Fried Fish Spots In Iowa That Bring Real Home Cooked Flavor To The Table
Iowa might be famous for its corn and pork, but the state also serves up some seriously delicious fried fish that tastes just like grandma made it. From cozy diners to lakeside shacks, these spots fry up crispy, golden fish that’ll make your mouth water.
Whether you’re craving catfish, walleye, or classic cod, I’ve found the best places across Iowa where the fish is fresh, the batter is perfect, and the atmosphere feels like home.
1. Pike’s Peak State Park Fish Fry at The Landing
If you’re exploring the beautiful bluffs near McGregor, this spot will fill your belly with comfort. The Landing serves up walleye so fresh it practically swam from the Mississippi River to your plate that morning. Their secret is in the light cornmeal breading that crisps up without being too heavy or greasy.
I always order the Friday fish fry special because it comes with homemade coleslaw and hand-cut fries.
The portions are generous enough to share, though you probably won’t want to. Local fishermen often stop by after a day on the water, which tells you everything about the quality here.
2. Breitbach’s Country Dining
Iowa’s oldest restaurant knows a thing or two about cooking fish right. Breitbach’s has been serving travelers since 1852, and their catfish recipe hasn’t changed much in all those years. The fish arrives at your table piping hot with a golden-brown crust that crackles when you bite into it.
What makes this place special is the family atmosphere and the homemade sides that accompany every meal.
Their hushpuppies are legendary around Balltown, with just the right amount of sweetness. When you’re here, you’re not just eating fried fish you’re tasting a piece of Iowa history that’s been perfected over generations.
3. Templeton Rye Whiskey Barrel Fish House
This Templeton gem puts a creative spin on traditional fried fish without losing that homestyle taste. They soak their cod in a Templeton Rye beer batter that adds incredible flavor depth you won’t find anywhere else.
The result is fish that’s tender inside with an extra-crispy coating that stays crunchy from first bite to last.
I love how they serve everything on checkered paper like old-school fish and chips shops. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for families or a night out with friends. Their house-made tartar sauce has a little kick that complements the fish beautifully.
4. Miss Katie’s Diner
Step into this Cedar Rapids diner and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back to the 1950s. Miss Katie’s specializes in lake perch that’s lightly breaded and fried to absolute perfection every single time. The fish is never overcooked, staying moist and flaky beneath that satisfying crunch.
Their breakfast might be famous, but locals know the real treasure is the Friday night fish special. It comes with a mountain of crispy fries and their signature diner coleslaw that’s tangy and refreshing.
The waitresses call everyone “honey” and the coffee flows freely, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk through that door.
5. Catfish Charlie’s
When I’m craving authentic Southern-style catfish in Iowa, this is where I head. Charlie’s brings Louisiana flavors to the Midwest with their perfectly seasoned cornmeal crust that has just enough spice to keep things interesting. The catfish fillets are thick and meaty, never those sad little strips you sometimes get at chain restaurants.
Located near the Des Moines River, this spot has a laid-back vibe that makes you want to linger over your meal. They serve their fish with jalapeño cornbread that’s moist and slightly sweet.
On weekends, there’s often a wait, but trust me it’s absolutely worth it.
6. The Rusty Anchor Tavern
This Clear Lake tavern has been a fisherman’s favorite for decades, and one bite explains why. Their cod sandwich is simple but executed flawlessly thick fish fillet, perfectly fried, served on a toasted bun with all the fixings. Sometimes the best food doesn’t need to be complicated.
I appreciate how they let the quality of the fish shine through without drowning it in heavy batter.
The view of the lake from the outdoor patio makes your meal even better, especially during sunset. Locals gather here year-round, swapping fishing stories while munching on some of Iowa’s finest fried fish.
7. Grandma’s Kitchen
This Decorah restaurant lives up to its name with cooking that truly tastes like grandma’s. Their bluegill is caught locally and fried in cast iron skillets that give it an unbeatable texture. The fish is small but mighty, packed with flavor that reminds you of summer fishing trips and family gatherings.
What sets this place apart is their commitment to traditional cooking methods that take more time but deliver better results.
The sides are all made from scratch daily, including real mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables. When you eat here, you’re experiencing Iowa comfort food at its absolute finest, prepared with love and served with a smile.
8. River’s Edge Supper Club
Are you looking for fried fish with a touch of elegance? This Dubuque supper club proves that fried food can be fancy without losing its soul. Their walleye is lightly dusted with seasoned flour and pan-fried in butter, creating a delicate crust that’s sophisticated yet comforting.
The dining room overlooks the Mississippi River, and the white tablecloths don’t intimidate the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
I always start with their clam chowder before the fish arrives. It’s pricier than other spots on this list, but the quality justifies every penny. This is where I take out-of-town guests when I want to show off Iowa’s culinary side.
9. The Corner Cafe
Hidden in tiny Elkader, this cafe serves a fish basket that draws people from three counties over. The owners fry up whatever’s freshest that week sometimes it’s crappie, other times it’s bass or catfish.
Their batter recipe is a closely guarded secret that’s been in the family for generations.
I love the unpretentious charm of this place where farmers sit next to tourists and everyone leaves happy. The portions are enormous, and they don’t skimp on the sides either. Their onion rings are hand-battered and fried alongside the fish, soaking up all those delicious flavors. Cash only, so come prepared!
10. Lakeside Lodge Restaurant
How often do you get to eat fried fish while watching boats drift by on a peaceful lake? This Spirit Lake restaurant combines fantastic food with unbeatable scenery. Their crappie is legendary among local anglers, fried whole with the bones in for maximum flavor and authenticity.
It might seem intimidating if you’ve never eaten whole fried fish before, but the staff will happily show you how to navigate around the bones.
The meat is incredibly sweet and tender, worth the extra effort. Their potato salad has a hint of dill that perfectly complements the fish. Summer weekends get busy, so I usually visit on weekday evenings for a more relaxed experience.
11. The Red Barn Grill
This converted barn near Amana Colonies serves comfort food that sticks to your ribs in the best way possible. Their fish fry happens every Friday night, and it’s become such a tradition that reservations are practically required. The cod comes out steaming hot with a thick, crunchy crust that shatters when you cut into it.
I’m always impressed by how they maintain quality even when the place is packed. The rustic atmosphere with exposed beams and farm decor makes you feel like you’re eating at a friend’s house.
Their cornbread is served warm with honey butter that melts into every crevice. Bring your appetite because you’ll want to finish every last bite.
12. Fisherman’s Wharf Diner
Though traditional fried fish is their specialty, this Burlington diner also makes incredible fish tacos that deserve recognition. They fry small pieces of tilapia until golden, then tuck them into soft tortillas with crunchy cabbage and a tangy sauce. It’s a lighter take on fried fish that still delivers all the satisfaction.
The location right on the Mississippi River means the fish is always fresh, often caught that same morning.
I like sitting at the counter where you can watch the cooks work their magic on the flat-top grill. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous enough to fuel you for a day of exploring Iowa’s river towns.
13. The Blue Plate Special
Did you know that Iowa’s border communities often borrow the best traditions from neighboring states? This Waterloo spot serves a Wisconsin-style fish fry that’s become an Iowa favorite. The cod is thick and flaky, coated in a light batter that lets the fish flavor shine through beautifully.
What makes it authentic is the rye bread served alongside and the creamy coleslaw with a hint of caraway.
The restaurant has been family-owned for over forty years, and the recipes haven’t changed since opening day. When I’m feeling nostalgic for simple, honest cooking, this is where I go to remember what real comfort food tastes like.
14. Sunset Grill and Marina
There’s something magical about eating fried fish while the sun sets over the water. This Okoboji marina restaurant serves freshly caught bass that’s lightly battered and fried just right. The outdoor seating area lets you enjoy warm summer evenings with a cold drink and a plate of the crispiest fish you’ve ever tasted.
Their corn on the cob is grilled with butter and comes as the perfect side to the fish.
I’ve celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, and random Tuesdays here because the food and atmosphere never disappoint. Boaters can dock right at the marina and walk up for dinner, making it a favorite stop during lake season.
