If there was ever a destination that was made for fish and chips, it’s the Gold Coast. Endless beaches, parks and boardwalks for sitting by, paper packet of crispy chips and golden battered barramundi next to you as you throw twigs at seagulls in an attempt to drive them off? It’s a time honoured tradition that’s been around since someone discovered putting potato into boiling oil created the miracle that is the chip. Here’s where to get the GC’s best.
The Fish Emporium | Isle of Capri
Offering both dine-in and takeaway options with the motto ‘fresh is best’, you will receive nothing less at this hip little seafood restaurant. Overlooking the skyscrapers of iconic Surfers Paradise in Isle of Capri’s trendy Capri on Via Roma precinct, The Fish Emporium’s takeaway menu is sure to offer something to tantalise your tastebuds. Whether you’re craving a fresh piece of snapper served with chips, lemon and their house tartare sauce, or opting for something a little fancier like their freshly shucked oysters or sashimi, there is something for everyone, so it’s safe to assume everyone’s hunger will be satisfied.Sorrento Seafoods | Bundall & Mermaid Beach
One of the Coast’s most reputable seafood takeaway joints, Sorrento Seafoods is a veteran vendor of all things seafood, and their range of fresh seafoods, classic fish and chips and burgers and salads are some of the best the coast has to offer. Looking for something a little less traditional? Why not try one of their famous pineapple fritters? Or sample the coconut prawns? If you’re game, finish off your feast with a bang by indulging in their de(vi)lish battered Mars Bar.Fish Lab | Robina Town Centre
The coast’s new kid on the block situated in The Kitchens precinct at Robina Town Centre, The Fish Lab, is no ordinary fish and chip joint. Creator Wiliam Wu has upped the ante with his unique take on seafood cuisine. Immaculately presenting food resembling that of edible art in his stunning restaurant, the dine-in option is for those seeking something a little bit flash. Don’t be alarmed though – Wu has thought of everything, and has included a takeaway menu offering everything from fish tacos to seafood skewers to fish parmigiana, and of course a generous serving of a traditional fish and chips, for those who like to keep it simple.Charis Seafood | Labrador
Aside from being the largest supplier of fresh seafood on the coast, Charis Seafoods is also one of the oldest after celebrating its 20th year in 2015, making it an iconic foodie landmark. They offer everything from oysters to crustacean, squid to octopus, and fish cakes to chiko rolls all with complimentary efficient and friendly service to match. The perfect place to enjoy a few hours of sun and sand on a summer’s afternoon.The Fish House | Burleigh Heads
This one is going to be hard to beat. While they don’t dish up your traditional ‘fish & chips,’ The Fish House provide some of the finest seafood cuisine on the coast, paired with pristine ocean views looking across to the Surfers Paradise skyline. Dine in style on steamed coral trout with ginger and shallots or caramelised Patagonian toothfish with a side of hand cut chips. You’ll be chip-per after eating your way through this list! Words by Charlotte Tully Image credit: Rose Hewartson Photography
