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The Best Fish Fry in Oak Park & the Near West Suburbs

Get ready to embark on a quest to uncover the best fish fry spots in Oak Park and the surrounding Near West Suburbs. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or simply seeking a delicious Friday night meal, this guide has you covered. From crispy golden fillets to flavorful sides, join us as we dive into the local’s guide of amazing fish fry experiences.

 

Berwyn Chicken Co. | Berwyn

 

Berwyn Chicken Co. in Berwyn, IL, isn't your average chicken joint. While they certainly excel at deep-frying delicious chicken, they also offer an incredible Friday fish fry that is sure to impress. Their fish and chips meal features a half pound of crispy, delicately fried cod and fresh-cut fries served with lemons and tartar sauce. Whether enjoying their entrees, savory sides, or incredible desserts, every bite at Berwyn Chicken Co is a delicious experience that will keep you coming back for more.

 

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Irish Times | Brookfield

 

Irish Times in Brookfield, IL, is a charming pub that transports patrons to the coast of Ireland with its cozy atmosphere and authentic Irish fare. One of their best dishes is the fish and chips, featuring beer-battered Atlantic Cod served with golden fries and homemade coleslaw. Stop in on a Friday when you can indulge in a never-ending supply of All-U-Can-Eat Fish! With its warm hospitality and extensive selection of beers on tap, Irish Times offers an authentic taste of the Emerald Isle right in the heart of Brookfield. Stop by for the fish fry and stay for a pint of Guinness. It's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy with friends and family.

 

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Kettlestrings Tavern | Oak Park

 

Kettlestrings Tavern in Oak Park is a cozy neighborhood spot that welcomes patrons to slow down and savor the simple pleasures life serves up. The family-friendly establishment serves classic bar fare with an exceptional beer and wine list. One of their favorites is the mouthwatering fish and chips special,  featuring crispy beer-battered fish served with a bit of malt vinegar on the side and a generous portion of french fries. The classic dish, paired with a refreshing pint of beer, is a favorite among locals and visitors. Kettlestrings Tavern provides the ultimate setting to unwind and enjoy a satisfying meal with friends and family. Plus, they offer a fantastic patio for warm weather days!

 

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Lavergne’s | Berwyn

 

Lavergne's Tavern in Berwyn is a neighborhood favorite known for its laid-back atmosphere and incredible food. Their menu features shareable appetizers, hearty sandwiches, and gourmet entrees. In addition to their top-rated traditional fish and chips, Lavergne's offers a blackened grouper sandwich topped with key lime tartar sauce and crispy onions on a buttery brioche bun. On Friday nights or any night, this local tavern is a go-to destination in Berwyn for a relaxed family dinner or a fun night out with friends.  

 

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O'Sullivan's | Forest Park

 

O'Sullivan's Public House in Forest Park is an authentic Irish pub known for its extensive craft beers on tap and delicious pub fare. One of their standout dishes is the fantastic fish and chips, which features three pieces of beer-battered cod served with your choice of potato and a serving of creamy coleslaw. In addition to its renowned fish fry, O'Sullivan's Public House also offers daily specials that keep patrons returning for more. It's no wonder that O'Sullivan's is a beloved part of the Forest Park community, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy great food, drinks, and company.

 

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Poor Phil’s | Oak Park

 

Poor Phil's in Oak Park is an iconic neighborhood pub known for its incredible shellfish and American/ Louisiana fare. Poor Phil's boasts a seafood spread that will draw you in, from succulent crab claws to fresh oysters on the half-shell. Their out-of-this-world lobster roll is a must-try, and the fish and chips are top-notch and always on the menu. With more than 100 beers available, this beloved fixture in Oak Park is the perfect place for locals and visitors to gather and unwind while enjoying great food and drinks. 

 

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Scratch on Lake | Oak Park

 

Scratch on Lake in Oak Park is a local gem offering a diverse menu of delicious dishes crafted from scratch with locally sourced ingredients. While their menu features a range of unique options like their sausage crostini or truffle parm mac, their Friday fish fry is definitely a local favorite. Each week, patrons head to Scratch on Lake to enjoy IPA battered Atlantic cod, house-cut fries, and scratch-made tartar sauce. Scratch on Lake’s extensive collection of craft beers and tempting weekly specials make this restaurant a must-visit destination in Oak Park.

 

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Shanahan’s | Forest Park

 

Shanahan's is a taste of New Orleans in the heart of Forest Park. While their menu boasts an array of American and Creole specialties, their Friday night specials are perennial favorites among locals and visitors. Shanahan's fish and chips feature crispy, golden fish fillets served with gumbo and zesty tartar sauce. Beyond their fish fry, Shanahan's offers flavorful Cajun-inspired specialties, including shrimp creole, crawfish etouffee, and jambalaya. Their great atmosphere and delicious fare promise a festive dining experience for food enthusiasts seeking bold flavors and hearty comfort food.

 

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Surf’s Up | Maywood

 

If you're searching for a stellar fish fry experience, look no further than  Surf's Up in Maywood. Known for its unbeatable seafood, Surf's Up is a local favorite that never disappoints. While fish and chips are a star on the menu, this beloved eatery also offers a variety of other seafood dishes to satisfy every craving. From southern fried catfish to crab legs and fried lobster, there's something for everyone on the menu at Surf's Up. 

 

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Starship | Forest Park

 

Starship Restaurant and Catering in Forest Park is a unique soup and sandwich shop that has been a favorite of locals for more than 40 years. Starship delights diners with its diverse sandwich menu that pairs with more than 150 varieties of soups. A special running now is the hearty fish sandwich featuring thick-cut fried cod with lettuce and pickles on a soft bun served with crispy fries or your choice of soup. Whether you're craving their crispy fish, a classic Reuben, or a spicy bowl of homemade chili, Starship Restaurant and Catering delivers a delicious meal that's out of this world. 

 

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Meet Us for a Fish Fry

 

As we wrap up our fish fry adventure through Oak Park and the Near West Suburbs, we hope you've found some new go-to spots. From classic fish frys to ones with a twist, there's something for every flavor. So, meet us out near Oak Park, and don't forget to share your favorites!