Sure is.  Read about it below.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/anise/difference-between-anise-and-fennel.htm

I like to use anise when I make hamburger patties.  I add it in with the rest of whatever spices I'm using, slap a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the burger and let it melt just a tad, brown the bun in butter (if using a bun) and spread a little pizza sauce on the top of the burger and wahoo I've got a pizzaburger.

But I could also use fennel for this same purpose.

I also use a lot of anise around the Christmas holiday because I use TONS of it in my butter-anise shortbread cookies and in my homemade biscotti.  YUM!