15 Minnesota Tavern Fish Fries That Perfect The Classic Friday Night Comfort

Friday nights in Minnesota carry a special rhythm, where the week’s worries fade under the warm glow of tavern lights and the irresistible aroma of golden, crispy fish.

Taverns across the state have turned the humble fish fry into an art form, combining perfectly battered cod, hand-cut fries, and creamy coleslaw into a meal that feels like coming home.

Whether tucked along a lakeshore or nestled in a bustling neighborhood, these spots prove that the best comfort food traditions are alive and thriving in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

1. Red Cow North Loop

Beer-battered perfection doesn’t require waiting until Friday when this North Loop favorite serves up its classic fish fry seven days a week.

Red Cow has built a reputation on bold flavors and generous portions, making every visit feel like a celebration.

Located at 208 N 1st Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401, this spot combines urban energy with laid-back comfort.

The fish arrives golden and crispy, encased in a beer batter that shatters at first bite to reveal tender, flaky white fish inside.

Paired with their signature Red Cow sauce and a mountain of hot French fries, the dish balances indulgence with satisfying simplicity.

The atmosphere buzzes with conversation and laughter, creating the kind of vibe that turns a casual dinner into a memorable night out.

Parking can get tight during peak hours, so arriving slightly earlier than the dinner rush helps secure a spot and a table without the wait.

2. Birch’s On The Lake Brewhouse & Supperclub

Lakeside dining takes on new meaning when the fish on your plate is battered in beer brewed right on the premises.

Birch’s on the Lake combines scenic views with scratch-made comfort food that keeps locals coming back season after season.

You’ll find this gem at 1310 Wayzata Blvd, Long Lake, MN 55356, where windows frame shimmering water and the menu celebrates Minnesota’s love affair with fried fish.

The cod arrives perfectly crispy, its golden crust giving way to moist, tender fish that pairs beautifully with their house-cut fries.

Creamy coleslaw adds a cool, tangy contrast, while the addictive Kolaches on the side bring an unexpected twist to the traditional fish fry plate.

The brewhouse atmosphere feels relaxed yet special, ideal for both family gatherings and date nights.

Weekends can fill up quickly, especially when the weather’s nice and patio seating becomes prime real estate.

3. Welsch’s Big Ten Tavern

Sports fans and fish fry enthusiasts find common ground at this northern suburbs tavern where game day energy meets classic comfort food.

Welsch’s Big Ten Tavern serves up portions that could feed a linebacker, making it a natural gathering spot for anyone with a hearty appetite.

The address is 4703 US-10, Arden Hills, MN 55112, and the atmosphere hits that sweet spot between neighborhood bar and family-friendly restaurant.

Rich, flavorful fish arrives with a satisfying crunch, accompanied by all the traditional fixings that make a fish fry feel complete.

The tavern’s lively vibe means plenty of conversation, occasional cheers from the bar area, and the kind of unpretentious warmth that makes everyone feel welcome.

Prices stay reasonable despite the generous portions, adding to the overall value.

Fridays naturally draw the biggest crowds, but weeknight visits offer a more relaxed pace while still delivering the same quality.

4. Matt’s Bar

Famous for inventing the Jucy Lucy, this South Minneapolis institution also knows its way around a proper fish fry.

Matt’s Bar has been serving the neighborhood since 1954, building a loyal following that spans generations.

Find it at 3500 Cedar Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407, where the no-frills atmosphere lets the food do all the talking.

The fish fry here embraces simplicity, focusing on perfectly fried fish with a crispy exterior that protects the tender meat inside.

Traditional sides round out the plate, and the portions reflect an understanding that people come here hungry and leave satisfied.

The bar maintains its vintage charm, with well-worn booths and a counter that’s seen decades of conversation.

Cash is preferred here, so hitting an ATM before arrival saves a trip later.

Peak dinner hours mean waits are common, but the food makes the patience worthwhile.

5. Casper & Runyon’s Nook

Bowling trophies line the walls at this St. Paul landmark where the fish fry tradition runs as deep as the tap list.

Casper & Runyon’s Nook has anchored the Macalester-Groveland neighborhood since 1938, earning its reputation one satisfied customer at a time.

Located at 492 Hamline Ave S, St. Paul, MN 55116, the Nook serves fish that’s battered to golden perfection and fried until the coating achieves that ideal balance between crispy and tender.

The homemade tartar sauce adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness of the fried fish.

Fries arrive hot and well-seasoned, while the coleslaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, hearty main dish.

The atmosphere feels authentically neighborhood, where regulars know the staff and newcomers quickly feel like part of the family.

Parking can require a bit of hunting during busy times, so arriving with a few extra minutes helps.

6. The Lexington

Supper club elegance meets Friday night tradition at this St. Paul institution where the fish fry gets dressed up without losing its soul.

The Lexington has been serving the Twin Cities since 1935, building a legacy on quality ingredients and timeless hospitality.

You’ll find this beauty at 1096 Grand Ave, St. Paul, MN 55105, where the dining room’s classic décor sets a tone that’s special without being stuffy.

The fish fry here often features walleye, Minnesota’s beloved state fish, prepared with care and served with sides that honor tradition while showcasing the kitchen’s skill.

The beer batter achieves a delicate crispness that complements rather than overwhelms the fish’s natural flavor.

Service moves at a comfortable pace, encouraging diners to linger over their meals and enjoy the entire experience.

Reservations are strongly recommended for Friday evenings when the fish fry draws crowds from across the metro.

7. Merlin’s Rest Pub

Crossing the pond doesn’t require a passport when this South Minneapolis pub serves authentic British fish and chips that transport taste buds straight to a seaside chippy.

Merlin’s Rest Pub brings genuine UK pub culture to Minnesota, complete with proper fish and chips that respect tradition.

The address is 3601 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406, where the cozy interior and impressive beer selection create an atmosphere that feels both worldly and welcoming.

The fish arrives in a light, crispy batter that lets the quality of the cod shine through, served alongside hand-cut chips that are thick, fluffy inside, and perfectly golden outside.

Malt vinegar and proper mushy peas are available for those seeking the full British experience.

The pub’s commitment to authenticity extends beyond the food to the warm, conversational atmosphere that defines the best British pubs.

Weekend evenings can get busy, making weeknight visits a quieter alternative for those seeking a more relaxed meal.

8. Mayslack’s Polka Lounge

Polka music and fried fish create a surprisingly perfect pairing at this Northeast Minneapolis landmark where tradition never goes out of style.

Mayslack’s Polka Lounge has been serving the neighborhood since 1955, maintaining an authentic dive bar atmosphere that feels increasingly rare in modern cities.

Located at 1428 4th St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413, this spot delivers straightforward, no-nonsense fish fry that focuses on generous portions and honest flavors.

The fish arrives hot and crispy, with a batter that’s been perfected over decades of Friday nights.

Sides are simple and satisfying, exactly what you want when the main attraction is perfectly fried fish.

The bar’s vintage décor and occasional live polka music create an atmosphere that’s equal parts nostalgic and genuinely fun.

This is cash-only territory, so planning ahead saves a trip to the ATM mid-meal.

The crowd skews local, giving the place a neighborhood feel that welcomes newcomers without pandering to them.

9. Dusty’s Bar

Sometimes the best fish fry comes from the most unassuming places, where the focus stays squarely on making great food for hungry neighbors.

Dusty’s Bar epitomizes the neighborhood tavern, serving straightforward comfort food in an atmosphere that prioritizes friendliness over flash.

You’ll find it at 1319 Marshall St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413, where regulars and newcomers mix easily at the bar and in the dining area.

The fish fry here delivers exactly what it promises: crispy, hot fish with a satisfying crunch that gives way to flaky, tender meat inside.

Portions are generous without being overwhelming, and the sides complement rather than compete with the star of the plate.

Prices remain remarkably reasonable, making this a spot where families can enjoy a fish fry without breaking the budget.

The bar’s relaxed vibe means kids are welcome, though the atmosphere skews more adult as the evening progresses and the crowd shifts from diners to drinkers.

10. Shamrock’s Bar & Grill

Irish hospitality and Friday fish fry traditions merge seamlessly at this St. Paul pub where everyone’s a little bit Irish by the end of the night.

Shamrock’s Bar & Grill brings authentic pub warmth to the fish fry experience, creating meals that feel both comforting and celebratory.

The address is 995 7th St W, St. Paul, MN 55102, where the green-accented décor and friendly service immediately put guests at ease.

Beer-battered cod is the star here, arriving in a golden coat that crackles under the fork and reveals perfectly cooked fish inside.

The chips are thick-cut and substantial, providing the perfect vehicle for tartar sauce or malt vinegar.

The pub atmosphere encourages lingering, with conversation flowing easily between tables and the bar.

Live music on select nights adds to the festive feel, though it can make conversation a bit challenging during peak volume moments.

Parking in the area requires patience but is generally available within a short walk.

11. Crooked Pint Ale House

Craft beer culture and classic fish fry traditions come together at this ale house where the tap list rivals the menu for attention.

Crooked Pint Ale House brings a contemporary twist to the tavern experience while respecting the fundamentals that make fish fry special.

With multiple Minnesota locations including 501 Washington Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55415, this small chain manages to maintain quality and consistency across its spots.

The fish fry features a choice of cod or walleye, both prepared with care and served with a selection of sides that go beyond the standard offerings.

The beer selection provides plenty of pairing options, with knowledgeable staff happy to suggest combinations that enhance the meal.

The atmosphere strikes a balance between sports bar energy and family-friendly dining, making it adaptable to different occasions.

Happy hour specials can make the fish fry even more affordable, though timing varies by location so checking ahead helps with planning.

12. Keys Cafe & Bakery

Breakfast and brunch might be their claim to fame, but this Minnesota mini-chain proves it can handle Friday night fish fry with equal skill.

Keys Cafe & Bakery has built a loyal following on generous portions and consistent quality, values that translate perfectly to their fish fry offering.

Multiple locations serve the Twin Cities metro, including 1400 W Frontage Rd, Stillwater, MN 55082, where the family-friendly atmosphere makes everyone feel welcome.

The fish arrives hot and crispy, with a batter that achieves a satisfying crunch without being greasy or heavy.

Traditional sides round out the plate, and the portions are substantial enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

The bakery component means dessert options go beyond the typical tavern offerings, with fresh pies and cakes providing a sweet finish.

Service tends to be efficient and friendly, with staff who understand that Friday night fish fry is both a meal and a tradition worth honoring.

13. Pub 42

Suburban dining gets an upgrade at this Burnsville pub where the fish fry receives thoughtful attention without losing its comforting essence.

Pub 42 brings a slightly elevated approach to tavern classics, using quality ingredients and careful preparation to create memorable meals.

Located at 1232, 7600 N 42nd Ave, New Hope, MN 55427, this spot combines modern décor with the welcoming warmth that defines the best neighborhood pubs.

The fish fry features hand-battered cod that arrives perfectly golden, with sides that show creativity while respecting tradition.

The atmosphere feels polished without being pretentious, making it suitable for both casual Friday dinners and slightly more special occasions.

A well-curated beer and wine list provides pairing options that enhance the meal.

The suburban location means parking is generally easier than downtown alternatives, a practical advantage that families with young kids particularly appreciate.

Weekend evenings can still fill up, so calling ahead or arriving early helps secure preferred seating.

14. The Blue Door Pub

Known for inventive burgers topped with everything imaginable, this local favorite also turns its creative energy toward crafting a fish fry that stands out from the crowd.

The Blue Door Pub operates several Twin Cities locations, including 1514 Como Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414, where the menu balances playful creativity with serious cooking chops.

The fish fry here often features locally sourced fish when available, prepared with attention to detail that elevates the dish beyond basic tavern fare.

The batter achieves an ideal texture, and the sides might include unexpected touches that surprise and delight without feeling forced or overly fancy.

The pub’s atmosphere buzzes with energy, particularly on Friday nights when the fish fry draws both regulars and curious newcomers.

The multiple locations mean finding one that’s convenient is usually possible, though quality remains consistent across the board.

Waits can stretch during peak times, but the food rewards the patience required to secure a table.

15. Smack Shack

Seafood specialists bring their expertise to the classic fish fry, creating a version that honors tradition while showcasing what fresh, quality fish can achieve.

Smack Shack started as a food truck before expanding to brick-and-mortar locations, bringing its seafood-focused menu to eager diners across the metro.

Find the downtown location at 603 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401, where the industrial-chic space creates a contemporary backdrop for serious seafood.

The fish fry benefits from the restaurant’s connections to quality suppliers, resulting in fish that’s noticeably fresh and flavorful.

The preparation respects classic techniques while incorporating small touches that reflect the kitchen’s seafood expertise.

Sides are thoughtfully chosen to complement the fish rather than just fill the plate.

The downtown location makes this a convenient stop before or after events, though that same convenience means it can get busy during peak times.

Pricing runs slightly higher than traditional taverns, reflecting the quality of ingredients and the downtown location.