The Fish Shack

The Fish Shack brought a bold, contemporary twist to seafood dining in the heart of Canberra's city centre. Located within the bustling Canberra Centre on Petrie Plaza, this quick-service seafood eatery earned a loyal following for its generous portions, creative menu, and welcoming, casual atmosphere. Though The Fish Shack has since closed its doors permanently, its reputation lives on through over 600 Google Maps reviews that paint a vivid picture of a local favorite that consistently delivered high-quality, satisfying meals. With a 4.4-star rating, it stood out in the competitive Canberra food scene by offering something genuinely different — a menu that celebrated classic fish and chips while also pushing boundaries with entirely plant-based versions of seafood classics.

The restaurant carved out a unique niche by combining traditional fish-shack comfort food with innovative options that catered to modern dietary preferences. Diners could enjoy everything from crispy battered fish and golden chips to vegan-friendly burgers and gluten-free alternatives, all served in generous portions at accessible price points. This was a spot where families, office workers, and students alike could grab a quick, delicious meal without compromising on flavor or variety.

Menu Highlights at The Fish Shack

The Fish Shack's menu was built around crowd-pleasers executed with care and consistency. Based on customer reviews and the restaurant's search listing, these were the standout offerings that kept people coming back.

• Signature Fish and Chips: The classic fish and chips was the undisputed star, mentioned in 67 Google Maps reviews. Diners praised the crispy, golden batter and the generous fillets of fish served with thick-cut chips.
• Veggie Burger: Another popular item, the veggie burger provided a satisfying alternative for those looking for something meat-free. It appeared in numerous photos and reviews as a go-to choice for plant-based diners.
• Plant-Based Seafood Alternatives: The Fish Shack was ahead of the curve in offering plant-based versions of seafood dishes. This included vegan fish and chips and other alternatives that impressed even skeptical diners with their convincing textures and bold flavors. According to 18 reviewers, these options were a major draw.
• Schnitzel Burger: A heartier option, the schnitzel burger was highlighted in customer photos and praised for its size and flavor.
• Calamari: Tender calamari rings were another favorite, mentioned in 16 reviews. They were noted for being well-cooked and a great side or main dish option.
• Gluten-Free Options: Catering to dietary needs, The Fish Shack offered a full gluten-free menu, earning praise from 15 reviewers who appreciated being able to enjoy fried seafood without worry.

The Dining Experience

The Fish Shack operated as a casual, counter-service restaurant designed for convenience and speed. The atmosphere was laid-back and unpretentious, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed evening meal. The restaurant was situated in a part of the Canberra Centre that allowed for easy access and a bustling, energetic vibe. Customers could choose to dine in, take their food away, or opt for contactless delivery — a service highlighted in the search listing that added to its appeal during its years of operation.

While the setting was informal, the food was taken seriously. Portions were frequently described as generous and very filling. One reviewer noted that they and their two colleagues found the portion sizes more than adequate for dinner, emphasizing that the meal left them fully satisfied. The restaurant was described as dog-friendly, an attribute appreciated by pet owners in the city area. It was also recognized as an LGBTQ+-friendly space, contributing to its inclusive and welcoming reputation.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

The Fish Shack held a strong 4.4-star rating on Google Maps from 619 reviews, a testament to its consistent quality and customer satisfaction during its operation. The overwhelming majority of reviews were positive, with recurring themes highlighting the taste, portion size, and unique menu options.

Google Maps reviewers consistently mentioned that the food was delicious and well-prepared. One enthusiastic reviewer described the experience vividly: "Mmmh! Mmmh! Mmmh! As I write this review, my mouth is watering again thinking about the fantastic food this restaurant keeps serving!" Another customer, who visited specifically to try the plant-based alternatives, shared that they were "positively surprised by how good it was! The flavors were delicious, the texture slightly resembled fish, and everything was gluten-free."

The only minor cautionary note came from a reviewer who suggested the restaurant was better suited for lunch or dinner rather than breakfast, as the food was "quite greasy" and could be "too oily" for a morning meal. This candid feedback only added to the authentic, local character of the profile, underscoring The Fish Shack's identity as a destination for hearty, indulgent seafood meals.

The Fish Shack in Canberra's City Centre

The Fish Shack was located at 87/105 Petrie Plaza, inside the Canberra Centre in the central business district. This prime location placed it at the crossroads of shopping, business, and entertainment in the nation's capital. Being within a major shopping center meant easy access for office workers on their lunch break, families on weekend outings, and tourists exploring the city. The central address made it a convenient meeting spot and a reliable choice for a quick, satisfying meal without venturing far from the city's main hubs.

As a takeaway-friendly venue with delivery options, The Fish Shack catered to the fast-paced rhythm of city life. Whether someone needed a quick bite between meetings or a laid-back meal after shopping, it filled the role effectively.

Hours, Reservations & Contact

As of mid-2024, The Fish Shack has permanently closed. The information related to its traditional operating hours, reservation policies, and current contact details is no longer applicable. During its years of service, the restaurant could be reached by phone at +61 2 6248 5885 and maintained an online presence through its website. The venue offered dine-in, takeaway, and contactless delivery services, adapting well to the changing needs of its customers over time.

Common Questions

Is The Fish Shack still open?

No, The Fish Shack in Canberra Centre is permanently closed.

What was The Fish Shack known for?

The Fish Shack was best known for its generous portions of fish and chips, its innovative plant-based seafood alternatives, and a broad menu that included gluten-free options.

Where was The Fish Shack located?

It was located at 87/105 Petrie Plaza, inside the Canberra Centre in Canberra, ACT.

Did The Fish Shack offer gluten-free food?

Yes, according to multiple Google Maps reviews, The Fish Shack offered a gluten-free menu and was a popular choice for diners with gluten sensitivities.

Did The Fish Shack have vegetarian or vegan options?

Absolutely. In addition to veggie burgers, The Fish Shack was a pioneer in offering plant-based fish and chips and other vegan alternatives, earning praise from 18 Google Maps reviewers.

What was the price range at The Fish Shack?

The restaurant was reported by customers to fall in the $1–20 per person price range, offering excellent value for the portion sizes provided.

Was The Fish Shack dog-friendly?

Yes, it was listed as dog-friendly, making it a welcoming spot for pet owners in the city.