The Ultimate Guide to Greater Milwaukee Fish Fries

Milwaukee's Friday fish fry is far more than a meal—it's a cultural institution stretching back over 150 years, rooted in Catholic traditions, German heritage, and the city's unique brewing history. Whether you're seeking a traditional church basement experience, an upscale supper club, or a neighborhood tavern with perfectly beer-battered cod, the greater Milwaukee area offers hundreds of options every Friday (and many other days). This comprehensive guide covers the region's finest fish fries, from legendary establishments to hidden neighborhood gems.

A 19th-century fishing village’s culinary tradition

The Milwaukee fish fry traces its origins to Jones Island in the 1860s, where Kashubian immigrants—Slavic fishing people from Poland's Baltic coast—established a thriving community. When Jacob Muza arrived in 1872 and saw the narrow sandbar resembling his homeland, legend says he simply exclaimed "FISH." By the late 1800s, this tiny community of 1,200-1,600 residents supported 11 taverns serving fried fish, with fishermen netting over 2 million pounds annually including lake trout, whitefish, perch, and sturgeon.

The tradition became permanently embedded in Milwaukee culture during Prohibition, when the city's famous breweries (Miller, Pabst, Schlitz, Blatz) needed creative solutions to survive. Taverns began selling fish lunches—particularly on Fridays, when Catholic families seeking meatless meals would come in droves. As culinary historian Kyle Cherek explains: "You sell a fish lunch, particularly on Friday. You get whole families to come in, you underprice it, and if with your fish sandwich a modest beer is included because you're thirsty? 'Well, we're just helping our customers out!'"

The traditional Wisconsin fish fry features beer-battered cod (often Icelandic), though lake perch, walleye, and bluegill are prized local options. Essential sides include potato pancakes (the German influence), creamy coleslaw, marble rye bread with caraway seeds, and house-made tartar sauce—all washed down with Wisconsin's signature cocktail, the brandy Old Fashioned sweet.

Church fish fries bring communities together

Church fish fries remain the heart of Milwaukee's Lenten tradition, serving as both fundraisers and community gatherings where strangers become friends over shared tables.

St. Sebastian Parish stands as Milwaukee's most famous church fish fry, operating for 64 consecutive years from their cafeteria at 1747 N. 54th Street. Serving 700-800 meals on a typical Friday, the operation runs from 4:30-7:30 p.m. with hand-battered fried or baked cod, a full salad bar, French fries, and homemade desserts. Adults pay $15, seniors $13, and children $3-7. Grade-school students called "fry kids" serve as neon-green-shirted waitstaff, with tips pooled and donated to charity. During Lent, many dates are carry-out only, with select Fridays offering dine-in service.

St. Florian Parish (1215 S. 45th Street, West Milwaukee) earned the "Best Church Fish Fry in Milwaukee" title from the Catholic Herald for good reason. Their all-you-can-eat format includes fried or baked cod, fried smelt during Lent, homemade clam chowder, parsley potatoes, and an impressive dessert selection. Adults pay $16, children (3-10) $9, with service running 4:30-7:00 p.m.

Other standout church fish fries include Blessed Sacrament (3100 S. 41st Street) with all-you-can-eat battered cod for $15 (cash only), St. Gregory the Great featuring homemade potato pancakes prepared by Boy Scout Troop 536, and Holy Family Parish in Whitefish Bay running every Friday during Lent. The Archdiocese of Milwaukee maintains a searchable directory at archmil.org/Parish/fish-fry with dozens of additional parish options across Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Racine counties.

Restaurants that define fish fry culture

Three establishments consistently top every "best of" list and represent the pinnacle of Milwaukee fish fry tradition.

Kegel's Inn (5901 W. National Avenue, West Allis) celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024, having served fish fries continuously since 1924 under four generations of family ownership. The authentic Bavarian beer hall features stained-glass windows, hand-painted murals, and the "Bootleggers Alley" year-round beer garden. Their menu spans classic cod (4 pieces for $12.50, 6 for $14.50), lake perch ($16.50), walleye, bluegill, grouper, and even catfish. The signature 3-2-1 Platter combines three pieces of cod, two lake perch, and one walleye filet. Fish fry runs Wednesdays and Fridays 11 a.m.-9 p.m., with live polka music and a drive-thru option. Reservations are strongly recommended.

The Packing House (900 E. Layton Avenue) has operated for over 50 years as a family-owned supper club near Mitchell International Airport. Their hand-breaded Icelandic cod comes with everything made from scratch—tartar sauce, coleslaw, potato pancakes, and clam chowder. The legendary drive-thru fish fry features lines wrapping around the block on Friday evenings (cash only, 3-9 p.m.). Dine-in with clam chowder runs $16.95, while the drive-thru is $14.95. The warm wood paneling, curved bar, and live music on weekends create a quintessential Wisconsin supper club atmosphere.

Lakefront Brewery (1872 N. Commerce Street) transforms into a jubilant beer hall every Friday, with live polka music by The Brewhaus Polka Kings from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Their beer-battered cod uses Lakefront's own East Side Dark in the batter, while the baked cod offers a gluten-free option with herbs, fried capers, and drawn butter. Lake perch, bluegill, walleye, and even vegetarian fried eggplant round out the options. House-made potato pancakes, chunky cinnamon applesauce, and award-winning cheese curds complete the experience. Limited reservations are available 4-5:30 p.m., with first-come-first-served seating afterward.

Clifford's Supper Club (5356 South 13th Street and Hales Corners) stands out for serving all-you-can-eat deep-fried Iceland cod seven days a week—a rarity that lets fish fry cravings strike any day. Established in 1959, the nostalgic supper club delivers consistent quality with homemade tartar sauce and a charming atmosphere that feels "pure Wisconsin."

Taverns and bars serving Friday fish fry

Milwaukee's neighborhood taverns offer fish fry with personality, from sports bars to historic dives.

Steny's Tavern & Grill (800 S. 2nd Street, Walker's Point) earned "Best Fish Fry" from Shepherd Express readers with their beer-battered cod ($11.95) and Grandma Steny's secret-recipe potato pancakes. The lively sports bar serves fish fry from lunch through late night, with award-winning Bloody Marys and Jamaican potato salad as standout accompaniments.

The Swingin' Door Exchange (219 E. Michigan Street) brings historic charm to downtown with a nearly 100-year-old bar, stained-glass windows, and pine wood paneling. Their beer-battered Icelandic cod and lake perch come with creamy coleslaw, rye bread, and the choice of fries or golden potato pancakes.

Liquid Johnny's (near American Family Field) has earned a devoted following since 1981 for thinly breaded, crispy cod and perch, plus famous "frickles" (pickle fries) and excellent clam chowder. Cash only with limited space—arrive early to avoid waits.

The Brass Monkey (11904 W. Greenfield Avenue, West Allis) caters to night owls with fish fry served until 2:30 a.m.—the latest in the metro area. Generous haddock portions with coleslaw and potato pancakes run $16.

Supper clubs deliver full Wisconsin experience

Wisconsin's unique supper club tradition—with relish trays, leisurely cocktails, and family-style service—provides the most immersive fish fry experience.

Blue Heron Supper Club (W229 S8300 Highway 164, Big Bend) offers a rare triple threat: all-you-can-eat fried cod, baked cod, AND fried chicken along with chowder, slaw, bread, and fries. The charming two-story building features $6 Old Fashioneds and an operation refined over 30+ years.

5 O'Clock Club (Pewaukee) has operated as a traditional Wisconsin supper club since 1929, with cod and perch that's "not greasy" and perfectly crisp French fries. Expect hour-long waits on Friday and Saturday nights—relax with cocktails at the bar.

Joey Gerard's - A Bartolotta Supper Club (Greendale) brings upscale refinement with leather booths, warm lighting, and the Bartolotta restaurant group's quality. Beer-battered cod, baked cod, and lake perch come with coleslaw, marble rye, and choice of fries or potato pancakes.

Buckatabon Tavern & Supper Club (Wauwatosa) offers a contemporary take on Northwoods supper club style with beer-battered fish fry served every day of the week, house-made potato pancakes, and a drink menu dedicated to Old Fashioneds featuring locally-made Buckatabon Brandy.

North Shore offers distinctive dining experiences

The Jack Pandl fish fry

Milwaukee's North Shore communities—Shorewood, Whitefish Bay, Fox Point, Glendale, and Mequon—feature diverse fish fry options from historic inns to fusion restaurants.

Related: A guide to the best fish fries in Milwaukee’s North Shore

Jack Pandl's Whitefish Bay Inn (1319 E. Henry Clay Street) has served fish fries for over 100 years since 1915, making it a true institution. Their menu spans deep-fried lake perch, deep-fried and broiled cod, potato-crusted cod, and broiled whitefish—all around $17.95 with two sides. The famous homemade tartar sauce recipe remains secret, and warm rye breadsticks topped with caraway seeds and kosher salt arrive at every table. White tablecloth service creates an elegant yet homey atmosphere.

Hubbard Park Lodge (3565 N. Morris Boulevard, Shorewood) delivers a "north woods" log cabin atmosphere along the Milwaukee River with live polka music during Friday fish fry. All-you-can-eat beer-battered cod runs approximately $15, with breaded walleye at $19. Heated outdoor domes provide winter dining, while summer opens the beer garden. Reservations available online.

Jose's Blue Sombrero (8617 N. Port Washington Road, Fox Point) offers the best value on the North Shore at $11.95 for their Mexican-style fish fry—cod hand-dipped in Dos Equis Amber beer batter with special spices, served with unique cilantro-infused potato pancakes or traditional fries. The festive cantina atmosphere and tequila Old Fashioneds make this fusion fish fry a standout.

The Brick Pub & Grill (6343 N. Green Bay Avenue, Glendale) carries on the "Wren's Fish Fry" family legacy with an original recipe from 1961. The widest variety in the North Shore includes cod (2 pieces $9.50, 3 pieces $12), lake perch, walleye, and bluegill, all with house-made potato pancakes.

Range Line Inn (2635 W. Mequon Road, Mequon) occupies an 1840s stagecoach stop rumored to have been an Underground Railroad station. The rustic setting with wooden beams, low ceilings, and stone fireplace serves beer-battered haddock, fresh lake perch, and cod with scratch-made potato pancakes. The menu has barely changed over decades—arrive early as no reservations are accepted.

Three Lions Pub (4515 N. Oakland Avenue, Shorewood) provides an authentic British fish and chips experience available every day—not just Fridays. Beer-battered Atlantic cod or haddock with thick-cut chips and mushy peas transports diners across the Atlantic. Pan-fried walleye appears Fridays only with potato pancake croquettes.

Bavarian Bierhaus (700 W. Lexington Boulevard, Glendale) brings Munich to Milwaukee in a massive beer hall with house-brewed beers and fish fry served every day of the week. Bier-battered or baked cod runs $21, with walleye at $23, and live polka music enlivens many Friday nights.

Milwaukee suburb fish fry destinations

Beyond the North Shore, greater Milwaukee's suburbs harbor exceptional fish fry spots worth the drive.

West Allis boasts Kegel's Inn (detailed above) plus the State Fair Inn serving beer-battered cod using a family recipe from matriarch Ann Potocic, and 4th Base Restaurant (5117 W. National Avenue) where fish fry runs every day with perch and walleye available deep-fried, pan-fried, or baked.

Wauwatosa features Café Hollander (7677 W. State Street) with bier-battered haddock using High-Speed Wit beer or potato chip breading, plus PEI mussels and clam chowder options. The Station Pub & Grill serves cod, perch, bluegill, walleye, and sampler platters.

South Milwaukee has emerged as a fish fry destination with Thirsty's (500 Madison Avenue) earning praise for exceptional muddled brandy Old Fashioneds and golden beer-battered cod with unique homemade corn fritters replacing traditional rye bread. Slick Willies (2301 12th Avenue) includes soup and salad bar with their fish fry—a rare bonus.

Hales Corners offers Clifford's Supper Club plus Sandra's on the Park (10049 W. Forest Home Avenue) with beer-battered or baked cod, and Bosch Tavern (5871 S. 108th Street) running a convenient drive-thru from 3-8 p.m. every Friday.

Seasonal events and special fish fry experiences

Friday Fish Fry Day has become an official Wisconsin holiday, proclaimed by Governor Tony Evers on the first Friday of Lent each year (March 7, 2025). Created by Caleb Westphal—who has eaten over 580 consecutive Friday fish fries since 2013—the celebration includes an official afterparty at Third Space Brewing with food donations for Interchange Food Pantry.

The Milwaukee Admirals hockey team transforms into the "Milwaukee Fish Fry" for special games, featuring fish fry-themed jerseys and joint ticket packages ($35) including game admission plus vouchers for fish fry at Buck Bradley's, Saz's, or Steny's.

Milwaukee Food Tours operates Friday Night Fish Fry Tours during Lent, providing bus-guided visits to three famous fish fry hot spots plus a historic church tour and Milwaukee frozen custard finale.

For all-you-can-eat experiences beyond the church basement, MOTOR Bar & Restaurant at the Harley-Davidson Museum serves endless beer-battered cod amid iconic motorcycles. The Mineshaft (Hartford/Hartland) combines inexpensive AYCE fish fry with a massive game room, while Didi's Supper Club offers beer-battered cod, broiled cod, and perch in unlimited portions.

Those seeking premium lake perch—considered the finest Wisconsin fish fry option—should prioritize Jackson's Blue Ribbon Pub, Water Street Brewery, St. Paul Fish Company at Milwaukee Public Market, and Club Paragon's "Only in Wisconsin" combo featuring Canadian Walleye, Lake Erie Yellow Perch, and Bluegill together.

Conclusion: Essential tips

Milwaukee's fish fry tradition has evolved from a 19th-century fishing village necessity into a year-round culinary celebration that transcends religious observance. The communal spirit Kyle Cherek describes—where strangers at long tables become friends within seven or eight minutes—remains the tradition's essence.

For the best experience, arrive before 5 p.m. at popular spots to avoid lengthy waits, especially during Lent. Always order the brandy Old Fashioned sweet—it's as essential as the fish itself. Ask about potato pancake quality (homemade versus frozen patties matters enormously) and don't overlook church fish fries, which often serve the most authentic experience with the strongest community atmosphere.

The truly committed can follow Caleb Westphal's path by visiting a different fish fry every Friday, documented in his Milwaukee Record "Enjoy Every Fish Fry" series. With hundreds of options across the greater Milwaukee region—from century-old institutions like Kegel's Inn and Jack Pandl's to fusion innovators like Jose's Blue Sombrero—exploring the full breadth of Milwaukee's fish fry scene could take years of delicious Friday nights.