2023 Fish Fry Guide

Dayton came by its fish fry tradition many years ago.  Many of the European settlers who flocked to the Gem City  and many of those immigrants were Catholic, and the tradition of foregoing the consumption of meat on Fridays made the fish fry a natural evolution.

The fish fry tradition developed even further during the Prohibition era, when fish fries became a way for former alcohol-purveying establishments to stay in business. Many went so far as to conceal their illicit speakeasies beneath the intoxicating aroma of frying fish, offering free or low-cost fish to those who imbibed.

As time moved forward, fish fries became an easy way to avoid meat while enjoying a night out and eating affordably. The tradition grew from there, providing Dayton families an opportunity to go out to dinner without breaking the bank.

Many places in town have fish fries and after much searching, asking and eating, here are some of the best places in the city to catch a fish fry. You’ll also notice Fish Frys aren’t just on Friday anymore!

And, as always, if we’ve forgotten your favorite, please share it with others by posting a comment below or emailing us.