This Wisconsin Supper Club Serves Fried Fish So Good, Friday Nights Wouldn’t Be The Same Without It
When Friday rolls around in Wisconsin, locals know exactly where to head for dinner—and for many, that place is The 5 O’Clock Club in Pewaukee.
The supper club fish fry isn’t just a meal—it’s practically a state religion!
I discovered this beloved tradition during my first winter in the Badger State, when a friend insisted I experience the magic of golden, perfectly crispy fish that makes even the harshest Wisconsin winter feel cozy and welcoming.
The 5 O’Clock Club: Where Fish Fries Become Family Memories
The first time I walked into The 5 O’Clock Club, I nearly tripped over my own feet gawking at the lake views and wood-paneled walls that radiate old-school Wisconsin charm. The place smelled like butter and happiness! Their secret? A time-tested batter recipe that’s been part of the supper club tradition for generations.
The fish arrives sizzling hot with that unmistakable crunch that echoes across the dining room when you take your first bite. Underneath that golden exterior lies perfectly flaky cod that practically melts in your mouth. No wonder folks line up outside by 4:30 PM every Friday!
What really seals the deal is their homemade tartar sauce—tangy, creamy, with just enough pickle relish to make you forget ketchup ever existed. Paired with their famous potato pancakes and a brandy old fashioned sweet, it’s Wisconsin on a plate.
A Tradition That Brings The Community Together
At the heart of every Friday at The 5 O’Clock Club is community. This supper club is where neighbors meet, families celebrate, and friends catch up. The gentle din of regulars trading stories, servers calling out orders, and laughter over shared sides turns a simple meal into a weekly ritual.
In a fast world, the Club offers a sense of continuity—people come not just for food but for fellowship. For many in the area, Friday night here is as reliable as the sunset over the lake.
The Secret Behind The Perfect Crunch
What makes The 5 O’Clock Club’s fried fish so addictively crunchy? It’s equal parts technique and ingredient care. The batter is light, aerated with drink for lift, and seasoned so it complements rather than masks the fish. The oil is kept at a precise temperature so the crust browns quickly and seals in moisture.
But technique only works with good fish. The Club sources fresh, sustainably caught cod when available—which means the texture inside stays tender while the outside achieves that coveted shatter-crisp finish.
Why Cod Reigns Supreme On The Menu
Cod’s mild flavor and flaky texture make it the quintessential fish fry choice at The 5 O’Clock Club. It takes a batter well, holds up to frying without drying out, and pairs perfectly with classic sides like rye bread, coleslaw, and lemon wedges.
Beyond taste, cod is familiar and comforting—exactly what people want when they sit down for a long Friday night meal with friends and family.
Potato Pancakes That Steal The Spotlight
While the fish is the main event, the potato pancakes at The 5 O’Clock Club are small wonders: crisp at the edge, tender inside, and seasoned with a whisper of onion and salt. Served hot with a dollop of sour cream and a side of applesauce, they cut through the richness of the fry and provide a satisfying contrast in texture.
It’s one of those sides that turns first-time visitors into regulars—people come back craving that specific crunchy-soft bite.
More Than a Meal: A True Wisconsin Experience
Dining at The 5 O’Clock Club is about atmosphere as much as it is about food. The warm, lived-in interior, friendly servers who know most names, and plates heaped with hearty portions make every visit feel like coming home. Whether you’re a local who’s spent decades at the same corner table or a visitor trying the fish fry for the first time, the Club delivers a memorable night of food and hospitality.
If you want an authentic taste of Wisconsin—complete with lake views, old-fashioned charm, and a fish fry that’s worth rearranging your Friday plans for—this is the place to go.