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 Sawmill Saloon - Hayward

Right off major ATV and snowmobile trails in Hayward, discover a historic building where you and your crew can find a delicious Friday Fish Fry. The Sawmill Saloon is a Northwoods favorite, serving up beer-battered or baked cod as well as crispy walleye sandwiches. The restaurant is also just across from the Lenroot Lodge, a remodeled schoolhouse overlooking the scenic Namekagon River. Whether you stop in during the Birkie Cross-Country Ski Event, while mountain biking on the CAMBA bike trails or on a road trip with friends, this is the perfect spot to taste a classic Wisconsin fish fry.

Pine Ridge - Stone Lake

Get truly rustic at Pine Ridge, a log building built on Lake Sissabagama in the 1920s. Here, the Friday Fish Fry (also available on Sundays) is served family-style, passed around in big baskets along with broasted chicken, coleslaw, a choice of potato and fry bread. When the weather is warm, sit outside and enjoy the fresh air together at this Northwoods Wisconsin gem.

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 and honey butter. Or, opt for one of their traditional German schnitzels!

The Old Fashioned Tavern & Restaurant - Madison

Any place that specializes in traditional Wisconsin fare is going to have a stellar fish fry, and The Old Fashioned's are served daily. Choose from beer-battered cod, walleye or flour-dusted lake perch served with poppy seed coleslaw, matchstick french fries, house-made tartar sauce and warm rye bread. 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. A local staple for over 55 years, stop to enjoy cozy vibes and friendly hospitality.

Central Wisconsin

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.

Trails End Lodge - Wausau

Right on the Little Rib River in Wausau, discover a delicious taste of the Northwoods in Central Wisconsin at Trails End Lodge. The Friday night fish fry has its own menu, featuring everything from classic beer-battered haddock, perch and walleye to fish tacos to Finnish-style baked haddock topped with a rich dill and parmesan cream sauce.

Eastern Wisconsin

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 a herbed yogurt sauce, or the Serbian-style version with a tomato sauce.

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.

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

Visit the historic Hungry Peddler in La Crosse for charming vintage decor and delicious Friday Fish Fry: catfish or cod. Wash it down with their house beer, crafted by Capital Brewery in Middleton.

Wigwam Tavern - Eau Claire

A popular stop for fish fry in downtown Eau Claire for over 80 years, the Wigwam Tavern 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 delicious fish frys around St. Croix Falls!