News Summary
Tampa Bay is embracing the classic British dish, fish & chips, with local favorites including Horse & Jockey Pub in South Pasadena, The Studio Public House in St. Petersburg, and Jack’s London Grill. Each venue offers unique twists on this beloved meal, highlighting varying ingredients and preparation methods. The culinary landscape is vibrant and continually evolving, showcasing traditions and innovations in dining. This article explores the best spots to enjoy this British classic in the heart of Tampa Bay.
Tampa Bay’s Culinary Scene Celebrates British Classic: A Review of Local Fish & Chips
Welcome to sunny Tampa Bay, where the culinary scene is bustling with exciting flavors and dishes from around the globe! In 2025, the quest for Top Tastes is in full swing, showcasing the vast array of food offerings that make this area a delicious destination. Among these, the classic fish & chips—a beloved staple of British cuisine—is making waves in St. Petersburg and South Pasadena.
Horse & Jockey Pub: A Taste of Tradition
Located at 1155 Pasadena Ave. S. in South Pasadena, the Horse & Jockey Pub stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving a hearty plate of fish & chips. Here, you’ll be treated to beer-battered white Atlantic haddock served with what can only be described as hand-cut chips. These freshly prepared fries elevate the dish to a new level, offering a delightful crunch that frozen versions just can’t compete with. Patrons rave about the crispy, well-seasoned batter that envelops the fish, making each bite as satisfying as the last. The pub is open Sunday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Saturdays until midnight, so you have plenty of time to indulge in this British classic.
The Studio Public House: A Retro Twist
If you’re searching for a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy your fish & chips, look no further than The Studio Public House on Central Avenue in St. Petersburg. This charming spot is known for its retro music ambience and a menu inspired by British favorites. Their signature fish & chips, affectionately dubbed “The Codfather of Sole,” features an impressive piece of ale-battered cod generously laid over a bed of fries—all for just $16.99. And if you’re lucky enough to visit on a Thursday, you can take advantage of their weekly special, where you can snag a plate for a mere $12.99. Located at 2950 Central Ave., the Studio is open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 12 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m..
Jack’s London Grill: A Nostalgic Experience
For those seeking a nostalgia-filled pub experience, Jack’s London Grill is the place to be. This establishment offers an atmosphere reminiscent of English pubs, complete with football streaming on TV to watch your favorite teams in action. Their menu features fish & chips made from beer-battered haddock, and you can choose between two portion sizes: a lunch option priced at $11.50 and a more generous dinner portion for $17.50. Reviewers have noted the fish is delightfully crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside. However, there is a caveat—the fries here are frozen, which may leave some diners longing for the fresh, hand-cut variety. Jack’s is located at 1050 62nd Ave. N. and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m..
A Culinary Adventure
The Tampa Bay food scene is always evolving, with new eateries popping up and a rich variety of culinary concepts being explored. The ongoing project to sample and rank the best fish & chips around St. Pete, Gulfport, and the Gulf Beaches reveals the diversity and passion for food in the region. While these three establishments shine in the spotlight, there are many more serving up fantastic fish & chips waiting to be discovered.
So, gather your friends and family, and dive into the delightful world of fish & chips right here in Tampa Bay. Whether you’re drawn to the traditional approaches, like at the Horse & Jockey Pub, or the fun twists at The Studio Public House, there’s something for every palate. Bon appétit!
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Additional Resources
- The Gabber: Top Tastes Best Fish & Chips in St. Pete
- I Love the Burg: Pulpo St. Pete Restaurant
- Eater Miami: Best Fish & Chips in Miami
- Herald Tribune: Tom’s Bad Ass Bar & Grill in Bradenton
- WTSP: Gordon Ramsay’s Orlando Restaurant
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
