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Lent is traditionally a time of abstinence, penitence, and restriction. It’s a time to sit back and reflect on what a naughty, naughty little cretin you’ve been. But while Lent may be a time to give up your vices, it also coincides with the annual bacchanal that is Fish Sandwich Season.
Here at The Takeout, we take fast fish very seriously. We’re of the belief that not every fast food fish sandwich is worth your time. There simply aren’t enough hours in the day to waste on lackluster fish sandwiches; that’s time you could use to, ahem, pray and stuff. Fortunately, our extensive seafood research will help you separate the golden, buttery, flaky sandwiches from the lackluster fish patties. Amen to that.
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Culver’s North Atlantic Cod Sandwich
Year after year, Culver’s reigns supreme. Culver’s North Atlantic Cod sandwich took gold in our 2021 fish sandwich ranking, and we’re sticking with that assessment this year. The cod fillet is thick, measuring a whopping two inches at the fillet’s thickest point. It’s also hand-battered in “a signature recipe of herbs and spices” which can only be described as “heavenly.” Finally, the sandwich is topped with just enough tangy tartar sauce, accented with olives, capers, and sweet relish. There’s even a little Wisconsin cheddar in there as a treat.
How does Culver’s pull this off? Why is the North Atlantic Cod sandwich so far beyond the rest of the competition? It we had to guess, it has something to do with the fact that the sandwich is available year-round—unlike Culver’s seasonal Northwoods Walleye sandwich. Like the cod, the walleye is also cooked to order and sandwiched in a buttery roll, but its flavor is milder—frankly, a little more boring—than the cod sandwich. The North Atlantic Cod sticks around all year, giving the chain time to perfect the product.
Why it’s worth your time: Culver’s cranks out a fish sandwich that’s tender, flaky, and downright buttery in a way that hearkens back to the crispy batter you’d see at a bona fide fish fry. Plus, it’s available year-round. The fishy fun never has to end!
Cons: Culver’s has a limited reach. You won’t be able to find this one unless you’re in one of the chain’s service areas. (Sorry, Californians and New Yorkers.)
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Arby’s King’s Hawaiian Fish Deluxe
Arby’s King’s Hawaiian Fish Deluxe is a close second in this year’s fast fish assessment. The sandwich is served on a fluffy King’s Hawaiian bun, which pairs fabulously with the crispy Alaskan pollock. The fish patty is generously breaded and big, sticking out of the bun for several inches on each side. The only downside: the sandwich is, as you can see in the photo above, kind of sloppy. It’s packing a slice of cheese, tomato, tons of tartar sauce on both buns, and an ungodly amount of shredded lettuce. Still, the flavor is excellent.
Why it’s worth your time: All sandwiches should be served on a King’s Hawaiian bun. It’s God’s truth!
Cons: Arby’s quality tends to vary widely depending on your location.
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Arby’s Spicy Fish Sandwich
She’s not much of a looker, but Arby’s new Spicy Fish Sandwich shines if you’re looking for an extra kick with your sandwich. The sandwich features a very crispy seasoned fish fillet topped with diced fire-roasted jalapeños. The sharp, acrid spice of a jalapeño pairs great with the fish; our only complaint is the off-putting appearance of the pepper bits atop the sandwich. A jalapeño-infused tartar sauce may have been a better choice for more even spice distribution.
Why it’s worth your time: The crispy breading on the fish fillet, along with the unusual spice source, makes this one of the more creative fish sandwiches on today’s market.
Cons: The diced fire-roasted jalapeños look kind of creepy and don’t lend themselves to even spice distribution.
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Popeyes Spicy Flounder Fish Sandwich
Well done, Popeyes! The brand scrapped its Cajun Flounder Sandwich (check out our full review of that sandwich here), opting for “spicy flounder” instead. The new sandwich seems to lean into the brand’s now-iconic chicken sandwich, with the same toasted brioche bun and barrel-cured pickles that you’d find on the chicken sandwich.
The Spicy Flounder sandwich has a decently thick flounder patty, but the real star of the show is the breading, which is seasoned inside and out. The spicy sauce is also generously applied to both the top and bottom buns, making this option the hottest on today’s fast fish market. (If you can’t take the heat, you can order the non-spicy Popeyes Classic Flounder Fish Sandwich.)
Why it’s worth your time: The spice level here is higher (read: more exciting!!!) than any other fish sandwich on the market. Plus, that buttery bun is really something.
Cons: There’s not much relief here—it would be great to see some pickled onions or cooling slaw to balance the heat.
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White Castle Panko Breaded Fish Slider
White Castle’s Panko Breaded Fish Sliders are teeny little guys, served in the chain’s signature slider boxes with a slice of American cheese and crispy panko breading. This is a no-fuss sandwich, but the breading is solid, the cheese is a nice touch, and the thing’s just so dang cute.
Why it’s worth your time: The sandwich is tiny, which is great if you’d rather not commit to an immense fish fillet like those served at Arby’s or Culver’s.
Cons: Once again, the sandwich is tiny, so you’ll need to order several if you’re starving.
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McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish
What can we say about the Filet-O-Fish that hasn’t been said? It’s a classic for a reason. Is it the most exciting fish sandwich out there? No, but you know what you’re getting every single time.
Why it’s worth your time: A low price and consistent preparation make the Filet-O-Fish a failproof, no-frills option. Also, it’s a classic. You gotta try it at least once.
Cons: It’s probably not going to blow your mind flavor-wise.
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Wendy’s Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich
The Wendy’s Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich lingered near the bottom of our 2021 fish sandwich rankings, but it does have one really good thing going for it: it’s made with wild Alaskan pollock from a certified sustainable fishery. Obviously, a fast food chain isn’t going to be your first choice if you’re focused on sustainable seafood—but it’s nice to see they’re trying.
Why it’s worth your time: You can feel a little better knowing your fish comes from a certified sustainable fishery.
Cons: The texture and sauce ratio on this sandwich leave something to be desired. Plus, it’s perfectly square. (That could also be a pro, depending on your preference.)
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Captain D’s Giant Fish Sandwich
The Captain D’s Giant Fish Sandwich really is giant. It contains two hefty pieces of batter-dipped fish. These aren’t fish fillets, nor are they wimpy fish patties. No, Captain D’s said “to hell with it” and just slapped two huge pieces of fish in a toasted bun. And this fish is transcendently good. It’s generously coated in the kind of crispy batter you’ll find at Culver’s, offering bite after bite of chunky, flaky goodness.
Why it’s worth your time: The heaping portion of fish on this sandwich will keep you full for days. Plus, the batter can’t be beat.
Cons: Like Culver’s, this one may be a bit tricky to find because Captain D’s exists solely in the south and certain parts of the Midwest. Also, don’t try to eat this thing while driving. This is a two-hander.
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Long John Silver’s Wild Alaska Pollock Sandwich
This is a pickle lover’s sandwich, plain and simple. The Alaskan pollock used in the Long John Silver’s Wild Alaska Pollock Sandwich is battered similarly to the fish used in the Captain D’s sandwich; while the actual flavor of the fish doesn’t hit quite as well as Captain D’s, the pickle quantity—we counted six the last time we checked—is enough to ensure you get a pleasant crunch with every bite.
Why it’s worth your time: If you’re looking for a pickle party, this is it.
Cons: Without the pickles, this sandwich doesn’t have much to offer in the way of flavor.
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Or, make your own
If you’d rather have a DIY fish sandwich experience, we’ve got options. You can fire up your air fryer and test our recipe for Baltimore Coddies here; you can also treat yourself to some dainty shrimp toasts. Both options are easier than an old-fashioned fish fry.
Why it’s worth your time: No need to hit the drive-thru line; plus, impress your friends and enemies.
Cons: You’ll spend time cooking when you could be focusing on your Lenten penitence. Consider purchasing a very scratchy oven mitt to even things out.
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FAQs
Is Burger King fish sandwich real fish? ›
White Alaskan Pollock with crispy panko breading, sweet tartar sauce, and crunchy pickles on a toasted brioche-style bun.
Did Wendy's bringing back the fish sandwich? ›Our Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich comes around nationwide for a limited time each year. In 2023, the beloved fish sandwich will be available on Wendy's menus across the U.S. beginning Monday, February 20.
What fish is best for Lent? ›- Provençal Fish Stew. ...
- Broiled Mussels With Garlicky Herb Butter. ...
- Catalan Stew With Lobster and Clams. ...
- Salmon With Sautéed Mushrooms, Shallots and Fresh Herbs. ...
- Healthy. ...
- Fish With Shiitakes. ...
- Pan-Roasted Fish Fillets With Herb Butter. ...
- Easy. Seared Halibut With Anchovies, Capers And Garlic.
The sandwich consists of a brioche bun, deep-fried flounder filet, pickles and tartar sauce. The glossy brioche bun has a touch of sweetness and both the top and bottom are slathered with rich, tangy tartar sauce.
Is McDonald's Filet-O-Fish actually fish? ›We use wild-caught Alaska Pollock for our Filet-O-Fish® sandwich in the U.S., which is 100% sourced from sustainable fisheries. Why is sustainable fish so important to us? Because it helps protect our oceans—something that's important to you. Interested in learning more about the Filet-O-Fish®?
Who has a new fish sandwich? ›Popeyes' new fish entrée comes in regular and spicy varieties on its signature white bread bun. The only difference between the two is the sauce. The regular comes with thick cut pickles and tartar sauce just like all fish sandwiches should.
Does Arby's have a fish sandwich 2023? ›The fish sandwich consists of a crispy flaky fish fillet with shredded lettuce and delicious tartar sauce on a toasted sesame bun. You can enjoy all of this with a serving of crispy fries. The new Fish Sandwich combo will arrive at participating Arby's locations nationwide, beginning on Monday, February 20, 2023.
Did Popeyes bring back the fish sandwich? ›This year, customers will be pleased to know that Popeyes is bringing back both its fan-favorite Flounder Fish Sandwich and Shrimp Tackle Box to restaurants nationwide.
Does the Bible say fish is meat? ›Fish is Not Considered Meat
Biblically, the flesh of fish is separated from the flesh of man, beast and bird. This verse is used as the bedrock for the allowance of fish during Lent. Fish has been a staple in Christian diets for a very long time.
According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, abstinence laws say meat is considered something that comes only from animals that live on land, like chicken, cows, sheep or pigs. Fish are considered a different category of animal. Charles Reid, a professor of canon law at the University of St.
Why fish is not considered meat? ›
Basic definitions
Because fish are cold-blooded, they would not be regarded as meat under this definition. Others use the term “meat” to refer exclusively to the flesh of fur-covered mammals, which excludes animals like chicken and fish.
Corporate B.S. aside, Wendy's makes a decent fish sandwich. The panko breading provides a really nice crunch, I got crispy in each bite. The fry on the fish was solid, the square 'fillet' was moist and flaky on the inside, but it was a bit under seasoned and polluck needs help because it is a milder fish.
Is Arby's Fish Sandwich real fish? ›Their Crispy Fish Sandwich is the same as it was back in 2018 and is a classically prepared Alaskan Pollock fillet crispy-fried to a nice golden brown, topped with tartar sauce, shredded lettuce and served on a sesame seed bun.
What kind of fish does Arby's use for their fish and chips? ›The Arby's Crispy Fish Sandwich features wild-caught Alaskan Pollock, crispy-fried to golden-brown perfection with tartar sauce and iceberg lettuce, topped with a sesame seed bun.
Is Popeyes flounder sandwich real fish? ›In case you missed its initial debut, the Cajun Flounder Sandwich features a light and flaky flounder filet doused in a mild and spicy cajun seasoning and crispy southern coating. It's then topped with barrel-cured pickles and tartar sauce, and sandwiched between a buttery toasted brioche bun.
Does McDonald's make a fish sandwich? ›390 Cal.390 Cal. Dive into our wild-caught Filet-O-Fish, a classic McDonald's fish sandwich! Our fish sandwich recipe features a crispy fish filet patty on melty American cheese and is topped with creamy McDonald's tartar sauce, all served on a soft, steamed bun.
Does McDonald's fry their fish? ›While the fish composition of the sandwich has changed through the years to satisfy taste and address supply shortcomings, the framework of its ingredients have remained constant; a fried breaded fish fillet, a steamed bun, tartar sauce and pasteurized American cheese.
Are fish sandwiches healthy? ›Bottom line: Unless you're eating fish sandwiches every other day, your mercury levels are probably just fine. If you are eating fish sandwiches every other day, you've got bigger problems—like your daily calorie, fat, and sodium levels—to worry about first.
Where does McDonald's get their fish? ›Did you know that Espersen is delivering fish to the Filet-O-Fish at McDonald's? Actually, we have done so for more than 40 years. Today we deliver the fish for all McDonald's restaurants in 42 countries – mainly on the European continent.
Is Wendy's fish sandwich real fish? ›The Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich from Wendy's features a wild-caught Alaskan pollock fillet, which is fried in a crunchy panko breading and topped with a slice of cheese, creamy dill tartar sauce, lettuce, and dill pickles.
Who has the new flounder sandwich? ›
Popeyes is bringing back two seafood menu items before Lent. The New Orleans-style chicken chain is offering the Flounder Fish Sandwich and the Shrimp Tackle Box at participating restaurants nationwide, but only for a limited time.
Is Chick Fil A offering fish sandwich? ›...
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The King's Hawaiian Fish Deluxe features a crispy-fried fish filet served with shredded lettuce, a slice of natural cheddar, sliced tomatoes, and tartar sauce on a toasted King's Hawaiian bun. You can expect it to cost about $4.99 (may vary with location).
What kind of fish is the new Arby's fish sandwich? ›Their Crispy Fish Sandwich is the same as it was back in 2018 and is a classically prepared Alaskan Pollock fillet crispy-fried to a nice golden brown, topped with tartar sauce, shredded lettuce and served on a sesame seed bun.
What is Arby's new sandwich 2023? ›Starting Monday, February 20, 2023, Arby's will introduce a discounted combo of a Crispy Fish Sandwich & Small Fries for $5 at participating locations, for a limited time. Arby's Crispy Fish Sandwich consists of a flaky, panko-breaded white fish filet with shredded lettuce and tartar sauce on a toasted sesame bun.
Did arbys bring back the fish sandwich? ›Fish sandwiches are back at Arby's in two fan-favorite options, including the Crispy Fish Sandwich and King's Hawaiian Fish Deluxe Sandwich. The classic Crispy Fish Sandwich features a crispy fish fillet with shredded lettuce and tartar sauce on a toasted sesame bun.
Is Bojangles fish sandwich back? ›...
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As we approach 2023, Arby's seasonal fish sandwiches, the Crispy Fish Sandwich and the King's Hawaiian Fish Deluxe Sandwich, are returning to their menu for a short period of time.
What are forbidden foods in the Bible? ›Prohibited foods that may not be consumed in any form include all animals—and the products of animals—that do not chew the cud and do not have cloven hoofs (e.g., pigs and horses); fish without fins and scales; the blood of any animal; shellfish (e.g., clams, oysters, shrimp, crabs) and all other living creatures that ...
Was Jesus a vegetarian? ›Many biblical scholars believe that Jesus was a vegetarian. Jesus' message is one of love and compassion, and there is nothing loving or compassionate about factory farms and slaughterhouses, where billions of animals live miserable lives and die violent, bloody deaths.
What did Jesus say about fish? ›
Through it Jesus meant to say to His disciples: “Even as just now you put out to sea and cast in your nets, at my bidding, and captured this extraordinary draught, so in the future shall you fish for the souls of men in the sea of this world; and you will have as great a success in that office as you have had just now ...
What religion Cannot eat fish? ›Jainism practices non-violence and has strict rules for the protection of all life. For this reason, they do not eat eggs, fish, meat or poultry.
What meat do Catholics not eat? ›Catholics fast from red meat or white meat, i.e. warm-blooded mammals or birds. Those under 14 and 65 or older are exempt from fasting.
What religion only eats fish on Fridays? ›Catholics are required to abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday and each Friday in Lent (including Good Friday). Fish is often used as a substitute for meat-based meals.
Why is fish not vegetarian? ›Since fish and seafood are considered animal flesh, they're not technically vegetarian. If someone eats these foods while otherwise following a vegetarian diet, they're typically referred to as a pescatarian.
What is the healthiest type of meat? ›- Sirloin Steak. Sirloin steak is both lean and flavorful – just 3 ounces packs about 25 grams of filling protein! ...
- Rotisserie Chicken & Turkey. The rotisserie cooking method helps maximize flavor without relying on unhealthy additives. ...
- Chicken Thigh. ...
- Pork Chop. ...
- Canned Fish.
While doing so, he first chose to bust some myths; contrary to common belief, he says, mutton is 'cooling' than its other white meat counterpart — chicken.
Are Popeyes fish sandwiches good? ›And good thing I did, because this is a tasty fish sammy. The breading is seasoned very similarly to the Popeyes chicken selections, so those who eat there regularly will detect a familiar taste. It is somewhat crispy and there is a good ratio of fish to breading.
How good is the fish sandwich at Arby's? ›The breading on the fish is nicely seasoned with some added spice, and it has some crunch. It's not a very thick filet, but satisfying enough with good taste and no fishiness. The tartar sauce adds some notable sweetness but doesn't go overboard (unless you get a bite with mostly sauce).
What fish makes best sandwich? ›Cod, a good white fish for frying: I like to use cod for this fish sandwich recipe because it's fairly inexpensive, and has a mild, flakey interior that takes on good flavor from a quick marination. Other good options for a fish sandwich are tilapia, halibut (though it can be quite pricy), snapper, or catfish.
What kind of fish does chick fil a use? ›
Chick-fil-A's fish sandwich includes two lightly battered fried cod fillets between a warm, buttered bun. It also comes with cheese, lettuce and an optional lemony tartar sauce that "pairs perfectly with the flaky white fish."
Does McDonald's have a fish special? ›Our Filet-O-Fish combo meal is a classic fish sandwich meal made with wild-caught Alaskan Pollock on a regular McDonald's bun, served with our World Famous Fries® and your choice of an icy soft drink. There are 900 calories in a Filet-O-Fish Meal at McDonald's with a medium Sprite® and medium French Fries.
Is cod better than pollock? ›For the same reason, the content of healthy polyunsaturated fatty acids Omega-3 in Alaska pollock is almost twice higher than in Pacific cod. Other differences in nutritional value or taste are not so significant, while Alaska pollock has a great advantage due to its more affordable price.
What kind of fish sandwiches does Arby's have? ›Crispy Fish: Crispy Fish Fillet, Tartar Sauce, Shredded Iceberg Lettuce, Sesame Seed Bun. Cajun Fish: Crispy Fish Fillet, Cajun Sauce, Shredded Iceberg Lettuce, Sesame Seed Bun.
What kind of fish does Burger King use in their fish sandwich? ›White Alaskan Pollock with crispy panko breading, sweet tartar sauce, and crunchy pickles on a toasted brioche-style bun.
What kind of fish does Long John Silver's use? ›Long John Silver's wild-caught Cod and Pollack come from the icy waters of the North Pacific Ocean, one of the best-managed and most sustainable fisheries in the world. LJS fish is fresh-caught, and flash-frozen while still aboard the fishing boats to lock in the flavor.
Is Arby's fish sandwich real fish? ›Their Crispy Fish Sandwich is the same as it was back in 2018 and is a classically prepared Alaskan Pollock fillet crispy-fried to a nice golden brown, topped with tartar sauce, shredded lettuce and served on a sesame seed bun.
What kind of fish is arbys fish sandwich? ›CONTAINS: FISH (Pollock), SOY, WHEAT.
Is McDonald's fish sandwich Cod? ›Fish Filet Patty
Contains: Fish (pollock), Wheat, Milk.
Chick-fil-A's fish sandwich includes two lightly battered fried cod fillets between a warm, buttered bun. It also comes with cheese, lettuce and an optional lemony tartar sauce that "pairs perfectly with the flaky white fish."
Is Arby's fish baked or fried? ›
The Arby's Crispy Fish Sandwich features wild-caught Alaskan Pollock, crispy-fried to golden-brown perfection with tartar sauce and iceberg lettuce, topped with a sesame seed bun.
What is on Arby's fish sandwich? ›The Crispy Fish sandwich consists of a panko-breaded white fish filet with lettuce and tartar sauce on a toasted sesame bun. You can order the combo in-person at participating Arby's restaurants or online for pickup or delivery.
What kind of fish does Wendy's use in their fish sandwich? ›Wendy's now has the new Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich featuring a buttery and flaky Wild Alaska Pollock fillet complimented by savory notes of garlic and onion along with creamy dill tartar sauce, crisp lettuce and dill pickles... and with or without cheese. Get one today before it's too late!
What is the healthiest sandwich at Arby's? ›Most Nutritious Option
Arby's classic roast beef sandwich is the most nutritious main menu item. Accompanied by a healthy beverage and a side salad, it can make for a smart meal choice.
As far as the nutritional value of pollock, like salmon, tuna and cod, it is a good source of lean protein and low in saturated fat. All of these fish are also a good source of vitamin B12, phosphorous, and selenium.
Is Alaskan Pollock a clean fish? ›In all tests, Alaska pollock received a clean bill of health, with extremely low amounts of contaminants – well below the levels of concern set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
What kind of fish sandwich does Sonic have? ›Local Favorite! A 100% Alaskan Pollock fillet fried in cripy panko breading and topped with crisp lettuce, creamy tartar sauce, crinkle cut pickles, and served on a warm, brioche bun.
What kind of fish does Popeyes use in their fish sandwich? ›The Flounder Fish Sandwich includes a wild caught, flaky flounder fillet on a brioche bun with cured pickles and tartar sauce. The spicy version finds the flounder fillet seasoned in a mix of Cajun and spicy seasoning. Popeyes is offering the sandwich nationwide for a price of $4.49.
What kind of fish is Hardee's fish sandwich? ›Fish Sandwich featuring a Panko Breaded Pollock fillet with shredded lettuce and creamy tartar sauce served on a toasted bun.