McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish Vs Captain D’s Giant Fish: Which Is The Best Fish Sandwich?
Fish sandwiches rarely get the spotlight at fast food chains. Still, they have a loyal fan base, especially during Lent. The Filet-O-Fish vs Captain D’s Giant Fish debate is a classic matchup between a burger giant and a seafood specialist. One chain built its name on beef. The other built its entire menu around the sea. So, which sandwich actually deserves your order?
Two Very Different Origin Stories
McDonald’s never set out to be a seafood stop. However, the chain noticed it was losing customers on Fridays during Lent, when many Catholics skip meat. As a result, it rolled out the Filet-O-Fish nationwide in 1965. The sandwich has stayed on the menu for six decades, largely thanks to habit and nostalgia.
Captain D’s took the opposite route. It opened in 1969 selling both seafood and hamburgers. By 1974, though, it had dropped burgers completely to focus on fish. That focus shows up clearly in its Giant Fish Sandwich, which puts the fillet front and center.
Filet-O-Fish vs Captain D’s Giant Fish at a Glance
Before getting into flavor, it helps to see how the two sandwiches compare on paper. Prices vary by location, so treat these figures as a general guide.
| Feature | McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish | Captain D’s Giant Fish Sandwich |
|---|---|---|
| Approximate price (sandwich only) | Around $5.49 | Around $5.89 |
| Type of fish | Alaskan pollock | Alaskan pollock |
| Number of fillets | One square fillet | Two large fillets |
| Coating | Crumb-style breading | Batter-dipped and fried |
| Toppings | Tartar sauce, half slice of American cheese | Tartar sauce, shredded lettuce |
| Bun | Soft steamed bun | Toasted bun |
| Overall size | Compact | Fillets hang well past the bun |
How Captain D’s Giant Fish Sandwich Holds Up
The name is not an exaggeration. Two big pollock fillets stretch far beyond the edges of the bun. Consequently, you get several bites of plain fried fish before you even reach the bread. For fish lovers, that is a real bonus.
The batter is the standout feature. It fries up crunchy with only a light layer of oil. Meanwhile, the fish inside stays white, mild and flaky. Because it is often cooked to order, you may wait a few extra minutes. Even so, that wait usually pays off in freshness.
The rest of the build is simple on purpose:
- The bun is toasted and pleasantly chewy, though fairly ordinary.
- The tartar sauce is creamy with small bits of pickle, but it could use more tang.
- The lettuce adds little and often arrives limp.
Where McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish Falls Short
Next to Captain D’s, the Filet-O-Fish looks small. In fact, it is roughly half the size. Its square fillet also has a uniform, processed appearance. In addition, McDonald’s adds a half slice of American cheese, which divides fans.
Texture is the biggest weakness. The breading is crumbly rather than crisp. Inside, the fish tends to be soft and lacks much seafood flavor. For many diners, it tastes closer to a frozen fish stick than a fresh fillet.
That said, the tartar sauce deserves credit. It is tangy, herby and slightly sweet. Unfortunately, when the sauce is the best part, the fish itself is not doing its job. Ultimately, much of the sandwich’s appeal comes from convenience and nostalgia.
The Verdict: Which Fish Sandwich Should You Order?
Captain D’s Giant Fish Sandwich is the clear winner. The deciding factor is the fish. You get two crunchy, flaky fillets for only a few cents more than McDonald’s charges for one smaller piece. On top of that, the toasted bun and creamy sauce round it out well.
The Filet-O-Fish still has a place, however. It is easy to find, consistent everywhere, and comforting for longtime fans. If a McDonald’s is your only option, it will do the job. But if a Captain D’s is nearby, it is worth the short detour.
Tips for Getting the Best Fast Food Fish Sandwich
Whichever chain you choose, a few small tricks can improve your order:
- Ask for your sandwich made fresh, especially at off-peak hours.
- Request extra tartar sauce if you like a creamier bite.
- Skip the lettuce at Captain D’s if you prefer a cleaner crunch.
- Order the Filet-O-Fish without cheese if you want a purer fish flavor.
- Eat it right away, since fried coatings soften quickly in the bag.
FAQs
Which is bigger, the Filet-O-Fish or Captain D’s Giant Fish?
Captain D’s Giant Fish is much bigger. It has two large fillets, while the Filet-O-Fish has one small square fillet.
What fish do McDonald’s and Captain D’s use?
Both chains use Alaskan pollock, a mild white fish that is common in fast food seafood.
Why does the Filet-O-Fish have cheese?
McDonald’s includes a half slice of American cheese as part of its original recipe. You can ask to leave it off.
Is Captain D’s fish sandwich worth the price?
Yes, for most diners. It costs only slightly more than the Filet-O-Fish but delivers far more fish and a crispier texture.
