Microplastic pollution represents a significant environmental and biological hazard that, despite its microscopic nature, poses substantial risks to marine ecosystems and human health. The present study investigated microplastic contamination in 13 species of commercial reef-associated finfishes collected through random sampling from fish markets around Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Analysis revealed 226 microplastic particles across 83 fish samples, with 144 particles in edible tissues and 82 in non-edible parts. Notably, Stolephorus insularis exhibited the highest microplastic load in edible tissues (0.105 items/g), while Atule mate showed maximum concentration in non-edible tissues (0.094 items/g). The microplastics were predominantly fragments, with 800–1000 µm size range and, black and red in colour, suggesting potential origins from fishing gear and marine debris. Statistical analysis revealed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.82) between microplastic concentrations in edible and non-edible tissues, though the difference between tissue types was not statistically significant (p = 0.14). The Kruskal–Wallis test indicated uniform distribution of microplastics across species in both edible and non-edible tissues. Despite the relatively modest sample size, the substantial presence of microplastics, particularly in edible tissues, raises significant concerns about food safety and public health. The potential for these particles to bioaccumulate and transfer through the food chain emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive monitoring programmes and management strategies to address marine plastic pollution in these coastal waters.