10 Upstate New York Fish Fry Spots Locals Can’t Stop Raving About
A crackle from the fryer signals the start of a familiar ritual, one that fills the air with the scent of warm batter and fresh-caught fish.
Taverns glow with soft light, lakeside kitchens hum with energy, and conversations rise and fall in that cozy rhythm only comfort food can inspire.
In Upstate New York, this tradition is woven into Friday nights, carried on by family-run spots, bustling roadside favorites, and long-loved neighborhood hangouts.
Each plate arrives piled high, each table feels welcoming, and each visit reminds locals why they return week after week.
What begins as a simple meal becomes a moment worth savoring, a small slice of Upstate life that never loses its charm.
1. Duff’s Famous Wings
Most people associate this Buffalo landmark with spicy chicken wings, but those in the know come for the Friday fish fry that rivals any seafood restaurant in the region.
Known primarily for starting the Buffalo wing craze, the restaurant has quietly perfected its fish offerings over decades of service.
Located at 550 Dick Rd, Depew, NY 14043 this spot transforms into fish fry central every Friday.
The beer-battered haddock arrives at the table still sizzling, with a crust so light and crispy it practically shatters at first bite.
Unlike heavy batters that overwhelm the fish, this coating enhances the mild, flaky haddock without masking its natural flavor.
The accompanying mac salad is creamy and perfectly seasoned, following the Western New York tradition of pairing it with fish.
What sets this place apart is the attention to detail in every component of the meal.
The rye bread comes toasted with just the right amount of butter, and the lemon wedges are always fresh and juicy.
Regulars recommend arriving before six o’clock to avoid the longest waits, though the bar area offers first-come seating for those willing to dine there.
The atmosphere buzzes with energy on Friday nights, creating a festive vibe that makes the meal feel like an event.
Sports play on multiple screens, adding to the casual, neighborhood tavern feel that locals love.
2. The Original Crab Shanty
Perched along the shores where fishing boats still dock each morning, this family-run establishment has been serving lake-fresh fish for over forty years.
Generations of families have made Friday visits here a cherished tradition, passing down the love of perfectly prepared seafood from grandparents to grandchildren.
You can find this gem at 361 City Island Ave, Bronx, NY 10464 where the water views are as much a draw as the food.
The secret here lies in the sourcing, with much of the fish coming from local waters and trusted suppliers who deliver daily.
Each piece is hand-cut and prepared to order, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor in every bite.
The breading strikes that elusive balance between substantial enough to stay crispy and light enough to let the fish shine through.
Sunset dinners on the outdoor deck rank among the most memorable dining experiences in the region, with golden hour light reflecting off the water while guests enjoy their meals.
The menu offers both fried and broiled options for those seeking lighter preparations, though the fried version remains the overwhelming favorite.
Homemade clam chowder makes an excellent starter, thick and creamy with generous chunks of clams throughout.
The staff treats regulars like old friends, often remembering orders and preferences from previous visits.
During summer months, live music on weekends adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the already pleasant atmosphere.
3. Glen Sanders Mansion
Not all fish fries happen in casual taverns, and this historic riverside mansion proves that upscale settings can honor the tradition beautifully.
Built in the 1600s, the building has witnessed centuries of New York history while evolving into one of the region’s most beloved dining destinations.
Located at 1 Glen Ave, Scotia, NY 12302 the mansion overlooks the Mohawk River, offering dining rooms filled with period charm and modern comfort.
The Friday fish fry here elevates familiar elements with refined touches that never feel pretentious or overdone.
Fresh Atlantic cod gets a delicate panko crust that provides satisfying crunch while remaining remarkably light and grease-free.
Presentation matters here, with each plate arranged thoughtfully and garnished with fresh herbs and lemon.
The historic dining rooms feature original architectural details, creating an atmosphere that feels special without being stuffy or formal.
Candlelit tables and riverside views make this an ideal spot for date nights or celebrations that call for something beyond typical casual dining.
The wine list includes carefully selected options that pair beautifully with seafood, and knowledgeable servers offer helpful suggestions.
Despite the elegant surroundings, prices remain reasonable and portions stay generous, maintaining the spirit of traditional fish fries.
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for waterside tables that book up quickly each Friday.
4. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Barbecue joints might seem like unlikely places for outstanding fish fries, but this Syracuse institution breaks all expectations with its Southern-inspired approach to fried seafood.
Famous throughout the Northeast for smoky ribs and pulled pork, the restaurant applies the same commitment to quality when preparing its Friday fish specials.
The original location sits at 201 E Manlius St, East Syracuse, NY 13057 in a converted warehouse that perfectly captures the restaurant’s funky, blues-filled vibe.
Catfish takes center stage here instead of the more common haddock, offering a slightly sweeter, more robust flavor that stands up beautifully to bold seasonings.
The cornmeal-based coating delivers serious crunch and a hint of sweetness that complements the fish perfectly.
Sides lean toward Southern comfort food, with options like collard greens, mac and cheese, and hush puppies replacing traditional coleslaw and fries.
The atmosphere pulses with energy, especially on weekend nights when live blues music fills the space and creates an unforgettable dining experience.
Walls covered in vintage signs and motorcycle memorabilia give the place character and personality that chain restaurants could never replicate.
The bar serves an impressive selection of craft beers, with knowledgeable bartenders happy to recommend pairings for your meal.
Portions are substantial, often requiring takeout containers for leftovers that taste nearly as good reheated the next day.
5. Schwabl’s Restaurant
Since 1837, this West Seneca landmark has been serving hearty German-American fare to generations of loyal customers who appreciate tradition and consistency.
While the restaurant is perhaps most famous for its beef on weck, the Friday fish fry draws crowds that rival any seafood restaurant in the region.
Located at 789 Center Rd, West Seneca, NY 14224 the building retains its old-world tavern charm with dark wood paneling and vintage photographs lining the walls.
The fish here follows a classic preparation that has remained essentially unchanged for decades, a testament to the wisdom of not fixing what isn’t broken.
Light, crispy batter encases tender haddock that flakes apart at the gentlest touch of a fork.
What makes this version special is the option to order it with German potato pancakes instead of French fries, a nod to the restaurant’s heritage that regular customers request without hesitation.
The dining room fills quickly on Fridays, with multigenerational families occupying large tables and sharing stories over platters of fish and pitchers of beer.
Service maintains an old-school professionalism, with servers who have worked here for years and know the menu inside and out.
The no-reservations policy means waits can stretch long during peak hours, but the bar area provides a comfortable place to pass the time.
Cash is preferred here, adding to the throwback feel that makes dining at Schwabl’s feel like time travel.
6. Heid’s Of Liverpool
Hot dog stands rarely make fish fry lists, but this beloved Liverpool institution has been surprising people since 1917 with its unexpectedly excellent seafood offerings.
What started as a simple roadside stand has evolved into a local legend, serving everything from footlong hot dogs to some of the best fried fish in the Syracuse area.
The stand operates at Main Building, 305 Oswego St, Liverpool, NY 13088 where the vintage neon sign has become a beloved neighborhood landmark.
The fish sandwich here deserves special recognition for maximizing flavor while maintaining the casual, handheld format that makes it perfect for eating at outdoor picnic tables.
Generous portions of flaky haddock get tucked into soft rolls with lettuce, tomato, and a proprietary sauce that keeps customers guessing about the secret ingredients.
The batter achieves remarkable crispiness despite the sandwich format, staying crunchy rather than becoming soggy against the bread.
Prices remain incredibly affordable, making this an ideal spot for families feeding multiple hungry mouths without breaking the budget.
The outdoor seating area captures the nostalgic feel of summer evenings at classic American roadside stands, complete with string lights and picnic tables.
Lines can get long during peak times, but service moves quickly thanks to a well-organized system perfected over more than a century in business.
Cash only, so come prepared with bills rather than cards.
7. Clam Bar
Long Island seafood restaurants set high standards, and this nautical-themed spot consistently exceeds them with impeccably fresh fish and shellfish prepared to perfection.
Fishing nets, buoys, and maritime memorabilia create an atmosphere that transports diners straight to the coast, even though the location sits inland.
You can find this seafood haven at multiple locations throughout Nassau County, with the original at 99 Bayside Dr, Point Lookout, NY 11569 serving customers since the 1970s.
Freshness makes all the difference here, with daily deliveries ensuring that every piece of fish served was swimming in the ocean just hours earlier.
The kitchen offers several preparation styles, but the traditional fried version remains the most popular choice among regulars who appreciate perfectly executed classics.
The batter incorporates subtle seasonings that enhance rather than mask the sweet, delicate flavor of fresh flounder or sole.
Generous combination platters allow diners to sample multiple seafood items in one meal, creating variety that keeps every bite interesting.
The dining room fills with a mix of dressed-up date-night couples and casual families, proof that the restaurant successfully serves multiple audiences.
Knowledgeable servers can explain the difference between various fish options and offer honest recommendations based on personal preferences.
The raw bar serves pristine oysters and clams for those who want to start their meal with something briny and refreshing before moving on to fried offerings.
8. Ted’s Fish Fry
Walking into this iconic spot feels like stepping back to simpler times when fish fries were community events rather than just meals.
Ted’s Fish Fry started as a humble roadside stand and has grown into an Upstate institution, with multiple locations serving thousands of satisfied customers each week.
The original location sits at 1186 Western Ave, Albany, NY 12203 where lines often stretch out the door on Friday evenings.
What makes this place special goes beyond the perfectly golden batter that encases each tender piece of haddock.
The homemade tartar sauce has a cult following, and the hand-cut fries are cooked to crispy perfection every single time.
Portions here are generous enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites, yet prices remain surprisingly affordable.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere puts everyone at ease, from families with young children to groups of friends catching up over dinner.
Service moves quickly despite the crowds, thanks to a well-trained staff who have mastered the Friday rush.
Many regulars swear by the combo platters that include fish, shrimp, and clams for those who want to sample everything.
The coleslaw is tangy and fresh, providing the perfect contrast to the rich fried fish.
Locals often call ahead to place takeout orders, knowing their dinner will be hot and ready when they arrive.
9. Peppino’s Italian Eatery
Italian restaurants might not be the first place people think of for fish fries, but this Rochester favorite has been proving skeptics wrong since 1976 with its unique Mediterranean-influenced approach.
The restaurant brings Italian sensibilities to this American tradition, creating something familiar yet distinctively different from standard preparations.
Located at 3734 NY 104, Williamson, NY 14589 the family-run establishment occupies a charming building that feels like stepping into a home rather than a commercial restaurant.
The fish gets a light dusting of seasoned flour rather than thick batter, then fries in olive oil for a preparation that is simultaneously crispy and remarkably light.
This Italian-style approach allows the fish flavor to dominate while the coating provides texture and a subtle hint of garlic and herbs.
Accompanying sides include options like pasta with marinara or garlic bread, departing from typical fish fry accompaniments in ways that regular customers enthusiastically embrace.
The dining room maintains a warm, intimate atmosphere with checkered tablecloths and candles creating a romantic ambiance that elevates the meal beyond casual dining.
Family recipes passed down through generations influence every dish, from the homemade tartar sauce to the delicate pastries served for dessert.
Service feels personal and attentive, with owners often circulating through the dining room to check on guests and ensure satisfaction.
Reservations are essential on Fridays when locals pack the place for this beloved weekly tradition.
10. The Krebs
Family-style dining reaches its zenith at this historic Finger Lakes restaurant where platters of food arrive at the table for guests to share and pass around.
Operating since 1899, the Victorian mansion has hosted countless celebrations, from wedding rehearsals to anniversary dinners, always with the same commitment to abundance and hospitality.
The restaurant sits at 53 W Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152 in one of New York’s most picturesque lakeside villages.
The fish fry here follows the family-style format, meaning large platters of golden fried fish arrive at the table along with seemingly endless bowls of sides and accompaniments.
This approach encourages sharing and conversation, turning meals into social events rather than simple dining experiences.
The fish itself is perfectly fried, with a coating that stays crispy even as platters make their way around the table.
Seven courses comprise the full meal, starting with relish trays and soup before moving through salad, fish, sides, and eventually dessert.
The generous format means guests rarely leave hungry, and the reasonable fixed price makes the value proposition exceptional.
The historic dining rooms retain their original charm, with period details and elegant furnishings creating an atmosphere that feels special without being intimidating.
Reservations are absolutely required, often needing to be made weeks in advance for prime Friday evening time slots when the restaurant fills to capacity with loyal regulars and first-time visitors alike.
