If it’s Friday, and it’s Lent, there’s a good chance a fish fry’s on. Read on for our favorite spots to dig in.
It’s a Lenten tradition in this part of the world: flaky cod or haddock, beer-battered and fried to perfection, served steaming hot with fries and coleslaw. Whether you’re observing Lent or just want in on a local the culinary tradition, here’s a breakdown of where to head to get your fish fry fix.
Niagara Falls, NY
Come to this Polish restaurant for the pierogis, stay for the fried fish. Recommended: the Fisherman’s Platter, which is heaped with fried shrimp, stuffed shrimp, haddock, scallops, crab cakes and fried clam strips.
Ghada Have It Mediterranean Home-Cooking
This family-owned spot puts a Mediterranean twist on the fish fry — though the classic is still on the menu for purists. Options include a Greek fish pita wrap, fish tacos with tzatziki, garlic-parmesan baked haddock — even a fish fry pizza. Use their Google form for easy ordering.
Lewiston
You might not expect to find a deep roster of seafood options at a place called Apple Granny, but that’s exactly what’s on offer at this Lewiston eatery. Try “Granny’s Famous” beer-battered fish fry special, or choose from options like fried shrimp, broiled scallops or baked haddock.
What better place to enjoy that age-old pub favorite — what some might call fish and chips — than at a brewery-slash-gastropub? Try it “Cajun crunch” style for a bit of a kick, or baked with Ritz cracker crumbs for a lighter bite. (See also: the Niagara Falls location.)
Lockport
Gluten-free fish lovers: rejoice! The fish fry offered on Fridays at this bistro tucked into an old house in Lockport is 100% gluten free.
Get your fish fix three ways at this Lockport mainstay: beer-battered, panko-breaded or broiled. Rounding out the “Friday Fish” menu is crab-stuffed cod with pesto cream and grilled salmon with a balsamic glaze.
North Tonawanda
This neighborhood restaurant may be known for its meatier fare — namely, barbecue ribs — but come Lent, it’s all about the Friday (and Wednesday) fish fry. You’ll even get to pick your catch: haddock, shrimp, scallops, pike, catfish, etc.
If it’s Tuesday, and you’re after some fried fish, head to this Italian eatery, where a “signature” fish fry is available all day, every day. Or try it the Italian way, with bread crumbs, Romano cheese and tomato.
The best of Niagara, right to your inbox
