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
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