Fish Fries in Greater Milwaukee: Your 2026 Ultimate Guide

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.

Related guide: Milwaukee area fish fries with baked fish options

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

Lenten Church fish fries remain the heart of Milwaukee 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.

St. Monica School’s Fish Fry is back on Friday, February 20, 2026 in Donovan Hall (5681 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Whitefish Bay) with an Olympic-themed kickoff to Lent that’s designed to feel equal parts dinner and community party. Hosted by 7th-grade students and families to support their future class trip, the night features a “gold medal” fish fry plus endless games, a raffle, and a podium-worthy bake sale. Dine-in and carry-out will be available, and pre-order details are expected to be announced soon.

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.

Kegel's Inn Fish Fry

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 fish fries

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.

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.

Foxtown Brewing expands beyond traditional preparations with beer-battered cod, baked cod, Gochujang (chili-rubbed) salmon, breaded walleye, and creative options like blackened salmon tacos—available every day except Sunday.

Washington County

Washington County offers some of the most authentic Wisconsin supper club experiences, with standout establishments in West Bend, Hartford, and Kewaskum that draw crowds from across the region.

West Bend

Timmer's Resort stands as the county's most historic fish fry destination, operating since 1880 on the shores of Big Cedar Lake. Their signature corn flake crusted cod—non-greasy with excellent crunch—earned them a spot among Forbes' Top 100 Brunch spots in 2017. The ten-acre property features fireplaces in each dining room and live weekend music. Fish fry runs Friday 4-9 PM with prices around $11-13 for two to three pieces. Note: The resort is currently closed through March 2026 for renovations under new ownership.

Silver Lake Country Inn delivers the quintessential supper club experience with all-you-care-to-eat fish fries Tuesday through Saturday. The family-owned establishment (30 years running) serves walleye, cod, and Wednesday perch specials for $17.95-$19.95, accompanied by homemade potato pancakes, rye rolls with melted butter, and $4 house Old Fashioneds. Everything from soups to croutons is made in-house. Cash and check only—ATM on site.

Jug's Hitching Post Saloon in nearby Kohlsville consistently earns "best fish fry around" recognition. Choose your portion size—"Colt" (2 piece), "Mare," or "Stallion"—of beer-battered or breaded cod. The outdoor patio features a fireplace and waterfall, though expect hour-long waits without reservations.

Hartford: Family-Friendly Fish Fry Capital

The Mineshaft operates on a scale unmatched in Wisconsin, serving 2,000+ fish fry dinners every Friday to a weekly audience of 10,000+ guests. The 550-seat facility features five bars, America's largest game room, a stage, and dance floor—perfect for families. Their Wednesday all-you-can-eat beer-battered haddock at just $8.99 represents the county's best value. Friday options expand to perch, shrimp, poor man's lobster, and Icelandic cod ($11.99-$13.99 for AYCE). The establishment opened as "The Commodore" in 1975.

Little Red Inn counters with intimate, family-style service. Their all-you-can-eat fish fry rotates weekly specials—including all-you-can-eat frog legs—served with outstanding potato pancakes and corn fritters. Food arrives hot and fresh in true family-style fashion.

MJ Stevens Pub 'N' Restaurant (between Slinger and Allenton) offers elevated preparation styles: homemade breaded premium Atlantic cod, baked cod in seasoned butter, or Atlantic Cod Oscar topped with hollandaise, crab meat, and asparagus. Operating since 1985, their Friday fish fry regularly sells out.

Kewaskum and Beyond

Great Outdoors Supper Club ranks among Wisconsin's legendary ten supper clubs. Their detailed menu offers panko breadcrumb breaded cod ($17), lightly breaded perch or bluegill ($19), and a combo platter with three bluegill, two perch, and one cod loin ($20). Sixteen rotating craft beers complement prime rib and Old Fashioneds in an elegant stone-entrance setting.

The Columbian Hall (Knights of Columbus, West Bend) hosts the region's best civic fish fry at $13-14, running every Friday September through May with a salad bar, soup, and "great Old Fashioneds."

Waukesha County

Waukesha County's "Lake Country" offers Wisconsin's most diverse fish fry landscape, from elegant lakeside dining to award-winning neighborhood taverns.

Award Winners and Local Legends

Ron's Cozy Corner (Oconomowoc) claimed Waukesha County's Best Fish Fry title in 2022, 2023, and 2025. The traditional tavern serves all-you-can-eat cod at approximately $12.99 with legendary German potato salad and large bottles of tartar sauce on every table. Their brandy Old Fashioneds and family-friendly atmosphere keep generations returning.

Stolley's Hogg Alley (Oconomowoc) won the 2017 crown and offers Lake Country's largest fish selection: cod, perch, walleye, and bluegill prepared beer-battered, plus four flavors of baked cod including Italian. Hand-muddled Old Fashioneds, homemade potato pancakes, and newly renovated facilities with live weekend entertainment make this a destination. During Lent, fish service starts at 11 AM on Wednesdays.

Historic Lakeside Supper Clubs

Golden Mast Inn (Okauchee Lake) has served the Weissgerber family's German-American cuisine since 1967. The upscale supper club offers all-you-can-eat fish fry for approximately $22, featuring fried cod, steamed/baked cod, walleye, and lake perch with vinaigrette coleslaw and potato pancakes. Spectacular lake views, Friday live music (6:30-10:30 PM), and German specialties like Wiener Schnitzel and Sauerbraten create an elegant atmosphere.

5 O'Clock Club (Pewaukee) represents fourth-generation family ownership since 1929. The historic 1860s farmhouse features three rustic dining rooms with fireplaces and an open-air deck overlooking Pewaukee Lake. Lake perch runs $12.50 (small) to market price; bluegill and walleye at $16.50; and their seafood platter at $22. Fish is served Tuesday through Saturday—not just Friday—alongside Great Grandma Mary's recipe fried chicken.

City of Waukesha Highlights

Tally's Tap & Eatery offers straightforward excellence: beer-battered cod ($13) or lake perch ($15) with your choice of clam chowder, salad, or coleslaw, plus dinner roll and potato options. Available all day Friday.

Travieso @ The Clarke Hotel brings Latin-fusion creativity to the tradition with panko-crusted fried walleye served on scallion potato latke with cilantro jalapeño brussels sprout slaw and pickled red onion.

Hop Harvest & Vine serves the county's best gluten-free option: panko-crusted, air-fried North Atlantic cod with seasoned roasted potato wedges.

Delafield Brewhaus

Delafield Brewhaus earned the #2 Best Fish Fry ranking for 2025. Their amber-battered cod pairs perfectly with outstanding craft brews, and curbside pickup makes it ideal for convenient dinners. The restaurant also offers patio dining and a full seafood platter option.

Ozaukee County

Ozaukee County pairs Lake Michigan waterfront dining with Cedarburg's charming historic downtown to create distinctive fish fry experiences.

Port Washington: Lighthouse Views and Lake Michigan Fresh

Moonlight Tavern & Supper Club occupies the historic 1902 Port Hotel and exemplifies the elevated supper club approach. Under new ownership since March 2024 with nationally recognized chefs, the menu features Canadian walleye, fresh Great Lakes perch ($22, pan-fried or battered), battered bluegill, and a combo bucket medley. The establishment houses over 200 bourbons and whiskeys across multiple themed dining rooms. Haddock runs $21 prepared pan-fried, broiled, or battered with soup or salad, coleslaw, and choice of tater tots, fries, baked potato, or potato pancakes.

The Beacon Restaurant inside the newly renovated Harborview Hotel offers breathtaking views of Port Washington's iconic Art Deco lighthouse and marina. Their perch, cod, and walleye fish fries complement Maryland-style crab cakes, Poor Man's Lobster (baked cod with drawn butter), and salmon Oscar. A seasonal outdoor deck with fire pits and boat docks makes this ideal for summer Friday evenings.

Fork & Tap overlooks the marina with potato chip crusted or beer-battered cod, dill coleslaw, and mashed potatoes in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.

Cedarburg's Historic Downtown

The Farmstead operates from an 1859 building, family-run since 1984. Their bluegill ($18.95 for half a pound) features light flour seasoning, while panko breadcrumb cod runs $14.95 and pan-fried walleye reaches $27.95. Signature hand-cut semi-circular fries "reminiscent of bite-sized baked potatoes" accompany every order. Fish fry available Wednesday and Friday; first come, first served.

Stilt House Gastro Bar combines craft beer culture with creative preparations in an 1892 building overlooking Cedar Creek. Their potato chip crusted cod and hand-breaded walleye complement 30 beers on tap and 150+ craft beer options. The lobster bisque regularly sells out on Fridays. Fish fry runs daily during Lent.

Maxwell's serves five lightly hand-breaded perch filets ($18.99) with thin, crispy batter featuring "a splash of hot sauce"—a corner pub with outdoor seating and excellent fries.

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.