What should I order at The Bait Shop?
The Bait Shop
Halibut Fish and Chips
Mentioned most frequently and praised for being fresh, flaky, tender, lightly breaded with a perfectly crisp texture and not greasy. Many reviewers highlighted it as some of the best they've had, often paired with the top-tier tartar sauce.
Clam Chowder
Consistently recommended for being creamy, flavorful, with generous portions of tender clams and vegetables. Described as a highlight of the meal and reminiscent of authentic New England style.
French Fries
Repeatedly noted as crisp, well-seasoned, salty, and satisfying. Many reviewers called them fabulous and a perfect accompaniment to the seafood dishes.
Cod Fish and Chips
Recommended for its crispy and moist fish with light batter and well-balanced seasoning. It is a popular alternative to halibut with similar positive remarks.
Clam Strips
Specifically mentioned as a standout dish that many places fail at, but here they are clean, non-greasy, and reminiscent of authentic New England clam strips.
Chicken Strips/Nuggets
Recommended especially for families and kids, described as fresh, golden crispy, and better than average fried food joint options.
Calamari
Praised for being tender with a light fry that allows the flavor to shine without heaviness.
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 5 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 5 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 5 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 5 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 4 PM |
About The Bait Shop
The Bait Shop is a seafood restaurant in Friday Harbor, Washington, with a menu centered on fried fish, chowder, fries, and other quick comfort food. Reviewers consistently praise the halibut fish and chips, clam chowder, clam strips, fries, and tartar sauce for being fresh, crisp, and well prepared. The restaurant is casual, counter-service only, with limited seating and some outdoor seating, and it is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. Prices are in the $10 to $20 range, and reviewers often describe it as a quick, reasonable meal in downtown Friday Harbor.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
Atmosphere
- Casual
Crowd
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Free street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed inside
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is The Bait Shop known for?
The Bait Shop is best known for halibut fish and chips, especially the lightly battered, crisp fish that reviewers describe as fresh, flaky, and not greasy. The clam chowder and tartar sauce are also called out often as standout parts of the meal.
What dishes are most recommended at The Bait Shop?
Reviewers most often recommend the halibut fish and chips, cod, clam chowder, clam strips, and fries. The chicken strips and chicken nuggets also come up as solid options, but the seafood items are the main draw.
What is the atmosphere like at The Bait Shop?
The atmosphere is casual and fast, with counter service, limited seating, and some window or outdoor spots for people-watching. It works well for solo diners, couples, and small families, but reviewers note it is not ideal for large groups or strollers because space is tight.
Is The Bait Shop good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $10 to $20, and reviewers repeatedly say the prices feel reasonable for the portion size and freshness. Several mention large servings, hot food, and a quick, satisfying meal that feels worth the cost.
When is the best time to visit The Bait Shop?
Reviewers say it is a good choice when you want a quick meal, including off-season or on a weekday evening when other places in Friday Harbor may be closed. Since seating is limited, it is especially convenient for a fast counter-service stop or for taking food to go.
Is parking available at The Bait Shop?
Yes. Free street parking is available.
Is The Bait Shop kid-friendly?
Yes, The Bait Shop is good for kids.
Restaurants like The Bait Shop in Friday Harbor
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