Local's Guide to the Best Fish Fry in Buffalo
Spring has (almost) sprung
Oh hi! Sorry I’ve been radio silent the past few weeks. I was in Mexico for a work trip (more on that soon) and things have been hectic ever since.
But, lucky for me, I procrastinated just enough to bring us into one of my favorite times in Buffalo—fish fry season.
If you’re not from the Northeast or the Midwest, let me introduce you to a culinary delight. A fish fry is beer-battered, deep fried cod or haddock plated with a selection of sides (much more on that below) traditionally served on Fridays in Lent. A sure sign that spring is on its way.
Like Tom & Jerrys and wings and just about any other Buffalo food, there is a hot debate on where to get the best fish fry. I’m sharing what makes the perfect meal (to me) and where to find my favorites. Let’s dive in.
The Perfect Fish Fry Criteria
The top priorities of any fish fry are a crispy exterior and a flaky interior. No soggy fish!
But what really puts a fish fry over the top are the sides. In my opinion, you need at least three. Traditional sides are mac salad, coleslaw, and potato salad. But the best places also include fries.
The final touches are tartar sauce to dip and a lemon wedge squeezed over the top of everything.
My Top 3 Spots
Wiechec’s Lounge
1748 Clinton St, Buffalo, NY 14206
The legend. The icon. Wiechec’s is the place for a gigantic fish fry, seafood gumbo, and cheap beer. Bring cash and be prepared to wait a while. This place is popular for a reason.
Wellington Pub
1541 Hertel Ave, Buffalo, NY 14216
Wellington’s food rarely misses, and the fish fry is no exception. Crispy batter and great sides. It hits all the marks on my perfect FF criteria.
The Pine Lounge
164 Clinton St, Cowlesville, NY 14037
The Piney probably isn’t on your radar, but it should be. Down the road from my parent’s, it was a staple for Friday night dinners. Another dive-y, cash only kind of place, the big differentiator are the sides. Swap fries for the garlic potatoes. They’re deep fried and drowning in butter. You won’t regret it.
Other Fan Favorites
The Garage
1127 Hertel Ave, Buffalo, NY 14216
You might remember this spot from my Tom & Jerry list. They just have great seasonal items (and sandwiches and cinnamon buns). The twist here are the fries and the rye bread. The fries are a mix between steak and curly that are perfectly seasoned. Yummmmm.
Curry’s
864 Kenmore Ave, Buffalo, NY 14216
Full disclosure, I have never had a fish fry here. The wait is always several hours long and the parking lot is overflowing. It’s my dream to one day be able to get in the door because everyone raves about Curry’s.
Wayland Brewing Company
3740 N Buffalo St, Orchard Park, NY 14127
A new contender for the fish fry crown, Wayland’s was recommend by a friend of the Substack. She noted that the mac salad had an excellent zing, the fish never got too greasy, and, overall, it was a fresh take on the classic.
Where’s your favorite fish fry? I am so down to try each and every one.
Now that I’m back in the swing of things, watch out for work travel outfit ideas, travel tips for Puerto Morelos, and ideas for spring travel destinations. See you back here soon!