7 New Jersey Friday Fish Fry Spots That Families Flock To Every Season
When Friday rolls around in the Garden State, there’s a familiar aroma that drifts through neighborhoods—the irresistible scent of perfectly golden fish sizzling fresh from the fryer.
Over the years, I’ve made it my mission to track down the very best fish fries across New Jersey, and along the way, I’ve seen families create cherished traditions around these weekly seafood feasts.
Whether it’s parish halls serving longtime favorites or local restaurants perfecting their own take, the results never disappoint. Whether you’re observing Lent or simply craving that crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside perfection, these seven spots deliver meals worth every mile of the drive.
1. Roy’s Fish Fry: A Multi-Location Legend
My grandmother first introduced me to Roy’s famous batter recipe when I was just eight years old. “This is New Jersey’s finest,” she’d declare, and decades later, I still haven’t found reason to disagree!
What makes Roy’s special isn’t just their perfectly crispy coating (though that’s certainly part of it). They’ve mastered the art of keeping fish moist while achieving that golden-brown exterior that makes your mouth water before you even take a bite.
With multiple locations throughout the state, no Jersey family needs to travel far for this Friday tradition that spans generations.
2. Monte’s Fish Fry: Toms River’s Seafood Sanctuary
Family recipes shine brightest at Monte’s, where the owners greet regulars by name and remember their usual orders. Last summer, I watched three generations of one family squeeze around a table, passing plates and sharing stories.
The fish here practically melts in your mouth – a testament to their commitment to freshness. Locals whisper that Monte’s secret lies in their unique blend of seasonings, though nobody’s managed to replicate it at home despite countless attempts.
Beyond the standard cod, their seafood platter delivers an array of perfectly fried treasures that keep families returning every Friday.
3. Crockett’s Fish Fry: Montclair’s Hidden Gem
Tucked away on a quiet Montclair street, Crockett’s might be easy to miss if not for the line that forms every Friday afternoon. The first time I stumbled upon this place, I almost walked away seeing the wait – what a mistake that would have been!
Owner Frank Crockett, a former fisherman himself, personally selects each day’s catch. His tiny kitchen produces some of the most perfectly seasoned fish I’ve ever tasted, with a light cornmeal coating that shatters delightfully with each bite.
Don’t skip their homemade tartar sauce, a creamy concoction with just enough tang to complement without overpowering.
4. Two Fish Five Loaves: Union’s Biblical Bounty
The name alone tells you this Union spot takes Friday fish seriously! Walking in feels like joining a neighborhood block party – children laughing, parents relaxing, and everyone bonding over perfectly fried fish.
Their Friday special features a particularly light batter that somehow manages to stay crispy from the first bite to the last. The restaurant’s warm yellow walls and maritime decorations create the perfect backdrop for families starting their weekend with this beloved tradition.
Pro tip: Save room for their surprisingly delicious hush puppies, which my nephew claims are “better than birthday cake” – high praise from a seven-year-old!
5. Mr. Shrimp Seafood: Belmar’s Coastal Treasure
Salty ocean breezes enhance the experience at this Belmar institution where Friday fish fry has become an art form. The moment you step inside, the aroma of perfectly fried seafood wraps around you like a warm hug.
Despite the name, their fish deserves equal billing! My fishing buddies and I debate whether it’s their unique breading or their frying technique that makes the difference, but we all agree the results are spectacular.
Their fish sandwich – an enormous portion spilling out of a toasted roll – has fueled many of my family’s post-beach Fridays and created memories as lasting as our sunburns.
6. Mike’s Seafood & Dock Restaurant: Sea Isle City’s Waterfront Wonder
Seagulls circle hopefully overhead as families queue up at this dockside destination. The fish practically jumps from the water to your plate here – a freshness you can taste in every bite!
Fourth-generation owner Mike personally oversees Friday operations, ensuring each piece of fish meets his exacting standards. Watching the sunset over the bay while savoring their perfectly golden cod is a memory my family recreates every summer without fail.
Their signature seasoning blend – a closely guarded secret – gives their fish fry a distinctive flavor that countless customers have tried (and failed) to identify despite years of dedicated sampling.
7. Bahrs Restaurant & Marina: Highlands’ Historic Haven
Since 1917, Bahrs has witnessed generations of Jersey families making Friday fish fry a tradition. The historic photos lining the walls tell stories almost as rich as their perfectly golden fish.
Perched where the Shrewsbury River meets Sandy Hook Bay, the restaurant’s panoramic water views complement their consistently excellent seafood. My grandfather first brought me here thirty years ago, and I’ve continued bringing my own children, watching their eyes widen at the generous portions.
Their classic fish and chips – featuring thick-cut potatoes and flaky white fish in a beer batter – remains unchanged after decades, proving that perfection needs no improvement.