I am a sucker for some good fish and chips. I really enjoy when it is put together perfectly To get it as near as authentic is something that one can strive for. I have come across very few places that hit the mark, and this one definitely did. I could have cared less what else was on the menu, I walked up, ordered the fish and chips, paid, and had them in my hands in no time flat. Truly, I ordered and before the payment processed I had food in hand. Service was definitely the fastest I have had just about anywhere. After finding a seat I was able to dig in. "The Governor's" Fish & Chips, as the menu officially names it, is a gigantic piece of Atlantic cod. Expertly battered and fried to a crip. Each bite was crunchy with that flaky cod inside. Pairing it with the tartar sauce for every single bite, you will keep going until this disappeared. Their chips, more like potato wedges, are triple cooked. Extremely crispy, the ketchup is a nice addition, never was a malt vinegar person. I was definitely full and shared some of this with my colleague as so none of this would go to waste. The only thing that I did not like were the Mushy Peas. I know, the name says it all, but they could have let that little cup of those watery, bland peas off the plate. This was by far the most delicious lunches I have had in a long time. read more

Some of the best fish and chips I've had in a long time!! Above Ground is located inside Union Market. I can on a Sunday afternoon, and the market was buzzing, but there wasn't anyone in line for this place. I got "The Governor's" Fish & Chips. It comes with "mushy peas". I asked what that was, and the gentleman literally showed me a can of green peas. So I politely asked for no peas, just an extra tartar sauce instead. My wait was only about 10 minutes and my food came out piping hot! The fish was crispy, flaky and delicious. The chips were more like potato wedges, just not as crispy, but they give you a generous portion!! The tartar sauce!??? 10/10...one of the best tartar sauces I've had. It paired perfectly with the fish, and I'm glad I had two. The meal also comes with a lemon wedge and packets of malt vinegar, which I absolutely used. And if you like hot sauce on your fish like i do, ask for packets of their "spicy sauce". Overall, a great first experience. And well worth the $19 it's priced at. Downside: Union Market has NO A/C. It was sooo hot in there, everyone was walking around sweating. My food would've been 10x better if I could've eaten comfortably. read more

See all

After an excellent introduction through an event, I decided to return and purchase their famous fish & chips, a bottle of the NOLA Hurricane, and a cup of their Old Fashioned. The fish & chips were spectacular! The fish contained loads of flavor and was fried to perfection-perfect crispy to it! The chips were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Both were perfectly paired with tartar sauce and the most delicious mushy peas. NOLA Hurricane- nice and strong! Perfect for rooftop weather. The Old Fashioned was great! If you're an Old Fashioned lover, you'd appreciate it. Looks like I found a spot worth supporting many times again! Friendly staff! Great seating area, and it's fun! I had a great time visiting again. read more

See all

I've been seeing the trending videos on Above Ground for a while. So I figured I'd give it a try. My son was actually the one interested in fish n chips. I was shocked because he tends to be a picky eater. We came to Union Market right around 5ish. Place wasn't too crowded on a Friday evening. I always love seeing the menu as it does offer a variety of British staples. My kids devoured almost all of his fish. There was a nice crisp to the filets and the chips were well seasoned. My only "complaint" is not having a cheaper option or smaller portion. It comes with a lot of food, which you hope so for paying $20 for fresh, quality, authentic food! read more

Above Ground - "THE GOVERNOR'S" Fish & Chips - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Finally had the chance to try Above Ground in Union Market and was not disappointed! The food was made to order and I burned the roof of my mouth because I was starving and dying to try the meal! It was totally worth getting third-degree burns in my esophagus!! I tried the Governor's Fish 'n Chips and it was immaculate! The fish was a huge fillet and the batter was well seasoned and the fish was fresh! I dipped it in the tartar sauce which speaks volumes for me as I rarely use tartar sauce to dip my fried seafood in. Mushy peas were great too not a way I normally eat peas but I digged it! The chips were well seasoned as well. Def gotta come back and try their meat pies. The steak and ale pie is calling to me! read more

Above Ground - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

I like to consider myself a fried potato connoisseur. After seeing this place on TikTok and making a mental note of it, I happened to be in the area of Union Market yesterday and decided to pay Above Ground a visit. I am so happy I did. First off, let's give this place a shout for their commitment to giving an authentic experience to the people of the DMV looking for a chip shop vibe. The Lucazade... the Irn-Bru... the selection of UK sweets... everything gave that feeling of a chip shop that I long for as a U.S. citizen who dreams of living in London one day. The service was very personal and charming - I spoke with the owner a bit and he seemed like a guy I'd love to talk to at a house party. He's clearly passionate about what he does and he keeps things moving along while also taking time to get to know the customers. I ordered the chips and if I were to say the portions were generous, that would be an understatement. We love a place who gives good value for the price which, don't get it twisted, these fried potatoes were like $15 or so but it was *easily* enough to share with 2-3 other people. *And* generous portions don't always mean quality -- this place knows ball. Easily the BEST fried potato, fries or otherwise, I've had in the DMV. Not even a competition. Crispy, yet fluffy on the inside. Surprisingly light and airy despite how thick cut they are. And they don't feel heavy or overly greasy. This place is officially on my hit list for the future -- can't wait to try the sausage roll and the beans on toast (my fave). Worth noting: this spot in located inside the Food Hall in Union Market so you have to find it in the food court. It's also a smaller stall and easy to miss if you don't know where you're going. But it's well worth the effort. read more

Above Ground - Above Ground in Union Market -- in a narrow hallway; easy to miss; don't play yourself this place slaps. - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I discovered Above Ground through an Instagram post and knew that I had to try it the next time I was in DC! Well, it did now disappoint! It definitely tastes like it's from a British chip shop. The flavors are authentic and the food was fresh and piping hot upon delivery. I am not a tartar sauce or mushy peas kind of girl, but I still tried them both. They were DELICIOUS and really amped up the flavor of the fish and chips! I'll have to go again, this time in-person, to catch a FIFA World Cup game to really get the authentic British pub experience! read more

See all

Wow, the fish and chips were delicious and the highlight of my visit to the Union Market. Got to have it fresh out of the fryer on the spot to truly enjoy this crispy and fresh cut of fish with potato wedges. The fish was quite a sizable portion and was tender and moist inside. The potato wedges were crispy and delicious with a crunch. The seasoning was just right and the portions were quite filling. After walking around the whole Union Market, I really can say Above Ground is on the top of the list for this visit. I will have to try more on the menu like the meat pies and cheese pies. The candy section was quite different from traditional plain chocolate, so that would be a plus in my book. read more

See all

I had the fish and chips. It comes with one piece of fish on a plate of fries. The fish is flacky, thick and tender. It's beer battered, a bit doughy inside and no seasoning, not even a hint of salt. If I return, I'd probably try some of the other unique items. read more

Above Ground - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Came here after work because we saw the instagram reviews and wanted to try this place for ourselves. We ordered the Governor. Well folks here's the honest truth. This place food is trash! GARBAGE! The fish is heavily BREADED fish non existent soaked in grease, them wedges salty as hell soaked in grease as well, tartar sauce sour it's something in it that just doesn't sit well for my taste, then mashed pea's I'm not even attempting to taste them. I don't know who these folks are making this place a spot to come eat at. How ever much money they made to say the food was good I hope you spent it on getting your stomach pumped and asked for forgiveness for making this place a good fish and chips spot. The service subpar nothing to rave about. Ambiance? It's Union Market of course it's esthetically pleasing. 0/10 would not recommend. I hope this review reaches the masses so this place can cease to exist because ain't no way it should still be open. read more

See all

Tucked inside Union Market and it did not disappoint. The fish sandwich is HUGE, honestly big enough to feed two maybe three people. If you have not tried it yet you need to. You MIGHT be able to finish it solo if you are really hungry but I suggest bringing someone to help you out. Good vibes, friendly staff and the fries were solid too. Go check them out. read more

Above Ground - Fish Sandwich with Fries - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Had my first experience at Aboveground as a gluten sensitive person and was blown away! Food: I ordered the Chicken Tikka Masala and Chips. The tikka masala was the perfect combination of sweet and savory. Definitely a bit sweeter than an Indian tikka masala which I liked! The chips have been rated best in DC and I can see why. Perfectly seasoned and crispy and I enjoyed it with their curry ketchup. They also sell lots of British treats including candy, so we snagged a few of those too! Service: I was lucky enough to come while Chef Nicolas was working and he is the BEST! So personable and you can tell he's super passionate about what he has created. He gave me lots of background about the food from aboveground, the flavors I was tasting, and the history behind the meals. He also let me know the chicken tikka masala is 100% gluten free and the chips are better for someone who may be gluten sensitive since it's fried in a fryer next to gluten and flour may fall into the chips fryer. Overall, had such a great experience and will be back!! read more

Above Ground - Lg Triple Cooked Chips - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

The chips were soggy and the oil needs to be changed. There's no way they cooked three times. The fish was ok. Small for the price. The batter was not crispy, and seemed uncooked. The batter had no taste. The fish was just "there". You think if you were selling mushy peas, the fish would be good. - what could be done differently. read more

The service made this 10/10. My order had an issue and the staff tonight were very friendly and corrected it right away. read more

Above Ground - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

One of many neat little spots inside Union Market. Size of the fish was big, the batter was just as crispy as I wanted it. Was super impressed that the fries didn't go immediately soggy - lived up to the hype! Loved the sweet touch of the UK treats on the rack by the register and surrounding the counter. read more

There are so many options at Union Market, but one place that I come back to is AboveGround, Washington DC's very own chipper. When I get the craving for a pubfood experience, I get myself one of their HUGE Fish & Chips and hope that I can finish it. The fish is a gigantic filet of whitefish (cod, I think) that's the size of my forearm, well breaded and crispy but not too greasy. Add some vinegar and it's ready to go. The fries are a little thicker than expected, but they fit the bill with their smooth, starchy chew. You may be stuffed afterwards, but don't forget to get a few bars of British candy bars to enjoy after you get home. Eat here enough, and you'll be tipping your bowler on the way out! Give AboveGround a try - it's definitely worth it! read more

Above Ground - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

I've walked around Union Market countless times and for some reason had overlooked AboveGround stall every time. I guess I was always lured to the more complex and intense flavors of the stalls that surround it. But I was in the area recently and read all the glowing reviews on Yelp about their fish and chips and decided that I had to try it for myself. I was blown away by how good it was. They serve you a huge piece of freshly fried perfectly crispy cod on a bed of thick cut chips along with a cup of traditional mushy peas. The fish was perfectly seasoned and moist and served with tartar sauce and malt vinegar. The tartar sauce was nicely balanced between tangy, creamy, and acidic. This was probably the best fish and chips I've had in this area and is worth traveling to Union Market for. Additional, and perhaps most importantly, it was an excellent value at just $19 (not including tax or tip). The service was quick and friendly. I look forward to coming back soon and trying other items on their menu. read more

Above Ground - THE GOVERNORS Fish & Chips - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I love this little spot. No frills fish and chips. When I order my meal, I pretend I'm in the London Underground. Service is straightforward and I can tell the chef takes pride in his work. I would say this spot and Vic are my go to for f&c. read more

Above Ground - THE GOVERNORS Fish & Chips - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Friendly service, the food tasted fresh. I ordered a Steak & Ale pie - I was slightly disappointed that it wasn't very full and not a lot of meat but the flavor was ok, I liked the texture of the pie crust top (note: tbe crust is not on the bottom of the pie). I did enjoy trying something new. read more

Above Ground - Steak & Ale Pie - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Damn good fish and chips. Hot, crunchy, and fresh, each bite was golden. My only gripe is I wanted more tartar sauce (which was amazing, if it's from a brand, please let me know) and I wish there was a bit more fish in it (way more fries than fish). The mashed peas were interesting. The sausage roll I got on the side was good too, perfectly flaky, and went well with the curry sauce. Service was pretty fast. read more

See all

I don't know if it's me, British food in general or this place but I found the fish and chips I ordered to be very mediocre. The fries were good. The coating separated from the fish too easily. I wanted fish and chips and this didn't hit the spot. At all. The lady serving the food was very friendly and nice, but the food, no. I wouldn't go back. read more

This place is the real deal and I'm ashamed it took me so long to give it a try. The fish and chips here are an absolute knockout. From the mammoth piece of airy crispy fried fish to the absolutely elite chips. Let me tell you these might be the best thick cut fries I've ever had. Aboveground is a must stop when checking out union market. read more

I heard good things about the Fish and Chips here. After Duffy's, directly across the street closed and "Across the Pond" closed for relocating, I was on a quest. Being over at Cap Hill we tried the Irish Times. Their idea of Fish and chips was nothing more than glorified fish sticks. For an Irish restaurant with reputation, disappointed is an understatement. Fast forward to Above Ground, a month or so later. We ordered two Fish and Chips dinners and two orders of Curried Fish Puffs, just in case. The fish was so generously sized that hung off the plate. Size aside the fish was cooked perfectly and tasted best as I've had, and I've had my share. The only complaint was the taste of the tarter sauce, I make better . This was my first time having curried fish puffs and they were flaky and the curry sauce on the side was on the sweet side. We were so satisfied that it makes it hard to try something else when we go back. I'm disappointed that there isn't a 6th star. Tim read more

One bite of their fish and chips and I was instantly transported back to childhood family dinners--only this version is grown up and way more delicious. The fish was clearly fresh, not frozen, perfectly crispy, and full of flavor. And as a proud dipper, the sauces were the real MVPs: curry ketchup, curry mayo, and a tartar sauce I'd put on everything. I'm not usually into thick-cut fries, but these were golden, crispy, and seasoned to perfection--made for dunking. The chef? Super personable and passionate--he came out to chat and shared a bit about his background, which made the whole experience feel even more special. You can tell there's heart in the food. The rest of the staff were super friendly too! Union Market can get pretty crowded, especially on the weekends, so if you're wanting a place to sit after grabbing your food, I'd recomendable scoping out a table inside, a picnic table outside, or a spot on the roof so you'll have a place to enjoy your bites. Bottomline -- Aboveground is comfort food with a glow-up, and don't forget the sauces. read more

See all

Six stars. Let me just say, upon seeing this tiny booth, I wasn't expecting much. First I saw all of the delicious British junk food that I've enjoyed on my visits there. But then...then I saw the pastry case in all of its glory. Pot pies, shepherd's pie, and other deliciousness. And their menu board advertised triple cooked chips! I had already eaten dinner, so I couldn't enjoy the chips on this visit, but I did get a chicken leek pot pie to go. I couldn't write this review until I had the pie, which I did today warmed up in my oven at 350 for 20 minutes. Oh. My. God. Single best pot pie I have had in maybe a decade or longer. Flakey crust, creamy filling with just the right balance of ingredients. I'm already dreaming of when I can go back for another! read more

I do not get the high average review score. I've eaten fish and chips in almost every city on the planet that sells fish and chips. It sounds good on the menu but the fish is about 3° less than mediocre. It tastes frozen and at least 70% of the substance is the breading. The chips, fried potatoes, are actually the highlight of the meal. I'm not a fan of super thick chips, but they managed Make them pretty tasty. They're even a bit crispy. But I can't say it enough, the fish was a sad let down. Why try to serve Alaskan cod in Washington DC? The fish tastes like it took a slow train from Alaska. As for the service, amateur. The guy behind the counter was so preoccupied with his cell phone that he actually missed half of my order. In the end I only ended up with one order of fish and chips although I ordered two. The ambiance has nothing to do with the restaurant, it's all about the public market style dining. I like it. read more

Have you ever had fish & chips from England? If no, there is a spot inside of Union Market D.C., that's got that!! This eatery has imported candy too!! Who said English food was bad? Let's GO!! . Where I am: @aboveground_dc . Location Reviewed: 1309 5th St., N.E. Washington D.C. inside of @unionmarketdc . Menu Includes: *See Website* www.abovegrounddc.com/ . Items Reviewed: Their Curry Fish Puff (with Madras curry, English peas, puff pastry, & curry mayo $6). LIKE THAT!! A well blend of curry spices, not fishy!! STAMP that mayo too!! Their Sausage Roll (English spiced pork, puff pastry, & curry ketchup $7). STAMP!! A meaty, mild sausage, flaky, & STAMP that ketchup too!! Their Governor's Fish & Chips (Atlantic Cod, triple cooked chips, tartar sauce, & malt vinegar $18). STAMP!! Best fries I've EVER HAD!! The beer battered fish...GET THIS!! Their Shepherds Pie (with minced lamb, carrot, & mashed potatoes $15). STAMP!! Well seasoned lamb, creamy potatoes, DELECTABLE!! Their Chicken & Leek pie (with free range chicken, Dijon cream, & puff pastry $14). LIKE THAT!! It's like a chicken pot pie!! Their Irn Bru Soda (an orange cream soda $3). STAMP!! Not overly sweet, with a bubble gum aftertaste!! Their Ribena Crush (a black current drink with vodka, lime, & mint $10). DELICIOUS. It was proper bitter ole chap!! Good. The Imported Candy ($3 each). STAMP the Crunchie!! A chocolate coated crunchy butterscotch. STAMP the Lion!! A caramel, Nestle crunch KitKat!! YES!! The Starbar DELICIOUS. It's chocolate covered roasted peanuts with caramel. Personal preference...I just didn't like it. The Fruit & Nut Chocolate Bar...PASS. Chocolaty, but this was like the fruitcake of chocolate!! The Fruit Pastilles...STAMP!! A gummy fruit candy!! . Online Navigation: Easy . Customer Service: On Point . Parking: ROUGH in the lot. . Recommendations: Get the Fish n Fries, that shepherds pie, them candies... . Music:YouTube-The What Band Let the Beat Ride 5 Stars=STAMP 4 1/2 Stars=LIKE THAT 4 Stars=DELICIOUS 3 Stars=DECENT 2 Stars=PASS 1 Star=NAH #Bigschlimsreviews read more

See all

Cute spot with efficient service and quality eats. Doesn't try to do too much. Had a delicious shepherd's pie that's truly memorable. This classic English dish comes topped with piped mashed potatoes that are broiled to a wonderful, golden crisp. It's really a hearty, savory meal--not just a snack--and satisfying. Jolly good, AboveGround. I'll be back. read more

See all

We dined as a group of ten at Above Ground on Saturday, May 30th, and the experience was exceptional. The Fish and Chips were the most authentic I've had in the area -- it genuinely felt like being back in London. Every person in our group enjoyed their meal, and we left already talking about our next visit. read more

The best Fish and Chips on this side of the Pond. The Tarter King is amazing they were a stop on our Scavenger Hunt and made it so memorable! read more

Absolutely delicious. The best tartar sauce I've ever had in my life.. The chips were perfectly cooked and seasoned

The service and food was phenomenal!!! The vibe was cool, great place to go on a date

The Steak and Ale pie was sooo good. Brought me back to my favourite pub in London. Will definitely return to try more of the menu. You should too. read more

Best fish and chips in the city, if not the entire east coast! You can tell they use real ingredients, and the preparation is authentic and thoughtful. read more

Great sandwich. I came up eating Arthur Treaters in the 70's and 80's. No real fish & chips place came close after they closed. I enjoyed the crunchy batter and excellent tartar sauce. read more

Despite being located in a bustling food hall, Above Ground stand out with its English Pub vibes. They serve a very popular fish and chips meal, along with various hands pies and other options. I enjoyed an order of chips with curry ketchup. I was totally shocked, in a good way, by the large portion size! The chips were perfectly fried and perfectly salted, large potato wedges. The curry ketchup was quite tasty! Service was efficient. I was given a pager that summoned me when my order was ready. They also sell a large variety of English candies and snacks. I snagged one of my favorites, a Bounty Bar! read more

Above Ground in DC? Fire. The vibes are right from the moment you walk in, cool but not trying too hard, just real solid energy. The food? Next level! . You can tell they're serious about quality without being fussy. Service is on point too, chill, friendly...10/10!!!! read more

Above Ground - THE GOVERNORS Fish & Chips - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

My favorite chocolate bar is Cadbury's Starbar. Since Dean & Delucca closed, it is challenging to find it in DC. Eastern Market has a cute stand inspired by Britain. There is a selection of treats and food you would find in Britain. No worries, you can leave your passport at home! I am willing to pay more for something that is an easy commute from my house. During the week, it is easier to find parking. read more

Above Ground - Fish & Chips Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Nicholas you were right I believe was in GB great FishAndChip will come again for sure

Decent fish and chips The fish was hard to eat as the bottom breading was almost disintegrated. I ate in too so it shouldn't be that soggy. What was left was tasty and the homemade sauce was good. Some of the chips were grainy and just seemed old. Service was quick and friendly. read more