There’s no fish fry quite like one in Wisconsin! As a true Friday night tradition, the classic fish fry brings people together over crispy, golden fillets, hearty sides, and an atmosphere that feels like home. Whether you prefer a classic beer-battered cod, a light and flaky perch, or a flavorful walleye, there are plenty of spots here serving up some of the best. If you’re looking for your next favorite fish fry, this guide will help you find the top places to enjoy this beloved Wisconsin staple right here in La Crosse!
Ardie’s Flipside Pub & Grill
Location: 400 Lang Drive, La Crosse
Ardie’s serves up a haddock dinner every Friday, pairing it with crispy chicken! With a casual pub setting, it’s a great spot to enjoy a hearty meal with friends. If you’re looking to enjoy your fish fry at home, Ardie’s also offers a Friday Fish Carryout Special – two piece batter fried haddock and a fourth chicken.
Blue Moon
Location: 716 2nd Ave North, Onalaska
This cozy bar and grill is a go-to for a classic Wisconsin fish fry! Friday’s meal features crispy beer-battered cod and homemade coleslaw. They also serve Prime Rib on Friday’s nights! It’s a friendly neighborhood spot with water views, known for great service.
Buzzard Billy’s
Location: 222 Pearl Street, La Crosse
Photos courtesy of Buzzard Billy’s
If you’re looking for something beyond the traditional, Buzzard Billy’s offers a Cajun twist on the Friday fish fry. Their Southern-style catfish and walleye, paired with unique seasoning, set them apart from the typical Midwest-style fry. Don’t fret if you’re looking for the traditional fish fry, though – on Friday’s during lent, Buzzard Billy’s serves a good old fashioned beer-battered cod!
The Crow
Location: 100 3rd Street South, La Crosse
Downtown La Crosse’s The Crow serves up a mean fish fry, featuring cod with crispy fries and tangy coleslaw. Pair it with one of their many bourbon and whiskey selections for the ultimate Friday night meal.
Coulee Golf Bowl
Location: 100 Green Coulee Road, Onalaska
A great place to grab a fish fry after hitting the lanes or the golf course! Their Friday special includes battered, pan-fried, or blackened cod or walleye. Take it a step further and get a combo meal – walleye and tenderloin tips, or fish and shrimp!
Drugan’s
Location: W7665 Sylvester Road, Holmen
This Holmen supper club is a great spot to enjoy your meal while taking in scenic views of the golf course. Dive into their Friday night cod dinner special, branch out and try a chicken or prime rib dinner, or fill up with a traditional (and delicious) salad bar!
Features
Location: 504 Holmen Drive North, Holmen
A family-friendly spot offering a Friday fish fry with beer-battered cod, perch, walleye, shrimp, or seafood pasta. With a welcoming atmosphere and consistently good food, it’s a great choice for a casual night out.
Fork and Fable Crafthouse
Location: 1003 16th Street South, La Crosse
Photos courtesy of Fork and Fable
Fork and Fable focuses on high-quality, sustainably sourced fish – offering options like cod, walleye, bass, mahi mahi, or sole. Pair with a potato and veggie side, you’re sure to find happiness in every bite at this Friday night stop!
Fox Hollow
Location: 3287 County Road O, La Crosse
Nestled just outside of town, Fox Hollow serves a well-seasoned and crispy fish fry that keeps locals coming back. Their relaxed bar-and-grill vibe makes it a great spot for families and groups!
The Hillside Fish House
Location: W124 WI-35, Fountain City
One of the area’s most historic fish fry destinations, The Hillside Fish House has been serving seafood lovers for generations. Their traditional fish fry is always fresh and full of flavor, making it a must-try (and well worth the drive!).
Houghton’s Jackson Street Pub
Location: 1002 Jackson Street, La Crosse
Houghton’s keeps things simple and delicious with a classic beer-battered cod fry and soup & salad bar. This long-standing La Crosse favorite is perfect for those who appreciate a no-fuss, great-tasting fish dinner!
Howie’s
Location: 1128 La Crosse Street, La Crosse
A lively bar with a solid reputation for their beer-battered and broiled fish options. We recommend opting in for the Dynamite Fries, too! Howie’s is a great place to kick off the weekend with good food, craft beer, and a fun atmosphere.
Hungry Peddler
Location: 3429 Mormon Coulee Road, La Crosse
The Hungry Peddler delivers a light, broiled or crispy battered cod and a nostalgic diner-style setting. Or switch it up from the traditional cod and get a catfish dinner! Either way, it’s a great choice for big appetites and lovers of classic Wisconsin Friday night vibes.
Mary Cody’s
Location: 205 Main Street, Onalaska
Mary Cody’s offers an elevated take on the fish fry with fresh haddock and homemade sides. If you’re looking for a cozy, sit-down meal with a touch of homemade charm, this is the place!
Red Pines Bar & Grill
Location: W7305 County Road Z, Onalaska
With its scenic lakeside setting, Red Pines is the perfect place to enjoy a fish fry with a view. Their beer-battered cod and shrimp, paired with homemade tartar sauce, is a local favorite. Don’t let the busy crowd or longer wait times deter you..just enjoy a drink and company while you wait. Trust us, it’s so worth it!
The Ridge Restaurant
Location: W2782 State Road 33, La Crosse
The Ridge serves up a fish fry every Friday featuring different fish – from Mahi, to Bluegill, to Cod! Their welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxing dinner with family and friends.
Schmidty’s
Location: 3119 State Road, La Crosse
A longtime favorite for La Crosse locals, Schmidty’s offers a perfectly crispy beer-battered cod along with options of prime rib or lobster tail. The old-school supper club atmosphere adds to the experience, which you know we’re all for!
Sullivan’s
Location: W25709 Sullivan Road, Trempealeau
Tucked away in a quiet spot of Trempealeau overlooking the Mississippi River, Sullivan’s serves a Friday fish fry that feels like a well-kept secret. Their fresh, hand-breaded fish and classic Wisconsin charm make it worth the visit.
Tom Sawyer’s
Location: 136 Clinton Street, La Crosse
Stop in to Tom Sawyers for all-you-can-eat fish! Served with grilled veggies, and your choice of a salad and potato, it’s a great place to start your weekend.
The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern
Location: 328 Front Street South, La Crosse
A refined take on the Wisconsin fish fry, The Waterfront offers beer-battered yellow lake perch with house-made coleslaw and chef-prepared sides. The upscale setting and river views make for a memorable dining experience!
