Bowpicker Fish And Chips - Astoria
Bowpicker Fish And Chips
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This place is the real deal! They focus on just one thing, and that's it. Don’t expect any fancy table service, flattery, or sympathy here—you're here for one thing only: Fish and Chips! Served from an old wooden boat on a trailer, no less! Don’t expect any extra effort on your behalf. The line was long, but no one seemed to mind. I even had my friend sit down in line to avoid getting tired. While we waited, I chatted with others and asked how they liked the Fish and Chips, and everyone raved: “the best, worth the wait, I come here every week.” When you see the locals coming back regularly, you know it’s not just some online hype. By the time we received our six orders, each one was spot-on! Perfectly crispy without being overly crunchy or greasy, which is crucial. The fish was fresh and well-coated, and the batter had a great complementary flavor. This is how Fish and Chips should be done. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best Fish and Chips spots I’ve ever been to!
The line was quite long, but despite it being a two-person operation on a busy summer weekend, they kept things moving efficiently! We ordered two servings of Fish and Chips and took them to a nearby picnic table. The fish was good and crispy, although the pieces were on the smaller side, which made the coating-to-fish ratio a bit off. The chips were long and distinctly English. My sons weren’t fans, but they were reminiscent of traditional fries served in paper. Plus, they haven't yet realized that pouring vinegar over everything is the way to go. Once they figure that out, they’ll understand why larger fries are better—they soak up the perfect amount of vinegar! My oldest was still hungry and enjoyed the fish enough to brave the now-doubled line. I deducted a star for two reasons: first, there were no napkins, and second, tartar sauce is automatically included with the order whether you want it or not. I tried to skip it to avoid wasting more plastic, but that didn’t happen. Additionally, I noticed an older woman struggling to read the partially erased dry-erase board menu and when she tried to ask a question, she was snapped at. Thankfully, another customer stepped in to help her out.
I drove two hours to scenic Astoria for my birthday, and the place did not disappoint. I expected it to be closer to the water, but it turned out to be more like a boat or food truck, located across the street from the local MO's seafood. The only seating area was down the street, and there was a ramp that leads you on and off the counter to place your order. They used tuna as the base for their fish and chips, which made the meat firmer. Overall, it was a great experience!
Don't get intimidated by the line this place is worth the wait if there is any. They are also fairly quick. The fish and chips are an example of doing one thing really well. Being in an old boat is super fun although you don't get much of a peak inside. This place is special and unique not just because it's in a boat because there is a lot of care put into the food and you'll taste that when you order.
Tried this place again while vacationing in Astoria/Seaside. Never disappoints. Though their fries are just basic steak versions. No way are they fresh cut. Period. Been to Red Robin? Same gawt damn fries. So just OK. In fact I tossed 50% in the trash they were so bland. Fish is the star, like always. Breading he claims is custom/secret but it tastes and has same crunch as Shark Bites in Coos Bay. Period. So it's not house made. It's purchased from commercial company. In fact I know the maker but won't release that here. Service always great. Line to wait is meh. Here's the NEW kicker, after all these years of cash only these sobs now take credit card! It was just a matter of time as cash is going away soon. If in the area try it out. If in Portland it's not worth the drive. Your welcome.
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