Have you ever wondered why the Wisconsin fish fry is so popular? Why does this battered and fried fish really come to life on Friday nights? The answers date back to Medieval Roman Catholic traditions, but now people of all religions enjoy this tasty cultural dish.
To make sure you have the best Wisconsin fish fry experience, we suggest you consider learning the elements that truly make a true Milwaukee fish fry!
What Makes the Best Wisconsin Fish Fry?
Historical Roots
From 1920-1933, fried fish answered the needs of Roman Catholics and taverns. Roman Catholic religion bans eating meat on Fridays, but fish is considered “cool” and thus acceptable. Fish is also in abundance in Wisconsin’s many lakes, so battered and fried fish made for an affordable meal. When the Prohibition put taverns and eateries in financial distress, fish fries kept them in business while also pleasing Catholics.
Even if you just love the taste of fried fish, your dining experience will be more delightful when a company with a strong history serves it. Zilli Hospitality Group has been catering for over 50 years and continues to celebrate the Wisconsin fish fry tradition. Every Friday through April 17, you can enjoy our traditional fish fry at the Boerner Botanical Gardens from 5 – 8 PM.
Scenic Location
Fortunately, fish fries have expanded far from rustic taverns. They are now savored in gorgeous settings that enhance your dining experience. Zilli feels fortunate to be the exclusive caterer at the Boerner Botanical Gardens. Here, your fish fry experience is enhanced by a view of the gardens through the expansive wall of windows.
The Boerner Botanical Gardens is also conveniently located near other Milwaukee attractions that you can visit before or after your fish fry dinner. Maybe you would like to come in for our early bird special of chowder and coffee from 5-6 PM and then head over to a Brewers game at Miller Park?
A Fish Fry Menu that Satisfies Everyone
The Boerner Botanical Gardens Friday Fish Fry menu features baked or breaded cod and deep fried perch with traditional fish fry side dishes like rye bread, applesauce, homemade coleslaw and potato pancakes. Staying true to the fish fry heritage, we serve family-style fish fries to parties of 5 or more.
Because we want to make sure everyone in your party finds something they love, we also offer Friday specials such as butternut squash ravioli and Scottish salmon. For dessert, many groups order the mini dessert platter, which includes strawberry cheesecake, chocolate mousse and crème brulee, so everyone ends their meal on a sweet treat.
With a long history of serving guests the tastiest fish fry, it is no wonder the Boerner Botanical Gardens is an extremely popular choice for a Wisconsin fish fry.
Make a Reservation for This Weekly Milwaukee Fish Fry
Fortunately, you can make a reservation for this delicious Friday night fish fry tradition and rest assured that everyone finds something they love!
