The end of Mardi Gras signals another change of season. The colors are turning from purple, green, and gold to golden brown, green, and styrofoam. It is now time for the Friday Lenten Fish Fry.
For observant Catholics, and for people who observe the fish fry calendar, there is a certain excitement that comes with Fridays in March and April. The wait in line that’s normally long enough to say hello to a few people, bouncing quarters in your hand as you scan the desert table, the anticipation of driving home with your plates in the passenger seat. Whether you’re stopping by the fish fry at your parish or walking into a new community, these Fridays are another reminder of how the people of New Orleans care for each other.
This event is more than ranked lists of potato salad or macaroni and cheese. For some of the smaller parishes, this fundraiser can be a big help. That’s why it’s so important to jump around the city and try as many plates as you run into. Or, that’s what I tell myself after I’ve grabbed a lunch plate from the Knights of Columbus and planning to stop somewhere else between 5 to 7 p.m.
Jumping from Fry-to-Fry is a great way to learn about other parts of the city, and the River Parishes too. Contrary to what you’ve read earlier in this article, you do form your own list of who has the best mac and cheese—do you like it baked, or just with a cheese sauce poured over? Would you rather have green peas or green beans? Are you partial to a classic fish plate, or do you search out the specials? I am someone who buys enough deserts to last the weekend.
Every year the Catholic Churches put together a Friday Fish Fry Calendar. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep your eyes open. Here are a few of our favorites from around the city to get you started.
St. Gabriel the Archangel
One of the most talked-about destinations is St. Gabriel the Archangel in Gentilly. You can eat there or take your food to-go. Pro tip: If you bring new socks or travel-size toiletries for the homeless they will give you a FREE additional dessert. It’s one of the best in the city and the first stop for a lot of people.
Address: 4700 Pineda St, New Orleans, LA 70126
Frydays: Feb. 28th and every Friday except Good Friday.
Plate: $10 plate includes Two Pieces of Fish (Baked or Fried) Mac & Cheese, Vegetables, Salad (Tossed or Potato), Dessert and a Drink.
Limited Delivery available for orders of 10 or more; Fax Large Orders to (504) 288-8585 before Noon on Thursdays.
Our Lady of the Rosary
One of the busiest Dine-in spots is Our Lady of the Rosary off Esplanade. Bring your quarters for their great desert table, and if it’s too crowded inside you can always take your plate and sit on the Bayou.
Address: 3368 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119
Frydays: March 6, 13, and 20th 5:30-8pm
Plates: $8 plates with Fried fish, French fries, coleslaw and green beans; Desserts and drinks sold separately (They are taking credit cards this year)
St. Bernard Catholic Church
If you’re out in The Parish, St. Bernard Catholic Church will be starting their Fish Fry’s on February 28th and they will continue for the next six weeks. Their menu is one of the most extensive—Fried Shrimp and Oysters, Stuffed Crabs, Baked Mac, Seafood Fettuccini, Jambalaya, and Gumbo. Their website notes they are serving in Iverson Hall from 5-8 p.m., but that you should arrive early if you want to get your seat.
Address: 2805 Bayou Road, St. Bernard, LA 70085
Frydays: February 28, March 6, 13, 20, 27, April 3, 10.
Plates: (Prices Range) Fried Fish, Shrimp, Oysters, baked macaroni, potato salad, green beans, seafood fettuccini, seafood platters, gumbo, and dessert.
If you’d like your Fish Fry posted here email [email protected]
