Fish fries ? a Wisconsin sampler In the course of collecting folktales in Wisconsin for almost thirty years, I have sampled over a thousand fish fries. I found them in upscale private clubs and in spots that were bare bones rustic. There are thousands more I haven't seen. WisconsinGuide writer Samm Dowell has picked my favorite ? Molly's Grill in Black River Falls. Here are some others I find "distinctive.
" *#10 ? Dave's Who's Inn ? a young blue collar version of a fish fry/music club. 835 Indiana Avenue, Sheboygan. *#9 ? Doug's Grand View Inn ? classic northwoods spot with year-round outdoors sport enthusiasts. 22270 Highway 63, Grand View/Bayfield County. *#8 ? Longbranch Saloon ? hard by the Marsh country, filled with tall tales and tongue-in-cheek whoppers. Brings out an eclectic crowd.
W1936 Eagle Road, Germania. *#7 ? Sportsman's Grill ? nestled in the east bank of the Mississippi River and a great place for soaking up river culture. Though not always available, the catfish platter is worth the trip.
Highway 35, Ferryville. *#6 ? Lakefront Brewery ? lively German-style hall, with a family atmosphere. Old Milwaukee flavor! 1872 N. Commerce Street, Milwaukee. *#5 ? VFW Post 2312 ? solid Americana and plenty of living history.
A great example of how fish fries build community. 1428 17th Street, Monroe. *#4 ? Green Lantern ? a retreat spot for visitors to the nearby Vietnam memorial at the Highground, the mood is quiet and the fare simple. Fish fry every day! 231 W. 7th Street, Neillsville.
*#3 ? Hookers Resort ? lazy summers and cozy winters. Heard my first Norwegian joke here. Highway V, Poynette, on Lake Wisconsin. *#2 ? Titletown Brewing ? rail depot nostalgia, classy atmosphere, and delectable perch. 200 Dousman Street, Green Bay. *#1 ? Polar Bear Pub and Eatery ? farmers, construction workers, and card players.
Closest fish fry to my farm, with warm proprietor Linda presiding. Highway 39, Linden. ? Dennis Boyer Dennis Boyer, author of regional lore like Gone Missing: A Supernatural Tour of the Great Lakes and Snow on the Rails: Tales of Heartland Railroading, also compiled Great Wisconsin Taverns.
For more on Where to go & What to do in Wisconsin, check out http://www.WisconsinGuide.com .
By: Dennis Boyer - WisconsinGuide Magazine
