Top 3 mom 'n' pop fish and chips restaurants in the Tri-Cities

When the craving hits for fish and chips, it hits hard.

And when that desire comes on for a crispy, golden plate of fried deliciousness, accompanied by creamy, tangy tartar sauce and coleslaw (vinegar-based or tossed in mayo, whose side are you on?), there’s only one type of restaurant that’ll satisfy that craving—an old school fish and chips spot.

You know you’re in the right place if the menu consists of all things fish (from clam chowder to popcorn shrimp), a casual ordering counter—perhaps with a big chalkboard hanging overhead—and, most importantly, the distinct smell of fryer grease upon entry: a sign of good things to come.

Here’s a list of our favourite “mom and pop” fish and chips restaurants in the Tri-Cities, checking all the boxes for a delicious and iconic fry-up that’ll leave you feeling satisfied, inside and out.

Pajo’s Fish & Chips at Rocky Point Park

Opening in 1985 as the first floating restaurant in the Steveston Fishermen’s Wharf, Pajo’s has since gained a loyal following at its second location in Port Moody near Rocky Point Park. The family-owned restaurant specializes in Pacific cod, sockeye salmon, rock snapper and halibut (all fried to perfection) and fries (bottomless!) in iconic newspaper wrapping. All of their seafood products are Oceanwise Certified too, coming from sustainable local suppliers that provide quality in each bite.

Address: 2805 Esplanade Ave, Port Moody

Austin Fish & Chips Coquitlam

The interior of Austin Fish & Chips is probably one of the cutest in the Tri-Cities. Enter and find yourself surrounded by a cool blue, wavy mural of ocean life, eating alongside colourful fish, sharks and crustaceans in a casual diner setting (ideal for families and larger groups). Crispy cod and halibut fish and chips are at the forefront of the menu, alongside other seafood dinners like oysters, scallops and prawns (all served with chips, of course). Serving Coquitlam for over 30 years, they continue to be a staple in the neighbourhood.

Address: 1119 Austin Ave, Coquitlam

C-Lovers Fish & Chips

Though you can find C-Lovers locations all across B.C., this humble chain was founded in Coquitlam and continues to be one of the most beloved locations for fish and chips in the Tri-Cities. All of their ingredients are thoughtfully sourced—from Oceanwise fish to locally grown kennebec potatoes—consistently providing quality (and as a result, a loyal following throughout the province) You can choose between cod, halibut and salmon fish and chips or, better yet, opt for their all-you-can-eat options available all day, every day.

Address: 2991 Lougheed Hwy #108, Coquitlam