The Jersey Shore is known as a haven for great fish and seafood restaurants - how could it not be? Only feet from the ocean, the area is full of fishermen who make their living dragging in the latest catch. However, to find the best fried seafood in New Jersey, you'll want to go where the fishermen go. Keyport Fishery, an old-school fish market in Keyport that has been serving the community for decades, is a surprising gem dishing out what might be the best fried seafood in New Jersey. This is a working fish market, selling the catch of the day, but a simple menu on the wall lets you know that you can have that catch crispy-fried and served to you ready to eat. This takeout-only gem is the perfect meal before a day of fun on the water, and it's no surprise that it's maintained a big fanbase for all these years. Let's take a closer look at the Keyport Fishery in Keyport, New Jersey.

The Keyport Fishery usually has lines outside, and there's a reason this humble fish shack still packs them in after all these years.

Located only feet away from the pier, this takeout-only restaurant is popular with local workers and seafood superfans from around the state.

Why can't you sit down and eat inside like most seafood shacks? Because this isn't a seafood shack at all - it's a working fish market, running a brisk business in fresh fish.

You can find fillets and whole fish of all the popular seasonal catch, making it an amazing place to go shopping for a family fish dinner.

Or you can have some seafood dishes fresh from the ocean, adorned only with the condiments you need for a delicious meal.

But most visitors come here for the fried seafood, offered daily for market prices. The fried fish fillets come perfectly fried with a crispy coating. The Keyport Fishery menu has so much to offer.

The fried shrimp will make you forget all about Red Lobster, as every plump shrimp tastes of the sea.

The whole-belly clams are another signature item, so make sure to try them when they're on offer.

Most of the fried seafood can be ordered as a sandwich - making it much easier to enjoy while sitting on a bench with a stunning view of the water.

The Keyport Fishery is a popular local gem, so it's no surprise that it's gained the attention of several food and travel bloggers! This video by Eat Travel Roll took us inside the humble fish market for a delicious meal back in 2021.

Have you been to the Keyport Fishery in Keyport, New Jersey? Let us know what you think about this fish market/takeout restaurant combo, and let us know your picks for the best fried seafood in New Jersey in the comments section. If you're planning to visit, make sure to drop by the Keyport Fishery Facebook page to see current updates and specials. If you're looking for some fun shopping during your stay in the area on your beachside getaway, check out these antique shops in Keyport:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-jersey/best-antiques-nj/