11 Michigan Fish Frys Worth Making A Weekly Tradition
Friday nights in Michigan mean one thing: golden, crispy fish fry that brings families and friends together around the table.
From bustling Detroit diners to cozy taverns nestled in the Upper Peninsula, the Great Lakes State serves up some of the most mouthwatering fish fry traditions you’ll find anywhere.
Whether you’re craving flaky cod, tender perch, or classic walleye, these eleven spots deliver the kind of quality and flavor that’ll have you clearing your calendar every week.
1. Scotty Simpson’s Fish & Chips – Detroit
Nobody does fish and chips quite like Scotty Simpson’s, where the aroma of freshly fried seafood has been wafting through Detroit since 1950.
This family-owned gem on Fenkell Avenue has mastered the art of creating perfectly crispy batter that shatters with each bite, revealing tender, flaky fish inside. The portions are generous enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetite, and the hand-cut fries are the perfect sidekick to your main attraction.
What makes Scotty Simpson’s truly special is their commitment to consistency—visit once, and you’ll get the same exceptional quality every single time. The atmosphere feels like stepping back in time, with vintage décor and a welcoming vibe that makes everyone feel like family.
Regulars swear by the coleslaw, which provides a refreshing crunch alongside the richness of the fried fish. The staff treats first-timers and decades-long customers with equal warmth and enthusiasm.
Located at 22200 Fenkell Ave, Detroit, MI 48223, this spot proves that sometimes the best traditions are the ones that never change.
2. Fenders Bar & Grill – Milan
Tucked away in the charming town of Milan, Fenders Bar & Grill has become the go-to destination for fish fry enthusiasts who appreciate quality without pretension.
The moment you walk through the door at 20 Wabash St, Milan, MI 48160, you’re greeted by the kind of small-town hospitality that makes you want to become a regular. Their fish fry features perfectly seasoned batter that achieves that magical balance between crunch and lightness, never feeling greasy or heavy.
What sets Fenders apart is their dedication to using fresh ingredients and preparing everything to order, ensuring your meal arrives piping hot and full of flavor. The casual atmosphere invites you to relax, unwind, and enjoy good food with good company.
Their all-day Friday fish fry—offered both in regular and all-you-can-eat portions—has become especially popular among locals and travelers alike.
Their homemade tartar sauce has developed a cult following, with many customers claiming it’s the best they’ve ever tasted. The portions are substantial, giving you excellent value for your money.
Whether you’re a Milan local or just passing through, Fenders delivers a fish fry experience that’ll have you planning your return visit before you’ve even finished eating.
3. Broadway Grille – Marshall
Broadway Grille brings downtown charm and exceptional fish fry together in the heart of Marshall’s historic district.
Situated at 107 W Michigan Ave, Marshall, MI 49068, this restaurant combines upscale ambiance with down-home cooking that creates an unforgettable dining experience.
Their Friday fish fry, often served all-you-can-eat, has become a well-known community staple, offering crispy fried pollock with classic sides.
The chefs at Broadway Grille understand that great fish fry starts with quality ingredients, and they source their fish carefully to ensure freshness and flavor.
Their signature preparation emphasizes a light, crunchy coating, though not necessarily a beer batter as sometimes assumed.
The restaurant’s elegant yet comfortable setting makes it perfect for both casual Friday dinners and special celebrations. Their attentive service ensures your water glass stays full and your needs are anticipated before you even ask.
The sides deserve special mention too, particularly the creamy mac and cheese that pairs beautifully with the crispy fish. Marshall residents consider themselves lucky to have such a gem in their community.
4. Sleder’s Family Tavern – Traverse City
History and flavor collide at Sleder’s Family Tavern, Michigan’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, where fish fry traditions run as deep as the establishment’s roots.
Located at 717 Randolph St, Traverse City, MI 49684, Sleder’s has been serving hungry patrons since 1882, and their fish fry recipe has been perfected over generations.
Walking into Sleder’s feels like stepping into a time capsule, with original fixtures and memorabilia adorning the walls, each piece telling a story of Traverse City’s past.
The fish fry here maintains that perfect old-school quality, simple, honest, and absolutely delicious.
Their Friday fish fry offerings, including cod and smelt baskets, are regularly promoted and remain a favorite among locals.
The tavern atmosphere creates a convivial setting where strangers become friends over shared plates and cold beverages.
Locals know that Friday nights at Sleder’s mean good times, great food, and the kind of community connection that’s increasingly rare.
Their fish is consistently praised for its crispy finish and balanced seasoning, keeping the tradition alive for new generations.
5. Brady’s Bar – Traverse City
Brady’s Bar proves that exceptional fish fry doesn’t require fancy surroundings—just dedication, quality ingredients, and a passion for feeding people well.
This unpretentious gem at 401 S Union St, Traverse City, MI 49684, has built a loyal following based purely on the strength of their outstanding food and welcoming atmosphere.
Their Friday Fish Fry runs from late morning into the early hours of Saturday, making it one of the most accessible weekly fish specials in town.
What makes Brady’s special is the genuine care they put into every order, treating each plate like it’s going to their own family table. The prices are remarkably reasonable, making this an accessible treat that won’t strain your budget even if you make it a weekly ritual.
The bar itself exudes that comfortable neighborhood vibe where everyone’s welcome and nobody puts on airs. Regulars rave about the consistency—you’ll never get a disappointing meal here, no matter when you visit.
The staff remembers your name and your order, creating that sense of belonging that transforms a simple dinner into a cherished tradition.
6. J&S Hamburg South Airport – Traverse City
Sometimes the best fish fry comes from the most unexpected places, and J&S Hamburg South Airport is living proof of this delicious truth.
Located at 1083 W South Airport Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686, this spot might be known for its burgers, but their fish fry deserves equal billing.
They serve an all-you-can-eat Friday Fish Fry, advertised right on their menu, drawing a devoted crowd every week.
The breading strikes that ideal balance, substantial enough to provide satisfying crunch, but not so thick that it overwhelms the delicate fish flavor.
Their homestyle sides complement the main dish perfectly, creating a complete meal that leaves you satisfied but not stuffed.
The family-friendly atmosphere makes this an excellent choice for bringing kids along, and the generous portions mean everyone leaves happy.
Despite the name suggesting a focus on hamburgers, regulars know that Friday fish fry is when J&S really shines.
The value here is exceptional, with prices that feel like they’re from another era in the best possible way.
7. The Leland Lodge – Leland
Elegance meets tradition at The Leland Lodge, where fish fry gets the upscale treatment without losing its comforting, down-to-earth soul.
Perched in the picturesque village of Leland at 565 Pearl St, Leland, MI 49654, this lodge offers a refined take on the classic fish fry that elevates the experience while honoring its roots. The setting alone is worth the visit, with charming décor that captures the essence of Northern Michigan’s natural beauty.
Their “Fish Fry Friday” event, served from 5 to 9 p.m. and promoted regularly, is one of the lodge’s most beloved weekly traditions.
Their fish fry features impeccably fresh catches, often sourced locally, prepared with a chef’s touch that shows in every detail.
The presentation is beautiful without being fussy, and the flavors are bold yet balanced.
What distinguishes The Leland Lodge is their ability to make fish fry feel both special and familiar, perfect for marking important occasions or simply treating yourself to something wonderful.
The service is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff who can guide you through menu choices and drink pairings.
Their commitment to quality ingredients and careful preparation shines through in every bite, making this a destination worth the drive.
8. River Lake Inn – Colon
Hidden in the countryside, River Lake Inn serves up fish fry with a side of tranquility that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Located at 767 Ralston Rd, Colon, MI 49040, this charming establishment combines scenic beauty with seriously good food that keeps customers coming back week after week. The peaceful setting provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying a leisurely fish fry dinner, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Their Friday Fish Fry special, frequently highlighted in their promotions, features generously portioned fried fish with classic sides, making it a standout offering in the region.
Their preparation style honors traditional methods while incorporating just enough modern touches to keep things interesting.
The fish arrives at your table perfectly cooked, with a golden exterior that crackles satisfyingly and interior that’s moist and flavorful.
River Lake Inn prides itself on creating a welcoming atmosphere where guests can relax and truly savor their meals.
The portions are generous without being overwhelming, leaving room for you to enjoy their excellent desserts.
Locals treasure this spot as a community gathering place where good food and good conversation flow freely. The friendly staff treats everyone like cherished guests, ensuring your experience is memorable from start to finish.
9. The Brownstone Inn – Au Train
Way up in the Upper Peninsula, The Brownstone Inn dishes out fish fry that captures the rugged spirit and natural bounty of Michigan’s northernmost reaches.
Situated at E4635 M-28, Au Train, MI 49806, this cozy inn serves as both a destination and a delicious reason to explore the stunning Au Train area.
Their Friday Fish Fry, featuring walleye, lake perch, shrimp, and occasionally whitefish, is a long-running favorite for both locals and travelers.
The rustic charm of The Brownstone Inn creates an atmosphere that feels authentically Upper Peninsula—warm, welcoming, and wonderfully unpretentious.
Their kitchen understands that great fish fry doesn’t need gimmicks, just fresh ingredients and proper technique.
The portions reflect that generous UP hospitality, ensuring nobody leaves hungry. After a day of exploring waterfalls, hiking trails, or simply enjoying the pristine beauty of the area, settling in for their fish fry feels like the perfect reward.
The staff’s local knowledge adds extra value, as they’re happy to share recommendations for things to see and do in the region.
10. Portside Inn – Marquette
Marquette’s Portside Inn brings together comforting pub-style dining and a beloved fish fry tradition right in the heart of downtown.
Located at 239 W Washington St, Marquette, MI 49855, this long-standing local favorite sits just a short walk from the harbor rather than directly on the waterfront.
The proximity to Lake Superior helps inspire a menu that features regional flavors, including popular whitefish dishes supplied by trusted local fish houses.
Their preparation showcases the natural flavors of the fish, using a light hand with seasonings that enhance rather than mask the delicate taste.
While not a waterfront restaurant, Portside Inn remains a highly regarded stop for those exploring Marquette’s historic downtown.
Portside Inn has perfected the art of casual elegance, creating a space that feels relaxed yet refined. Their fish fry has earned acclaim throughout the region, drawing visitors from across the UP and beyond.
The accompanying sides are thoughtfully prepared, complementing the fish without competing for attention. This is destination dining at its finest, worth planning your entire evening around.
11. Rapid River Pub – Rapid River
Rapid River Pub embodies everything wonderful about small-town Michigan dining—authentic character, genuine hospitality, and fish fry that’ll make you a believer.
Found at 10491 S Main St, Rapid River, MI 49878, this unassuming pub serves up fish fry that rivals any fancy restaurant, proving that passion and skill matter more than fancy surroundings. The moment you walk in, you’re part of the family, welcomed by regulars and staff who treat everyone with equal warmth.
Their Friday Fish Fry, featuring perch, walleye, cod, and shrimp options, is widely recognized as one of the best in Delta County.
Their fish fry features a perfectly seasoned coating that achieves that ideal texture—crispy on the outside while staying remarkably light. The fish itself is always fresh and flaky, cooked just right so it practically melts in your mouth.
What makes Rapid River Pub truly special is the sense of community that permeates every visit—this is where neighbors gather, stories are shared, and traditions are born.
The prices are incredibly fair, reflecting small-town values that prioritize feeding people well over maximizing profits.
One visit is all it takes to understand why locals consider this their home away from home.