuring remarkable freshness despite being landlocked. The attentive staff often suggests pairing your fish with their housemade coleslaw, which features a unique apple cider vinegar dressing that cuts through the richness perfectly.
Dan’s Café — Lexington’s Hidden Treasure
Tucked away on a quiet street in Lexington, Dan’s Café might not look impressive from the outside, but locals know it houses some of Tennessee’s most authentic fish and chips. This unassuming family-owned establishment has been serving the community for over 40 years.
The no-frills interior with its checkered tablecloths and vintage photographs sets the stage for food that speaks for itself. Their catfish version offers a Southern twist on the British classic, with cornmeal-dusted fillets providing a satisfying crunch alongside thick-cut potato wedges.
Owner Dan Williams still works in the kitchen most days, ensuring quality remains consistent. The café’s signature hushpuppies often accompany the fish – a regional touch that regulars consider essential. Cash only and worth every dollar, this place represents small-town Tennessee dining at its finest.
Big Shake’s Hot Chicken & Fish — Franklin’s Spicy Seafood Spot
Big Shake’s has built its reputation on Nashville hot chicken, but those in the know come for their equally impressive fish and chips. Located in Franklin, this lively spot infuses Southern heat into the British classic for a fusion that works surprisingly well.
The fish arrives golden and crispy, with options to add their signature spice blend at various heat levels – from mild to “Shake the Room” hot. Their crinkle-cut fries provide the perfect vehicle for sopping up their special comeback sauce, a tangy-sweet complement to the fish.
Celebrity chef Shawn Davis (“Big Shake” himself) often greets customers in the vibrant, music-filled dining room. The walls feature signed photos from famous visitors who’ve braved the heat. For the full experience, cool down with their homemade banana pudding – the perfect counterpoint to their fiery flavors.
