Tasty Fish Frys in Each Region of Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, Friday night means it’s time for a delicious fish fry enjoyed with family and friends. This long-standing (and tasty) tradition stems from a combination of factors: the large Catholic population who abstained from eating red meat on Fridays, the abundance of fresh fish from the great lakes and taverns who opted to serve the dish during prohibition.
These days, almost any Wisconsin supper club or tavern you visit on Friday will be serving up cod, walleye, haddock and other options fried to perfection and paired with classic sides like french fries, baked potatoes, coleslaw and rye bread. Read on to discover popular places for this specialty throughout the state.
Northern Wisconsin
The Boathouse - Minocqua
Between the historic Brunswick bar and the views of shimmering Lake Minocqua, The Boathouse is an iconic Northwoods spot you can’t miss. Order from the downstairs Islander menu to enjoy a fish fry any day of the week, and even fish tacos! Or, visit on Friday night for the full fish fry special. Whichever you choose, you and your group will be treated to delicious food and great vibes.
Headwaters Restaurant & Tavern - Boulder Junction
The fish fry at Headwaters Restaurant & Tavern is so popular it’s served every night of the week here! And you’ve got options–try the deep-fried haddock or perch or opt for pan-fried walleye with all the classic sides. In the warmer months, enjoy your meal on the deck overlooking the Manitowish River.
Southern Wisconsin
The Dorf Haus - Sauk City
Just west of Madison, take a trip to this German-themed tavern in Roxbury that dates back to the 1960s. Friday specials include lightly breaded cod or baked haddock, both served with their famous fritters. Or, mix things up and try the schnitzel!
The Old Fashioned Tavern & Restaurant - Madison
Any place that specializes in traditional Wisconsin fare is going to have a stellar fish fry, and the one at The Old Fashioned is served daily. Pair with the restaurant’s namesake drink or one of 50 Wisconsin tap beers for the perfect meal.
Toby’s Supper Club - Madison
A supper club is its own classic Wisconsin experience; adding a delicious fish fry is the cherry on top. At Toby's, choose from fried or broiled cod, lake perch, bluegill or walleye, all served with classic sides including the traditional tasty relish tray.
Central Wisconsin
Lakefront Brewery - Milwaukee
Bring friends and family to Lakefront Brewery for a fish fry you’ll never forget. Start with their award-winning brewery tour full of jokes and samples, then stay for the fish fry in the Beer Hall. A live polka band plays every Friday and the menu even includes a vegetarian plant-based “fish” fry made from hearts of palm!
Fireside Dinner Theatre - Fort Atkinson
Enjoy dinner and a show at this beloved dinner theater that also offers a legendary Friday fish fry. Between the whimsically decorated dining rooms and the German potato pancakes, this is a one-of-a-kind fish fry worth the trip.
American Serb Hall - Milwaukee
Choose from beer-battered cod or perch at this enormous dining space that holds up to 1,000 people at a time. You can also branch out and try the Icelandic-style fish fry made with lighter flour and served with an herbed yogurt sauce or Serbian style with a tomato sauce.
Hilltop Pub & Grill - Stevens Point
Just down the road from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point, Hilltop Pub & Grill is popular with students and locals alike. Enjoy the fish fry with friends any day of the week, with the option to choose baked or beer-battered cod or perch.
Eastern Wisconsin
Wendt's on the Lake - Van Dyne
Wendt’s has been serving up delicious fish on Lake Winnebago since 1962 and has been voted the best fish fry in Winnebago County by the community many times over. Stop by Tuesday through Saturday to feast on cod, haddock, perch or smelt at this third-generation restaurant.
K.K. Fiske Restaurant - Washington Island
The owner of K.K. Fiske on Washington Island is a commercial fisherman, so you know the catch here is fresh. You’ll love the fried whitefish and walleye here, but also ask about the lawyer–a type of cod native to the Great Lakes that’s extra tasty. All are served with fries and homemade tartar sauce.
Maricque’s Bar - Green Bay
Maricque’s is a tavern that’s been serving up freshly caught fish fry since 1960. Perch, walleye, whitefish, catfish and bluegill are the stars of the menu; inside, glance at the walls to find photos of generations of fishermen who have supplied this delicious fare.
Western Wisconsin
Hungry Peddler - La Crosse
All-you-can-eat cod with a light beer batter is the Friday night draw to the Hungry Peddler in La Crosse. Wash it down with their house beer crafted by Capital Brewery in Middleton.
Wigwam Tavern - Eau Claire
A popular downtown stop for fish fry, the Wigwam sports vinyl booths, pool tables and serves deep-fried cod with all the sides. Start your meal with their cheesy poutine.
Still hungry for fish? Discover more delicious fish frys around St. Croix Falls!
