Fish sandwiches are a hit in fast food, especially during Lent when many people look for seafood options. This year, Lent started on February 18 and wraps up on April 5, leading to a surge of fish sandwiches on menus everywhere.
McDonald’s introduced the Filet-O-Fish back in the 1960s. It all began when a franchisee noticed dwindling sales on Fridays in an area rich in Catholic customers. This sandwich paved the way, and today, nearly all major fast-food chains offer seasonal fish sandwiches.
For instance, Popeyes launched its flounder fish sandwich in 2021, quickly followed by a spicy version. This was likely inspired by the success of their spicy chicken sandwich, which was a big hit in 2019.
But which is the best? I decided to taste fish sandwiches from McDonald’s, Burger King, Popeyes, and Wendy’s. Here’s a ranking of each:
Burger King’s Big Fish Sandwich: Priced at $7.39 from my local Brooklyn spot, the sandwich lacked enough tartar sauce and had unevenly distributed lettuce, making the experience a bit off.
Popeyes Classic Flounder Sandwich: This one cost $7.19. While it had a nice crunch and flavor, it felt a bit plain compared to others. Tartar sauce and pickles were featured but didn’t stand out.
McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish: Coming in at $6.59, this classic is known for its flakiness. There was a generous amount of tartar sauce, but the half-slice of cheese didn’t add much to the overall flavor. Recently, users on TikTok have raised concerns about its size due to “shrinkflation,” but McDonald’s claims the recipe hasn’t changed.
Wendy’s Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich: This one costs $8.74 and was my second favorite. The panko batter provided a delightful crunch, and it felt fresh with ample toppings like lettuce, pickles, and tartar sauce.
Popeyes Spicy Flounder Sandwich: This was my top pick at $7.19. Instead of tartar sauce, it featured a spicy mayo, which added a nice kick. The crunchy pickles enhanced the flavor, making it a well-rounded choice.
According to recent surveys, 30% of consumers try fish sandwiches during Lent, demonstrating the demand for this seasonal favorite. As people seek out these items, fast-food chains continue to innovate, adapting to the taste preferences of their customers.
That said, whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or looking for a spicy twist, there’s a fish sandwich out there for everyone.
