Who knew Illinois was hiding a treasure trove of crispy, golden fish that would make even the most seasoned seafarer weak in the fins?
This road trip takes you to nine Illinois restaurants serving outrageously delicious fish fry you’ll be raving about for days!
1. The Shanty (Wadsworth)
Nestled in a cozy log cabin that looks like it was plucked straight out of a fairy tale, The Shanty is where comfort food meets fine dining.
As you approach this rustic gem, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret hideaway in the woods.
But don’t let the humble exterior fool you – inside, it’s a culinary wonderland.
Their fish fry is the stuff of legends, with a crispy coating that crackles with each bite, revealing tender, flaky fish beneath.
It’s like the fish equivalent of a crunchy autumn leaf, except instead of disappointing you by turning to mush, it delights your taste buds with its perfect texture.
The warm, inviting atmosphere is enhanced by twinkling lights and the soft glow of lanterns, making you feel like you’re dining in a magical forest clearing.
Just don’t try to use a branch as a fork – they do provide real utensils here.
2. The Fish Keg (Chicago)
If The Fish Keg were a superhero, its superpower would be turning ordinary fish into extraordinary culinary experiences.
This no-frills joint in Chicago might look unassuming from the outside, but inside, it’s a fish fry fortress.
Their sign proudly proclaims “Fried Shrimp, Chicken, Fresh Seafood,” but let’s be real – we’re here for the fish.
The breading is so perfectly crisp, you might be tempted to frame it as modern art.
But please, for the love of cod, eat it instead.
The Fish Keg has been serving up seafood delights since before some of us were even a twinkle in our parents’ eyes.
It’s the kind of place where the aroma of frying fish acts like a siren song, luring in hungry patrons from blocks away.
Just follow your nose – and the trail of satisfied customers clutching paper bags of golden goodness.
3. Calumet Fisheries (Chicago)
Perched on the edge of the Calumet River, this tiny shack is like the Little Engine That Could of fish fries – small in size but big in flavor.
Calumet Fisheries has been smoking and frying fish since 1948, which means they’ve had plenty of time to perfect their craft.
Their smoked fish is legendary, but we’re here for the fried goodness.
The fish here is so fresh, you might suspect they have a secret underwater tunnel leading straight from Lake Michigan.
(They don’t, but wouldn’t that be cool?)
The best part? You can enjoy your fish with a side of industrial charm, as you watch boats navigate the nearby bridge.
It’s like dinner and a show, except the show is just boats doing boat things.
But trust me, with fish this good, you won’t need any other entertainment.
4. Hank’s Farm Restaurant (Ottawa)
Hank’s Farm Restaurant is like the Swiss Army knife of eateries – it’s got a little bit of everything.
Housed in a charming white barn that looks like it could tell a thousand stories (if barns could talk), this place serves up a fish fry that’ll make you want to quit your job and become a professional fish fry critic.
The restaurant is surrounded by lush greenery and even has its own gift shop, because why not combine your love for fried fish with some impulse shopping?
It’s the perfect place to buy a souvenir to remember your fish fry adventure – or to distract yourself while you wait for your food.
Inside, the rustic decor makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy farmhouse.
Just resist the urge to milk any nearby cows – stick to enjoying the fish instead.
5. JT’s Porch Saloon & Eatery (Lacon)
JT’s Porch Saloon & Eatery is the kind of place where the fish fry is so good, you might be tempted to write a country song about it.
This unassuming spot in Lacon serves up a fish fry that’s crispier than a new dollar bill and more satisfying than finding money in your old jeans.
The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for those who like their fish fry with a side of no-frills charm.
The porch-style seating area is ideal for people-watching, or in this case, fish-watching – as in, watching other people enjoy their fish while you eagerly await yours.
And let’s not forget the “saloon” part of the name.
Because what goes better with fried fish than a cold beer?
It’s like they’ve cracked the code of the perfect Friday night.
6. Timmerman’s Supper Club (East Dubuque)
Perched atop a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, Timmerman’s Supper Club is where you go when you want your fish fry with a side of breathtaking views.
It’s like they’re saying, “Here’s some amazing fish, and oh, by the way, feast your eyes on this spectacular scenery.”
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The supper club vibe here is strong, transporting you back to a time when dinner was an event and “dressing up” didn’t mean putting on your fancy sweatpants.
Their fish fry is the perfect blend of old-school charm and timeless deliciousness.
As you savor your perfectly fried fish, you can gaze out at the river and ponder life’s big questions, like “How did they get the breading so crispy?” and “Is it inappropriate to lick my plate in public?”
7. LakeHouse Restaurant (Lake Villa)
LakeHouse Restaurant is like that overachieving friend who’s good at everything – great food, beautiful setting, and a fish fry that’ll make you want to stand up and slow clap.
Situated on the shores of Cedar Lake, this place offers a fish fry experience that’s as refreshing as a dip in the lake (but much more delicious).
The restaurant’s bright, airy interior and lakeside patio create the perfect backdrop for your fish fry feast.
It’s the kind of place where you can imagine yourself spending a lazy summer afternoon, working your way through plate after plate of crispy, golden fish.
Just be careful not to get too relaxed – you might find yourself trying to skip stones with your leftover fish bits.
(Pro tip: The staff frowns upon this. Trust me.)
8. Buster’s Bar & Grill (Loves Park)
Buster’s Bar & Grill is the kind of place where the fish fry is so good, it should be illegal.
But thankfully, it’s not, because then we’d all be criminals with very satisfied taste buds.
This local favorite in Loves Park serves up a fish fry that’s crunchier than the gravel in their parking lot (in a good way, of course).
The casual, friendly atmosphere makes you feel like you’ve just walked into your neighbor’s backyard barbecue – if your neighbor happened to be a fish fry wizard.
The bar area is perfect for those who like to pair their fried fish with a frosty beverage and some lively conversation.
And let’s not forget about the “Play Slots” sign outside.
Because nothing says “well-rounded evening” like following up your fish fry with a little gambling.
Just don’t bet your leftover fish – that’s too precious to risk.
9. Will’s Northwoods Inn (Chicago)
Will’s Northwoods Inn is like a little slice of Wisconsin dropped right in the heart of Chicago.
It’s the place to go when you want your fish fry with a side of “Up North” charm, without having to deal with actual mosquitoes or the need for bear spray.
This Lakeview staple is decked out in full northwoods regalia, complete with taxidermied animals and enough wood paneling to make a lumberjack feel right at home.
Their fish fry is the kind of comfort food that makes you want to put on a flannel shirt and tell tall tales about the one that got away.
The best part? You can enjoy your perfectly fried fish while watching a Packers game, surrounded by cheese heads and beer.
It’s like a mini-vacation to Wisconsin, but with better public transportation options.
There you have it, folks – a fish fry journey across Illinois that’s sure to leave you hooked.
Plot your path to adventure!
This map is your key to smooth travels and exciting discoveries.
From lakeside views to northwoods charm, these spots prove that the Prairie State knows its way around a fryer.
So grab your stretchy pants and hit the road – these fish aren’t going to eat themselves!