At Riverside Fish n’ Chips, all orders are to-go with seating available riverside or undercover on the nearby patio.

Photo provided

Kris and RJ Whittle knew they’d found a good thing.

The light, thin, crispiness of the batter on the fish and chips was the best they’d ever tasted. The sweet, homemade coleslaw was unlike any other. Their entire family became instant fans of Riverside Fish n’ Chips food cart in Nehalem.

So, when the opportunity came up to purchase the business two years ago, they couldn’t pass it up.

“We had always wanted to own a little food cart or coffee shop or something of that nature,” Kris said. “So, this was an obvious no-brainer.

Kris and RJ Whittle own and operate Riverside Fish n’ Chips food cart in Nehalem. Photo provided by Riverside Fish n’ Chips.

The popularity of the cart has garnered over 800 positive reviews on Google and has attracted press attention. In September, Riverside Fish n’ Chips was named by Eater Portland as one of the “Best Fish and Chip Spots Worth Their Salt on the Oregon Coast.”

At the cart, all orders are to-go with seating available riverside or under cover on the nearby patio.

Inside the cart, the Whittles have a crew that they said they’re really lucky to have. “We have had the same staff since taking over,” Kris said. “They’ve been fantastic to have on this journey with most of them having worked for Riverside Fish n’ Chips for the past four to five years. They work hard for us and work well together. We’re blessed to have the people that we have.”

As a couple, the Whittles are accustomed to working with each other in business. Both currently manage hotels in the Manzanita area and have taken it upon themselves to learn every role in the food cart so they can step in at any point.

“It’s been fun working in both the food and tourism industries” Kris said. “The first year was very challenging. The second year is now a little bit easier, but it’s nice to have someone to be in it with you who understands the work and exhaustion.” During this shoulder season, the couple plans to try out some new menu items and explore how to expedite items even faster during the summer rush.

Follow Riverside Fish n’ Chips on Facebook for updates and business hours. The food cart is located at 35915 N, Hwy 101, Nehalem. From Hwy 101, “follow the fish” to the riverside.

This series is provided by the Economic Development Council of Tillamook County to highlight thriving businesses in Tillamook County. The EDCTC works to strengthen and grow the economy of Tillamook County by working together with public and private partners. The EDCTC works to attract new business, grow and retain existing businesses while supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. For more information, or to reach out to the EDCTC, visit edctc.com.