Canary Wharf is one of London’s most iconic districts, known for its gleaming skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and bustling financial hub. Located in the heart of the Docklands, it attracts thousands of workers, shoppers, and visitors each day who want to experience the modern face of London. But beyond the suits and tall towers, there’s also a thriving food scene—including some excellent spots for traditional fish and chips.
The area has an incredible history. Once the busiest docks in the world, the West India Docks were central to London’s global trade in the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, as shipping methods changed, the docks declined, and by the 1980s, much of the area had fallen into disuse. A massive redevelopment transformed the old docks into what we now know as Canary Wharf: a world-class business and retail district that still preserves echoes of its maritime past.
Today, Canary Wharf offers not just finance and shopping, but also some of the capital’s best food experiences. And if you’re craving fish and chips—whether a traditional takeaway wrapped in paper or a sit-down meal in a stylish restaurant—you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best spots to try.
Britannia Fish Bar, Millwall
Located close to South Quay and Cross Harbour DLR stations, Britannia Fish Bar is a proper East London chippy. Known for its no-frills, traditional fish and chips, this takeaway also offers burgers, fried chicken, and saveloys. While it mainly serves as a grab-and-go spot, there’s a small bar area where you can tuck into your food if you don’t mind waiting. One tip from regulars: make sure to carry cash, as the card machine isn’t always reliable.
The Shell
Just a short walk from South Quay or Canary Wharf DLR, The Shell offers a slightly more upmarket take on the Fish and Chips. You won’t get fish in batter here, but you can get grilled fish and a wide range of tasty seafood. The foucs is on fresh seafood—grilled seabass, octopus, lobster, and more. It’s a stylish restaurant, making it a great option if you’re looking for something a bit different or more refined than the typical takeaway experience. As its a nice restaurant, the prices are higher than a chippy, but the quality and variety of seafood make it worthwhile, if your looking for good dinner / dining experience with great seafood.
Alan’s Fish Bar, Poplar
A little north of Canary Wharf in Poplar, Alan’s Fish Bar is well worth the short trip. This family-friendly takeaway serves traditional fish and chips alongside burgers, fried chicken, and meal deals that make it good value. It’s a reliable local spot where you’ll get generous portions and the kind of straightforward, satisfying food that keeps customers coming back.
Docklands Fish Bar
Near Limehouse DLR, Docklands Fish Bar is another classic chippy that has built a strong reputation in the area. Beyond the usual fish and chips, they also have a surprising vegetarian range, including halloumi wraps, falafel, and hummus-based dishes. This makes it a great choice if you’re visiting with a group that includes non-fish eaters or anyone looking for a lighter option.
Oysteria
Right in the middle of Canary Wharf, Oysteria is a restaurant offering a more polished, modern experience. You’re find Oysters and things like Linguine, Monk Fish, Salmon (lots of different sea food) much of it grilled, but you can get the traditional battered fish and chips, here too (but alittle more expensive than a chippy). But for a nice glass of wine and up market dining and a wide range of seafood in stylish surroundings, close to Canary Wharf DLR and tube station, it’s a good choice.
Conclusion
Whether you’re after a traditional paper-wrapped portion by the DLR or an upmarket seafood platter in the heart of Canary Wharf, the Docklands area has something to offer every fish and chip lover. Each of these venues brings its own style to a British classic, leaving it up to you to decide which one will become your favourite.