This Historic Tavern Is Known For Some Of The Best Fish & Chips On The Oregon Coast

by | May 15, 2024 | Breweries, Food & Drink, Restaurants

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If you like the look and feel of a classic pub, friendly staff, great beer and even greater fish and chips, then head to Bill’s Tavern and Brewshouse on the main drag in Cannon Beach. This historic building was originally established all the way back in 1932 and was then named The Imperial Grill. The now famous restaurant location has turned over ownership several times over the past century, but has remained a mainstay on Hemlock Street, serving beachgoers for years. 

perfect fried fish
perfect fried fish, Krista Andrews-Shahini Google Local

In 1984, Ken Campbell and Jim Oyala bought the building and it’s been operating as Bill’s, a family-run coastal tavern for over 30 years. In addition to having some of the best fish and chips on the coast, they’ve also been brewing their own beers on site since 1997 using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The Oyala family is still involved with the business on a daily basis including Jim’s wife Mary Ann Oyala and their daughter Lindsey. They proudly dub themselves the “Original Cannon Beach Brewery,” and you’ve got to stop by to try their beer! 

Seafood Stew
Seafood Stew, Lisa Kling Google Local

Over the years, the brewers at Bill’s have created perennial fan favorites like the Duck Dive Pale Ale and Blackberry Beauty (where you can actually taste the blackberries!), but they’re constantly innovating with new recipes and love to experiment based on suggestions from their loyal customer base. They also serve local ciders and wine if you’re not a beer drinker, so they’re something for everyone. You should also try their Sweet Williams Homemade Root Beer for a refreshing, non-alcoholic treat.

Cobb salad
Cobb salad, P A Google Local

But it wouldn't be a proper coast tavern without fish and chips, and Bill’s delivers! Here you can get some of the tastiest fish and chips in Oregon as either halibut or cod. No matter what you order, it will be perfectly cooked with plump and juicy fish that’s been hand-dipped in a crispy (but not overly breaded) beer batter, and served with a delicious tartar sauce. Pair it with a fresh side salad for the ultimate lunch or dinner.

fish and chips
fish and chips, Cindy McDonald Google Local

Bill’s is also known for their scrumptious onion rings, New England style clam chowder, and other great sandwiches like the BLT made with premium bacon, crisp lettuce, juicy tomato and mayo on your choice of sourdough, wheat, or golden rye, or their Oyster Burger made with breaded & grilled oysters, served on a pub bun with tomato, lettuce, onion, pickles, and tartar sauce and a side of potato chips. For a lighter option, try their Chicken Cobb Salad that comes with chicken breast, bacon, egg, bleu cheese crumbles, tomato, cucumber, bell pepper, and your choice of dressing.

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onion rings
onion rings, Abigail London Google Local

The next time you’re in Cannon Beach, head to Bill’s for a fun and welcoming pub environment. The dining room has a bit of a rustic vibe with wood benches and cute knick knacks on the wall, but tall ceilings for an open and airy feeling. There’s also a front porch where you can bring your dog with you, so you and your furry friend can kick back after a day of frolicking in the sand. Plus they have live music every Thursday night—what’s not to love!  

dining room
dining room, Natalia Koshkina Google Local

Hours:

  • Sunday - Thursday, 11:30am - 9:00pm
  • Friday and Saturday, 11:30am - 10:00pm

Address: 188 N Hemlock St, Cannon Beach

Phone: (503) 436-2202


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Written By Diana Flowers

Diana is a writer living in Portland with her delightful son and crotchety cat. Growing up in the area, family vacations were often to nearby destinations reachable by car. She has since expanded that love of local road trips and has been all over the great state of Oregon and throughout the Pacific Northwest, frequently pairing backpacking trips with exploring new towns and regions.

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