As Lent rolls around, many of us look for healthier options to cleanse our diets. This period often nudges even non-religious folks to swap out richer foods for lighter fare, like seafood.
But let’s be real—sometimes that means indulging in fried fish, which can miss the health mark a bit. Still, there’s something undeniably delicious about fish and chips. For this week’s Food Guy segment, I explored different spots around the Chicago area to sample 10 types of fried fish.
To clarify, this isn’t a definitive “best of” list. I chose these restaurants for their geographical diversity and popularity, mostly based on local recommendations. It’s more of an introduction to different styles of frying fish.
What I discovered was fascinating: there are many ways to fry fish. A basic flour coating offers a light, crisp texture, while a coarser flour gives a thicker crunch. Then you have the batter method. A bubbly batter creates a fluffy, crunchy outer layer, which adds a unique touch. During my tastings, I experienced all of these styles.
I highlighted six places in my segment. There’s an Irish pub, a chef who famously beat Bobby Flay, a popular brew pub chain, and even a casual spot run by a Michelin-starred chef.
Here are a few worth checking out:
- The Dearborn, 145 N. Dearborn St., Chicago
- The Globe Pub, 1934 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago
- Irish Times, 8869 Burlington Ave., Brookfield
- Piccadilly Pub, 4749 N. Rockwell St., Chicago
- Ramsay’s Kitchen, 39 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville
- Yard House, with multiple locations across Chicagoland
A recent survey showed that nearly 60% of people enjoy fish and chips during Lent, highlighting its popularity. As trends shift towards healthier eating, it’s interesting to see how traditional dishes like this continue to hold a place in our hearts and on our plates. So, whether you’re observing Lent or just in the mood for something tasty, there are plenty of options to explore.
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