Milwaukee LENT Fish Fry Guide

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 cuisine 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 their own Kegel Brau - Prohibition Themed Beers. ✅ Dine Inside, Drive-Thru, or Enjoy the Heated Beer Garden at Bootleggers Alley!
 📅 Available: Wednesday’s during Lent 4-8 pm & Friday’s 11-9 pm
🔗 Reserve a Table
🔗 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 more here :