Top 10 Friday Fish Fry Spots in Minneapolis

Bull's Horn Food and Drink punches well above its budget-friendly price point with a fried fish basket that's become legendary among Minneapolis' value-conscious diners. Their beer-battered cod comes in generous portions with seasoned fries and housemade slaw, all for a price that seems almost too good given the quality of the preparation—crispy exterior, flaky interior, zero sogginess. The neighborhood bar atmosphere keeps things casual and welcoming, with a regular crowd of South Minneapolis locals who've made it their go-to for weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. Don't be fooled by the dive bar aesthetic; the kitchen takes their frying seriously, and the craft beer list is surprisingly deep for a spot at this price point.

328 Grill technically sits in Hastings, but its reputation for knockout fish fry draws Minneapolis residents willing to make the scenic drive south. Their signature offering is a choose-your-fish format where everything from cod to bluegill gets the same careful treatment—a light, seasoned batter that fries up golden and stays remarkably grease-free—alongside genuinely excellent homemade coleslaw and fries. The unpretentious, locals-heavy atmosphere feels like stepping into a small-town favorite where the staff knows half the dining room by name, making it perfect for anyone craving authenticity over Instagram moments. Friday nights are fish fry central here, with the dining room packed with multigenerational families and couples making it their weekly tradition.

Hazel's Northeast has evolved from a simple neighborhood café into a full-service restaurant with one of the area's most underrated fish fry programs. Their cast-iron fried walleye showcases the Minnesota state fish with a cornmeal crust that adds textural interest and a subtle sweetness, served with inventive sides that change seasonally but always complement rather than compete. The bright, airy space with garage doors that open in summer creates a more contemporary vibe than your typical fish fry joint, appealing to younger crowds and families who want quality without stuffiness. Weekend brunch gets the attention, but regulars know that dinner—especially when walleye is on special—is when the kitchen really shows off.

Merlin's Rest brings Scottish pub authenticity to Minneapolis' Longfellow neighborhood, with a fish and chips recipe that's been refined through the owner's dedication to recreating the flavors of his Edinburgh hometown. The haddock arrives in a impossibly light, crispy batter with a distinct malt vinegar tang, served with proper thick chips and the option to add curry sauce for the full UK experience. The cozy, book-lined interior feels like a literary hideaway, attracting everyone from solo diners reading at the bar to groups gathering for their impressive whisky selection and rotating cask ales. Their commitment to UK and Irish imports extends beyond the beer list to create one of the most authentic British Isles experiences in the Twin Cities.

The Creekside Supper Club channels vintage Wisconsin supper club vibes with red leather booths, dark wood paneling, and a fish fry program that takes the Friday tradition seriously year-round. Their beer-battered cod comes with all the classic accompaniments—coleslaw, rye bread, and their signature creamy potato pancakes that regulars order extra portions of—in portions generous enough to require a to-go box. The slightly upscale atmosphere (for a fish fry) makes it great for date nights or celebrating occasions while still keeping things approachable, and their old-fashioned cocktails are mixed with the care of a bygone era. The intimate dining room fills up fast, so reservations are highly recommended, especially on Fridays.

Sea Salt Eatery operates out of a converted Marina building in Minnehaha Park, offering the rare combination of exceptional fried seafood and one of Minneapolis' most picturesque outdoor dining settings. Their simple approach—ultra-fresh fish, light frying technique, and minimal fuss—results in some of the city's crispiest, least greasy fried fish, with the fish and chips being the crowd favorite that keeps lines forming before they even open. The outdoor-only seating (seasonal operation, obviously) means you're dining steps from Minnehaha Falls, making it an unbeatable destination for families, couples, and anyone who wants their meal with a side of natural beauty. Arrive early on weekends or resign yourself to a wait—but trust that it's worth every minute.

Gluek's holds the distinction of being Minneapolis' oldest bar, serving since 1857, and their commitment to old-school German-American tavern food includes a stellar fish fry that's become a Friday tradition for generations of locals. The breaded walleye is the star here—a Minnesota staple done right with a delicate, crackling crust that respects the fish's mild flavor—served with German potato salad and coleslaw that nod to the restaurant's heritage. The dark wood interior and vintage photographs create an atmosphere that feels genuinely historic rather than theme-park nostalgic, making it perfect for anyone who appreciates dining with a sense of place. Grab a booth in the back room for the most authentic old-Minneapolis experience.

Brit's Pub brings a slice of authentic British pub culture to downtown Minneapolis, complete with a beloved rooftop bowling green that's become a city landmark. Their traditional fish and chips honors the classics with thick-cut haddock in a Newcastle beer batter that's perfectly crispy without being greasy, served alongside mushy peas and proper thick-cut chips. The multi-level space offers different vibes—cozy pub downstairs, energetic rooftop in summer—making it versatile for business lunches, tourist groups, or post-work pints with colleagues. Come during Premier League matches for the full experience, when the place transforms into a raucous celebration of football and fried food.

Smack Shack started as a food truck phenomenon before graduating to a brick-and-mortar temple of New England-style seafood in the North Loop. While their lobster rolls get most of the headlines, the fried fish offerings—particularly the crispy fish tacos and their rotating catch of the day—showcase pristine seafood with a light, tempura-style batter that lets the fish shine. The industrial-chic vibe with outdoor patio seating makes it perfect for date nights or catching up with friends over craft beers, and the service strikes that rare balance of knowledgeable and laid-back. Peak summer months mean expect a wait, but the people-watching on Washington Avenue makes it worthwhile.

The Anchor Fish & Chips reigns supreme as Northeast Minneapolis' go-to spot for authentic British-style fish and chips that transport you straight to a London chippy. Their beer-battered cod is legendary—crispy, golden, and paired with hand-cut chips that achieve the perfect balance of fluffy interior and crispy exterior. The casual, no-frills atmosphere makes it ideal for families and friend groups looking for a satisfying meal without the pretense, and their commitment to fresh, sustainable seafood has earned them a fiercely loyal following. Don't skip the housemade tartar sauce—it's been perfected over years and locals swear by it.