11 Upstate New York Fish Fry Havens Every Local Craves

Golden batter crackles with every bite. The scent of fresh fish and hot oil drifts through the air as plates overflow with crispy fillets, hand-cut fries, and tangy slaw.

Across Upstate New York, small-town diners and lakeside kitchens have perfected the art of the fish fry, turning simple ingredients into comfort food that keeps locals coming back week after week.

1. JK’s Roadhouse (Redwood)

Tucked away near the Thousand Islands, this unassuming roadside spot serves fish fresh from nearby waters. The hefty portions of perfectly fried haddock hang well over the edges of the plate – a sight that makes first-timers’ eyes widen.

Friday nights transform this quiet spot into a community gathering. The friendly staff remembers regulars by name and order, creating that small-town New York charm visitors fall in love with.

2. Gene’s Fish Fry (East Greenbush)

Summer evenings at Gene’s mean joining the happy crowd of locals who’ve made this seasonal spot a tradition since 1961. The walk-up window service adds to the nostalgic charm that keeps generations coming back.

Their signature fish sandwich comes wrapped in paper – simple yet perfect. The crisp exterior gives way to flaky white fish that needs nothing more than a squeeze of lemon and their house-made tartar sauce.

3. Red’s Restaurant (Coxsackie)

Perched along the Hudson River, Red’s combines stunning waterfront views with fish so fresh you’d swear it jumped from the river to your plate. The family recipes haven’t changed in decades – and New York locals wouldn’t have it any other way.

Friday’s all-you-can-eat special attracts hungry patrons from counties away. The lightly breaded fish maintains its moisture while achieving that perfect golden exterior that makes a proper fish fry irresistible.

4. Chowder House (New York Mills)

This Utica-area gem serves haddock with a uniquely light, almost tempura-like batter that locals defend passionately against all other styles. The fish-to-batter ratio achieves perfect harmony – crisp exterior, flaky interior.

Beyond just fish, their seafood chowder has earned legendary status. Wooden booths and nautical décor transport diners to a coastal shack despite being hours from the ocean – part of its quirky, enduring charm.

5. Bull & Bear Roadhouse (Syracuse/Fayetteville)

Forget typical pub fare – Bull & Bear elevates fish fry to artisanal heights with beer batter made from local craft brews. The resulting flavor profile creates loyal followers who debate which of their locations serves the absolute best version.

The fish arrives with a perfect golden crust alongside hand-cut fries. Their Wednesday special draws crowds seeking midweek comfort, proving great fish fry isn’t just for Fridays in this corner of upstate New York.

6. Roscoe Diner (Roscoe)

Famous among Catskill travelers, this landmark New York diner surprises visitors with fish fry that rivals specialized seafood joints. The classic blue-plate special features haddock with a family-secret breading that’s been unchanged for generations.

Fly fishermen fresh from Beaverkill River often swap stories over these plates. The retro diner atmosphere with chrome fixtures and veteran waitstaff completes an authentic upstate experience that feels frozen in time.

7. Jade’s Restaurant (Depew/Buffalo)

Buffalo might be wing country, but Jade’s proves fish deserves equal billing with their signature beer-battered haddock. The enormous portions arrive golden and crackling, typically served with their famous twice-cooked fries.

During Lenten season, lines form out the door on Fridays. Their homemade coleslaw – with just the right balance of creamy and tangy – completes a fish fry trifecta that Western New Yorkers consider the gold standard.

8. Fish Cove (Syracuse)

This unassuming strip mall location hides Syracuse’s best-kept seafood secret. The Greek-owned establishment offers a Mediterranean twist on traditional fish fry – lighter batter with subtle herbs that regulars find addictive.

Family-run for decades, the owners greet many customers by name. Their fish sandwich special – served on fresh-baked bread rather than standard rolls – creates loyal fans who drive from neighboring counties just for a taste.

9. Doug’s Fish Fry (Cortland)

Locals line up out the door at this New York institution where perfectly golden fish has been the star since 1982. The secret? Consistently fresh seafood and a light, crispy batter that doesn’t overwhelm the delicate fish flavor.

Pair your haddock with their famous sides – especially the creamy coleslaw that regulars swear by. The no-frills dining room adds to the authentic experience.

10. The Fish Friar (Syracuse)

Hidden in downtown Syracuse, this modern take on the classic fish fry elevates the humble dish to new heights. Sustainably sourced Atlantic cod meets a craft beer batter that creates the perfect crunch.

The renovated historic bank building provides an unexpectedly upscale atmosphere for comfort food. Their homemade tartar sauce, spiked with capers and fresh herbs, converts even the sauce-averse into believers.

11. Ted’s Fish Fry (Capital Region)

Standing strong since 1949, Ted’s distinctive boat-shaped buildings house some of the Capital Region’s most beloved seafood. Their signature fish sandwich comes on a soft roll with just the right amount of tartar sauce.

Family-owned across multiple locations, they’ve maintained consistent quality for decades. The fish-shaped building in Troy remains an unmistakable landmark that signals good eating ahead.