With Lent right around the corner, many are starting to gear up for Friday fish fries in their areas. Usually served with potatoes, slaw, and a dinner roll, fish fries are as delicious as they are fun. Many are hosted by churches, but there are also plenty of restaurants that host Friday fish fries. Either way, you can’t go wrong with the battered, fried, absolutely delicious fish that you’ll find at a local fish fry. We’ve compiled a list of fish fries around Minnesota that are worth checking out. The good news is that many of these places host their fish fry year-round!
1. The Little Oven - St. Paul
Come hungry when you show up to The Little Oven in St. Paul. The generous portions will leave you feeling satisfied. Since 1990, this awesome eatery has been frying the fish on Friday nights during the Lent season. Three pieces of hand-dipped, beer-battered cod is served with soup or salad, choice of potato, and delicious popovers - all for only $14. If you’re really hungry, you can add an extra piece for only $1, or go for the all-you-can-eat option for $17. No matter which option you choose, you can’t go wrong! Address: 1786 Minnehaha Avenue East, St Paul, MN.
2. Swany's Pub - Courtland
Fortunately, you don’t have to wait for Lent to enjoy a great fish fry if you’re in the southern Minnesota town of Courtland. Swany’s Pub serves up a delicious fish fry every Friday during Lent, and the first Friday of every month after that. Cozy up to the bar and enjoy a cold drink while you wait for your all-you-can-eat fish, potatoes, coleslaw, and toast. Not a fish eater? Try their amazing homemade pizza! Address: 221 Main Street, Courtland, MN.
3. Hobbers HWY 99 Bar and Grill - St. Peter
Load up the car and bring the whole family down to this amazing fish fry. For the just $11, you can load your plate up with all-you-can-eat fried fish, baked potato, coleslaw, and homemade baked beans. For an extra $2 you can even add in the salad bar. The good news is you don’t have to wait for Lent to enjoy the Friday fish fry. It’s a menu staple at this little-known establishment. Address: 43539 French Hill Road, Saint Peter, MN.
4. Pappy's Place - Rochester
This family-friendly restaurant is the place to be for fish fry days if you’re in the Rochester area. Offering traditional fried or broiled North Atlantic cod, diners can go the all-you-can-eat route or choose a smaller serving size. If you’re wanting to change it up a little, order the parmesan-crusted cod instead. Served with potato and broccoli sides, this fish fry will not disappoint. But do get here early to make sure you’re able to get a great table for people-watching - and great drinks! Address: 1635 Highway 52 North, Rochester, MN.
5. Bierstube - Red Wing
A trip to Bierstube is in order next time you’re in Red Wing! Stop in any day of the week for great specials and tasty food. Fridays, however, are the best day to go if you love fish. Starting at 5:00 PM, pop in for their 2-piece hand battered cod deal. It’s served with fries and slaw for only $10. If you’re feeling extra hungry, you can choose the all-you-can-eat dinner instead, which includes fries, beans, slaw, and a roll for only $13. You won’t be disappointed with the food or the friendly hospitality at Bierstube. And when you’re all done, you can go bowl a few games! Address: 233 Withers Harbor Drive, Red Wing, MN.
6. Bungalow Inn - Lindstrom
Those in the know rave about the Bungalow Inn's fish fry Fridays. It's an all-you-can-eat affair, with perfectly crisp fish and tasty fries. Be sure to show up hungry, because you won't want to stop eating. Best of all, your food is served in a charming restaurant that looks like a German chalet. Address: 1151 Rivercrest Rd. N, Lakeland, MN 55043.
7. Swedish Inn - Lindstrom
Lindstrom, Minnesota, known for their embracing of its Scandinavian heritage, is home to a cute family restaurant known as the Swedish Inn. Here, diners will be delighted with the cozy feeling, delicious menu items, and fair prices. While breakfast is their specialty, the Inn has been known to host a Friday fish fry. The home-cooked walleye will leave you craving more, but make sure you save room for their delicious cheesecake for dessert! Address:12678 Lake Blvd., Lindstrom, MN.
Do you have a favorite spot for a Friday fish fry that we haven’t mentioned? Let us know in the comments below!
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