Best Fish Fry Spots in Milwaukee’s North Shore

Milwaukee’s North Shore has a deep-rooted tradition of Friday fish fries. From classic supper clubs to modern twists, you can find an option for every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a traditional beer-battered cod, all-you-can-eat specials, or something a little different, this guide has you covered.

Each listing includes types of fish, price range, atmosphere, notable sides and offerings, special features, and location details to help you find your next great fish fry.

Whitefish Bay Fish Fries

Jack Pandl’s Whitefish Bay Inn

The Pandl’s fish fry

1319 E. Henry Clay St., Whitefish Bay
Phone: (414) 964-3800.

Types of fish: Deep-fried lake perch, broiled whitefish, and deep-fried, broiled, or potato-crusted cod. Each fish fry dinner comes with all the traditional trimmings – choice of soup, salad or coleslaw, plus potato pancakes, baked potato, fries or vegetable of the day.

Price: Mid-range (fish fry plates around $17–$20, including soup/salad and side options). Good value for the generous portions and full dinner service.

Atmosphere: A long-standing, family-run establishment with a classic supper club vibe. Expect a cozy dining room with old-fashioned charm – it’s been a local fixture for over a century, known for friendly service and a homey feel.

Notable sides & offerings: Renowned for their homemade potato pancakes and tangy house tartar sauce. Dinners are accompanied by rye bread and your choice of sides (the potato pancakes are a must-try). You even get a soup or salad to start, which is increasingly rare and a nod to tradition.

Special features: Offers broiled fish preparations for a lighter option. Carryout is available, so you can enjoy a Pandl’s fish fry at home (they’ve received praise for takeout quality as well). Also known for classic Wisconsin cocktails (like brandy Old Fashioneds) to pair with your meal.

The Bay Restaurant

Fish fry at the Bay in Whitefish Bay

342 E. Silver Spring Dr., Whitefish Bay
Phone: (414) 455-3045

Types of fish: Beer-battered Atlantic cod or cornmeal-breaded lake perch are the Friday specialties. You can also request your perch baked instead of fried, if you prefer. Each order comes with coleslaw, marble rye bread, tartar sauce, and lemon – true to Wisconsin form.

Price: Mid-range ($17.95 for either cod or perch dinner as of the current menu). The pricing is straightforward, and portions are satisfying without breaking the bank.

Atmosphere: A casual, neighborhood eatery with a modern pub style. The Bay has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere – it’s right on Silver Spring Drive’s downtown strip. Expect a mix of families, couples, and friends gathering in a laid-back dining room with a classic tavern feel.

Notable sides & menu offerings: Besides the creamy coleslaw and rye bread that come standard, you get a choice of potato: french fries, a baked potato, or house-made chips. The perch’s cornmeal breading offers a slightly unique texture compared to typical beer batter. (If someone in your party isn’t in the mood for fish, The Bay also offers a full menu of burgers, sandwiches, and more.)

Special features: Friday-only fish fry (available 11 am–10 pm on Fridays). It’s a popular spot, so come early or consider takeout during peak Lent season. While the fish fry is traditional, The Bay occasionally runs creative specials and seasonal craft beers to accompany your meal.

Shorewood

Hubbard Park Lodge

Hubbard Park Lodge fish fry

3565 N. Morris Blvd., Shorewood, WI
Phone: (414) 332-4207

Types of fish: Famous for its all-you-can-eat beer-battered cod fry (served in hefty platters) and also offers a breaded walleye plate. The cod is classic Wisconsin style – crispy, golden, and served with lemon and tartar – while the walleye provides a flavorful upgrade for those looking for something different. They occasionally feature a baked fish or even a special like blackened salmon on the menu.

Price: Moderate. The traditional cod dinner was around $15 last noted, with walleye and other options a bit higher (~$19 for walleye). Given the lodge setting and all-you-can-eat nature of the cod fry, it’s a good deal – you definitely get your money’s worth in fish and sides.

Atmosphere: A rustic “north woods” lodge atmosphere right in Shorewood. The restaurant is in a historic log cabin tucked in Hubbard Park along the Milwaukee River, featuring a stone fireplace and timber decor. It’s very family-friendly and cozy. On Friday nights, the hall fills with a lively crowd; they even have live polka music during the fish fry for a fun, communal dining experience. (In summer, you can order your fish fry from the adjacent beer garden window and enjoy the park setting.)

Notable sides & offerings: Dinners come with the essential sides: creamy coleslaw, rye bread, and your choice of potato pancake or french fries. The potato pancakes here are a highlight – homemade and nicely crisp. Applesauce is typically served alongside if you choose pancakes, keeping with tradition. They also serve New England clam chowder and other lodge-style comforts if you want extras. Save room for the lodge’s desserts or a pint of local beer to complete the experience.

Special features: The cod fry is all-you-can-eat (servers will bring extra pieces until you’re full), making it ideal for hearty appetites. The ambiance is special: few places in Milwaukee offer a woodland lodge feel plus live polka band – it’s an experience as much as a meal. They accept reservations for fish fry, which can be wise, and have heated outdoor domes in winter for a unique dining option.

Milwaukee Brat House (Shorewood)

Lemon pepper perch at the Brathouse

Types of fish: Specializes in a Schlitz beer-battered cod as its centerpiece​. You get three pieces of crispy cod fried in a batter made with Milwaukee’s own Schlitz beer, for an authentic hometown flavor. They also offer a baked cod option and a lemon-pepper seasoned lake perch for those who want an alternative to the beer batter​. (Perch comes as six smaller pieces, lightly dredged in a zesty lemon-pepper breading​.)

Price: Moderate and budget-friendly. The Signature Fried Cod dinner is about $15.95​, which includes the fish and sides, and the perch is about $16.95​. These price points are very reasonable for the area – and the portions are hearty. It’s a great value, especially considering the lively atmosphere that comes with it.

Atmosphere: A lively sports bar and tavern atmosphere with a Milwaukee twist. Milwaukee Brat House in Shorewood is an outpost of a popular downtown bar – expect lots of beer on tap, TV screens (often tuned to sports), and a convivial crowd on Friday nights. It’s casual and often bustling with young adults and families alike. Long communal tables and a classic bar make it feel like a friendly neighborhood hangout as much as a restaurant.

Notable sides & menu offerings: The fish fry comes with all the classic sides: Brat House serves their cod or perch with coleslaw, marble rye bread, house tartar sauce, and a side of fries by default​. (You can usually upgrade to their house potato pancakes if you ask – and it’s worth it, as they make them crispy.) They also have a rotating soup (often clam chowder on Fridays) and plenty of German-inspired fare on the menu (pretzels, sausages) if you want to add on. And of course, a Friday fish fry wouldn’t be complete without a cold beer – Brat House has you covered there.

Special features: This spot offers a full bar with an extensive beer list – it’s a great place if you want a classic Milwaukee brew to wash down your fish. They often have a Friday happy hour leading into the dinner rush. Takeout is available; the Brat House even partners with delivery services, so a fish fry can be ordered to your door if you prefer a cozy night in. Given the bar atmosphere, it’s also one of the few fish fry spots where you could stick around after dinner for late-night drinks.

Address: 4022 N. Oakland Ave., Shorewood, WI. Phone: (414) 539-5826​. (Right on Oakland Avenue – look for the big Milwaukee Brat House sign. Street parking is along Oakland or in nearby public lots.)

Three Lions Pub

Three Lions Pub Fish Fry

4515 N. Oakland Ave., Shorewood
Phone: (414) 763-6992​

Types of fish: A British-style “Fish & Chips” is the star here – beer-battered Atlantic cod (or haddock, depending on supply) served with thick British-cut fries​. What sets it apart is the authenticity: the fish comes with a side of mushy peas, in true UK fashion (you can opt for coleslaw instead, but the mashed peas are the real deal)​. They serve this English fish fry every day of the week, not just Fridays​. Additionally, Three Lions offers a pan-fried walleye entrée on Fridays – a nod to Wisconsin tastes – featuring a seasoned walleye fillet with a side of potato pancake croquettes, coleslaw and applesauce​.

Price: Moderate. The signature British Fish n’ Chips runs about $14.99 (for a generous portion)​. Prices may have edged up to ~$17 recently​, but it’s still reasonable for a sit-down pub meal. The walleye plate is similarly priced around $15–$16​. Given the quality and portion size (one large piece of fish plus plenty of chips), it’s good value.

Atmosphere: An authentic British pub atmosphere. Three Lions truly feels like a bit of England in Shorewood – from the soccer (football) matches on TV to the memorabilia on the walls. It’s cozy but often energetic, especially when there’s a Premier League game on or a neighborhood event. The pub caters to both families (they have a kids’ menu and crayons on hand) and adults out for a pint. The interior is dark wood, with a long bar and plenty of UK-themed decor. Expect a cheerful, slightly noisy environment – especially Fridays when fish fry and pints draw a crowd.

Notable sides & offerings: Their chips (fries) are thick-cut in British style, and come out hot and hearty. The mushy peas are a notable departure from the Wisconsin norm – they’re an “authentic mushy” style, meaning seasoned, soft marrowfat peas that British expats rave about. Tartar sauce is served on the side, and malt vinegar is on the table (a must for a real fish & chips experience). If you’re in the mood, Three Lions also has a full menu of UK favorites (shepherd’s pie, Scotch eggs, etc.) and a great selection of tap beers (including UK imports). Friday nights sometimes feature live music or trivia, adding to the fun.

Special features: Available every day: If you have a fish fry craving on a Tuesday, Three Lions is your spot – they don’t limit fish & chips to Fridays​. They’ve won local awards for their fish fry, touted as “award-winning” on their menu​. The pub offers takeout and even delivery via apps, so you can get an English fish fry to-go. Also, during big soccer matches (World Cup, etc.), they may serve the fish fry all day long to the crowds.

Glendale

Bavarian Bierhaus

Bavarian Bierhaus Fish Fry

700 W. Lexington Blvd., Glendale
Phone: (414) 236-7000​

Types of fish: A German beer hall with a fish fry? You bet! The Bavarian Bierhaus serves fish fry every day of the week (“Every day is Friday Fish Fry!” as they like to say​). Their menu features bier-battered cod (Atlantic cod dipped in their house beer batter) or a baked cod option, each served with your choice of French fries or a potato pancake, plus coleslaw, tartar sauce, and rye bread and butter on the side​. For something heartier, they also offer walleye (beer-battered or baked) as an upgrade – a thicker fillet with that same choice of sides​.

Price: Moderate. The cod dinner is $21. The walleye is a bit more at $23, and the fish sandwich is only $13. These prices include all the sides, making it a fair deal, especially given the large portions and unique atmosphere. And remember, you can get it any day – not just Friday – so it’s great value when you have a mid-week craving.

Bavarian Bierhaus Fish Fry menu

Atmosphere: A sprawling Bavarian beer hall atmosphere. This is a true Munich-style beer hall with seating for hundreds​ – long wooden tables, live music on many nights, and house-brewed beers flowing. It’s very family-friendly and festive; on Fridays you might see everything from kids with parents to large groups of friends raising steins. Because it’s so spacious, it never feels too cramped, but it can get lively. During warmer months, the adjoining beer garden and park space (with picnic tables and outdoor music) are open, where you can also enjoy your fish fry al fresco.

Notable sides & offerings: The potato pancakes here are a popular pick – they’re the thicker style, with a nice crisp, and come with applesauce if you ask. Coleslaw is included and is the classic creamy style. They also have New England clam chowder available, and even a fish fry soup-and-sandwich combo during Lent (a bowl of chowder with a cod fish sandwich) for a light twist. Of course, the big draw aside from fish is the bier – their menu of house lagers and ales pair perfectly with fried fish. Don’t miss the giant pretzels and German specialties if you want to make it an all-out feast.

Special features: Offered daily: You don’t have to wait until Friday, as the cod and walleye fish fry are on the menu every day​. Fridays, however, are extra special with polka music or live bands frequently playing in the hall. They also offer curbside pickup and online ordering – in fact, online fish fry orders come with a raffle ticket for monthly prize drawings as a fun perk​. Early birds get a discount​, and seniors (55+) get half-price on certain Sunday specials, making this a community-friendly spot.

The Brick Pub & Grill

Fish Fries are served until 10 p.m. on Friday nights at The Brick in Glendale

6343 N. Green Bay Ave., Glendale, WI
Phone: (414) 797-0710​. (On the corner of Green Bay Ave. and Jonathan Ln., just south of Green Tree Rd. Parking is available in their lot and on nearby streets.)

Types of fish: A neighborhood grill with lots of options. The Brick’s Friday fish fry menu includes beer-battered cod (you can choose a two-piece or three-piece portion for a smaller or larger appetite, $9.50 or $12.00 respectively)​, walleye (one large fillet, $15.00)​, lake perch (traditional perch, either two pieces for $11.00 or three for $13.50)​, and even bluegill (a generous four- to five-piece platter for about $15.00)​. In short, they have all the classic Wisconsin fish choices covered. Each fried fish option comes with marble rye bread, coleslaw, and your choice of side (potato pancakes or another potato option)​. If fried isn’t your thing, they also offer baked cod, grilled salmon, or a rotating “fish of the week” special for variety (these come with rice and veggies instead of the usual sides)​.

Price: Ranges from budget-friendly to moderate. You can get a smaller cod plate under $10 (great value)​, while most other fish dinners fall in the $12–$15 range​. Given the quality and homemade touches, the pricing is very fair. This tiered pricing means both families on a budget and those looking for a full platter will be satisfied.

Atmosphere: A modern neighborhood pub atmosphere. The Brick is relatively new (opened in 2015) but built on a family legacy of a former local tavern​. It’s clean and contemporary yet has a welcoming, “locals” vibe. There’s a full bar, plenty of TVs for sports, and a dining area with a mix of high-top tables and booths. You’ll see a lot of Glendale neighbors gathering here – it’s the kind of place where people know each other, continuing the community feel from the old Wren’s tavern that used to occupy the space​. It’s comfortable for families (kids are often present early in the evening) and turns into more of an adult hangout later at night.

Notable sides & offerings: The house-made potato pancakes here are excellent – nicely browned with crisp edges (the dining editor at OnMilwaukee noted they were flavorful, though on the salty side​, so a squeeze of lemon or applesauce balances them out). If you’re not a pancake fan, you can choose from other sides like french fries, sweet potato fries, tater tots or even house kettle chips – but most people go for the pancakes or the German potato salad if it’s offered (insider tip from the owners: sometimes a warm German potato salad is available, and it’s a favorite​). Coleslaw and rye bread come with every fish fry, as expected. They also serve New England clam chowder, and you can start with an appetizer (their cheese curds are a popular choice).

Special features: The Brick often runs a Friday Happy Hour drink special from the bar as the fish fry crowd rolls in. They have a spacious bar area if you need to wait for a table, and the staff is known to be very friendly and accommodating. While not all-you-can-eat, the portions are generous (one TripAdvisor review noted the walleye and perch are “outstanding” and the pub atmosphere is great​). Takeout is available – many locals called in fish fry orders to-go, especially in recent years. Because of the multiple fish choices, it’s a great spot for a group that can’t agree on one type of fish. Pro tip: Save room for dessert or an after-dinner drink; The Brick sometimes features a dessert special (like a cheesecake) that pairs nicely after a salty fish fry.

Fox Point & River Hills

Jose’s Blue Sombrero (Fox Point)

Jose's Blue Sombrero Mexican Fish Fry

8617 N. Port Washington Rd., Fox Point, WI
Phone: (414) 351-9280​. (Located in the River Point Shopping Center near Brown Deer Rd. Plenty of parking in the shopping center lot.)

Types of fish: A Mexican twist on the Wisconsin fish fry. Jose’s Blue Sombrero offers a “Mexican Fish Fry” – cod fillets hand-dipped in Dos Equis Amber beer batter, spiced up with a special seasoning, and fried to crispy perfection​. It’s served with either cilantro-infused potato pancakes (yes, potato pancakes with a fresh cilantro kick) or traditional fries, alongside coleslaw and tartar sauce​. This is not your typical beer-battered cod – expect a bit of south-of-the-border flavor in the breading and sides.

Price: Budget-friendly. The Mexican fish fry platter is priced at $11.95​, which is a steal for a full dinner. That includes the fish and choice of potato, slaw, etc. – a great value, especially in the North Shore area. (You might spend those savings on one of their signature margaritas or a dessert churro!)

Atmosphere: A festive, family-friendly Mexican restaurant vibe. Jose’s Blue Sombrero is a colorful cantina-style eatery, so on Fridays you’ll find a fun blend of fish fry tradition and Mexican hospitality. The atmosphere is lively and community-oriented – as their site says, the Friday fish fry is “a celebration of community and shared experiences,” bringing friends and families together in a lively atmosphere​. Expect upbeat Latin music playing, vibrant decor, and a mix of patrons (families with kids, date nights, groups of friends). You might start with chips and salsa at the table – it feels like a fiesta where Wisconsin and Mexico meet.

Notable sides & menu offerings: Cilantro potato pancakes are a notable side here – they take the classic potato pancake and add cilantro and seasoning, served with sour cream (and you can still get applesauce too). It’s a unique crossover of flavors, and many regulars love it. The coleslaw still provides that cool, familiar crunch, and the tartar sauce is house-made. If you’re looking for something extra, Jose’s offers a spicy shrimp soup as a starter on Fridays (a light tomato broth with avocado and pico de gallo) that pairs well​. And of course, you can enhance your meal with Mexican sides like chips & guac or a margarita. This blend of menus means you could have a fish fry while your dining partner has tacos – everyone’s happy.

Special features: This is a fusion fish fry – a perfect option if you want something different from the classic supper club scene. Because it’s a Mexican restaurant, cocktails are a highlight (their margaritas or a tequila Old Fashioned are fun fish fry accompaniments). The fish fry is available all day Friday (lunch or dinner)​. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a great pick for groups – you’re not in a quiet supper club, you’re in a lively joint that embraces Wisconsin tradition with a twist​. They also cater to dietary needs (gluten-free options, etc.), and reservations are accepted for larger groups. Takeout is popular here as well; you can get your fish fry to-go with a side of chips and salsa for a unique Friday night at home.

Calderone Club (Fox Point)

Address: 8001 N. Port Washington Rd., Fox Point, WI. Phone: (414) 540-0400.​ (At the corner of Port Washington and Green Tree Rd. Parking lot is available shared with other businesses in the strip.)

Types of fish: An Italian restaurant that proudly serves a Friday fish fry. The Calderone Club in Fox Point offers a choice of beer-battered cod or breaded cod – you decide your preparation style​. The fish comes out in generous fillets with a light, crispy coating (whether you choose the classic beer batter or the Italian-seasoned breading). This dinner is served with all the expected fixings: a side of coleslaw, tartar sauce, and lemon. Uniquely, instead of the usual rye bread, Calderone provides warm Italian bread – a little signature touch reflecting their Italian roots. French fries are the default potato side, keeping it simple and classic​.

Price: Moderate. The cod dinner is priced at $15.95​, which is on par with most mid-range fish fries and a good deal given Calderone Club’s more upscale setting. (Clam chowder is available as a starter for ~$6-7 if you want to add, but the fish fry plate itself will fill you up.) Overall, it’s a reasonably priced Friday special at a nicer restaurant.

Atmosphere: An upscale-casual Italian supper club atmosphere. Calderone Club is known for its pizza and pasta, so the vibe is white tablecloth meets family trattoria. On Fridays, you’ll see the dining room mix of fish fry patrons and people enjoying Italian favorites. It’s a bit more refined setting compared to a tavern – softer lighting, Italian music in the background, wine bottles on display – but still comfortable for families. Many North Shore locals come here for a quieter fish fry experience. You might see multi-generational tables (grandparents to grandkids) enjoying dinner together. The service is attentive and friendly, reflecting a fine dining touch.

Notable sides & offerings: The substitution of fresh Italian bread in lieu of rye is a notable (and delicious) twist – perfect for soaking up chowder or extra tartar sauce. Their coleslaw is traditional. If you want to start Italian-style, you can order their clam chowder (made from a traditional recipe with clams, potatoes, carrots, etc.​) or even an antipasto salad. Since Calderone is Italian, you have the benefit of an extensive menu – someone at your table could order a lasagna or veal parm while you have fish fry. They also have a full bar and wine list, so consider pairing your cod with a glass of pinot grigio or an Italian Peroni beer for a change.

Special features: Family-friendly fine dining – Calderone’s fish fry is great if you want the Friday tradition without the loud pub scene. They take reservations, which can be helpful on busy Friday nights. Because it’s an Italian restaurant, Fridays can get busy with both fish fry fans and pizza/pasta regulars, so the reservation or call-ahead is a plus. Takeout is offered (they are well-versed in packing up pizzas, so fish travels fine too). Also noteworthy: Calderone Club Fox Point is relatively new to the area (opened a few years ago), so it’s a welcome addition – bringing a classic downtown Milwaukee Italian supper club feel to the North Shore.

(Note: The Village of River Hills itself has no restaurants open to the public, but its residents are just minutes from many of these North Shore fish fry spots. Range Line Inn (listed under Mequon below) is right at the border of River Hills and is a popular choice for a “nearby” fish fry with a rustic vibe.)

Mequon

The Chancery (Mequon)

Address: 11046 N. Port Washington Rd., Mequon, WI.
Phone: (262) 241-3450​. (Located in the Market Square shopping center in Mequon – plenty of parking available in the lot.)

Types of fish: A classic American pub fish fry with multiple choices. On Fridays, The Chancery’s menu features broiled lake perch (seasoned with sea salt and pepper)​, Canadian walleye (your choice of broiled or beer-battered)​, and the ever-popular beer-breaded cod – offered as an all-you-can-eat special​. The perch and walleye come as dinners with a set number of pieces, whereas the cod will be brought out batch after batch until you’ve had your fill. All fish options come with the traditional sides: coleslaw, tartar sauce, and a choice of fries or potato pancakes​.

Price: Moderate. The walleye and perch dinners are a bit higher in price (reflecting the higher cost of those fish), roughly in the mid-to-upper teens, while the all-you-can-eat cod is a great value around the $13–$15 mark for unlimited refills​. For a single price, you can eat to your heart’s content, which makes the Chancery a magnet for big appetites. Overall, the pricing is family-friendly given the casual chain-restaurant setting and portion sizes.

Atmosphere: Family-friendly pub/restaurant chain vibe. The Chancery is a well-known local chain (this Mequon location is the last remaining Chancery in the area, carrying on the tradition). The atmosphere is casual and welcoming – think wooden booths, a spacious bar area, and plenty of vintage Wisconsin décor on the walls. It’s the kind of place kids get crayons and a coloring menu, while adults can enjoy a drink. On Friday nights, it’s bustling with families, regulars, and couples – a lively but not unruly scene. There’s a separate bar area with TVs if you want to catch a game while waiting.

Notable sides & offerings: Their potato pancakes are solid – you can’t go wrong choosing them as your side (and you’ll get applesauce to go with). If you opt for fries instead, they are classic steak-cut fries, crispy and well-seasoned. The coleslaw is the creamy style and comes standard with all fish fry plates. One unique touch: the Chancery often includes warm rye rolls or bread upon request (so you don’t miss out on the rye element). Beyond fish, their menu is extensive (burgers, wraps, and their famous chili), so everyone can find something. They also offer a fish fry combo platter at times (for those who want a little perch, a little cod, etc., on one plate). Don’t forget to start with the cheese curds or end with their ice cream drinks for a full Wisconsin supper club-esque experience.

Special features: All-you-can-eat cod is the big draw here​ – they’ll keep bringing you more pieces hot from the fryer until you signal that you’re done. This makes the Chancery a perfect spot for those who never feel one plate is enough. Another feature: the Chancery accepts call-ahead seating, which can cut down your wait on busy nights. They also offer their fish fry for carryout (packed up nicely with all the sauces and sides). As a full-service restaurant, they have a great selection of Wisconsin beers on tap and make a mean brandy Old Fashioned to go with your fish. Given its long history in the area, there’s a bit of nostalgia in dining here – many patrons have been coming since they were kids, and now bring their own kids.

Range Line Inn

Types of fish: A supper club style fish fry with multiple options. Range Line Inn’s fish fry (a North Shore favorite for decades) typically features beer-battered haddock, fresh lake perch, and cod on the menu​. You can usually order perch or haddock as a dinner (with a set number of pieces), and they often have a baked cod option for those who want something lighter (or on certain Fridays, a bluegill special, depending on availability). What’s constant is that whichever fish you choose, it comes with all the fixings and their signature sides. In fact, Range Line prides itself on including the “classic, yet hard-to-find” potato pancakes with its fish fry dinners​ – a real highlight that sets them apart.

Price: Moderate. A fish fry at Range Line Inn runs about $14.95–$15.95 for most dinners​, which is a fair deal given the quality and the sit-down supper club experience. This price typically includes the fish, potato pancakes or choice of potato, coleslaw, bread, and even a cup of soup or salad in some cases (their menu hasn’t changed much over the years, keeping those old-school inclusions)​. For what you get, patrons feel it’s a great value – especially considering many newer places charge extra for pancakes or soup.

Atmosphere: A historic inn and tavern atmosphere – truly classic. The Range Line Inn is housed in an 1840s former stagecoach stop, and it exudes rustic charm​. Inside, you’ll find low ceilings with wooden beams, a cozy bar with a stone fireplace, and small dining rooms that make you feel like you stepped back in time. It doesn’t call itself a supper club, but it certainly has that vibe​ – intimate, warm, and full of local history (check out the old photos and memorabilia on the walls). Despite the vintage setting, it’s not stuffy – the crowd is lively and the bar area especially has a convivial buzz​. Many North Shore locals consider this “their spot,” so you’re bound to overhear friendly hellos and conversations across tables. It’s the kind of place where the staff knows regulars by name. If you prefer a quieter experience, the back dining rooms are more secluded; for more energy, sit in the bar area where neighbors are catching up.

Notable sides & offerings: The potato pancakes at Range Line are a must – they’re made from scratch, golden, and come with applesauce and syrup (a true old-school touch). If you’re not into pancakes, they offer alternatives like french fries or a baked potato, but locals will tell you to get the pancakes while you can (not every place offers them standard anymore)​. Coleslaw here is the traditional creamy style, and each table typically gets a bread basket with rye bread and crackers. Uniquely, dinners often include a complimentary soup or salad to start (their split pea soup or clam chowder on Fridays are both excellent). This full meal format is a nod to the classic Wisconsin supper club tradition that Range Line carries on. Also, don’t miss their relish tray if it comes with your meal (pickled beets, cottage cheese, etc. often appear with dinners). In addition to fish, the menu includes favorites like prime rib (on Saturdays) and fried shrimp, so there’s plenty to please everyone.

Special features: Range Line Inn’s longevity and consistency are its special sauce. The menu “has changed very little over the years”​, meaning you can count on that same delicious fish fry every time. It’s a place of traditions: many families have made it their Friday night routine for generations. They don’t do flashy promos or advertising – just word-of-mouth and loyal repeat customers​. Do note, Range Line is dinner-only and closed Sundays/Mondays, so plan accordingly (Fridays can get busy; they do not take reservations, so expect a wait at the bar during prime time). Grab an Old Fashioned from the bar while you wait – their bartenders know how to make a great one. In warmer weather, you might spot a few tables on the front porch for outdoor seating. Finally, this inn is rumored to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad and has loads of history – ask the staff about the building’s backstory for some interesting tales while you dine​.

Address: 2635 W. Mequon Rd., Mequon, WI. Phone: (262) 242-0530​. (At the southeast corner of Mequon Rd. and Range Line Rd. – right on the Mequon/River Hills border. It’s easy to spot the historic building and horse carriage logo. Parking is available on-site, but it can overflow on busy nights to the shoulder of the road.)

Spanky’s Hideaway

Types of fish: A hidden gem tavern with an extensive Friday seafood menu. Spanky’s Hideaway offers something for everyone on Fridays​. You’ll find cod (both baked or deep-fried), perch (pan-fried or deep-fried lake perch)​, and walleye (pan-fried, a house specialty)​. If you’re craving more than fish, they also serve breaded fantail shrimp and even combination platters so you can mix and match (e.g. a couple pieces of cod plus shrimp, or perch plus cod)​. This variety means you can return multiple times and have a different experience each time.

Price: Moderate. Most fish fry dinners at Spanky’s fall in the ~$13–$18 range depending on the fish. For example, the perch or walleye (premium items) will be on the higher end, while the cod plate is on the lower end. They do not charge extra for substitution of sides – all options are included (a nice touch). Given the portion sizes and quality (and the fact that it’s a bit off the beaten path, keeping prices honest), locals consider it a great value. Many note you get a lot of food for the price here.

Atmosphere: A no-frills neighborhood bar atmosphere – friendly, cozy, and unpretentious. Spanky’s Hideaway truly lives up to the “hideaway” name: it’s tucked along County Line Road by the Milwaukee River, and walking in feels like entering a classic Wisconsin corner tavern. The decor is casual (neon beer signs, sports memorabilia, wood-paneled walls), and the vibe is very laid-back. When you walk in on a Friday around dinner, you’ll likely encounter a crowd of regulars at the bar chatting about local happenings (as one account noted, by 4:45pm many patrons are clearly regulars catching up on neighborhood news​). It has that small-town feel where folks greet each other by first name. There’s a dining area with simple tables and chairs – nothing fancy, but comfortable. The place isn’t huge, which adds to the camaraderie but also means you might wait during peak times. Expect a warm welcome from staff and maybe some good-natured banter among patrons. Family-friendly (kids are fine here), but it’s definitely a “beer and a shot” tavern at heart.

Notable sides & offerings: Spanky’s is known for its wide array of side options – more than most places offer. With your fish, you get to choose from homemade potato pancakes, homemade chips, or a variety of fries (seasoned fries, steak fries, sweet potato fries, or crinkle-cut fries)​. They even offer cottage cheese as a side choice for something lighter​. The inclusion of things like sweet potato fries is a unique touch in the fish fry circuit. The potato pancakes are made in-house and have a loyal following (crispy and flavorful). Coleslaw comes standard, and it’s the creamy style. You’ll also get marble rye bread with butter on the side of every dinner. Given the bar setting, starters like onion rings or mozzarella sticks are popular if you’re extra hungry. Spanky’s also makes a mean clam chowder on Fridays – worth trying a cup. And true to tavern tradition, the bar can craft you a brandy Old Fashioned or pull a tap beer to go perfectly with your fish fry.

Special features: Variety and quantity are the standout features here. It’s rare to find a place with so many fish options and sides – it’s a fisher’s (and eater’s) paradise on Fridays​. While not all-you-can-eat, the combination platters effectively let you sample everything in one sitting. Spanky’s also does a brisk takeout business – they’re happy to pack up fish fries to-go (just call ahead; the food stays crispy). Because it’s a bit hidden, it doesn’t get as insanely crowded as some city spots – a plus for those who prefer a relaxed pace. Another note: Spanky’s often opens early on Fridays for the fish fry (sometimes before 4pm), so seniors and those free early can beat the rush. In the summer, they have a few outdoor picnic tables if you want to dine in the open air by the river. Lastly, for those who like to make Friday an event, Spanky’s is located near a few river trails – some people make an evening of a nature walk followed by this hearty fish fry.

Address: 5208 W. County Line Rd., Mequon, WI. Phone: (262) 242-3677​. (It’s on County Line Road just west of Range Line Rd – essentially the border area of Mequon and Brown Deer. Look for a modest building with a big gravel parking lot; it’s easy to miss, so keep an eye out. Parking is ample in the lot.)

Whether you’re seeking a traditional church-basement style cod or a creative take on the Friday fish fry, Milwaukee’s North Shore has an option to satisfy. From the historic charm of Range Line Inn to the modern fusion at Jose’s Blue Sombrero, you can find atmospheres and menus as diverse as the community itself. Try a few of these spots and you’ll see why locals say “thank cod it’s Fryday!” every time the weekend rolls around. Enjoy your North Shore fish fry adventure!