Your 2025 Guide to Lenten Food In Lemont
Fish & Chips at Corner Stone Tavern
Every spring, as Lent begins, communities across the Midwest embrace a beloved tradition: the Friday night fish fry.
Rooted in Catholicism, the Lenten fish fry dates back centuries, originating from the Church’s observance of meatless Fridays. Over time, this religious custom evolved into a social staple, with churches, community halls, and local restaurants serving up golden, crispy fillets alongside heaping portions of coleslaw, fries, and rye bread.
Here in Lemont Downtown, the tradition is alive and well, with a variety of spots offering some of the best fish fries around. Whether you’re looking for a classic beer-battered cod, a hearty perch plate, or a more modern take on this time-honored meal, Lemont has plenty of delicious options. We’ve rounded up the best places to enjoy a Lenten fish fry in downtown Lemont—so grab your appetite and get ready to dig in!
Nick’s Tavern
Nick’s Tavern is switching up this year with their new Grouper sandwich! With 75+ years in the tavern business we know Nick’s knows how to fix a sandwich! Nick’s is old school, so remember to bring cash because your plastic won’t work here!
SS. Cyril & Methodius Parish (SSCM)
The Friday Fish Fry at SSCM is the real deal. Beer-battered cod is fried to order and served with fries, cole slaw, and a roll—plus extra beets on every table! It happens in the school gymnasium, where you can grab a cold Żywiec and finish at the bake sale with homemade goodies. Grab yourself a raffle ticket while you’re there to help support the parish.
Follow them on Facebook to view their menu and get notified of upcoming fish fries. The fun starts on March 7, 21, and April 4.
Joe & Josie’s
A local hangout on the outskirts of Lemont that has been serving honest, homemade meals for decades. Stop by Joe & Josie’s Lounge for homemade meals every day. This Lent, enjoy cod, shrimp, and perch dinners with fries, coleslaw, and a special add-on soup of the day. Call 630-257-8866 to place your order or order in-person at 13555 S. Archer Avenue, Lemont, IL.
Slovenian Center at the St. Mary's Francisan Center
Lemont has no shortage of fantastic fish fries, but this one is a little different—and totally worth checking out. On Friday, March 14, from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM, the Slovenian Catholic Center (located on the grounds of St. Mary's Monastery) is serving up battered fish, mostaccioli, and generous hospitality, all in support of Hope’s on the Way, a charity that provides relief to disaster-stricken areas.
If you’ve never been to the Slovenian Catholic Center, this is your chance! It’s one of Lemont’s best-kept secrets, and nothing beats a classic church fish fry. The food is fried, the atmosphere is friendly, and the cause is great.
Come for the fish, stay for the community—and don’t miss the chance to experience one of Lemont’s most unique, authentic cultural centers!
Hughie McClafferty’s
The iconic red facade at Hughie McClafferty’s lets us know we’re home. Make your way to this Lemont Downtown staple for a hearty serving of fish and chips. For Lent, they’re also serving a classic Pepper and Egg sandwich or the comforting tuna melt! For the full Irish pub experience, pair your meal with a pint of Guinness.
Digs on Canal
While their delicious fish and chips might be an everyday menu item, through Lent you can enjoy special Friday offerings at Digs: Pepper and Egg, grilled shrimp tacos, and shrimp scampi.
Fish & Chips
Corner Stone Tavern
If you’re looking for a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, Corner Stone Tavern delivers both great food and great company. CST puts their twist on the fish fry by offering a fried shrimp po’ boy on Fridays, along with a classic Pepper and Egg sandwich. Enjoy these through Lent, along with several other Lent-friendly menu items.
Pepper & Egg Sandwich
MICKEY’S
Mickey’s knows a thing or two about old-school foods. In addition to classics like popcorn shrimp and other seafood dinners, they’re adding a Lenten favorite to the menu: a pepper and egg sandwich with sautéed red and green peppers. Add mozz or gooey American cheese, this sandwich is a delight.
Proof That Not Everything Needs to Be Fried
You can find great seafood options on plenty of menus in downtown Lemont. While fried fish is a staple, there’s also a variety of lighter, delicious alternatives. We recommend exploring these fresh takes on seafood, where flavor shines without the fryer! Whether it’s grilled shrimp, savory seafood pastas, or something a little more unique, Lemont has something to satisfy every seafood lover.
Shrimp Tacos at Next Mex
Next Mex
For a twist on tradition, Next Mex offers a flavorful take on Lenten seafood dishes. Their Baja-style beer-battered fish tacos, topped with crisp cabbage slaw, chipotle crema, and fresh lime, are a fantastic alternative to a standard fish fry. It’s a great pick if you’re in the mood for something a little different!
Moreno’s Restaurant
Moreno’s is another excellent choice for those wanting a break from the deep-fryer. Their grilled tilapia or shrimp dishes, served with rice and fresh vegetables, provide a lighter, yet still delicious, Lenten meal option. Of course, if you’re craving something crispy, their fried fish platter doesn’t disappoint.
Black Sea Alfredo
Barrel & Vine
Last but certainly not least, Barrel & Vine Lemont has a menu so delicious, you’ll want to dine there every Friday. For Lent, we’re loving the Black Sea Alfredo with succulent sea scallops and the pan-seared Ahi Tuna.
