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With the first Friday of Lent falling on March 7, many Catholics across the U.S. will once again skip meat on Fridays through Good Friday, April 18. Fast-food chains have responded with a wave of fish sandwiches — some returning as limited-time items, others perennial menu fixtures — and chefs and food critics have weighed in on which ones are worth ordering.
Why fast-food fish is getting attention this season
For observant Catholics, Friday fish is practical: quick, inexpensive and widely available. But the choices matter to anyone who cares about texture, spice and value — and this year several chains tweaked recipes or revived seasonal offerings that caught the eye of reviewers.
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Arby’s
Arby’s brought back three fish sandwiches early in the season: a straightforward fried fillet with shredded lettuce and tartar, a cheddar-topped version, and a premium option served on a King’s Hawaiian roll with tomato and extra toppings. Some customers complained that the tartar was skimpy, but chefs who sampled the lineup noted improvements in the breading compared with past releases.
Burger King
Burger King offers its classic panko-crusted Big Fish and a spicier variant called the Fiery Big Fish. The heat-forward version divides opinion: some tasters liked the way the glaze balanced with sauce, while others said the spice can partly obscure the fish’s flavor.
Culver’s
In interviews, diners in Florida and food professionals singled out Culver’s North Atlantic Cod Sandwich for its long fillet, light crust and consistently moist interior. It’s served on a buttered hoagie-style roll, a combination that impressed reviewers looking for a less greasy, fuller-size serving.
Long John Silver’s
Allrecipes’ reviewers placed Long John Silver’s Classic Fish Sandwich at the top of their list. Its battered Alaskan pollock, crinkle-cut pickles and tartar on a toasted bun won praise for delivering reliable flavor and a traditional profile that stands out among fast-food offerings.
McDonald’s
The Filet-O-Fish remains the most ubiquitous choice nationwide. Critics and chefs appreciate that it presents a solid fish patty rather than a fully processed filling, paired with American cheese and signature tartar sauce. For many, its familiarity and balance of components are the selling points.
Popeyes
Popeyes’ limited-time Cajun Flounder Sandwich — available classic or spicy — uses flounder fillets on a brioche bun with pickles and a seasoned sauce. The chain’s seasoned breading and brioche base appealed to reviewers who want a bolder, Southern-style spice profile.
Wendy’s
Wendy’s seasonal Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich features panko-breaded, wild-caught Alaskan pollock with dill-forward tartar, lettuce, cheese and pickles. Reviewers praised its crunchy bite and described the flavor as more Southern-influenced than some competitors.
Top picks from chefs and critics
- Long John Silver’s Classic Fish Sandwich — Allrecipes’ top-rated pick for traditional battered flavor.
- Culver’s North Atlantic Cod Sandwich — Noted for a long fillet, thin crisp crust and juicy interior.
- McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish — The go-to classic: square patty, cheese and tartar.
- Burger King Fiery Big Fish — For spice lovers who don’t want a plain sandwich.
- Wendy’s Crispy Panko Fish — Praised for extra crunch and a Southern flavor profile.
What to expect at the counter: some sandwiches are permanent menu items, others are seasonal promotions that may disappear after Easter. If you prefer a cleaner fish taste, look for lighter breading and modest sauces; if you want bold seasoning, choose offerings labeled spicy or Cajun. Chefs also recommend checking local stores — preparation can vary by region.
For Catholics observing Lenten abstinence and for anyone hunting a satisfying fast-food fish sandwich, this season offers a range of textures and flavor profiles. Whether you favor a classic, a spicy twist, or a heartier fillet, several chains have options worth trying before seasonal items roll away.
