Michigan Restaurants Perfecting The Friday Night Fish Fry Tradition

Friday night fish fry is more than just a meal in Michigan it’s a beloved tradition that brings families and friends together every week.

From crispy battered cod to golden perch, restaurants across the state have been serving up this classic dinner for generations.

Whether you’re a lifelong Michigander or just visiting, discovering the best spots for fish fry is like uncovering hidden treasures that connect you to local culture and unforgettable flavors.

1. The Mitten Bar

If you’re craving authentic Friday night fish fry in Detroit, this place nails it every single time. The Mitten Bar serves up perfectly crispy cod that’s been beer-battered to golden perfection, and the portions are generous enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetite. I love how they pair their fish with homemade tartar sauce that has just the right amount of tang and pickle relish.

The atmosphere feels welcoming and casual, making it ideal for families or groups of friends looking to unwind after a long week.

Their coleslaw is creamy without being too heavy, and the fries are always hot and crunchy. When you visit on a Friday evening, expect a lively crowd and the comforting aroma of fried fish filling the air.

2. Knight’s Steakhouse

How does a steakhouse become famous for fish? Knight’s Steakhouse in Grand Rapids proves that versatility matters when it comes to Friday traditions. Their perch is lightly breaded and pan-fried, creating a delicate crunch that doesn’t overpower the tender, flaky fish inside. It’s a departure from heavy batter, and honestly, it’s refreshing.

You’ll appreciate the upscale yet comfortable vibe here, where white tablecloths meet friendly Midwest hospitality. The restaurant has been family-owned for decades, and their commitment to quality ingredients shines through in every bite.

They serve their fish with a choice of potato baked, mashed, or fries and their house-made cocktail sauce adds a spicy kick. It’s worth making a reservation because Friday nights fill up fast.

3. Vince’s Italian Restaurant

Did you know that Italian restaurants in Michigan often serve some of the best fish fry around? Vince’s Italian Restaurant in Bay City brings a unique Mediterranean twist to this classic tradition. Their cod is fried in a light, seasoned coating that reminds me of Italian fritto misto, and they offer marinara sauce alongside the traditional tartar.

This family-run spot has been operating since 1968, and the recipes have been passed down through generations. When you walk in, you’re greeted like family, and the warm, homey atmosphere makes you want to stay all evening.

They also offer an all-you-can-eat option on Fridays, which is perfect if you’re extra hungry. The combination of Italian hospitality and Michigan fish fry tradition creates something truly special.

4. Lindell AC

Are you looking for a no-frills, authentic Detroit experience? Lindell AC has been serving fish fry to locals since 1949, making it one of the oldest spots still perfecting this tradition. The bar atmosphere is lively and unpretentious, filled with sports fans and regulars who’ve been coming here for years.

Their fish is simple but incredibly satisfying thick pieces of cod fried until golden and served with basic sides that let the main star shine. I appreciate how they keep things straightforward without trying to reinvent the wheel. The prices are reasonable, the beer is cold, and the service is quick and friendly.

It’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name after a few visits, and Friday nights feel like a neighborhood gathering rather than just dinner out.

5. Muer Seafood – Gratiot

When quality matters more than quantity, Muer Seafood on Gratiot delivers an elevated fish fry experience. This restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, and their Friday night offerings showcase premium fish varieties beyond the typical cod. You might find walleye, haddock, or even lake trout depending on what’s freshest that week.

The presentation here is restaurant-quality, with carefully arranged plates and garnishes that make your meal feel special. Their breading is lighter and more sophisticated than traditional pub-style batters, allowing the natural fish flavor to come through beautifully.

I recommend pairing your meal with one of their carefully selected wines. Though it’s pricier than dive bar fish fry, the quality justifies every dollar spent, making it perfect for date nights or celebrating special occasions.

6. Claddagh Irish Pub

It’s hard to beat authentic Irish fish and chips, and Claddagh Irish Pub brings that tradition straight to Michigan with multiple locations across the state. Their fish fry uses a beer batter recipe that creates an incredibly light and crispy coating that practically shatters when you bite into it. The fish inside stays moist and flaky, proving they’ve mastered the cooking technique.

The pub atmosphere transports you across the Atlantic with Celtic music, dark wood furnishings, and friendly staff who make you feel welcome.

They serve their fish with proper thick-cut chips and offer mushy peas for an authentic British Isles experience. Friday nights here buzz with energy, laughter, and the clinking of pint glasses, making it a fun outing for groups.

7. Scotty Simpson’s Fish & Chips

Though this spot focuses on fish and chips year-round, their Friday night crowds prove they’re doing something absolutely right. Scotty Simpson’s in Detroit keeps things simple and delicious, using fresh fish and a time-tested batter recipe that locals swear by. The casual, counter-service setup means you can grab your food quickly without sacrificing quality.

I love that they offer both dine-in and takeout options, making it convenient whether you want to eat there or bring dinner home. The fish portions are substantial, and the prices won’t break your budget.

Their homemade coleslaw provides the perfect cool, crunchy contrast to the hot, crispy fish. During warmer months, you can enjoy your meal at outdoor picnic tables while soaking up the neighborhood atmosphere.

8. Buddy’s Pizza

Are you surprised to see a pizza place on this list? Buddy’s Pizza, famous for inventing Detroit-style square pizza, also serves an outstanding Friday fish fry that many locals consider a well-kept secret. Their approach combines the same attention to quality ingredients they use in their pizzas with traditional fish fry techniques.

The cod here is thick and meaty, fried to order so it arrives at your table piping hot. What makes Buddy’s unique is that you can enjoy both pizza and fish fry in one meal, satisfying everyone in your group regardless of their preferences.

The family-friendly atmosphere and efficient service make it great for busy Friday evenings when you want something delicious without a long wait. Their tartar sauce has a subtle garlic note that sets it apart from typical versions.

9. Forest Grill

How refreshing to find a neighborhood spot that treats fish fry with the same care as their gourmet burgers and steaks. Forest Grill in Ypsilanti offers a Friday fish fry that balances casual dining with culinary expertise. Their fish is always fresh, never frozen, and the difference in taste and texture is immediately noticeable.

The restaurant itself has a warm, inviting atmosphere with exposed brick walls and local artwork that gives it character without feeling pretentious. I particularly enjoy their hand-cut fries, which are perfectly seasoned and cooked until golden.

They also offer several craft beers on tap that pair beautifully with fried fish. The servers are knowledgeable and friendly, often offering suggestions based on your preferences. It’s become a Friday night ritual for many Ypsilanti residents.

10. Tony’s I-75 Restaurant

When travelers and locals alike rave about the same place, you know it’s worth stopping. Tony’s I-75 Restaurant in Birch Run has been serving travelers along the highway for years, and their Friday fish fry keeps people coming back mile after mile. The diner-style atmosphere feels nostalgic and comfortable, like stepping back to a simpler time.

Their fish portions are enormous seriously, come hungry or plan to take leftovers home. The batter is perfectly seasoned with a hint of pepper and paprika that adds subtle flavor without overwhelming the fish. I appreciate that they serve real, hand-breaded fish rather than pre-made frozen fillets.

The staff treats everyone like regulars, and the prices are incredibly reasonable for the quality and quantity you receive. It’s a true roadside gem.

11. Marty’s Bar

If small-town charm appeals to you, Marty’s Bar in Port Huron embodies everything great about Michigan’s fish fry tradition. This unpretentious tavern has been a community gathering spot for decades, where neighbors become friends over plates of crispy fish and cold drinks. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with regulars chatting at the bar and families filling the booths.

Their fish fry recipe hasn’t changed in years because, frankly, it doesn’t need to. The cod is thick and flaky, the batter is crunchy without being greasy, and the sides are homestyle comfort food at its finest.

What really sets Marty’s apart is the sense of community you feel when dining here. Friday nights transform this bar into a social hub where everyone’s invited to be part of something special.

12. Anchor Bar

Where better to enjoy fish fry than at a restaurant overlooking the water? Anchor Bar in Grand Haven combines fresh fish with stunning lake views, creating a Friday night experience that engages all your senses. The nautical-themed decor and casual beach vibe make you feel like you’re on vacation even if you’re just out for dinner.

Their fish selection varies based on what’s available locally, showing their commitment to freshness and supporting Michigan fisheries. I love sitting on their patio during warmer months, watching boats pass by while enjoying perfectly fried perch or walleye.

The breading is light and crispy, and they offer several homemade dipping sauces beyond standard tartar. The sunset views alone make this spot worth visiting, but the exceptional fish fry keeps people returning week after week.

13. Zingerman’s Roadhouse

Though Zingerman’s Roadhouse in Ann Arbor is famous for their barbecue and comfort food, their Friday fish fry deserves equal recognition. This restaurant takes a farm-to-table approach, sourcing sustainable fish and using organic ingredients whenever possible. The result is fish fry that tastes cleaner and more flavorful than conventional versions.

Their cornmeal coating adds a Southern-inspired twist to the traditional recipe, providing extra crunch and a slightly sweet flavor profile. I appreciate how they serve their fish with creative sides like braised greens and buttermilk biscuits alongside classic coleslaw and fries.

The attention to detail extends to their house-made hot sauce and pickles that accompany every plate. Yes, it’s pricier than typical fish fry spots, but the quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation make it a special treat worth savoring.