In Hawaii we call it butterfish. On the mainland it goes by black cod, or sablefish. It is one of the richest, silkiest fish in the sea, and it has a devoted following for good reason.
What is butterfish
Butterfish, black cod, and sablefish are three names for the same fish, Anoplopoma fimbria, a cold, deep-water species with a high oil content and a soft, velvety texture. One important note, butterfish is not escolar, which is sometimes sold under a similar name. The classic Hawaii misoyaki butterfish is black cod, and that is what we mean here.
What it tastes like
Rich and buttery, exactly as the name promises. The high oil content gives it a melting texture and a mild, almost sweet flavor that holds up to bold marinades without drying out or falling apart.
How to eat it
The islands' favorite is misoyaki, marinated in miso, mirin, and sugar, then broiled until the top caramelizes. It is also excellent as sashimi and nigiri, where the oil shines, and it takes beautifully to a simple broil or a slow roast. It is a forgiving fish to cook at home. For the classic, see our miso-glazed black cod recipe.
How we source it
We select our butterfish the way we grade for the islands' best kitchens, then cut it to order and ship it cold.
How to buy butterfish
Shop our butterfish, black cod sashimi cut, or browse the full whitefish selection. New to ordering fish this way? Start with our guide to buying sashimi-grade fish online.
Shop ButterfishCommon questions
Is butterfish the same as black cod?
Yes. Butterfish, black cod, and sablefish are all the same fish. Butterfish is the common Hawaii name.
Is butterfish the same as escolar or walu?
No. Escolar, sometimes called walu, is a different fish. The Hawaii misoyaki butterfish people love is black cod, or sablefish.
Can you eat butterfish raw?
Yes, sashimi-grade black cod is excellent raw, as sashimi or nigiri, where its rich oil stands out.
Selected by Ham. Honolulu since 1981.