I was hesitant to stop by here because clam chowder on the waterfront just screams tourist trap to me lol. Tbh the only reason I did stop by is because my friend who grew up here likes it and said I should give it a shot. I only got the white chowder in a cup because I wanted to save room for all the food I was going to eat later and after reading some reviews, I'm glad I only got that. There was no line when I went so ordering was quick and my food was ready almost instantly because they didn't need to fry anything. Service was very transactional. I'm happy to report that the chowder was good though. It was rich, thick and creamy, seasoning was good, and there was a decent amount of clams & potatoes. My only side comment is that they let people feed the seagulls which I personally find disgusting so I'd recommend getting a seat in the indoor area lol. read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - White Chowder - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Yummy... best clam chowder and the crab was delicious... tiny bit over cooked but yummy... Sadly the clam chowder was so good that it has ruined all other clam chowders for me. read more

I'd caught a whiff of a lady's fish n chips at the Seahawks game and it smelled DIVINE. This is the only place in the stadium that has a line and so I decided I'd have to get some at the actual restaurant. After a leisurely touristy morning on the Seattle Great Wheel and then strolling around the Aquarium, this was the perfect place to refuel. I thought it would be packed since it was lunchtime, but I was wrong. (Why isn't everyone here??) I was seated at a table looking out at water near the ferry. I couldn't decide between the Alaska True Cod or the Alaska Halibut which is panko crusted, so I was able to get 1 of each for my fish n chips. I liked them both, but the halibut was my favorite. The fries were average at best, but I wasn't really there for that. You may want to save room for dessert! I finished with Spiced Apple Brandy Crisp. This streusel topped apple delight comes out hot in a skillet. I had my ice cream on the side so I could focus on the yumminess at hand. That was a wise choice I must say. This is very similar to Apple pie, but more apple less gooey. The streusel was cooked to perfection with a nice crisp to it. It started raining as my dessert was being served because you know...Seattle...but this was sunshine in my belly! There are so many different options here. The chowder was recommended but my appetite wasn't big enough. Definitely bring your appetite to Ivar's, you won't be disappointed. read more

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I remember we ate here a decade ago on our last Seattle visit and it was really good, but I think either the qualify had gone down a bit since or we became fish and chips snobs lol. It was a bit disappointing the fish in their fish and chips and is similar to breadcrumb like. We ordered both the halibut and salmon fish and chips and they were both just okay. I wish they have beer battered style. The fries are warm and crunchy and I do appreciate they offer cocktail sauce which not that many places do. They also have huge outdoor seating area, just watch out for the hungry seagulls everywhere. I think good for a quick bite if you are already walking around the harbor, and our friends' clam chowder did looked pretty good. read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Salmon - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Ivar's Fish Bar is a famous Seattle establishment and I thought it was just alright. We ordered a 4-piece Fish and Chips and a Cup of Chowder to share. It was the perfect amount for the four of us to get a taste. Fries and chowder were good, but the fish was just OK. The service is quick and friendly and they have some covered seating just next door. Overall a solid spot to get a quick fish and chips fix, but not the best I've ever had. read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Fish and chips and a cup of chowder - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Good service good food family friendly great atmosphere historical restaurant. Very affordable as well compared to other restaurants around here. The lunch special was delicious with the fresh Alaskan salmon. Clam chowder was great. Kale salad. Kids had plenty to choose from on the menu. Family-friendly for sure read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Lots of stuff to look at on the water. - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Food was mediocre at best. Staff was totally overworked. It's a beautiful location but food was meh. Prices were expensive for what you received. My crab salad wasn't fresh or chilled. read more

The food tasted really fresh and we really enjoyed the dip. The location had a nice view of the water. read more

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Walking down the waterfront, we were immediately enchanted by the statue of Mr Ivar with the seagulls. While checking out the menu, I knew I had to try the salmon and chips. There was nothing disappointing in this feast! Huge chunks of fried salmon with nice crispy fries. I opted to have no tartar sauce- just wanted to taste the fish with lemon. Hubs had the same but went with the sauce and declared it fantastic. This meal made me happy to have chosen to fly into Seattle to rent a car for the trip home instead of Portland like we'd planned. read more

I know this location caters to the visitors of Seattle and because of that, we didn't expect much BUT we have really missed their delicious, flakey fish and amazing tarter sauce. Sadly, this was not it. The portions were incredibly small and although the tarter was amazing as always, the fish ($17 for three tiny pieces of halibut) were tough and dry. The fries were fine but they were an afterthought for sure. The hubby ordered a Dungeness crab cocktail for $10 which he said was pretty good so all was not lost. We've learned our lesson and will stop by the SPUD on Greenlake when we make a return visit. read more

Ivar's is chowder heaven! My first time eating Ivars was a few years ago and I was HOOKED! My fiance and I love the chowder and the fish has always been delicious as well. The fish bar was awesome because it has an outdoor seating area by the sound where you can enjoy the passing boats and give your leftover fries to the hoard of polite, fat seagulls. Haha. We got the bowl of chowder and the halibut meal. The chowder is hot, creamy, full of clams and potatoes and just delectable! The halibut and fries were perfectly cooked and fresh. The service was friendly and fast. I would definitely recommend Ivars fish bar for a quick service meal with quality food. Rating from an F to an A+++ it gets an A+++. read more

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The chowder was so delicious! We stopped in because of the scarcity of bathrooms along the market. So we decided to have a drink and get a cup of chowder. This place turned out to have the best chowder in the whole United States. You have to try it it's so delicious so silky, so so good. clams are not rubbery. The best chowder. read more

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We were in Seattle downtown on Labor Day, I was super hungry in the late afternoon and it was laborday so restaurants around place we were staying were almost closed, we just went towards pier hoping something will be open and came according Ivar's. Ordered 5pc cod fish n chips(Cajun), it was so so good, fresh fish, nicely seasoned batter, each n every fries was crispy and perfect. My son and husband weren't hungry but after tasting they ended up buying again 5pc, it was so good. Definitely recommend this place, and if you like spicy definitely go for Cajun. read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This review covers the Ivar's outside fish bar by the waterfront. Sitting outside watching the seagulls while enjoying a late lunch of fried clams (or fish) with chips is a pleasant Seattle experience. The food tastes fresh and arrives fairly quickly, making Ivar's a no-frills stop worth considering. read more

My favorite chowder in Seattle! Well I do have to mention the only other chowder I tried was the famous Pikes Place Chowder & we had to wait in that very long line. For Ivars I think we lucked out & only waited for like 3 people. All the food was so hot & fresh. I really did prefer this chowder though. It just seemed to have more flavor overall & just better balanced seasonings. The fish in the fish & chips honestly looked very small & unimpressive but it was definitely way better than it looked. Fried well, very meaty & so fresh. The same thing could be said about the fried clams. The actual fries were just ok. Noting too special about them. Service from one employee was very friendly while another worker already seemed over the day that just started. Oh & if you're lucky you'll find some street parking or if you don't mind paying there are paid lots just across the street from Ivars. A nice plus about this place is it's right on the pier so you get a water view. & There's also a Starbucks within walking distance in case you need a pick-me-up or that Seattle themed cup for your collection. I'd definitely come here again. Be sure to elevate all the food by dunking it in the chowder. read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Fish & chips, Fried clams with more fries, Burnt creme latte (from Monorail Espresso). So good! - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Ivar's is one of the iconic restaurants of Seattle. Established in 1938 and it's remained as a favorite all these years! Truly a "must do" when in Seattle! They have several locations here, but visiting the fish bar on Seattle's waterfront is unique! All kinds of seafood options from Cod, Halibut, Salmon, clams, scallops, shrimp, oysters and prawns. Crab and Shrimp cocktail and more. Definitely a seafood lovers delight! They have the fish bar for the quick food option or Ivar's Salmon House which is a more formal seating. If the weather is nice, I highly recommend eating outside on the deck and enjoying the smell of saltwater and Waterfront as you dine. However, be prepared as you may have some lunch guests! LOL read more

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Service is amazing, however, the fish and chips is mediocre at best. Pay the $10 and cruise over to bainbridge and get some amazing cod and chips from Harbour House. I tried both on my birthday trip and definitely noticed the difference in quality. DO NOT fall into the tourist trap! read more

When you have the late night munchies and you're strolling pier side in downtown Seattle then grab some fast fish n chips at Ivar's. There's a 3 piece cod fish (or halibut), french fries and a 24 oz drink for $16.99. The fish is lightly breaded and comes with both tartar sauce and ketchup. We ordered deep fried clams as well as the clam chowder to try. The clams were crunchy bites but heavily breaded and the chowder was more creamy but had good chunks of clam and potato in it. read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Fish 'N Chips - Original Cod, Clams n Chips, & White Chowder - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I really enjoyed the fish and chips here. I can probably do without the menacing sea gulls that sit barely 10-feet away, waiting to be fed fries and whatever you throw at them. If you're bothered by the sea gulls, take your food togo and walk down the pier read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Fish 'N Chips - Original Cod - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Everyone was very very nice helpful and service was great! However the fried fish (Cod & Smoked Salmon) in some type of oil & food made us sick. read more

The best place and a must visit!! Highly recommend the white clam chowder, it was seriously one of the best clam chowders I have ever had! You also have to get some French fries to feed the seagulls! It's such a fun experience and so fun sitting out on the pier. Also the staff at the bar are all so nice and very efficient! I was expecting it to take way longer to order and get our food, but the whole process only took about 5 minutes! This place definitely has the best ambiance and is such a great experience! read more

Fast, Fresh, and wow what a view! This place would be 5 stars, even if the food wasn't!

We came to see the boats on 23rd and ordered steamed clams. I am so ill from it and it's 25/12 ans I am still having stomach cramps and unable to keep anything down. Perhaps they were not cleaned of the sand as I could feel it more than normal. Just wanted to let you know for the future. All that said I do love your clam chowder and fish and chips. Pricing is a bit steep for what you get. But that's Seattle where everything is ridiculously expensive! read more

It's good for what it is and what it is is a dockside fried fish bar. I had the Cajun fish and chips, fried shrimp, fried oysters, and onion rings when I've been there. All of them are delicious and served fresh. Even the service was relatively quick. However there are a few downsides. It's outside and the indoor restaurant is twice the price. There is only outdoor seating that is mildly covered and not well heated. These don't take away from the quality of the food but this is more of a lunchtime tourist spot than a place to sit and enjoy yourself. Despite this I rate it four stars for being good at what it is. read more

We visited the fish bar on the pier yesterday afternoon for a bowl of clam chowder, French fries and a soda to kill some time on the pier. I was impressed with how fast the service was and how tasty the food was. I was not impressed with, however, the food poisoning that kicked in about 12 hours later for all of us, including my toddler son... about 4AM, lucky me... Unfortunately, we will not be returning due to this. read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Outdoor seating - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Good margarita, food is ok. Mostly expensive for what it is. The calamari was disappointing, long and straight strips. Too busy, not great. You will need the salt and pepper shakers. Great views! read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Calamari - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Ah yes the flagship Ivar's! You can sit along the water and you're allowed to throw fries at the birds. The dining experience would have been more peaceful without the birds but I still enjoyed my scallop and chips? read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Scallops n Chips - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Quickest and best place in Seattle to get a great bowl of chowder and some fish n chips. Location is near the water so you can enjoy a nice view and sea breeze while eating and the food comes out fresh but quick. read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - White chowder at least it used to be - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Nothing wow but apparently it's a Seattle staple so I was compelled to visit. I think a 3.5 would be more accurate, however this location is really nice. Can't beat waterfront views read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Fish 'N Chips - Original Cod - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Walking the waterfront I noticed the crowd lining up at Ivars, we ordered a four piece Cod and fries. The line went quick, and it was a bit chaotic as to where to stand to pick up your food, no names were taken, no numbers were given, but when the girl called out my order she looked straight at me. I have no clue how she remembers what everyone orders but she did. We sat on the side of the building and were entertained by all the seagulls looking for a bite. We tossed them some fries and laughed and took pictures. The batter on the fish had a nice salty flavor. The fries were average but I would definitely recommend it for a quick bite. read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - 4 piece cod with fries - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Looking for Seattle OG in the form of food? Look no further. Ordered the cod tacos and bruschetta off the menu and was so pleased. Ferry side, port side, close to whatever brings you here. This local staple has been cooking for decades with no end in sight! read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Bomb.com - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Guy behind the counter was cold, rude, and impatient. Doesn't react when it's your turn to order, just stares you down with hate in his eyes without saying anything. Seemed annoyed that I wanted to order something and got visibly pissed when I couldn't hear what he was mumbling. Noticed that he was rude to the next customers if they had the audacity to ask a simple question. The cod with slimy insides on a pile of mostly soggy fries was disappointing for what it cost. At least the clam chowder was okay. read more

If you ask any one in Seattle.."where do I find delicious fish?". The answer is Ivar's Fish House! But of course! On my way to catch the Washington State Ferry to Brainbridge , I decided to try Ivan's and see what all the fuss is about. Be warned: Ivars fries everything: Oysters? Yep! Shrimp? Yep! Clams? Yep! Fried.. Fried .. Fried! One enters the line and places order then steps to the right and pays the cashier. For now, credit card only, due to COVID. There is an organized ordering system: you receive a receipt and wait for your number to be called. I decided to try the fried prawns and fries and a small white clam chowder. The inside seating area is prohibited due to COVID. However... around the corner there is harbor side seating which to me is the best seat in the house. Sitting on these blue iron benches and tables was quite cool with the sun beating on me and I had company... the sea gulls. Gulls eyeing everyone and his/ her meals. Gulls on the landing, gulls in the sea.. waiting for a drop of anything delicious. I must say they gave good taste.. my prawns were small but delicious and not greasy!!! The fries were equally delicious. The chowder ( you can have salmon, red or white) was creamy and stocked with potatoes and chunky clams. The view couldn't be beat: beautiful boats sitting in the harbor. Couldn't ask for anything more picturesque. There are other Ivar eateries; in fact the one next door, Ivars Acres of Clams is a bit more formal: decor and menu. The bathroom also impeccable. If you are looking for a quick bite before or after visiting Public Market ( across the street) or just strolling the waterfront( highly recommend) Ivars is a great place. read more

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The food for this place was good, and it was a good quality for its value, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere was good read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Good food and price was ok. I recommend looking for a place to sit while another person in your party orders the food because tables fill up quickly. The soups are a little salty. read more

This is for the fish bar, not the sit down restaurant. The bar is for people who want a quick bite, and know that Ivar's is the way to go. The food is always amazing. The people behind the counter are always helpful. Now. Their chowder is great, as is the fish and chips. The fries are a little lack luster, but I don't mind if they are dipped in something. The seating can be a bit of hit or miss. Sit in the covered part and you don't get the amazing view, but you get to eat your food in peace and not have to deal with the birds.... but, my kid likes the birds and can give up all the fries he wants. The prices are pretty decent as well and with this being steps from the ferry, it's always a must when we ride in. read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Always the same. We never deviate. Fish and chips, chowder and a soda to share. - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Ivars!! I've never been to this until I got my pup! It's on the waterfront. Always busy. Touristy! And the smell of fish and fries from a mile away! Always find tartar sauce / fries on the sidewalk!! So much garbage near here. It's a turn off! Or enticing depends who you are. I have dined in to the restaurant inside before. But fish bar was a new thing since now I look for outdoors dining with my pup. And now with covid: this was the only thing that's feasible for those fish and chips cravings! Fast! Delicious dinner. The combos usually plenty for 1 or even 2. I've tried their pollock, salmon and chips. Chowder! Shrimp and chips. Halibut! All were good. Combos come with a drink even. They have an outdoor dining area/ covered and non covered. The covered part just smells bad with so much left over garbage. People always find a way to litter. They have plenty of trash cans but food is spill over on the floor! And seagulls attacking! I blame messy eaters/diners for this. And it does affect your visit. But! It's also right next to the sea. Hot nights / fish & chips next to the sea is pretty good. They just need more staff to work the counter and cleaning. People litter too much here and it's unpleasant. Food is good, fast and not too greasy for fried food! Neon signs, seagulls and Seattle skyline is a bonus!! Red clam chowder and Salmon chowders are surprisingly good! And their shrimp! Always so delicious. Always! I often opt for fish and chips but when I do order their shrimp and chips! I wonder why I don't order more. So tasty!! read more

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Who doesn't love Ivar's. I always get the same thing. The Cajun fish and chips and clam chowder. So good.

Many places serve clam chowder on the waterfront, however this place has the best one, it's also cheaper than the others. It's my go to place when I visit Seattle. You can also feed your leftovers to the seagulls (they even have a sign advocating for it) read more

Ivar's Fish Bar - Clam chowder, spicy kalamari, fries - Seafood Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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Food was decent, pretty sure there is better around. I got the cod and chips and clams. Nothing special.