Michigan Lakeside Fish Fries Worth Visiting
Michigan sits surrounded by the Great Lakes, making it a prime spot for fish lovers everywhere.
You will find dozens of restaurants serving up crispy, golden fish fries right along the water’s edge.
I’ve gathered a list of the best lakeside fish fries that offer fresh catches, friendly service, and views you won’t forget.
1. Brown’s Fisheries Fish House
Family recipes passed down through generations make every bite worth the trip.
Located at 12840 M-123, Paradise, MI 49768, this spot has been serving locals and travelers since 1943.
Freshly caught Lake Superior whitefish arrives daily, and the kitchen fries it in a simple beer batter that lets the natural flavor shine through.
Homemade tartar sauce adds a tangy kick that complements the flaky fish perfectly.
You can watch boats come in from the lake while you enjoy your meal.
The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, just like eating at a friend’s house.
Portions are generous, so come hungry and ready to savor one of Michigan’s oldest fish fry traditions.
2. Zehnder’s Friday Night Fish Fry
Unlimited servings of crispy walleye make this a Friday night favorite for families across the state.
You’ll find this Bavarian gem at 730 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, where German hospitality meets Midwest comfort food.
Beer-battered walleye comes out hot and golden, with a satisfying crunch in every bite.
German potato salad served on the side adds a tangy, slightly sweet contrast to the savory fish.
The homemade tartar sauce has just the right balance of creaminess and zest.
Servers keep bringing more fish until you wave the white flag.
The dining room feels festive, with decorations that transport you straight to Bavaria while you feast on fresh Michigan catches.
3. Maple River Pub Fish Fry
Some folks claim this place serves the crispiest perch in the entire northern region.
The pub sits at 5345 Main St, Brutus, MI 49716, right where you can hear the Maple River flowing below.
Perch arrives at your table with a golden crust that stays crunchy from the first bite to the last.
The deck overlooks the water, giving you a peaceful view while you dig into your meal.
A neighborhood party vibe fills the air, especially on Friday evenings when locals gather for their weekly fish fix.
The casual setting makes it easy to relax and enjoy good food without any fuss.
You’ll leave satisfied, already planning your next visit before you even finish eating.
4. American Legion Post No. 10 Fish Fry
Walking into a Legion hall might not scream gourmet dining, but the food here proves that great meals come from unexpected places.
Located at 330 1st St, Manistee, MI 49660, this spot has been feeding the community for decades.
Cod gets fried to perfection, with generous portions that could easily feed two people.
Homemade coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch alongside the hot, flaky fish.
Communal tables encourage conversations with neighbors, turning dinner into a social event.
The atmosphere feels unpretentious and friendly, where everyone is welcome.
You’ll pay less here than at fancy restaurants while enjoying food that tastes just as good, if not better.
5. Lakeside Cafe
Recipes perfected over fifty years don’t come along every day.
This cozy spot sits at 7992 Main St, Bear Lake, MI 49614, where the owner has been frying perch since the 1970s.
Fresh fish comes straight from local waters, ensuring every meal tastes like Michigan should.
The breading recipe remains a closely guarded secret, passed down and tweaked over decades.
Homemade pie waits at the counter, tempting you to save room for dessert.
The cafe feels like stepping back in time, with friendly service that makes you feel like family.
Regulars fill the tables during peak hours, but the wait is always worth it for food this authentic and delicious.
6. Blue Waters Cafe
Breakfast or dinner, you can get your fish fix here any time of day.
Located at 4340 Lakeshore Dr, Manistee, MI 49660, this cafe offers panoramic views of the water from every table.
Whitefish gets a lighter treatment here, dusted with seasoned flour instead of heavy batter.
The result is a delicate, flaky fish that lets the natural taste come through.
Locals swear by this place, filling the dining room during breakfast and dinner rushes.
The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for families or solo diners looking for a quiet meal.
Large windows frame the lake beautifully, giving you something peaceful to watch while you enjoy your food and soak in the lakeside ambiance.
7. Fisher Lake Inn Fish Fry
Why settle for one type of fish when you can try three different kinds in one meal?
This historic inn at 2238 Fisher Lake St, Three Rivers, MI 49093 serves a trio that includes perch, walleye, and bluegill.
Each fish gets its own distinctive breading, giving you a chance to compare flavors and textures.
Live music fills the patio during summer evenings, adding entertainment to your dining experience.
The inn has been around for years, building a reputation for quality food and warm hospitality.
Families love the variety, especially when different members prefer different fish.
The lakeside setting provides a peaceful backdrop, making this a perfect spot to unwind after a long week and enjoy Michigan’s freshwater bounty.
8. The Cove Restaurant
Boaters pull right up to the docks here, making this a true waterfront dining experience.
You’ll find it at 2200 W Higgins Lake Dr, Roscommon, MI 48653, where Higgins Lake sparkles just steps away.
Lake perch arrives hot and crispy, paired with classic sides like coleslaw and fries.
The casual vibe makes it easy to show up in your swimsuit after a day on the water.
Outdoor seating lets you enjoy the breeze and watch boats come and go.
Families gather here on summer weekends, creating a lively, fun atmosphere.
The menu keeps things simple, focusing on what they do best: fresh fish fried to perfection in a setting that captures everything great about Michigan summers.
9. The Dockside
Smelt lovers rejoice because this place keeps the tradition alive.
Sitting at 370 Cloverleaf Dr, Prudenville, MI 48651, the eatery hugs the shore of Houghton Lake.
A basket of fried smelt and perch gives you two classic Michigan fish in one meal.
Outdoor picnic tables let you eat in the fresh air while watching the lake.
The casual setup means no fancy dress code, just good food and relaxed vibes.
Tartar sauce comes in generous portions, perfect for dipping every crispy piece.
Locals treat this spot like their summer living room, gathering here after long days on the water.
The simple approach works beautifully, proving that great fish fries don’t need to be complicated to be memorable.
10. Barrel Back Restaurant
Torch Lake’s famous turquoise waters provide a stunning backdrop for your meal.
Located at 6820 Crystal Beach Rd, Alden, MI 49612, this modern spot puts a fresh spin on the traditional fish fry.
Panko-crusted walleye offers a lighter, airier crunch compared to standard beer batter.
Lemon wedges arrive on the side, letting you add a bright citrus note if you want.
The restaurant design emphasizes clean lines and big windows that frame the water views.
Menu options go beyond just fried fish, but the fish fry remains the most popular choice.
Reservations help secure a window table, especially during peak summer months when everyone wants to enjoy that incredible lake view while eating.
11. The Portage Point Inn
History soaks into every corner of this lakeside inn.
You’ll discover it at 8513 Portage Point Dr, Onekama, MI 49675, where Portage Lake stretches out before you.
Classic Friday night fish fry includes all the traditional sides: coleslaw, potato pancakes, and rye bread.
The vintage dining room feels like stepping into another era, with old photos lining the walls.
Fish arrives perfectly fried, maintaining the standards this place has upheld for generations.
Guests staying at the inn make this their weekly ritual during summer vacations.
The combination of historic charm and consistently good food creates an experience you won’t find at chain restaurants, making it worth the drive no matter where you’re coming from in Michigan.
