12 Colorado Friday Fish Fries That Locals Look Forward To All Week
As soon as Thursday night rolls around, a certain quiet anticipation settles over many Colorado towns. It’s not just the weekend kicking off; it’s the signal that Friday night fish fry is within reach. For me, it’s a weekly ritual, a comforting constant in the sometimes unpredictable flow of life.
The smell of perfectly fried fish, the clatter of cutlery, and a friendly, familiar crowd – it’s a simple pleasure that makes the end of the week feel truly earned. This year, we’re diving into some of the best spots that have locals eagerly counting down the hours.
1. Wally’s Wisconsin Tavern – Denver (LoDo)
Classic Midwestern charm meets Denver’s downtown bustle at this tavern that knows how to fry fish right. Battered cod arrives golden and flaky, paired with coleslaw, fries, and thick slices of rye bread just like Milwaukee intended.
Locals circle the block early on Fridays, hoping to claim a corner booth and a cold pint of Spotted Cow. The atmosphere hums with conversation and clinking glasses, creating that perfect Friday feeling.
You can taste the tradition in every bite, from the light crunch of the batter to the tangy slaw. It is comfort food done with care and consistency, week after week, year after year.
2. The British Bulldog – Denver (Five Points)
Soccer scarves hang from the rafters while the fryer works overtime at this cozy pub in Five Points. The fish and chips plate here is legendary for its crispy, light batter that shatters with every forkful.
Hearty chips are thick-cut and perfectly salted, begging for a generous splash of malt vinegar from the bottle on every table. Regulars know to arrive before the match starts, grabbing a seat near the TV with a plate in hand.
The vibe is relaxed but spirited, with fans cheering and plates emptying fast. It is the kind of place where fried fish tastes better because everyone around you is having just as good a time.
3. Bull & Bush Brewery – Glendale
Few places in the Denver area have earned their reputation quite like this brewery tucked in Glendale. Golden-fried fish fillets arrive steaming hot alongside a pint of their house-brewed drinks, making Fridays feel like a celebration.
Groups gather around long tables, laughing over baskets of fried goodness and clinking glasses in unison. The pub vibes here are authentic and inviting, with wood accents and a menu built for sharing.
I once watched a table of eight polish off three orders in under twenty minutes, grinning the whole time. Comfort food meets local brewing tradition, and somehow it never gets old no matter how many Fridays you show up.
4. GB Fish & Chips – Multiple Locations (Denver, Edgewater, Arvada)
British-style fish and chips done right is no small feat, but this local mini-chain has cracked the code. Tender cod fillets are wrapped in crispy batter and served with thick-cut fries, all bundled in classic paper for that authentic feel.
Friday nights buzz with energy as regulars line up for their weekly fix, chatting with staff who know their orders by heart. Each location has its own charm, but the quality stays consistent across the board.
The fries are never soggy, the fish never greasy, and the portions never disappoint. It is the kind of reliable excellence that turns first-timers into Friday night regulars faster than you can say tartar sauce.
5. Lake House Kitchen & Tavern – Littleton
Sunset views shimmer across the water while diners fork into fried walleye and catfish at this lakeside gem. Friday evenings here feel like a mini vacation, with plates arriving hot and drinks staying cold as the sky turns pink and orange.
The setting alone is worth the drive, but the seafood seals the deal with perfectly seasoned fillets and crispy edges. Locals reserve their favorite patio tables weeks in advance, knowing the combination of location and flavor is unbeatable.
A local lager pairs beautifully with the mild sweetness of walleye, creating a match made in Colorado heaven. It is the kind of meal that makes you forget about deadlines and remember why Fridays matter.
6. CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing – Fort Collins
Downtown Fort Collins comes alive on Friday nights, and this pub sits right at the heart of the action. Battered fish and chips made with their own ale bring a local twist to a classic dish, with batter that crisps up beautifully thanks to the brew.
Regulars swear by this spot, returning week after week for the dependable quality and lively atmosphere. The brewing tradition here runs deep, and you can taste it in every bite of fish coated in their signature ale batter.
Tables fill up fast, so arriving early is the smart move if you want a seat near the bar. It is a Friday night staple that has earned its place in Fort Collins lore, one crispy fillet at a time.
7. The 49th Food & Spirits – Littleton
Alaska meets the Midwest at this neighborhood spot where fish fry Fridays have become a local ritual. Crisp fillets arrive with generous dollops of tartar sauce, and the casual crowd makes everyone feel like a regular from the first visit.
Inspiration from two distinct regions blends into one satisfying plate that hits all the right notes. My neighbor drags me here at least once a month, insisting no other place gets the batter quite as crunchy.
The vibe is friendly without being loud, and the portions are hearty without being overwhelming. It is the kind of place where you can relax, enjoy good food, and leave planning your next Friday visit before you even reach the parking lot.
8. Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub – Colorado Springs
Warm wood interiors and the scent of fried fish greet you the moment you step through the door on Fridays. This Irish pub serves hearty portions of golden fried fish that pair beautifully with their full menu of traditional fare.
Live music often fills the space, turning dinner into an evening of entertainment and good vibes. Locals love the combination of generous plates and lively atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for groups and families alike.
The fish arrives hot and flaky, with a batter that stays crispy even after a few minutes on the plate. It is a staple in Colorado Springs for anyone who wants their Friday fish fry with a side of Irish hospitality and toe-tapping tunes.
9. Burns Pub – Broomfield
Hidden inside the Hilltop Inn, this British-style pub is the definition of a local secret worth sharing. Flaky haddock arrives with authentic chips and peas, prepared with care and served in a cozy, low-key setting.
The atmosphere is relaxed, making it perfect for those who want quality fish without the Friday night frenzy. Regulars appreciate the attention to detail, from the perfectly fried batter to the side of mushy peas that taste like they came straight from the UK.
It is a hidden gem that does not need flashy marketing because the food speaks for itself. If you are looking for a quiet Friday fish fix with authentic flavors, this tucked-away spot delivers every single time.
10. Blue Island Oyster Bar & Seafood – Cherry Creek & Lone Tree
Upscale vibes meet Friday fish fry tradition at this sleek seafood spot with locations in Cherry Creek and Lone Tree. Beautifully fried cod arrives plated with care, and rotating seafood specials keep the menu fresh and exciting each week.
Pair your fish with one of their craft drinks for a classy way to toast the end of the workweek. The atmosphere is polished but never stuffy, making it a great choice for date night or a celebration with friends.
The batter is light and golden, letting the quality of the fish shine through with every bite. It is proof that fish fry Fridays can be elevated without losing that comforting, crave-worthy appeal everyone loves.
11. Parish & Knights of Columbus Fish Fries – Various Locations
Throughout Colorado, parish halls and Knights of Columbus councils transform into bustling fish fry headquarters every Friday, especially during Lent. Generous portions are served by friendly volunteers who greet you with a smile and a heaping plate of fried goodness.
The sense of community here is as nourishing as the food, with neighbors catching up over shared tables and second helpings. These events bring people together in a way few other meals can, offering tradition and togetherness in equal measure.
The fish is always hot, the sides are plentiful, and the prices are more than fair. It is a warm reminder that sometimes the best fish fries are not in fancy restaurants but in the heart of your own neighborhood.
12. Highland Tavern – Denver (Highland)
Nestled in Denver’s vibrant Highland neighborhood, Highland Tavern offers a fish fry that locals eagerly anticipate. Their secret lies in the perfectly battered fish, accompanied by a side of homemade coleslaw.
The tavern’s warm, rustic ambiance invites patrons to relax and enjoy a meal that feels like a family gathering. Add a cold drink and your Friday night is complete.
Did you know? Highland Tavern is known for using locally sourced ingredients, making their fish fry not just tasty, but also a sustainable choice.