6 Small-Town Wisconsin Supper Clubs With Classic Friday Fish Fry
Friday night in Wisconsin means one thing: fish fry!
As a born-and-raised Wisconsinite, I’ve spent countless evenings in wood-paneled supper clubs, sipping Old Fashioneds while waiting for that perfect plate of crispy beer-battered cod.
These family-owned establishments aren’t just restaurants—they’re cultural landmarks where time stands still and tradition reigns supreme.
Join me on a journey through some of the most charming small-town supper clubs where the fish is always fresh and the hospitality is always warm.
1. The Duck Inn (Mukwonago, WI)
Holy mackerel, this place has been serving up fish since 1936! My grandpa first brought me here when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, and I swear the recipes haven’t changed a bit—thank goodness for that.
The Duck Inn’s fish fry features hand-dipped cod in a secret beer batter that’s lighter than a feather but crunchier than autumn leaves. Their homemade potato pancakes are the stuff of legend, crispy on the outside and tender inside.
What really sets this joint apart is the duck-themed décor that borders on obsessive—duck paintings, duck decoys, even duck-shaped butter pats! Come early or prepare to wait, because locals pack this place tighter than sardines in a can every Friday without fail.
2. Schwabenhof (Menomonee Falls, WI)
German heritage meets Wisconsin tradition at this bustling establishment where lederhosen-clad servers aren’t uncommon during Oktoberfest! My first visit here involved accidentally joining a German folk dance circle after one too many steins—a memory both mortifying and marvelous.
Schwabenhof’s fish fry is a behemoth: three massive pieces of hand-battered cod, German potato salad that’ll ruin all other potato salads for you forever, and fresh-baked rye bread that disappears faster than snow in April. The building itself, with its massive timber beams and stone fireplace, feels like a Bavarian hunting lodge.
Friday nights feature live polka bands that get even the most rhythm-challenged patrons (like yours truly) tapping their toes. Their fish fry sells out regularly, so arriving before 6pm isn’t just suggested—it’s practically required!
3. Ishnala Supper Club
Ishnala Supper Club, nestled in the woods near Lake Delton, is a hidden gem. Known for its breathtaking views of Mirror Lake, this rustic spot offers a dining experience steeped in natural beauty.
As you enter, the warm glow from the wooden interiors welcomes you, setting the stage for a memorable meal. Their Friday fish fry is legendary, drawing patrons from miles around.
With over 60 years of tradition, Ishnala combines history with culinary delight, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the quintessential supper club experience in Wisconsin.
4. Toby’s Supper Club
Tucked away in Madison, Toby’s Supper Club is a cherished local gem. Known for its thick-cut cod, lightly battered and fried to perfection, it offers a taste that locals swear by. As you walk in, the friendly chatter and clinking of glasses set the stage for a memorable evening.
Each Friday, the place buzzes with anticipation as patrons gather for their weekly ritual. The rustic wooden interiors and nostalgic ambiance make every visit feel like a step back in time.
Not only is the food delightful, but the camaraderie among diners adds to the charm. “It’s like family here,” regulars often say.
5. Silver Coach Restaurant
Nestled in the charming town of Stevens Point, the Silver Coach Restaurant offers an experience steeped in history. Imagine dining in a vintage train car, where each meal is a journey back in time. The Friday fish fry is a community favorite, known for its crispy, flavorful batter and tender fillets.
The unique setting, with its nostalgic decor, enhances the dining pleasure. Locals and travelers alike revel in the cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely evening. Did you know? The restaurant is a refurbished train coach, adding a touch of railway romance to your meal.
6. Five O’Clock Steakhouse
Step into Five O’Clock Steakhouse in Milwaukee, a place where time seems to stand still. It’s renowned for its classic Friday fish fry, a tradition that’s been cherished by locals for decades. The moment you enter, the ambiance envelops you with its vintage charm.
Patrons gather around wooden booths, sharing stories over plates of crispy fried fish, served with coleslaw and potato pancakes. The friendly staff ensures each visit feels like coming home.
Fun fact: This steakhouse, established in the 1940s, still follows the original recipe, keeping the legacy alive. Experience a slice of history with every bite!