Embracing Lent with Fast-Food Fish Sandwiches: A Delicious Tradition
March 7 marks the first Friday of Lent, a period during which many Catholics abstain from eating meat. This tradition has become a golden opportunity for fast-food chains across the United States to offer mouthwatering fish sandwiches. As the Lenten season progresses, with Good Friday falling on April 18 this year, the demand for these seafood alternatives is set to rise. This article delves into the best fast-food fish sandwiches available, based on expert reviews and consumer feedback, ensuring that you make the most of this season.
Arby’s: A Trio of Fish Sandwiches to Savor
Arby’s has returned with a bang, bringing back three of its iconic fish sandwiches. The Crispy Fish Sandwich is a crowd favorite, featuring a golden-fried fish fillet, shredded lettuce, and a dollop of tartar sauce on a toasted sesame bun. For cheese lovers, the Fish ‘N Cheddar Sandwich offers a rich combination of cheddar cheese and a crispy fish patty. Meanwhile, the King’s Hawaiian Fish Deluxe Sandwich stands out with its King’s Hawaiian bun, complemented by cheddar cheese, tartar sauce, lettuce, and tomato.
Although some customers have noted that the tartar sauce could be more generous, Arby’s has made notable improvements this year. Celebrity chef Jason Smith, a judge on the Food Network’s “Best Baker in America,” praised Arby’s for refining its breading recipe, making the sandwiches “actually very good.”
Burger King: Spicing Up the Lenten Season
Burger King has introduced a bold twist on its classic Big Fish Sandwich with the Fiery Big Fish Sandwich, featuring a spicy panko-crusted fillet. While Smith admitted that the heat can be overpowering at first, food writer Victoria Soliz from Allrecipes ranked it highly, giving it an impressive 8.5 out of 10. She commended its balanced spicy glaze and the crisp, flavorful fish, making it a standout choice for those who enjoy a little kick. However, for purists, the original Big Fish Sandwich remains a timeless favorite, offering a delicate panko-crusted fillet that doesn’t overshadow the fish’s natural flavor.
Culver’s: A Lenten Staple for Many Catholics
For many Catholics, especially in Florida, Culver’s is the go-to destination for a satisfying fish sandwich during Lent. The North Atlantic Cod Sandwich has won hearts with its lightly buttered hoagie roll and a generous piece of cod that’s neither too thick nor too thin. Chef Smith described it as “excellent,” highlighting the thin, crispy crust and the succulent, non-greasy fish. It’s no surprise that fans like Wendy Tuma and Amanda Lewis swear by Culver’s, with Tuma declaring it her top choice, closely followed by Burger King.
Long John Silver’s: A Greasy yet Classic Option
Victoria Soliz from Allrecipes crowned Long John Silver’s Classic Fish Sandwich as her absolute favorite, describing it as a standard yet exceptionally well-executed option. The sandwich features a crisp Alaskan pollock filet, served on a toasted bun with crinkle-cut pickles and a tangy tartar sauce. While Soliz found it near-perfect, Chef Jason Smith had a more mixed opinion, calling it “a good fish” but noting that it was a bit greasier than he’d prefer. Despite this, Long John Silver’s remains a reliable choice for those who enjoy a classic, no-frills fish sandwich.
McDonald’s: The Timeless Filet-O-Fish
The Filet-O-Fish from McDonald’s is arguably the most iconic fish sandwich in the fast-food world, and for good reason. Chef Jason Smith praised it for serving a whole fish patty rather than minced fish, making it stand out from the crowd. The combination of a square-shaped fish patty, melted American cheese, and a creamy tartar sauce creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s hard to resist. As Smith noted, “Even though it’s square – and we all know fish isn’t square – it works.” For many, the Filet-O-Fish is more than just a sandwich; it’s a tradition that’s been enjoyed for decades.
Popeyes and Wendy’s: Spicy and Crispy Alternatives
For those seeking a bit of spice, Popeyes’ Cajun Flounder Sandwich is a fantastic option. Available in both classic and spicy versions, the sandwich features a crispy fish patty seasoned with Cajun spices, served on a brioche bun with pickles and sauce. While Victoria Soliz ranked it fourth on her list, she appreciated the bold flavor of the breading and the sandwich’s overall appeal.
Wendy’s Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich, available through Easter, has also gained a loyal following. With wild-caught Alaskan pollock, dill tartar sauce, and a soft bun, it’s a great choice for fans of Southern-style cooking. As one content creator noted, the fish is “moist and flaky,” and the herby tartar sauce adds a refreshing touch. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or a fan of classic flavors, this Lenten season offers something for everyone.
