Must Try Fish Fries in St. Louis
If there’s one thing we do really well in St. Louis during Lent… it’s fish fries.
From packed parish halls serving up golden cod and mac & cheese to local restaurants rolling out creative seafood specials, Fridays this time of year are basically a citywide celebration of fried fish. (And thankfully some spots serve their fish specials all week!
Whether you’re in it for tradition, the community, or just a really good fish sandwich, here’s your go-to guide for must-try fish fries in St. Louis. Personally I’m trying to figure out how many I can fit in the next 40 days…
How many fish sandwiches can I consume in the next 40 days…
🐟 Church Fish Fries Worth the Line
You don’t actually have to be religious to enjoy a church fish fry. There’s something about them, that make every one feel welcome. The volunteers, the homemade sides, the dessert table you absolutely didn’t need but got anyway…
St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
Expect Greek flair alongside your fish. Think flaky cod, seasoned potatoes, and those Mediterranean touches that make this one stand out. Dates: Feb. 17, March 6 and March 13. St. Nicholas Family Life Center, 12550 South 40 Drive St. Louis, Mo 63141
St. Cecilia Catholic Church
A South City favorite known for generous portions and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Pro tip: Arrive early and expect a long line. The margaritas make it all worth it. St. Cecilia Church, 5418 Louisiana Ave, St. Louis, MO 63111
St. Ferdinand Parish
A North County staple. Classic fried cod plates, plenty of sides, and that nostalgic parish-hall vibe. 5418 Louisiana Ave, St. Louis, MO 63111
Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church
This one brings Eastern European specialties into the mix, expect hearty portions and unique flavors you won’t find everywhere else. 1910 Serbian Drive, St. Louis, MO 63104
St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church
A beloved Brentwood option that draws a crowd every Friday. Plus a drive-thru option. 2618 S Brentwood Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63144
Pillar Church
Classic fish fry with great desserts! 401 S Lindbergh Blvd, Frontenac, MO 63131
🐟 Restaurant Fish Specials to Try This Lent
So many great St. Louis restaurants are offering great fish options. Some every day, others just on Fridays.
Winslow's Table
Fried fish sandwich served EVERY DAY during Lent!
Gioia’s
They have their classic cod on garlic cheese bread or you can go big with the King Cod, the original topped with homemade mac and cheese and Old Vienna red hot riplets.
4 Hands Brewing Co.
Crispy Atlantic cod fried in their Octohaze beer, served with housemade tartar.
Hi-Pointe Drive-In
Potato chip-crusted, beer-battered Atlantic cod stacked with American cheese, lettuce, pickles, and garlic dill tartar on a toasted potato bun. It’s messy. It’s nostalgic. It’s very St. Louis.
Farmhaus
Friday Fish Fry featuring corn flour fried halibut with glazed carrots, mac & cheese, and spoonbread.
Kalbi Taco Shack
Fried Cod Tacos back for a limited time.
Jalea & Brasas
Weekly Lenten Specials include Beer-Battered Florida Red Snapper with sofrito rice.
Salt + Smoke
You won’t even miss the meat this month with the fried fish sandwich.
Peacemaker
Crispy cod, American cheese, pickles, tartar on a soft Hawaiian bun.
Bolyard's Meat & Provisions
Fried cod filet with pepper jack, bread & butter pickles, green goddess dressing, Bibb lettuce on brioche.
Companion
Breaded Cod Sandwich with Jalapeño Slaw on freshly baked ciabatta.
FarmSpirit at Blue Jay Brewing
Catfish Po’Boy, and yes, it’s available every day.
The Biscuit Joint
Cornmeal breaded fried catfish + house pimento cheese + red pepper jam + bread & butter pickle plus they’re doing a fish plate with fillet, choice of biscuit or tots + sauce + pickles.
Six Mile Bridge Beer
A great spot to pair your fish special with a locally brewed pint.
Schlafly Tap Room
Another STL classic serving up Lenten-friendly options alongside their house brews.
Chicken Scratch
One of my favorite fish sandwiches in town! Offered at both their Foundry and Rock Hill locations.