best fish fry madison wi

“The Catch of the Day: Where to Find the Best Fish Fry in Madison, WI”

What is a Fish Fry?


Fish Fry

A fish fry is a traditional meal that includes deep-fried fish, French fries, coleslaw, and bread. It’s a Friday night staple in the Midwest, and many restaurants and bars offer fish fry specials on Fridays. In Wisconsin, fish fry has become such a popular tradition that it’s considered a state food.

The origins of fish fry can be traced back to the Catholic tradition of abstaining from meat on Fridays during the Lenten season. As a result, fish became a popular alternative, and the tradition continued even after the restrictions were lifted. Today, fish fry is a beloved social gathering that brings friends and families together to enjoy good food and company.

The Best Fish Fry in Madison, WI


Fish Fry in Madison, WI

Madison, WI, is known for its incredible food scene, and the fish fry options are no exception. Here are some of the best places to enjoy a fish fry in Madison:

The Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned restaurant

The Old Fashioned is a classic Wisconsin supper club that serves up a delicious fish fry. The fish is fresh, flaky, and perfectly seasoned. The Old Fashioned’s fish fry also includes classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce. The atmosphere is cozy, and the restaurant is adorned with Wisconsin memorabilia that makes for a unique dining experience.

Brothers Three Bar and Grill

Brothers Three Bar and Grill

Brothers Three is a local favorite that serves up one of the best fish fries in town. The portions are generous, and the fish is perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The sides are equally delicious, especially the homemade potato pancakes and coleslaw. The atmosphere is laid back, and the staff is friendly.

Come Back In

Come Back In

Come Back In is a cozy pub that serves up a delicious fish fry. The fish is fresh and flaky, and the batter is perfectly crispy. The sides are equally good, especially the potato pancakes and deviled eggs. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, making it a great place to meet up with friends.

Overall, these are just a few of the many amazing options for a fish fry in Madison. No matter where you go, you’re sure to enjoy a delicious meal and a warm atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

Top Picks for Fish Fry in Madison


Top Picks for Fish Fry in Madison

If you’re a fan of fish fry, Madison is the perfect place for you. There are countless restaurants in Madison that offer this delicious dish. Here is a list of the top picks for fish fry in Madison that you simply cannot miss:

1. The Avenue Bar and Grill

The Avenue Bar and Grill

The Avenue Bar and Grill is a popular restaurant in Madison that serves a great fish fry. They offer both cod and walleye, and their fish fry is served with fries, coleslaw, and rye bread. What sets their fish fry apart is the homemade tartar sauce that perfectly complements the fish. You can enjoy their fish fry on Fridays from 11 am – 11 pm, so make sure to save the date!

2. Toby’s Supper Club

Toby's Supper Club

Toby’s Supper Club is a hidden gem in Madison that serves amazing seafood. Their fish fry is a must-try, as they serve generous portions of walleye that is perfectly seasoned and breaded. On top of that, they offer a wide variety of sides, including homemade potato chips and coleslaw. Toby’s Supper Club is a bit off the beaten path, but trust us, it’s worth the journey.

3. Jordan’s Big Ten Pub

Jordan's Big Ten Pub

Jordan’s Big Ten Pub is a lively sports bar in Madison that is known for their delicious food, including their famous fish fry. What sets their fish fry apart is the variety of fish they offer, including cod, walleye, and perch. Their fish fry is also served with tasty sides like buttered rye bread and homemade coleslaw. Not to mention, their portions are huge, so you can easily share it with your friends!

4. Stalzy’s Deli

Stalzy's Deli

Stalzy’s Deli is a popular deli located in Madison that serves amazing sandwiches and soups. Another thing that makes them stand out is their fish fry, which is served on Fridays. Their fish fry is made up of haddock that is freshly fried to perfection. It’s served with potato salad and rye bread, which complete this flavorful dish. You surely don’t want to miss out on this hidden gem!

These four restaurants are the top picks for fish fry in Madison, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. All of them offer unique, flavorful takes on this classic dish that will surely satisfy your cravings. So, what are you waiting for? Head to one of these restaurants for your next fish fry experience!

The Best Fish Fry Deals in Madison


Fish Fry

Madison, Wisconsin is known for its delectable fish fry options, with many restaurants featuring the Friday night tradition. However, finding the best deal can be a challenge. Don’t worry, we’ve done the work for you and found the top three fish fry deals in Madison that offer exceptional quality, value, and taste.

1. The Avenue Club and Bubble Up Bar


The Avenue Club and Bubble Up Bar

Located at 1128 E Washington Ave, The Avenue Club and Bubble Up Bar is one of Madison’s hidden gems. Not only do they offer a stunning and modern dining atmosphere, but their Friday Fish Fry also offers the best value in town. For just $12.95, you can enjoy your choice of cod, perch, walleye, or shrimp with a choice of potato, coleslaw, and bread. All this is accompanied by the famous Avenue Potato Pancakes. If you’re looking for a fantastic value for your money, head over to The Avenue Club and Bubble Up Bar.

2. The Old Fashioned


The Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a Madison landmark that celebrates the city’s love for Wisconsin traditions. Their Friday Fish Fry offers a classic meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy a perfectly fried cod or walleye with a choice of fries or potato salad, coleslaw, rye bread, and tartar sauce for just $14.50. The Old Fashioned’s Fish Fry is the perfect meal for those looking for a classic taste of Wisconsin.

3. The Harmony Bar and Grill


The Harmony Bar and Grill

The Harmony Bar and Grill brings a unique twist to the traditional Fish Fry with their delicious Catfish Po’ Boy. For just $14, enjoy a perfectly seasoned and golden-fried catfish with all the fixings, including lettuce, tomato, onion, and a side of tartar sauce. The Harmony Bar and Grill also offers the classic cod fish fry, served with fries, coleslaw, and rye bread for just $13.50. Both options are a great value for the quality and quantity of food you receive.

These top three fish fry deals in Madison offer great value, taste, and variety. Check out one of these restaurants for a fantastic fish fry experience that won’t break the bank.

Must-Try Sides and Accompaniments

Must-try sides and accompaniments for fish fry

The fish fry in Madison, Wisconsin is a staple in the local culinary scene. The dish is typically made up of fried fish fillets served with a side of coleslaw, fries, rye bread, and tartar sauce. However, there are a few more sides and accompaniments that can take the fish fry experience to the next level. Here are some must-try sides and accompaniments that you can find in Madison:

1. Cheese Curds

plate of cheese curds

Cheese curds are the quintessential Wisconsin staple that can be eaten as a snack or as a side. They pair perfectly with the fish fry, especially when dipped in ranch or tartar sauce. Some restaurants even offer deep-fried cheese curds as a side, adding an extra crunch to the meal.

2. Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese

Mac and Cheese is another classic side dish that compliments the fish fry. It’s creamy and rich, perfect for balancing out the salty fried fish. Some restaurants in Madison even elevate the dish by adding bacon, jalapenos, or lobster for an added touch of luxury.

3. Potato Pancakes

Plate of potato pancakes

Potato pancakes, also known as latkes, make for a great alternative to traditional fries. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They can also be served with apple sauce or sour cream, giving a unique twist to the classic fish fry side dishes.

4. Spotted Cow Beer

Bottle of Spotted Cow beer

To complete the perfect fish fry experience in Madison, a cold beer is a must. Spotted Cow beer is a popular choice that pairs well with the dish. It’s light and refreshing, making it the perfect accompaniment. Some restaurants even offer a Spotted Cow beer battered fish fry, taking the beer pairing to a whole new level.

In conclusion, there are a variety of sides and accompaniments that can make your fish fry experience in Madison even more delightful. Cheese curds, mac and cheese, potato pancakes, and Spotted Cow beer are some of the fantastic options that complement the savory fried fish perfectly. The next time you’re in Madison, make sure to try out these must-try sides and accompaniments.

The Historical and Cultural Significance of Fish Fry in Wisconsin


Fish Fry Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s love for fish fry can be traced back to the state’s strong Catholic background. Traditionally, Catholics abstain from eating meat on Fridays during Lenten season, which led to the development of fish fry as a popular alternative. Over the years, this tradition has evolved into a beloved Midwest culinary tradition that is enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.

Every Friday, many restaurants in Wisconsin, including Madison, offer specials on fish fry. The most popular fish often used for the dish is cod or perch, which is usually dipped in batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. The dish is usually served with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, french fries, and rye bread. Many places also offer variations of the dish, such as beer-battered or baked fish, and some even serve it on Saturdays, too.

Madison: The Best Place to Enjoy Fish Fry


Madison WI Fish Fry

Madison is an exceptional location for enjoying fish fry because of its diverse selection of restaurants and bars that offer the dish. From traditional supper clubs and taverns to upscale eateries, Madison has something to offer for every taste and budget.

One of the most iconic fish fry spots in Madison is The Old-Fashioned. This restaurant offers a classic fish fry, featuring beer-battered cod, German-style potato salad, and a slice of rye bread. Another popular spot is Graze, which offers a unique twist on the dish with its trout version, served with rice pilaf and braised greens.

For those who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, Mickey’s Tavern is a great choice. This bar offers a tasty and affordable fish fry featuring lightly breaded cod filets, hush puppies, and coleslaw. Other notable Madison fish fry spots include The Avenue Club & Bubble Up Bar, Toby’s Supper Club, and Tornado Steak House.

Madison is also a great destination for those who want to sample some of the state’s craft beers. Many restaurants and bars in the city offer locally brewed beer, which pairs perfectly with a hearty fish fry.

In conclusion, if you are a fish fry lover, Madison is the place to be. With its rich history and a diverse selection of restaurants and bars, you are sure to find a fish fry that suits your taste and budget. So, come to Madison, and experience the magic of this beloved Midwest tradition.

About admin