Madison area fish fry: The ultimate guide

Wisconsin's beloved Friday fish fry tradition runs deep in the greater Madison area, with more than 65 venues serving up golden-battered cod, delicate lake perch, and pan-fried walleye every week. This comprehensive guide covers everything from iconic supper clubs with relish trays and brandy Old Fashioneds to neighborhood taverns, church basement fundraisers, and VFW halls—all vetted for family-friendliness. Whether you're seeking all-you-can-eat perch, a lakeside sunset dinner, or the best gluten-free option in Dane County, you'll find it here.

The Madison fish fry scene is anchored by legendary establishments like Toby's Supper Club (voted Best Fish Fry 2025), Kavanaugh's Esquire Club (serving since 1947), and The Old Fashioned downtown. But venture into surrounding communities and you'll discover hidden gems that locals guard jealously—from the pretzel-crusted walleye at Lone Girl Brewing in Waunakee to the famous fritters at Dorf Haus in Sauk City.

Madison options

Madison's fish fry scene spans every neighborhood, offering options from divey taverns to white-linen supper clubs.

Toby's Supper Club

3717 S. Dutch Mill Rd., Madison, WI 53718 | (608) 222-6913 | tobyssupperclub.com

The 2025 Up North News Reader's Choice winner for Best Fish Fry, Best Restaurant, and Best Old Fashioned. This iconic southside supper club serves 600+ fish fry dinners every Friday and maintains every classic tradition: relish tray, cinnamon rolls, signature sugary coleslaw, and dimly-lit roadhouse ambiance.

• Fish fry days: Friday (most popular), Saturday, and daily availability

• Fish options: Cod, catfish, bluegill (lunch), lake perch, walleye, baby pike

• Preparation: Lightly breaded and fried with thin, crispy coating

• Sides: Relish tray, cinnamon rolls, bread basket, coleslaw, steak fries or cheese hash browns (the cheese hash browns are legendary)

• Price range: $11-18

• Family-friendly features: Yes, welcoming atmosphere; daytime visits better for young children

• Seating: Indoor only; expect waits on Friday nights

• Reservations: Unique system—order at bar, wait for table, food arrives when seated

Dexter's Pub

301 North St., Madison, WI 53704 | (608) 244-3535 | dexterspubmadison.com

Voted Madison's Best Fish Fry multiple years by both Madison Magazine and Isthmus. This east side neighborhood pub distinguishes itself with wild-caught, sustainably harvested North American fish fried in non-GMO sunflower oil.

• Fish fry days: Wednesday (limited), Friday (full menu) 11am-10pm

• Fish options: North Atlantic cod, Great Lakes perch, Canadian walleye, Alaskan king salmon, jumbo shrimp, bluegill

• Preparation: Beer-battered with light, airy, impossibly crisp coating

• Sides: House coleslaw, Madison Sourdough rye bread, choice of brew fries, waffle fries, or pub chips

• Price range: $14-22

• All-you-can-eat: No

• Family-friendly features: Neighborhood pub atmosphere; cannot accommodate tables over 8 on Fridays

• Seating: Indoor with bar seating

• Reservations: Accepted

Kavanaugh's Esquire Club

1025 N. Sherman Ave., Madison, WI 53704 | (608) 249-0193 | kavanaughsesquire.club

Madison's oldest operating supper club (since 1947) and the birthplace of the city's Friday fish fry tradition. Three generations of family ownership have preserved classic traditions including relish trays, salad bar, and family-style service.

• Fish fry days: Friday (main), Wednesday; reservations start 6:45pm Fridays

• Fish options: Ocean perch (hand-breaded), cod, walleye, lake perch, bluegill

• Preparation: Hand-breaded, deep fried

• Sides: Crinkle-cut fries, creamy coleslaw, relish tray, soup, salad bar, bread

• Price range: $14.50-18

• All-you-can-eat: Yes—famous for AYCE hand-breaded ocean perch

• Family-friendly features: High chairs available; four dining rooms seat 300; family-style service

• Reservations: Highly recommended on Fridays (1-2 hour waits possible)

The Old Fashioned

23 N. Pinckney St., Madison, WI 53703 | (608) 310-4545 | theoldfashioned.com

The quintessential Wisconsin experience for visitors, located steps from the Capitol Square. Sources nearly 100% of ingredients from Wisconsin farms and dairies. Featured on Food Network and consistently ranked among the state's best.

• Fish fry days: Friday specials; walleye available daily

• Fish options: Beer-battered cod ($16.95), walleye ($18.95), flour-dusted lake perch ($17.95), combo platter ($19.95), Poor Man's Lobster/baked cod ($16.95)

• Preparation: Beer-battered or flour-dusted

• Sides: Poppy seed coleslaw, matchstick fries, house-made lemon caper tartar sauce, warm rye bread

• Price range: $16.95-19.95

• All-you-can-eat: No

• Family-friendly features: Full menu with variety; great for introducing kids to Wisconsin traditions

• Seating: Indoor; classic Wisconsin tavern atmosphere

• Reservations: Highly recommended on Fridays; 45+ minute waits common

Gates & Brovi

3502 Monroe St., Madison, WI 53711 | (608) 819-8988 | gatesandbrovi.com

From James Beard-nominated chefs Phillip Hurley and John Gadau, this Monroe Street spot blends East Coast Italian fish house with Wisconsin supper club traditions. Excellent for families seeking elevated quality in a casual setting.

• Fish fry days: Friday nights

• Fish options: Fried Alaskan cod (2-piece $19, 3-piece $23), fried Great Lakes bluegill ($20), pan-fried bluegill BLT (daily)

• Preparation: Light, delightfully crunchy breading; expertly fried

• Sides: Fries or boiled potatoes, coleslaw, tartar sauce, spicy "Zip Sauce"

• Price range: $19-23

• Family-friendly features: Described as great for families with kids; neighborhood restaurant vibe

• Seating: Indoor; outdoor patio available

• Reservations: Recommended; typically 15-20 minute wait on Fridays

Oakcrest Tavern

5371 Old Middleton Rd., Madison, WI 53705 | (608) 233-1243 | Fish fry line: (608) 233-1081 | oakcresttavernmadison.com

A 1950s west side institution with charming "small-town tap stranded in Madison" atmosphere. One of the few places offering fish fry three days per week.

• Fish fry days: Wednesday, Thursday, AND Friday 5-10pm

• Fish options: Lake perch (specialty), cod; baked cod Fridays only

• Preparation: Homemade beer-and-flour batter; add pieces for $2.50

• Sides: Fresh salad, dinner rolls, choice of fries, potato salad, coleslaw, or baked potato (with baked cod)

• Price range: $4-23; perch $14 regular, $22 "Hungry Man"

• All-you-can-eat: No

• Family-friendly features: Kid's cod and kid's perch dinners available; dogs allowed; casual, divey atmosphere

• Seating: Cozy tavern with bar and limited dining

• Reservations: Accepted; takeout available

Tipsy Cow

102 King St., Madison, WI 53703 | (608) 287-1455 | tipsycowmadison.com

Known for fish battered with New Glarus Spotted Cow beer and served with signature smoky chipotle "Tipsy Sauce" alongside traditional tartar. Great value right off the Capitol Square.

• Fish fry days: Fridays 11am-10pm

• Fish options: Cod (~$10), walleye (~$12), perch, shrimp

• Preparation: Spotted Cow beer-battered

• Sides: French fries, coleslaw, Clasen's rye bread, tartar sauce, Tipsy Sauce

• Price range: $10-12—very affordable

• Family-friendly features: Casual atmosphere; outdoor patio seating

• Reservations: Walk-ins welcome

Additional Madison locations

Tip Top Tavern | 601 North St. | (608) 241-5515 | thetiptoptavern.com Retro neighborhood bar with foodie-quality food. Beer-battered cod, baked cod, panko-crusted Canadian walleye. From-scratch tartar sauce and coleslaw. Fabulous weekend brunch. Amazing patio. $14-18.

Turn Key Supper Club | 1334 E. Washington Ave. | turnkeymadison.com Fish fry Tuesday AND Friday—rare! Beer-battered haddock with fries, tartar, coleslaw, biscuits. Tuesday: $7 sangria special. Friday: $7 Wisconsin Old Fashioned special. Historic 1885 building.

Chico's Villa Tap | 2302 Packers Ave. | chicosvillatap.com Self-proclaimed "Best Fish Fry in Madison." Icelandic cod, Canadian walleye, lake perch, bluegill, jumbo shrimp. Fridays 1-8pm. One of Madison's longest-standing sports bars. #10 for lake perch per madisonfishfry.com.

Blue Moon Bar & Grill | 2535 University Ave. | bluemoonbarandgrill.com Fish fry Wednesdays AND Fridays. Cod, grilled salmon, fried shrimp. Beer-battered or baked. Famous Boston clam chowder.

Off Broadway Drafthouse | 5404 Raywood Rd. | offbroadwaydrafthouse.com Every Friday 11am-9:30pm. Walleye, cod, perch, newly added bluegill. Choice of Yukon gold potatoes, cheesy hash browns, or frites.

Tornado Steak House | 116 S. Hamilton St. | (608) 256-3570 | tornadosteakhouse.com Upscale white-linen supper club downtown. Pan-fried lake perch, walleye, salmon. Famous hash browns, relish tray, bread plate. Friday fish fry, Saturday prime rib, Sunday chicken. $25-45+. Reservations essential—books weeks in advance.

The Harvey House | West Washington Ave. | theharveyhouse.com Elevated modern supper club in renovated historic train depot. Fish fry served all week long. Superior walleye with German spätzle, cabbage, toasted rye. Praised by NY Times, Food & Wine, Esquire. Higher-end pricing.

Immediate suburbs: Middleton, Sun Prairie, Fitchburg, Verona, Monona

Middleton

Hubbard Avenue Diner | 7445 Hubbard Ave. | (608) 831-6800 | hubbardavenuediner.com Classic family diner. Every Friday. Beer-battered fried cod or baked cod. Fries, coleslaw, tartar, potato roll. Baked comes with wild rice pilaf and vegetables. $16.99-17.49. Dine-in, carry-out, or delivery. Great family atmosphere.

The Free House Pub | Middleton | freehousepub.com Cozy gastropub. Friday fish fry with house barrel-aged Old Fashioned. Tartar sauce, coleslaw, choice of side. Sweet potato fries and garlic parmesan fries available as upgrades. Outdoor dining.

1847 at The Stamm House | Middleton Historic 1847 building (former speakeasy). Friday fish fry. Hash brown-crusted walleye option. Charming historic setting with outdoor dining.

Monk's Bar & Grill | Middleton | monksbarandgrill.com Friday night fish fry. Cod—beer-battered or baked. Choice of potato, coleslaw, tartar, lemon. "Wisconsin tradition done Monk's style."

Mid Town Pub | 2405 Allen Blvd. | midtownpub.com Veteran-owned Irish pub. Friday fish fry. Serving Middleton since 2005. Cozy lakeside neighborhood bar.

Sun Prairie

Buck & Honey's | Sun Prairie | sunprairie.buckandhoneys.com Award-winning restaurant—Best of Madison winner and four consecutive years of Sun Prairie "Best" awards. Friday fish fry. Beer-battered cod. Signature cheesy hash brown casserole ($1 upgrade). ~$10.50+ lunch, higher dinner. Named after local farming couple. Reservations available online. Great for families.

The Round Table (Knights of Columbus) | 1611 N. Bristol St. | (608) 825-9195 | theroundtablesunprairie.com Fridays during Lent/winter (January-April). Dine-in 4:45-8pm; takeout from 3:30pm. Adults $17, Kids (6-12) $8. Cod (fried or baked), plus shrimp and chicken options. Baked potato or fries, coleslaw, beans, roll. Proceeds benefit local youth groups—raised nearly $32,000 in 2025.

Varsity Bar & Grill | 1205 W. Main St. | (608) 318-2729 | varsitybargrill.com Every Friday until 10pm. Budget-friendly sports bar. $2 Hamms all day; $3 Jack shots.

Prairie Lanes | prairielanes.com Every Friday 4-9pm. Battered or baked cod. Cup of soup or salad bar included. Bowling alley/sports bar combo—great for family entertainment.

Fitchburg

Quivey's Grove | 6261 Nesbitt Rd. | (608) 273-4900 | quiveysgrove.com Frequently voted "Best Fish Fry in Madison Area" and Top 10 in Wisconsin. Historic 1855 stone mansion (Stone House) or casual rustic Stable Grill. Friday (and Wednesday) fish fry.

• Fish options: Beer-battered cod, pretzel-crusted lake perch

• Preparation: Beer-battered, broiled, pretzel-crusted

• Sides: Famous Parmesan potatoes or French fries, coleslaw, fresh baked muffins

• Price range: ~$14-20

• All-you-can-eat: Additional plates for $1

• Family-friendly features: Stable Grill especially suitable for families

• Seating: Multiple buildings; outdoor Paddock dining late May-early October

• Reservations: Recommended for Stone House; go early to avoid waits

Ten Pin Alley | Fitchburg Bowling alley fish fry recommended by Mike Seidel (who has eaten 1,900+ fish fries across Wisconsin). Friday fish fry. Cod. Hidden gem setting.

Verona

5th Quarter Bar & Grill | 161 Horizon Dr. | (608) 845-9690 | 5thquarter.biz Friday night fish fry specialty. Cod, perch, shrimp, Cajun mahi. Fried, grilled, or baked. Legendary cheesy hash browns. Lunch specials: 2pc cod with baked potato $13.50; perch sandwich $14. Premier sports bar with arcade games. Dining area separate from bar—great for families. Outdoor patio.

Draft House Bar & Restaurant | 1010 Enterprise Dr. | (608) 848-3158 | drafthouseverona.com Friday fish fry. Outstanding value at $8.50. Cod, walleye. Light, tasty beer batter. Well-seasoned waffle fries. Highly coordinated kitchen—fast service even when packed. "No wonder the locals love it."

Pounder's Pub | Verona (in bowling alley) Friday fish fry. ~$13.25. "Hidden gem"—sports bar in bowling alley. Reviews say "killer fish fry." Less crowded alternative. Also known for great pizza.

North & South Seafood and Smokehouse | Verona Friday fish fry plus live music. Relaxed atmosphere. Ty's baby back ribs on Saturday.

Monona

Tully's II Food & Spirits | 6401 Monona Dr. | (608) 222-4995 | tullys2.com "Best Fish Fry in Monona"—28 "Best of Monona" awards in 2024. AYCE beer-battered cod (~$10) and lake perch (~$11) with salad bar included. Heated patio. 20 TVs. Game room with pool and foosball—great for kids. Daily lunch specials.

Silver Eagle Bar & Grill | 5805 Monona Dr. | (608) 222-2843 | silvereaglebar.net Friday fish fry. Serving Monona for over 30 years. BOGO FREE Happy Hours Mon-Fri 3-6pm. Established neighborhood spot.

Immaculate Heart of Mary Church | 5101 Schofield St. | (608) 221-1521 Seasonal Lenten fish fry. Drive-thru option available. Parish community event.

Greater Dane County communities

Waunakee

The Lone Girl Brewing Company | 114 E. Main St. | (608) 849-2527 | thelonegirl.com Family-friendly craft brewery. Year-round Friday fish fry. Baked, fried, or parmesan-crusted haddock; walleye; bluegill. Fish served with orange slice (pairs better with craft beers). $16-18. 7,000 sq. ft. brewery with 4,000 sq. ft. rooftop patio. Gas fire pit. Gaming area. Modern industrial décor.

Athens Grill | 5430 Willow Rd. | (608) 850-5590 | theathensgrill.com One of the best gluten-free fish fry options in the area. Fridays 11am until close. Uses Alt Brewing beer + secret gluten-free mix for extra crispy coating that holds up for takeout. Cod, perch. Cabbage slaw, fries, house-made tartar. Rated "second best in Dane County" by reviewers.

American Legion Post 360 | 417 E. Main St. Second Friday of each month, October-April. 4:30-7:30pm. Cod (baked or fried in "secret recipe"). Coleslaw, fries, baked potato or beans. Cookies and milk/coffee dessert. $13/plate. Community event running 35+ years. ~85 volunteers per event.

Buck & Honey's Waunakee | 1370 Water Wheel Dr. | (608) 999-4560 | waunakee.buckandhoneys.com Friday fish fry. 2-piece beer-battered or baked cod. Signature cheesy hash browns, coleslaw, ciabatta roll. ~$16. Warm, cozy atmosphere. Excellent service.

Rex's Innkeeper | 301 N. Century Ave. | (608) 849-5011 | rexsinnkeeper.com Unique medieval/castle architecture with turret, slate floors, fireplace, wrought iron chandeliers. Friday fish fry. Haddock, walleye, cod, shrimp, salmon, lobster. Breaded or broiled. Soup & salad bar available. Private dining rooms; banquet facilities up to 250.

Mount Horeb

Fink's Cafe | 204 W. Main St. | (608) 437-8922 "Best Fish Fry in Town" per locals. Friday evenings ONLY, 4-8pm. Cod or walleye (fried or grilled). Seafood platter available. Choice of potato, coleslaw/cottage cheese/vegetables, roll. ~$15-20. New Glarus beers. Small, cozy atmosphere. Fast service.

Buck & Honey's Mount Horeb | Mount Horeb location Same quality as Sun Prairie and Waunakee locations. Friday fish fry with signature sides.

Stoughton

Springers on the Lake | 3097 Sunnyside St. | (608) 205-9300 | springersonthelake.com Classic supper club on Lake Kegonsa. Fish fry Wednesdays AND Fridays. Beer-battered cod, crunchy breaded options, Mahi Mahi. Multiple potato options; salad bar. Friday dinner buffet; Saturday prime rib and BBQ. Waterfront outdoor seating with sunset views. Live entertainment Memorial Day-Labor Day. Accessible by car, bike, boat, or snowmobile.

Viking Brew Pub | 234 W. Main St. | (608) 719-3960 | vikingbrewpub.com Friday nights. Healthier options: grilled cod, grilled shrimp, salmon. Unique Viking ship-shaped bar with dragon figurehead that breathes smoke. On-site craft brewery. Kids enjoy the décor. Blocks from Stoughton Opera House.

Wendigo | Downtown Stoughton | wendigostoughton.com Friday fish fry with creative preparations. Fried tomato po'boy specialty. Sweet potato fries, mango carrot slaw. Award-worthy cheese curds. Local artist art displayed.

McFarland

Maple Tree Supper Club | 6010 U.S. 51 | (608) 838-5888 | Takeout: (608) 838-1114 | mapletreesupperclub.com Family-owned since 1985. Tuesday-Saturday. Walleye, cod, seafood. Fried or baked. Homemade soup and salad bar included with all dinners. Homemade bread. Choice of potato. Famous prime rib Thu-Sat. Banquet facilities. 2 miles south of Beltline. Reservations welcome except Fri/Sat.

Green Lantern Restaurant | 4412 Siggelkow Rd. | (608) 838-4730 | thegreenlanternrestaurant.com Lakefront dining on Lake Waubesa with scenic views. Sun-Thu 6am-9pm, Fri-Sat 6am-10pm. Friday fish fry popular. Lake perch (light breading), walleye, bluegill, cod, fried chicken. Accessible by car, boat, or bike. Key lime pie martinis. Outdoor balcony and patio. Pier space for boats.

Oregon

Headquarters Bar & Restaurant | 101 Concord Dr. | (608) 291-0750 | oregonhq.com Fridays 11am-10pm. 3pc house-battered cod, baked cod (lemon pepper & paprika dusted), 4pc lake perch, Ahi tuna. $13-18. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT SALAD BAR INCLUDED. 32 beers on tap. Sand volleyball courts. Golf simulators. Trivia Wednesdays. Family-friendly (except Garage area). Weekend breakfast.

Cross Plains

The Hilltop | 4173 County Rd. P | (608) 798-2893 Classic supper club on a rolling hilltop. Wednesdays 4-9pm AND Fridays 4-10pm. Cod (fried or baked), perch. Unique toppings: cream cheese or parmesan. Baked potatoes, scalloped potatoes, rice pilaf, coleslaw, rye bread. Frank Sinatra music. 35 ice cream drinks (Grasshopper, Pink Squirrel). Table-top Ms. Pac-Man games. Staff treats customers "like family."

Other Greater Dane County

The Shack Bar & Grill | Black Earth Friday fish fry. Classic small-town Wisconsin bar. Great for Packers games.

The Pickle Tree Restaurant | 625 S. Main St., Deerfield | (608) 764-5935 Fridays. Lake perch, cod, shrimp. Deep fried or baked. "Best pizza in town" plus Friday fish fry. Full bar. Private party space for 200. 10 min east of Madison.

Hering's Lake Ripley Inn | Cambridge Fridays. 2 or 3-piece cod with light breading. Potato pancakes highlighted. Tasty coleslaw, rye bread. "One of the best fish frys around"—locals treasure this hidden gem. Lakeside location accessible by bike. Great Old Fashioneds.

Timbers Tavern | 208 W. North St., DeForest | timberstavern.net Fridays 11am-9pm. Local tavern in DeForest. Listed in Madison Magazine's fish fry guide.

Surrounding counties

Sauk County

Dorf Haus Supper Club | 8931 County Hwy. Y, Roxbury (Sauk City) | (608) 643-3980 | dorfhaus.com #1 OVERALL for haddock per madisonfishfry.com. Voted Best Fish Fry by Madison Magazine readers. Wisconsin's largest German supper club seating 450. Friday 4:30-9:30pm.

• Fish options: Haddock (lightly breaded), walleye pike (broiled or pan-fried)

• Preparation: Lightly breaded/fried, broiled, pan-fried

• Sides: Famous homemade fritters with honey butter (signature item), German potato salad or fries, coleslaw

• Price range: $15-22

• Family-friendly features: Children's menu available; family-style dinners

• Notable: Authentic German décor with stained glass and antiques; live polka music Fridays; excellent Old Fashioneds

• Reservations: NOT accepted Fri/Sat; arrive at 4pm (expect 1.5-2 hour waits)

Green Acres Restaurant | Sauk City Friday nights; kitchen opens 4:30pm. Baked or fried haddock, halibut. Baked potato, coleslaw, fresh warm bread loaf. $11.95+. Classic supper club since 1930s. Saturday prime rib.

Eagle Inn – Sauk Prairie | Prairie du Sac | saukprairieeagleinn.com Friday fish fry (daily specials). Everything made from scratch. Famous for homemade pies. Breakfast all day. Excellent potato pancakes. Light, flaky fish batter.

Prairie House Food & Spirits | 1920 Prairie St., Prairie du Sac | prairiehousesp.com Friday fish fry. 16 beers on tap including regional craft beers. Wollersheim Winery wines. Patio seating.

Columbia County

Fish Tales Restaurant | W12690 State Rd. 188, Lodi | (608) 592-4266 | fishtalesrestaurant.com Voted "Best Restaurant in Lodi & Lake Wisconsin Area" 8 years running. Opens nightly 4pm; Sunday breakfast 9am-12:30pm. Wisconsin fish fry, seafood. Supper club atmosphere. Stone baked pizzas. Outdoor patio. Saturday prime rib. Kid's menu available.

Fitz's On The Lake | Lake Wisconsin area near Lodi | fitzsonthelake.com Fridays. Beer-battered or baked buttercrumb haddock. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT $20.99. Coleslaw, choice of potato. Salad bar (increasingly rare). Scenic Lake Wisconsin views. Live music weekends. Gas dock for boats.

Suzy's Steak & Seafood House | Portage (north side, behind Walmart on County Rd. CX) | suzysportage.com Famous Friday fish fry. Dining 4pm Wed-Sun. Happy Hour 4-6pm with $3 Old Fashioneds. Children's menu. Locally owned.

Jefferson County

The Fireside Dinner Theatre | 1131 Janesville Ave., Fort Atkinson Fridays only (dark days when no show). Steamed Norwegian cod with peppercorn beurre blanc OR beer-battered cod. Highly praised clam chowder. Elegant atmosphere with linen tablecloths. Nationally acclaimed Broadway dinner theatre. Specialty shops. Upscale pricing. 50+ years of service.

Stagecoach Inn | 6396 County Line Rd., Fort Atkinson | (608) 868-3850 Friday evenings. Deep fried or broiled cod, lake perch. $17.95. Coleslaw, potato, rye bread. Historic building from early 1900s (original stagecoach rest stop). Featured in "Wisconsin Supper Clubs: Another Round." Excellent non-muddled Brandy Old Fashioneds ($5.50). Perch highly recommended.

Milford Hills Hunt Club | Jefferson County Weekly (during season). Winner "Best Local Fish Fry" 2024 by Lake Country Family Fun. Specials change and sell out nightly. Homemade potato pancakes. Biggest whiskey/bourbon selection in Jefferson County. Rustic elegant clubhouse with full-size wildlife mounts. Reservations essential during Lent.

Crawfish Junction | W6376 County Rd. A, Johnson Creek madisonfishfry.com rankings: #4 bluegill, #8 lake perch, #14 walleye. Extensive menu: salmon, shrimp, alligator, crawfish tail, cod, perch, bluegill, walleye. Cajun style. Recently reopened after fire. Best for adventurous eaters. Reservations recommended.

Iowa County

Red Room Bar & Restaurant | Dodgeville Fish fry. All-you-can-eat with generous portions. Warm service. Varied menu.

VFW, American Legion, and community fish fries

These venues offer authentic community atmosphere, support veterans and charitable causes, and often deliver exceptional quality at budget-friendly prices.

VFW Fish Fries

VFW Post 8483 | 5737 County Rd. CV, Madison | (608) 241-3740 Rated "Best VFW Fish Fry in the area—maybe the best in the state" by madisonfishfry.com. Friday nights 11am-12am. Cod with lightly breaded, flaky, grease-free coating. Crispy battered fries, crusty roll, tangy coleslaw, bonus baked beans. ~$15. Open to public daily. Gets packed but quick turnover. Supports veterans.

VFW Day Post 7591 | 301 Cottage Grove Rd., Madison | (608) 221-9326 | vfwpost7591.org Every Friday. Carryout 4pm, pickup 5-8pm. Baked and fried cod. Seasonal varieties including catfish, perch, walleye. French fries, coleslaw. Affordable. Live music Fridays including "Marcy and the Highlights". Shirley Temples for kids. Bingo, karaoke, trivia nights. Monthly omelet breakfasts (3rd Sunday Oct-June).

Knights of Columbus

Knights of Columbus Council 8986 / St. Leonard's Church | Madison Fridays during Lent. Deep fried fish with flavorful breading. Exceptional side variety—12+ options: fries, mac and cheese, cheesy potatoes, green beans, Jell-O, pea salad, pasta salad, broccoli salad, onion rings, pudding, coleslaw. Buffet-style. Horseradish tartar sauce. One of largest parish fish fries in Madison.

St. Maria Goretti Parish / Knights of Columbus | Madison Every other Friday during Lent (2025: March 14, 28, April 11). 4:30-7pm. Buffet or carryout. Cash, check, credit accepted.

The Round Table (Knights of Columbus) | Sun Prairie | (see Sun Prairie section) $17 adults, $8 kids. Benefits local youth groups.

Church Fish Fries

St. Peter Catholic Church | Madison (Ashton) Ranked #1 on Madison Fish Fry church rankings. Fridays during Lent. Cod. Named after the Fisher of Men. Big crowds. Well-oiled volunteer machine running for decades. Dine-in or carry-out.

Immaculate Heart of Mary School/Parish | Madison Ranked #2 on Madison Fish Fry church rankings. Fridays during Lent. Deep fried or baked cod. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT buffet. Fries, green beans, mac and cheese, dinner rolls, homemade desserts (eclair pie is award-worthy). Transformed cafeteria with string lights and set tables feels like a supper club. Dine-in or carry-out.

St. Joseph Parish | Dodgeville | (608) 930-3392 Fridays during Lent, 4-7pm. Fried fish. $15/meal. Coleslaw, fries or baked potato. Drive-through available.

St. Joseph Catholic Parish | 310 2nd St., Baraboo Friday nights during Lent. Dine-in or carryout buffet. Community event open to all.

Special categories: Quick-reference recommendations

Best for families with young kids

• Gates & Brovi (Madison) – Explicitly praised for families; neighborhood vibe

• 5th Quarter Bar & Grill (Verona) – Dining area separate from bar; arcade games; kids menu

• Tully's II (Monona) – Game room with pool and foosball; casual atmosphere

• Oakcrest Tavern (Madison) – Kid's cod and perch dinners; dogs allowed

• Lone Girl Brewing (Waunakee) – Family-friendly brewery; rooftop patio; gaming area

• The Round Table (Sun Prairie) – Kids pricing ($8); community atmosphere

• Maple Tree Supper Club (McFarland) – Salad bar included; kid's menu; family-owned

Best all-you-can-eat options

• Kavanaugh's Esquire Club (Madison) – AYCE hand-breaded ocean perch

• Tully's II (Monona) – AYCE cod (~$10) and perch (~$11) with salad bar

• Fitz's On The Lake (Lodi) – AYCE $20.99 with salad bar

• Immaculate Heart of Mary (Madison) – AYCE buffet during Lent

• Quivey's Grove (Fitchburg) – Additional plates for $1

• Milford Hills Hunt Club (Jefferson County) – Generous portions

Best baked/healthier fish options

• Athens Grill (Waunakee) – Best gluten-free option; extra crispy GF batter

• Viking Brew Pub (Stoughton) – Grilled cod, grilled shrimp, salmon

• The Old Fashioned (Madison) – "Poor Man's Lobster" baked cod ($16.95)

• Oakcrest Tavern (Madison) – Baked cod Fridays

• Quivey's Grove (Fitchburg) – Broiled options available

• 5th Quarter (Verona) – Baked and grilled options

Best traditional supper club experience

• Toby's Supper Club (Madison) – 2025 Best Fish Fry winner; relish tray; classic ambiance

• Kavanaugh's Esquire Club (Madison) – Since 1947; started Madison's fish fry tradition

• Dorf Haus (Sauk City) – German heritage; live polka; fritters with honey butter

• The Hilltop (Cross Plains) – Frank Sinatra music; rolling hilltop setting

• Maple Tree Supper Club (McFarland) – Family-owned since 1985; salad bar included

• Green Lantern (McFarland) – Over a century of history; Lake Waubesa views

Best value/budget-friendly options

• Draft House (Verona) – $8.50 fish fry—exceptional value

• Tipsy Cow (Madison) – Cod ~$10, walleye ~$12

• VFW Post 8483 (Madison) – ~$15 with excellent quality; supports veterans

• Tully's II (Monona) – AYCE ~$10-11 with salad bar

• American Legion Post 360 (Waunakee) – $13/plate

• The Round Table (Sun Prairie) – $17 adults, $8 kids

Best upscale/gourmet fish fry

• Tornado Steak House (Madison) – White-linen supper club; pan-fried perch

• The Harvey House (Madison) – Elevated modern; praised by NY Times, Food & Wine

• The Fireside Dinner Theatre (Fort Atkinson) – Elegant Broadway dinner theatre

• Gates & Brovi (Madison) – James Beard-nominated chefs

• Quivey's Grove Stone House (Fitchburg) – Historic 1855 mansion setting

Hidden gems and local favorites

• Villa Tap/Chico's Villa Tap (Madison) – #3 Reader's Choice; expert's pick for perch

• Draft House (Verona) – "No wonder locals love it"

• Pounder's Pub (Verona) – "Killer fish fry" in bowling alley

• Hering's Lake Ripley Inn (Cambridge) – "Locals treasure this" lakeside spot

• Athens Grill (Waunakee) – "Second best in Dane County"

• VFW Post 8483 (Madison) – "Best VFW in the state"

• Fink's Cafe (Mount Horeb) – "Best fish fry in town" per locals

Best perch options

• Kavanaugh's Esquire Club – AYCE hand-breaded ocean perch

• Villa Tap – #10 for lake perch per madisonfishfry.com

• Toby's Supper Club – Lake perch ranked highly

• The Old Fashioned – Flour-dusted lake perch ($17.95)

• Dexter's Pub – Great Lakes perch; sustainably harvested

• Stagecoach Inn (Fort Atkinson) – Lake perch highly recommended

Best walleye options

• The Old Fashioned (Madison) – Beer-battered walleye ($18.95); available daily

• Toby's Supper Club – Walleye among extensive fish options

• Dexter's Pub – Canadian walleye

• Villa Tap – #17 for walleye per madisonfishfry.com

• The Harvey House – Superior Walleye served all week

• Dorf Haus – Canadian walleye pike (broiled or pan-fried)

• Crawfish Junction – #14 for walleye; Cajun style

Best waterfront/scenic views

• Green Lantern (McFarland) – Lake Waubesa; boat accessible

• Springers on the Lake (Stoughton) – Lake Kegonsa; sunset views

• The Boathouse at The Edgewater (Madison) – Lake Mendota views

• Fitz's On The Lake (Lodi) – Lake Wisconsin; gas dock for boats

• Hering's Lake Ripley Inn (Cambridge) – Lakeside hidden gem

Planning tips for families

Avoiding the Friday rush: Many venues offer fish fry on multiple days. Oakcrest Tavern serves Wednesday-Friday. The Hilltop and Quivey's Grove offer Wednesday options. Turn Key has Tuesday fish fry. Springers serves Wednesday and Friday.

Reservations strategy: Supper clubs like Tornado, Quivey's Grove Stone House, and Kavanaugh's fill quickly—book ahead. Dorf Haus doesn't take Friday/Saturday reservations; arrive at 4pm opening. Toby's uses a unique order-at-bar system.

Best times to arrive: For popular spots without reservations, arrive 15-20 minutes before opening (typically 4-4:30pm). Friday evenings from 6-7:30pm see peak crowds.

Carry-out options: Most venues offer takeout. Church fish fries often have drive-through lines. VFW Post 7591 has organized carryout system starting at 4pm.

Kid pricing: The Round Table ($8 kids), Oakcrest Tavern (kid portions), Gates & Brovi, 5th Quarter, and Maple Tree all offer children's menus.

Seasonal availability: Church and fraternal organization fish fries typically run Fridays during Lent (late February through April). American Legion Post 360 runs October through April, second Friday monthly.

The Madison fish fry tradition

The Friday fish fry is a sacred Wisconsin tradition dating to the state's Catholic heritage and German/Polish immigrant communities. Kavanaugh's Esquire Club helped establish Madison's fish fry culture in the early 1950s when a plate cost just 95 cents.

Today, the tradition thrives across venue types—from white-linen supper clubs serving relish trays and brandy Old Fashioneds to church basements where volunteers have run the same operation for decades. What unites them is commitment to quality fish, generous portions, and welcoming atmosphere.

Mike Seidel of madisonfishfry.com has personally reviewed over 1,900 fish fries since 2004, documenting this living tradition. His site offers detailed rankings by fish type and venue—an invaluable resource for serious fish fry enthusiasts.

For families, the Friday fish fry offers more than a meal. It's a chance to experience authentic Wisconsin culture, support local establishments and community organizations, and create weekly traditions that kids remember for a lifetime.

This guide includes 65+ venues across Madison, Dane County, and surrounding areas. Hours, prices, and availability may change—call ahead to confirm details, especially for church and fraternal organization fish fries which often operate seasonally. Most venues are busiest 6-7:30pm on Fridays.