As the wintry chill begins to fade, the resonance of sizzling oil fills the air, hinting at a cherished tradition that dances on the horizon of the lenten season. Lent fish fries have become a communal ritual, inviting friends and families to gather and savor the seasonal bounty. In New York, a vibrant tapestry of neighborhoods unravels, teeming with eateries that elevate this tradition into something ineffably delightful. Herein lies a curated list of ten remarkable lent fish fries scattered throughout the metropolitan expanse, where each location offers a unique narrative and palate experience.
1. St. Francis of Assisi Church
Address: 135 W 31st St, New York, NY 10001
Contact: (212) 630-2000
Website: stfrancisnyc.org
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, this tucked-away gem serves fish fries that echo the essence of communal camaraderie. Delight in their expertly battered cod, golden and flaky, as parishioners gather to enjoy a feast that breathes warmth into the soul. The aroma wafts along the streets, inviting everyone to partake in this spirited gathering of faith and food.
2. Our Lady of Sorrows Church
Address: 104-11 37th Ave, Corona, NY 11368
Contact: (718) 651-0026
Website: ols.org
In the vibrant enclave of Corona, this local church transforms humble fish into delectable creations. Their signature fried flounder, enveloped in a delicate crunch, serves as a testament to soulful culinary traditions. Each Friday during Lent, the air fills with the tantalizing scent of crisping fish as volunteers serve up plates brimming with joy and fellowship.
3. St. Joseph’s Church
Address: 100 Church St, New York, NY 10007
Contact: (212) 233-8355
Website: saintjosephs.org
A bastion of taste amidst the hustle and bustle of the Financial District, St. Joseph’s Church offers a quintessential fish fry. Their codfish sandwich, generously sized and deliciously flaky, is a perennial favorite. The combination of fresh, tangy tartar sauce and crispy layers creates a symphony that captivates diners from the very first bite.
4. St. Anthony of Padua Church
Address: 85-37 151st Ave, Howard Beach, NY 11414
Contact: (718) 641-5620
Website: stanthonyofpadua-hb.org
Enveloped in the harmonious atmosphere of Howard Beach, this church boasts a fish fry that balances tradition with innovation. Their stunningly crispy popcorn shrimp, paired with zesty sauce, transports your taste buds to the bustling streets of a coastal town. An inviting ambiance propels you through the doors, ensuring your experience extends beyond just the meal.
5. Resurrection-Ascension Church
Address: 85-25 61st Rd, Rego Park, NY 11374
Contact: (718) 896-4200
Website: resurrectionascension.org
A sublime synthesis of community and cuisine awaits at Resurrection-Ascension Church. Their fish fry, noted for its sumptuous beer-battered haddock, envelops you in nostalgia. This isn’t merely a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration infused with laughter and tradition, creating a fellowship that lingers long after the last crumb has vanished.
6. St. Matthew’s Church
Address: 1123 E 15th St, Brooklyn, NY 11230
Contact: (718) 375-1526
Website: stmatthewbrooklyn.org
In a revered Brooklyn locale, St. Matthew’s Church offers an unparalleled fried tilapia experience. The thick, succulent fillets, kissed with spices and deep-fried to perfection, draw patrons from all walks of life. Here, each bite whispers stories of faith, hope, and the unyielding spirit of togetherness.
7. St. Patrick’s Church
Address: 9 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 475-4556
Website: saintpatricknyc.org
A tactile celebration of flavor comes to life at St. Patrick’s Church in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village. Their renowned fried fish combo—anchovies with a twist of lemon—offers a taste of the ocean with a side of tradition. Frequented by both locals and newcomers, it weighs heavily on the culinary map, illustrating that heritage can indeed be savory.
8. St. Thomas Aquinas Church
Address: 1550 Hartman Rd, Bronx, NY 10461
Contact: (718) 828-4417
Website: stthomasaquinasbronx.org
A Bronx hideaway, St. Thomas Aquinas serves a fish fry that beckons all with a fragrant embrace. The blend of seasoned batter and fish—crispy and tender—creates a dish that speaks of love and spirit. Here, patrons savor not just food but the rich communal ties that craft each moment into an unforgettable tapestry.
9. Holy Name of Jesus Church
Address: 207 West 96th St, New York, NY 10025
Contact: (212) 787-4537
Website: holynameofjesus.org
Drawing in the Upper West Side elite and neighborhood dwellers alike, Holy Name of Jesus Church serves a truly exceptional fish fry. Their signature fried anchovies elevate the standard, shimmering with freshness and nostalgia, narrating the cultural journey where culinary excellence meets community warmth.
10. St. Bartholomew’s Church
Address: 325 Park Ave, New York, NY 10022
Contact: (212) 378-0222
Website: stbarts.org
In the heart of Midtown, St. Bartholomew’s Church offers a fish fry that glistens like a beacon of hope. Their exquisite fried salmon, paired with an artisanal tartar sauce, creates a dining experience that dances joyfully across the palate. A symphony of flavors and fellowship awaits those who are willing to partake in this aromatic celebration.
These ten lent fish fries become more than just culinary experiences; they unfold vivid snapshots of community bonding, resonating with laughter, faith, and tradition. Each fry embodies a unique touch, crafting an experience that transcends mere sustenance. As the season of Lent unfolds, let these delightful eateries serve as a reminder of the warmth that can be found when shared around the table. Whether you seek humble charm or a gourmet twist, New York’s fish fries offer a spectrum of flavors steeped in history, waiting to be tasted and cherished.
