Milwaukee-area Lenten fish fries: The ultimate 2026 guide

More than 50 parish halls, veteran posts, and community favorites await families across Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Washington Counties this Lenten season. Wisconsin's beloved Friday fish fry tradition runs deep here—from 64-year-old church basement classics serving 800 dinners in a night to cozy supper clubs with panoramic lake views. This comprehensive guide covers everything families need to plan their Lenten Friday adventures, from pricing and menus to kid-friendly features and carryout options.

Lent 2026 spans March 5 through April 16, with fish fry Fridays falling on March 6, 13, 20, 27 and April 3, 10. Most church and community fish fries operate only on select Fridays during this window, while restaurants serve year-round. Prices typically range from $11-$18 for adults and $5-$9 for children, with several all-you-can-eat options available.

Milwaukee County: South and central

The heart of Milwaukee's fish fry scene includes legendary destinations that draw crowds from across the state.

St. Sebastian Parish — The gold standard

Address: 1747 N. 54th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53208
Phone: Contact via saintsebs.org/fish-fry
Hours: 4:30–7:30 PM
Pricing: Adults $15, Seniors $13, Children $3–$7

Now celebrating 64 years of fish fry tradition, St. Sebastian serves 700-800 meals each Friday with a family-style atmosphere that's become a Milwaukee institution. Young "fry kids" deliver platters of hand-battered fried or baked cod with thin-cut fries, coleslaw, and caraway rye. The salad bar and coffee are included; a homemade dessert table offers treats from parish volunteers. During peak Lent, expect both dine-in and carry-out-only dates—check their website for the 2026 schedule. First-come, first-served; no reservations.

Serb Hall — Milwaukee's most famous fish fry

Address: 5101 W. Oklahoma Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53219
Phone: (414) 545-6030
Hours: Fridays 3:30–8:30 PM (dine-in, drive-thru, walk-up); Wednesdays during Lent 3:30–8:30 PM (drive-thru only)
Pricing: Traditional cod 2-piece $13.95/3-piece $15.95; Icelandic cod 2-piece $15.95/3-piece $18.95

Voted Milwaukee's favorite fish fry five consecutive years, this historic Serbian cultural center offers three fish preparations: classic Atlantic cod, premium square-cut Icelandic cod, and a unique Serbian-style preparation with tomato sauce, peppers, and garlic. The 400-stall parking lot, 12 bowling lanes, and storied history (JFK and Reagan both rallied here) make this a true destination. The efficient drive-thru handles hundreds of cars on Lenten Fridays. No reservations needed.

Polish Center of Wisconsin — Pierogies and polka

Address: 6941 S. 68th Street, Franklin, WI 53132
Phone: (414) 529-2140
Hours: 4:30–8:00 PM Fridays during Lent
Pricing: Adults approximately $12–15 (all-you-can-eat buffet), Children 6–12 $4.50–5, Under 5 free

The only fish fry in the Milwaukee area serving pierogies with sour cream alongside hand-breaded cod. This all-you-can-eat buffet operates in a beautiful Polish country manor overlooking a spring-fed lake, often featuring live polka music. The cash bar stocks Polish beers (Żywiec, Okocim, Tyskie) and vodkas. Reservations recommended—this gem fills up fast.

Blessed Sacrament Parish — Best budget option

Address: 3100 S. 41st Street, Milwaukee, WI 53215
Phone: (414) 649-4720
Hours: 4:00–7:00 PM every Friday during Lent
Pricing: Adults $11 (all-you-can-eat), Seniors 55+ $10, Kids 10 and under $6, Mac and cheese only $6

Remarkable value for an all-you-can-eat fish fry featuring baked or fried cod with fries, parsley potatoes, coleslaw, mac and cheese, rye bread, and dessert. Wheelchair accessible with carry-out available. Cash or check only—no credit cards accepted.

Kegel's Inn — Historic German supper club

Address: 5901 W. National Ave., West Allis, WI 53214
Phone: (414) 257-9999
Hours: Fridays 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Pricing: Hand-breaded cod 4-piece $13, 6-piece $16; Lake perch $16; Canadian walleye $17

This 100-year-old establishment (originally a Prohibition speakeasy) serves arguably the most diverse fish fry menu in the metro: cod, lake perch, walleye, bluegill, scallops, and shrimp. The hand-painted murals, German beers on tap, and famous homemade potato pancakes create an authentic old-world atmosphere. The heated outdoor beer garden operates year-round. Reservations highly recommended on Fridays—this is a popular destination.

Additional south/central Milwaukee locations

St. Stephen Parish, Oak Creek — 1441 W. Oakwood Road, (414) 762-0552. 4:00–7:00 PM Fridays during Lent. Beer-battered or baked cod $15, shrimp $17, family meal $45 (feeds 4). Drive-thru and dine-in available—excellent for families with young children.

St. Barnabas/West Allis Catholic — 2025 S. 67th Place, West Allis, (414) 541-5207. 4:00–7:00 PM select Fridays. Adults $16 all-you-can-eat, children 3–10 $9. Features salad bar and smelt option.

Oak Creek American Legion Post 434 — 9327 S. Shepard Ave., Oak Creek, (414) 762-9660. Fridays 4:00–8:00 PM September through April. Fried cod 2-piece $10.99/3-piece $12.99, baked cod $12.99, shrimp $11.99. Full bar with classic Wisconsin Old Fashioneds.

St. Bernadette Parish — 8200 W. Denver Ave., Milwaukee. 4:30–7:00 PM during Lent. Three-piece cod dinner $16. Family buckets available for larger groups.

St. Gregory the Great — 3160 S. 63rd Street, Milwaukee, (414) 543-8292. Tenpenny Hall location, 4:30–7:00 PM select Fridays.

Milwaukee County: North Shore and Wauwatosa

The North Shore communities offer excellent family-friendly options ranging from historic parish fish fries to upscale supper clubs.

Hubbard Park Lodge — All-you-can-eat with live polka

Address: 3565 N. Morris Blvd., Shorewood, WI 53211
Phone: (414) 332-4207
Hours: Fridays 4:00–8:00 PM
Pricing: Cod dinner approximately $15–16, Walleye $19

A truly unique setting inside a historic log cabin lodge along the Milwaukee River, featuring a massive stone fireplace and Northwoods atmosphere. The all-you-can-eat beer-battered cod keeps coming until you're done, and live polka music accompanies dinner. Heated outdoor domes available in winter. Reservations accepted and recommended—one of the most family-friendly fish fry experiences in the area.

Holy Family Parish — Whitefish Bay tradition

Address: 4825 N. Wildwood Ave., Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
Phone: (414) 332-8175
Hours: 4:30–7:00 PM every Friday during Lent
Pricing: Fish dinners with fries and coleslaw; grilled cheese available for non-fish eaters

A beloved North Shore parish fish fry featuring efficient service in the school cafeteria, entertainment on select nights (including Irish dancing), and a welcoming family atmosphere. Handicap accessible with carry-out available. No reservations needed.

Jack Pandl's Whitefish Bay Inn — Classic supper club

Address: 1319 E. Henry Clay St., Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
Phone: (414) 964-3800
Hours: Fridays 11:30 AM–10:00 PM
Pricing: $17–20 per dinner

Operating for over 100 years, Jack Pandl's offers deep-fried lake perch, broiled whitefish, and three cod preparations (fried, broiled, or potato-crusted). The signature homemade potato pancakes are legendary. Full bar with Wisconsin Old Fashioneds. Reservations available via OpenTable—recommended for families wanting guaranteed seating.

Bavarian Bierhaus — Fish fry every day

Address: 700 W. Lexington Blvd., Glendale, WI 53217
Phone: (414) 236-7000
Hours: Fish fry available every day
Pricing: Bier-battered cod or baked cod $21, walleye $23

This Munich-style beer hall offers fish fry seven days a week—perfect for families who can't make Friday work. Live music on Fridays, massive seating capacity, seasonal beer garden, and house-brewed beers. Senior discounts (55+) on Sundays. Very family-friendly with a kids' menu.

Additional North Shore locations

Jose's Blue Sombrero, Fox Point — 8617 N. Port Washington Rd., (414) 351-9280. Dos Equis Amber beer-battered cod with unique cilantro-infused potato pancakes for just $11.95—exceptional value with a fun Mexican twist. Great for families with diverse tastes.

Milwaukee Brat House, Shorewood — 4022 N. Oakland Ave., (414) 539-5826. Schlitz beer-battered cod $15.95, lemon-pepper lake perch $16.95. Sports bar atmosphere with extensive beer selection.

Three Lions Pub, Shorewood — 4515 N. Oakland Ave., (414) 763-6992. British-style fish and chips available every day, plus pan-fried walleye on Fridays. Kids' menu with crayons. Great for families with soccer fans.

The Brick Pub & Grill, Glendale — 6343 N. Green Bay Ave., (414) 797-0710. Budget-friendly with tiered pricing: 2-piece cod $9.50, 3-piece $12. Excellent homemade potato pancakes.

Buckatabon Tavern & Supper Club, Wauwatosa — 7700 W. Harwood Ave., (414) 271-7700. Fish fry available every day with a kids' "Little Minnow Fry" option $7.95. Northwoods supper club atmosphere with seasonal ice shanty dining experience.

Spanky's Hideaway, Mequon — 5208 W. County Line Rd., (262) 242-3677. Hidden gem with the widest variety of potato sides anywhere (six options including homemade potato pancakes). Combination platters let families sample multiple fish types.

Waukesha County: Suburban favorites

Waukesha County features excellent church fish fries, championship-quality restaurant options, and community favorites spread across charming lake country communities.

Knights of Columbus — Oconomowoc (at St. Jerome Parish)

Address: 1001 S. Silver Lake Street, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Phone: (262) 569-3032 (carryout orders)
Hours: 4:30–7:00 PM monthly (extra dates during Lent)
Pricing: Adults $15 (all-you-can-eat buffet), Children 4–11 $5, Under 4 free

One of the most generous all-you-care-to-eat buffets in Waukesha County featuring fried cod, baked cod, French fries, two types of potato salad, three-bean salad, grilled cheese sandwiches, and all the fixings. All profits support charitable causes. Dine-in and carryout available.

Ron's Cozy Corner — Oconomowoc's champion

Address: W359N5920 Brown Street, Oconomowoc, WI 53066
Hours: Fridays

Voted #1 Best Local Fish Fry multiple years (2022, 2023, 2025), plus #1 Best Potato Pancakes and #1 Kid-Friendly Atmosphere. This family-owned establishment consistently wins local competitions for good reason. Perch, cod, and exceptional homemade potato pancakes. Reservations strongly recommended during Lent.

The Schwabenhof — German hospitality

Address: N56W14750 Silver Spring Drive, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
Phone: (262) 252-4100
Hours: All day Friday
Pricing: 3-piece hand-breaded fish $13.99, extra pieces $2

Hand-breaded fish fried to order with your choice of battered pub fries, sautéed vegetables, potato pancakes with applesauce, smashed potatoes, or German potato salad. Baked fish available in lemon butter sauce. Kids' menu includes one piece of fish with chicken, fries, and ice cream. Authentic German atmosphere.

St. Dominic Parish — Brookfield

Address: 18255 W. Capitol Drive, Brookfield, WI 53045
Phone: (262) 781-3480
Hours: 4:30–6:30 PM select Fridays
Pricing: Adults $16, Kids $9

Large venue in the Parish Arts & Activities Center with both dine-in and drive-thru options—excellent for families with restless children. Adult meals include 3 pieces of fish, fries, rye bread, coleslaw; kids get 1 piece with mac and cheese. Proceeds support teen ministry and school programs. Handicap accessible.

Additional Waukesha County locations

St. Paul Parish, Genesee Depot — S38W31602 Wern Way, Waukesha. 4:30–7:30 PM select Fridays. Self-proclaimed "best church fish fry in Waukesha County." Cash or checks only.

Queen of Apostles Parish, Pewaukee — N35W23360 Capitol Drive. 4:30–7:00 PM multiple Fridays during Lent.

St. Joseph Parish, Big Bend — S89W22650 Milwaukee Ave., stjoesbb.com. 4:00–7:00 PM with five events during Lent—more than most parishes. Fish AND shrimp fry.

St. Theresa Parish, Eagle — 136 W. Waukesha Road. 4:30–6:30 PM. Drive-thru only format.

Golden Mast, Okauchee — W349N5293 Lacy's Lane. 30+ year tradition with stunning lakeside dining and consistently top-5 rankings.

Stolley's Hogg Alley, Delafield — 2008 Venice Beach Road, (262) 646-5652. Former #1 Best Local Fish Fry; excellent potato pancakes and breaded fish.

Delafield Brewhaus — Brewery atmosphere with family-friendly features and consistently excellent carry-out.

Bass Bay Brewhouse, Muskego — S79W15851 Aud Mar Drive. Classic Wisconsin fish fry available daily.

Tally's Tap & Eatery, Waukesha — S31W24661 Sunset Drive, (262) 446-3153. Beer-battered cod and perch with clam chowder included.

Ozaukee County: North Shore gems

Ozaukee County offers charming small-town fish fries in historic settings, from century-old parishes to Lake Michigan waterfront restaurants.

St. Joseph Parish — Grafton's 23-year tradition

Address: 1619 Washington Street, Grafton, WI 53024
Phone: (262) 375-6505
Hours: 4:30–7:30 PM Fridays during Lent
Pricing: Adults $9.50–12 depending on selection, Kids' meals $4.50

A top family pick featuring beer-battered or baked walleye, perch, fried shrimp, and cod at excellent prices. Homemade desserts cap off the meal. This parish fish fry has raised over $500,000 for community programs over 23+ years. Served in the school cafeteria with a welcoming family atmosphere. No reservations required.

Divine Savior Catholic School — Fredonia all-you-can-eat

Address: 305–311 Fredonia Avenue, Fredonia, WI 53021
Phone: (262) 692-2141
Hours: 4:30–7:30 PM select Fridays
Pricing: Adults $12–15 (all-you-can-eat dine-in), Seniors 60+ $10, Children $6, Under 5 free

All-you-can-eat format with fried or baked cod, French fries or baked potato, and homemade tortes ($3 each). Curbside pickup available—call after 4 PM. 50/50 raffle adds to the fun.

The Stilt House — Cedarburg

Address: Downtown Cedarburg
Hours: Every Friday (daily during Lent)

Potato chip-crusted cod (their signature) and hand-breaded walleye highlight this casual yet elevated fish fry. Weekly fresh fish specials rotate through sea bass, scallops, and branzino. With 30 beers on tap and a historic downtown Cedarburg location, this is a great option for families wanting quality and atmosphere.

Inventors Brewpub — Port Washington (Best for families with young children)

Address: Just north of downtown Port Washington (Lake Michigan view)
Hours: Year-round Fridays

Traditional cod fish fry, breaded fish tacos, and a dedicated kids' fish fry option make this family-friendly brewpub a standout. Lake Michigan views, craft sodas for kids, and burgers available for non-fish eaters. Historic building adds character.

Additional Ozaukee County locations

American Legion Post 288, Cedarburg — Peter Wollner Post, (262) 377-9987. Every 3rd Friday monthly (year-round except July), 4:00–8:00 PM. Fried and baked options with carry-out available.

St. John XXIII Parish, Port Washington — 1800 N. Wisconsin Street. 5:00–8:00 PM select Fridays. All-you-can-eat cod with clam chowder. Adults approximately $11, children $3.50. Sponsored by the Men's Club.

Ozaukee Masonic Center/Eastern Star, Port Washington — 4:00–7:00 PM Good Friday and select dates. Adults $12, Veterans $7 discount, Children 6–10 $6, Under 5 free. Family-friendly pricing.

Fork and Tap, Port Washington — Marina views, potato chip-crusted cod, great patio (seasonal).

The Beacon Restaurant, Port Washington — Inside Harborview Hotel. Upscale option with walleye, salmon, perch, and crab cakes. Art Deco lighthouse views and outdoor fire pit.

Skippy's Burger Bar, Thiensville — 113 Green Bay Road, (262) 512-1240. Beer-battered cod, bluegill, southern-crusted catfish. Family-owned for 28+ years.

Moonlight Tavern & Supper Club, Port Washington — Historic Port Hotel (built 1902). Canadian walleye, haddock, bluegill, Great Lakes perch. Supper club atmosphere; reservations recommended.

Washington County: Small-town charm

Washington County delivers authentic Wisconsin fish fry experiences in communities where the tradition runs generations deep.

Holy Angels School — West Bend's famous fish fry

Address: 230 N. 8th Avenue, West Bend, WI 53095
Phone: (262) 334-9535
Hours: 4:00–7:00 PM (typically one Friday in March)
Pricing: Adults $15 (3 pieces with sides and dessert), Children 4 and under free (dine-in)

One of Washington County's most beloved events featuring their secret "Festival Recipe" fried cod alongside baked cod and pasta options. Cash or checks only. New for recent years: pre-event ticket option for tables of 8 with 1-hour seating. Silent auction, raffle, and Cub Scout Pinewood Derby run simultaneously. All proceeds support the parish and school.

The Columbian (Knights of Columbus Hall) — West Bend

Address: 3245 Lighthouse Lane, West Bend, WI 53090
Phone: (262) 334-9849
Hours: 4:00–8:00 PM every Friday, September through May (Happy Hour 2:00–4:00 PM)

Known as the "Best Fish Fry in Washington County" by locals, featuring baked or fried fish with a full salad bar that now includes soup. Great Old Fashioneds at the bar. Also hosts charity fish fry events for local organizations. Dine-in and carryout available. Hometown atmosphere.

St. Kilian Parish — Hartford tradition

Address: 264 W. State Street, Hartford, WI 53027 (school building)
Phone: (262) 673-4831
Hours: 4:00–7:00 PM Ash Wednesday plus select Fridays
Pricing: Approximately $15/plate

Long-standing Hartford tradition with both drive-through and dine-in options. Well-organized traffic flow—enter via Johnson Street for drive-through. Pizza option available for non-fish eaters. Excellent reputation; major parish fundraiser.

West Bend Lakes Golf Club — Scenic setting

Address: 1241 Highway 33 East, West Bend, WI 53095
Phone: (262) 675-9922
Hours: Year-round Fridays 11:00 AM–8:00 PM; during Lent also Wednesdays 4:00–8:00 PM
Pricing: Beer-battered cod approximately $9.46, baked walleye available, Poor Man's Lobster approximately $11.84

Beautiful riverside setting with German potato salad and potato pancakes among the side options. Weekly homemade desserts by Flavors of Grace. Reservations recommended; wheelchair accessible. Dine-in and takeout available.

Additional Washington County locations

St. Peter Parish, Slinger — 200 E. Washington Street, (262) 644-8083. 4:00–7:00 PM select Fridays during Lent.

Faith United Church of Christ "Helping Hands Fish Fry" — Held at The Columbian, West Bend. Adults $13 advance/$14 door, children's menu available. Cash only. Unique charity model—guests designate which of 6 local charities receives proceeds.

West Bend Moose Lodge #1397 — 1721 Chestnut Street. Friday fish fry open to public; sometimes features live entertainment.

Great Outdoors Supper Club, Kewaskum — 8906 Forest View Road. Year-round Friday fish fry in classic Wisconsin supper club style with excellent Old Fashioneds.

Von Rothenburg Bier Stube, Germantown — N116W15863 Main Street, (262) 672-6099. German-style restaurant with authentic atmosphere.

Jimmy's Restaurant & Bar, Jackson — N168W21212 Main Street, (262) 677-9060. Local favorite with full-service bar.

Johnny Manhattan's, Hubertus — 3718 Hubertus Road, (262) 628-7700. Upscale supper club atmosphere.

Planning your fish fry tour

Best for families with young children

• St. Stephen Parish, Oak Creek — Drive-thru option lets wiggly kids stay in car seats

• St. Dominic Parish, Brookfield — Large venue with drive-thru; kids' mac and cheese

• Inventors Brewpub, Port Washington — Dedicated kids' fish fry, craft sodas, Lake Michigan views

• Ron's Cozy Corner, Oconomowoc — Voted #1 Kid-Friendly Atmosphere multiple years

• Bavarian Bierhaus, Glendale — Massive space; fish fry available daily for flexibility

Best value (under $12 for adults)

• Blessed Sacrament Parish, Milwaukee — $11 all-you-can-eat

• Jose's Blue Sombrero, Fox Point — $11.95 with unique cilantro potato pancakes

• St. John XXIII Parish, Port Washington — Approximately $11 all-you-can-eat

• St. Joseph Parish, Grafton — $9.50–12 with multiple fish options

• The Brick Pub & Grill, Glendale — 2-piece cod just $9.50

Best all-you-can-eat options

• Polish Center of Wisconsin, Franklin — Buffet with pierogies

• Knights of Columbus, Oconomowoc — Extensive buffet with two potato salads

• Hubbard Park Lodge, Shorewood — Servers bring refills until you're done

• Divine Savior School, Fredonia — All-you-can-eat dine-in with homemade tortes

• St. Barnabas, West Allis — $16 all-you-can-eat with salad bar

Best carryout and drive-thru

• Serb Hall, Milwaukee — Legendary efficiency; handles hundreds of cars

• St. Stephen Parish, Oak Creek — Organized drive-thru

• St. Kilian Parish, Hartford — Drive-through with clear traffic flow

• St. Dominic Parish, Brookfield — Both dine-in and drive-thru

• St. Theresa Parish, Eagle — Drive-thru only format

Best atmosphere and ambiance

• Kegel's Inn, West Allis — 100-year-old German beer hall with murals

• Hubbard Park Lodge, Shorewood — Log cabin with stone fireplace, live polka

• Golden Mast, Okauchee — Lakeside dining with stunning views

• The Beacon, Port Washington — Art Deco lighthouse views, marina setting

• Polish Center of Wisconsin, Franklin — Polish manor overlooking spring-fed lake

Practical tips for families

Arrive early. Church fish fries typically open at 4:00 or 4:30 PM; lines form by 5:30 PM at popular venues. Arriving at opening ensures shorter waits and food at peak quality.

Bring cash. Many parish fish fries accept cash or checks only—Blessed Sacrament, Holy Angels, Faith UCC, St. Paul, and others don't take credit cards. Call ahead if unsure.

Make reservations when possible. Restaurants like Kegel's Inn, Jack Pandl's, Ron's Cozy Corner, and Moonlight Tavern fill quickly during Lent. Church fish fries are first-come, first-served but some (St. Bernadette, Holy Angels) accommodate large group reservations.

Check schedules. Most church fish fries operate only 2–5 Fridays during Lent, not every Friday. Confirm dates on parish websites or the Catholic Herald's annual listing at catholicherald.org.

Consider Wednesdays. Serb Hall offers drive-thru on Wednesdays during Lent; West Bend Lakes Golf Club adds Wednesday service. Restaurants like Bavarian Bierhaus, Buckatabon, and Three Lions serve fish fry daily.

Try potato pancakes. Wisconsin's fish fry tradition includes homemade potato pancakes with applesauce—a must-try side that distinguishes the best fish fries from ordinary ones.

The 2026 Lenten calendar

Friday Date First Friday of Lent March 6, 2026 Second Friday March 13, 2026 Third Friday March 20, 2026 Fourth Friday March 27, 2026 Fifth Friday April 3, 2026 Sixth Friday April 10, 2026

Most venues announce their 2026 schedules by mid-February. Check parish websites, the Catholic Herald fish fry listing, Friday Fish Fry Guide (fridayfishfryguide.com), and local community calendars for updates. Many locations base pricing and dates on prior years—confirm all details before visiting, as some prices may increase $1–2 from figures listed here.

Whether you're seeking a classic church basement experience, an all-you-can-eat buffet, a historic supper club with brandy Old Fashioneds, or simply a convenient drive-thru after soccer practice, Milwaukee's four-county fish fry tradition delivers options for every family. Plan your Lenten tour, bring your appetite, and experience why Wisconsin does Friday fish fry better than anywhere else in America.