If you have ever bitten into a perfectly fried piece of Lake Erie perch, you already know why Ohio takes this stuff seriously. The crust crackles, the fish is sweet and tender, and suddenly everything else on the menu feels irrelevant.
Ohio sits right on the edge of Lake Erie, which means fresh perch is practically a local birthright. I tracked down 14 carryout fish fry windows and restaurants across the state that do Lake Erie perch the right way, and every single one of them is worth the drive.
Whether you are a lifelong Ohioan or just passing through, this list is your cheat sheet to the crispiest, hottest perch around.
1. Jolly Roger Seafood House, Port Clinton
Port Clinton has a well-earned reputation as the “Walleye Capital of the World,” but Jolly Roger Seafood House quietly reminds you that Lake Erie perch deserves just as much applause…