With Oregon's incredible bounties from the sea, it only makes sense that our seafood would be the best in the world, right? With all of that beautiful coastline and the seemingly infinite access, of course our seafood would rival them all. In fact, there's a tiny little fishing boat that's been repurposed into a restaurant in Astoria, and this humble little vessel is the site of the best fish & chips in Oregon. Read on below and let us know if you agree!
The Bowpicker Fish & Chips is a tiny restaurant operating on a 28-foot-long gillnet boat. Christened "The Nicky" in the 1930s, this little boat has found a new life as the best fish and chips shop in Oregon... and likely the entire world.
While there are certainly plenty of places to get fish and chips in Astoria, this is where the locals go, and you'll soon see why.
The menu at this tiny restaurant is pretty straightforward. You can choose from a whole order with five pieces of fish, a half order with three pieces of fish, a side of fries, and bottled water or soda. These folks do just one thing... but they do it so, so well.
During summer months, the lines get long. The folks at Bowpicker are pretty fast at serving up the fish and chips, so the wait isn't too bad, and trust us - it's well worth your time.
While you wait, you can see some historic photos and information about past Bowpicker boats.
Bowpicker doesn't accept checks or credit cards, so you'll want to bring some cash. If you don't have any on hand, you'll find an ATM right across the street at the gas station.
Once you try these fish and chips, you'll be spoiled for life. The fish is tender and juicy, lightly seasoned and breaded, then fried to perfection.
This fish did NOT come frozen out of a bag, and it's not halibut or cod. It's Pacific albacore tuna that was caught by local fisherman and served up to you, fresh as can be.
Just a few bites, and you'll be hopelessly addicted. Unless you're lucky enough to live in or near Astoria, you'll soon find yourself driving long distances just to get ahold of these fish and chips.
Visit Bowpicker Fish & Chips at 1634 Duane St., Astoria, OR 97103. It's right across the street from the Columbia River Maritime Museum, and it's open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m... or until they run out of fish!
Find out more about Bowpicker Fish & Chips and stay updated on its seasonal hours by following it on Facebook.
Do you agree that Bowpicker has the best fish & chips in Oregon? What other restaurants would you recommend? Share your suggestions in the comments below!
If you find yourself on the southern end of Oregon's coast, and you're looking for fresh crab, you'll want to try this hidden gem.
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