Milwaukee Fish Fry

 

The Best Fish Fry in Milwaukee – Your Ultimate Guide

Looking for the Best Friday Fish Fry in Milwaukee? Whether it’s Friday night tradition, Lent season, or you’re just craving a crispy, golden fish fry, we’ve got you covered! Milwaukee is known for its incredible fish fries, and we’re here to help you find the top spots in town.

What Makes a Great Milwaukee Fish Fry?

  • Fresh, Quality Fish – Whether it’s cod, perch, walleye, or bluegill, a great fish fry starts with fresh, high-quality fish.

  • Crispy, Golden Breading – Light, crispy beer batter or classic breadcrumbs make all the difference.

  • Delicious Sides – From homemade coleslaw to Grebe’s rye bread, potato pancakes, and classic fries, the sides complete the experience.

  • Cold Beer & Cocktails – A classic Wisconsin Old Fashioned or a locally brewed beer is the perfect pairing.

  • Community Atmosphere – Milwaukee fish fries bring people together, whether it’s at a historic tavern, church, or beer garden.

OUR PICK FOR Top Fish Fry Spots in Milwaukee

1. Kegel’s Inn – A Milwaukee Fish Fry Institution

Kegel’s Inn was built in 1924 during prohibition as continued as a speakeasy until 1933. It is one of the best restaurants for german food and tops the charts for best fish fry in the Milwaukee area.

Authentic German Fish Fry in a Cozy Atmosphere

📍 Location: 5901 W. National Ave, West Allis, WI 53214
🔥 What Makes It Special: This historic German beer hall has been serving one of the best fish fries in Milwaukee for nearly 100 years! Enjoy a traditional fish fry with a side of history, paired with an Old Fashioned or a cold stein of beer. ✅ Dine Inside, Drive-Thru, or Enjoy the Heated Beer Garden at Bootleggers Alley! 📅 Available: Wednesday & Friday nights
🔗 Reserve a Table or Order Online

Kegel’s Inn, a family-owned restaurant, serves up a legendary fish fry with hand-breaded cod, accompanied by sides like crispy fries or traditional potato pancakes. With its old-fashioned, German-style ambiance, Kegel’s is a great spot to enjoy a fish fry with an extra touch of warmth and community. For a real taste of Milwaukee tradition, Kegel’s Inn remains a favorite.

Highlights:

  • Hand-breaded cod served with fries or potato pancakes

  • Old-fashioned German ambiance with Heated Beer Garden

  • Drive thru for fast pick up of online orders & you can order at the window!

  • Long-standing local favorite for over 100 years

  • Takes online reservations during Lent inside the historic dining room, beer garden & even in their heated tent in the winter.

Milwaukee is known for its rich tradition of Friday fish fries, and we’re here to highlight the best of the best. Whether you’re in the mood for a crispy beer-battered cod or a seasoned perch, these local spots will not disappoint. Here are five fish fry destinations you should also check out:

2. St. Paul Fish Company

Fresh Seafood Right in the Milwaukee Public Market
Location: 400 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Located within the Milwaukee Public Market, St. Paul Fish Company offers a variety of fish fry options like cod, perch, and walleye. Their fish is lightly breaded and fried to perfection, served alongside crispy fries and tangy coleslaw. For seafood lovers, this spot is a must-try.

Highlights:

  • Variety of fish fry options, including cod and perch

  • Located inside the vibrant Milwaukee Public Market

  • Fresh, quality seafood served with a side of fun

3. Lakefront Brewery

Craft Beer and Fish Fry in a Fun Brewery Setting
Location: 1872 N Commerce St, Milwaukee, WI 53212
Known for their craft beers, Lakefront Brewery offers a unique twist on the classic fish fry. They fry their cod in Eastside Dark beer batter, creating a rich and flavorful crust. With live music and a lively brewery atmosphere, this fish fry experience is anything but ordinary.

Highlights:

  • Fish fried in craft beer batter (Eastside Dark)

  • Fun brewery setting with live music

  • Polka dancing and a festive atmosphere

4. Mibbs & Vivs

Authentic Comfort Food with a Modern Twist
Location: 1234 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204
Mibbs & Vivs brings a unique combination of hearty comfort food and innovative twists on classic recipes. Their fish fry is no exception, offering crispy fish, flavorful sides, and excellent service. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a traditional fish fry with a touch of modern flair.

Highlights:

  • Crispy fish fry with a modern twist on comfort food

  • Known for excellent service and quality dishes

  • Cozy, welcoming atmosphere

5. Swingin' Door Exchange

Classic Fish Fry with a Fun Vibe
Location: 219 E Michigan St, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Swingin’ Door Exchange is a go-to for those who appreciate a light batter and crispy, flaky fish. They offer a variety of sides like house-made chips, fries, potato pancakes, or a cup of soup to pair with their popular Icelandic cod. The cozy atmosphere and upbeat energy make this a great spot to enjoy a casual fish fry.

Highlights:

  • One of the older bar establishments in downtown Milwaukee

  • Wide selection of delicious sides

  • Cozy, lively atmosphere with great service

Conclusion
No matter which of these fantastic spots you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable fish fry experience in Milwaukee. From Kegel’s Inn with its traditional German roots to Lakefront Brewery’s fun brewery vibe, Milwaukee offers a range of flavors and atmospheres that will satisfy any fish fry lover. Get ready to enjoy some of the best fish fry the city has to offer!

Where to Find the Best Fish Fry Near You

Milwaukee is packed with amazing fish fries, whether you’re looking for a traditional supper club experience, a church fish fry, or a modern take on this Wisconsin classic. No matter where you go, make sure to arrive early—good fish fries sell out fast!