When it comes to fried food, Indiana has most other states beat. We're lovers of deep-fried, well, anything, and our epic state fair is proof of that! While there are many delicious seafood restaurants scattered throughout the Hoosier state, only a few can claim to have the best fried fish. Here are 9 classic fish fry joints that are so perfectly Indiana.
1. The Irish Lion - Bloomington
Many claim that the fish and chips served up at this traditional Irish bar are the best you'll find in the country! The Irish Lion serves up a huge portion of fried fish that's perfectly tender and flaky and served under a bed of homemade fries.
Try the Irish Lion at 212 W Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47404.
2. JK O'Donnell's Irish Ale House - Fort Wayne
This traditional Irish pub is famous for a variety of Irish foods, from bangers and mash to shepherd's pie. However, it's their fried fish that will truly leave you stunned. This beer battered fried cod is one of the tastiest fried fish options you'll find in the Hoosier state.
Try it at 121 W Wayne St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802.
3. The Tin Fish - Newburgh
Located along the idyllic Ohio River, this classic no-frills Indiana fish restaurant offers up some of the best fried fish in the state. Enjoy fried fish tacos, calamari, snapper, salmon, or classic fish and chips. Can't decide? They have an option for that, too. Try their fried fish combo platter to taste out the best of their fried seafood selections.
You'll find this hidden gem at 300 W Jennings St, Suite 8, Newburgh, IN 47630.
4. Payne's - Gas City
This British themed restaurant offers an extraordinary dining experience, from their casual, welcoming atmosphere to their British decor and styling to their amazing food. Their fish and chips dish is legendary and has been hailed as the most authentic British fried fish in the area.
Try them out at 4925 Kaybee Dr, Gas City, IN 46933.
5. Port Hole Inn - Unionville
This quaint, little country bar is located in Unionville, near Lake Lemon. They're well known for their incredible fish and chicken dishes, and their fried catfish and catfish nuggets are legendary.
Visit this hidden gem at 8939 E South Shore Dr, Unionville, IN 47468.
6. The Exchange - New Albany
This slightly higher end dining establishment has inside and outside dining and an incredible rotating menu. When in season, their delicious fish and chips has flavor to die for and a perfectly crispy, well seasoned breading. It's a top selling favorite at this pub house and one you won't want to miss out on.
Try it at 118 W Main St, New Albany, IN 47150.
7. 33 Brick Street - French Lick
This classic sports bar is an Indiana as it gets, with a Larry Bird theme, and nostalgic sports memorabilia around the restaurant. They're well known for their incredible pub food, including their unforgettable fried fish, served with a massive side of chips.
Give them a try at 480 S Maple St, French Lick, IN 47432.
8. Fiddler's Hearth - South Bend
Enjoy a classic Irish atmosphere with an Irish menu (with an Indiana twist) and Irish music at this quaint pub. You'll receive an incredible dining experience here and absolutely have to try their beloved fish and chips, wrapped in traditional newspaper.
Find them at 127 N Main St, South Bend, IN 46601.
9. Chatham Tap - Indianapolis
This cozy sports bar in the heart of Indianapolis is the perfect retreat from rushed city life. Chatham Tap offers an extensive list of pub foods from sandwiches and burgers to wings and fried foods. Their perfectly prepared fish and chips have been raved as one of the best options in the city, with a great balance between the batter and fish.
Give them a try at 719 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
Have you tried any of these classic Indiana fish fry restaurants? Which one served up the best fried fish?
For more great seafood options in the Hoosier state, be sure to check out these 10 epic seafood restaurants.
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