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Milwaukee, WI

North America

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# State Fair Inn – Milwaukee's Classic Fish Fry Destination
State Fair Inn, located in Milwaukee, WI, is a beloved restaurant known for its traditional fish fry and cozy supper club atmosphere. This family-run establishment has garnered a loyal following among locals, thanks to its delicious offerings and welcoming service. With a history steeped in community tradition, State Fair Inn provides a nostalgic dining experience that resonates with both long-time patrons and newcomers alike. Review highlights often mention the flavorful fish, attentive staff, and vintage decor, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy a classic Wisconsin fish fry.

## History
### The story of State Fair Inn
State Fair Inn was founded with the vision of creating a warm and inviting space where families and friends could gather to enjoy hearty meals and share stories. The establishment embodies the spirit of traditional supper clubs, which have been a staple in Wisconsin's dining culture for decades. The owners aimed to provide a welcoming environment that feels like home, where patrons can savor delicious food while enjoying the company of loved ones.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as a family-run restaurant focusing on fish fry.
- Gained popularity among locals for its cozy atmosphere and quality food.
- Expanded its menu to include various fish options and traditional sides.
- Maintained a loyal customer base through consistent service and community involvement.

### Cultural and local influence
State Fair Inn has become a cultural landmark in Milwaukee, representing the quintessential Wisconsin fish fry experience. It reflects the local dining tradition where families gather on Fridays to enjoy fried fish, coleslaw, and hearty sides. The restaurant's vintage decor and supper club vibe evoke nostalgia, making it a cherished spot for both locals and visitors looking to experience authentic Wisconsin hospitality.

### Continuing the tradition
The owners of State Fair Inn are committed to preserving the tradition of the fish fry while adapting to the changing tastes of their patrons. They continue to source high-quality ingredients and maintain the classic recipes that have made them a favorite in the community. By hosting events and engaging with local organizations, State Fair Inn ensures that it remains a relevant and beloved part of Milwaukee's dining scene.

## Community
### Community involvement
State Fair Inn actively participates in local events and initiatives, reinforcing its connection to the Milwaukee community. The restaurant often collaborates with local charities and organizations, providing support through food donations and sponsorships. This involvement not only strengthens community ties but also enhances the restaurant's reputation as a place that cares about its patrons and the neighborhood.

### Community notion about the place
Locals view State Fair Inn as a hidden gem, a place where they can enjoy a comforting meal in a familiar setting. Many patrons appreciate the restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition, often referring to it as a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings and special occasions. The warm atmosphere and friendly service contribute to its reputation as a welcoming spot for all.

### Events and gatherings
State Fair Inn hosts various events throughout the year, including fish fry nights that draw large crowds. These gatherings not only celebrate the restaurant's culinary offerings but also foster a sense of community among patrons. The intimate setting allows for personal interactions, making it a popular choice for family dinners and social gatherings.

## Offerings
### What State Fair Inn offers
State Fair Inn specializes in traditional Wisconsin fish fry, featuring a variety of fish options served with classic sides. The menu is designed to cater to both fish lovers and those seeking a hearty meal, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods sets it apart from other dining establishments in the area.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at State Fair Inn is characterized by its cozy atmosphere and attentive service. Guests can enjoy a range of fish dishes, including baked cod and pan-fried lake perch, all served with soup or salad. The vintage decor and dim lighting create a relaxed ambiance, encouraging diners to savor their meals and engage in conversation. Reviewers often highlight the flavorful dishes and the welcoming nature of the staff, making each visit memorable.

### Events and packages
State Fair Inn offers special packages for larger groups and events, making it an ideal venue for family gatherings and celebrations. These packages often include a selection of fish options and sides, allowing guests to customize their dining experience. The restaurant's focus on community and family-friendly service ensures that every event is enjoyable and stress-free.

### Facilities and features
- Cozy dining area with vintage decor
- Bar area for casual drinks
- Family-friendly environment
- Options for private gatherings and events
- Community-oriented atmosphere

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of State Fair Inn reflect a mix of experiences, with many praising the food and atmosphere, while others note issues with service. The restaurant's fish fry is consistently highlighted as a standout offering, drawing in both locals and visitors. However, some patrons have reported slower service during peak times, which can affect the overall dining experience.

### Compliments and strengths
- Delicious fish fry with a variety of options.
- Friendly and attentive staff who create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Nostalgic decor that enhances the dining experience.
- Strong community ties and involvement.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
- Some reviews mention slow service during busy periods.
- A few patrons have expressed dissatisfaction with wait times and seating policies.
- Overall, the positive reviews tend to outweigh the negatives, with many customers vowing to return.

### Summary evaluation
State Fair Inn is a beloved establishment that offers a genuine Wisconsin fish fry experience. While there are occasional service hiccups, the quality of the food and the inviting atmosphere make it a worthwhile destination for anyone looking to enjoy a traditional meal in Milwaukee.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
State Fair Inn is conveniently located at 8101 W Greenfield Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53214, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The restaurant is situated in a vibrant neighborhood that reflects the rich culture and history of Milwaukee. Nearby attractions include local parks, historical sites, and other dining options, providing a well-rounded experience for those looking to explore the area. The restaurant's location makes it a perfect stop for anyone seeking a classic fish fry after a day of sightseeing or community events.

## FAQs
**What are the hours of operation** State Fair Inn is open on Wednesdays and Fridays for fish fry.
**Is there a wait for seating** Yes, especially during peak fish fry times, reservations are recommended.
**Do they offer takeout** Yes, takeout options are available for those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home.

## Visit State Fair Inn Today
State Fair Inn invites you to experience the charm of a classic Wisconsin fish fry in a cozy, welcoming environment. With a rich history, a strong sense of community, and a menu that celebrates traditional flavors, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in Milwaukee. Whether you're a local or just passing through, the delightful dining experience and friendly service will leave you wanting to return for more.

34e7754d-5596-436c-bf91-fa3ca927ab0d

Came here for the first time for fish fry. The food here is delicious! Service is excellent. Staff makes sure everyone is taken care of here. Lots of locals for sure. Supper club vibes inside. I ordered the baked cod with fries. I love that you have the option for soup or a salad as well. The cod is topped with slivered almonds which adds a nice touch. Fish was flavorful and flaky. Perfection. I will definitely be returning for fish fry.

0439be23-401e-436d-827d-06cb0c55de56

Excellent fish fry!! This is a family run place. Only a few tables and the bar area. They are only open on Wednesday and Friday. The fish fry. Cod, was perfection! A normal size baked potato and sour cream. Cole slaw and amazing tomato and cabbage soup. The owners are there and very welcoming!! I had a brandy old fashioned sweet as well! We will be back!

cdc892da-5849-40e3-833d-407e647f51ee

Maybe the service is not the fastest - but the place brings back good old tradition of eating the dinner and conversation experience rather than consuming food.. we simply loved it! The walleye fish dinner hit the much needed spot! And the everyone personally checked on available fish portions prior to us getting seated. I will absolutely come back again and again, great food and atmosphere to enjoy!

aa3e5b87-1ffc-41e7-9103-3565f14b1b1c

OMG how did I grow up in Milwaukee and not have a fish fry here?? Simply put, its a classic fry. Cozy warm, feels like your in your uncle's rec room. I'm super glad we ate there. Put it on your list.

15a9453c-0a53-422b-939b-9c831e5cd88e

State Fair Inn was a fantastic option for Fish Fry this past weekend. The place has a very vintage supper club vibe with plenty of food options for even the pickiest of eaters. Service was a bit slow, but we were in no rush and they were certainly friendly. I had the pan fried lake perch - so yummy! The meals are served with soup and salad - very supper clubby - right? The vintage decor, dimly lit lighting and vinyl clad bar stools are a clear indication that this place has seen some days! A hidden gem for sure - I would recommend stopping in!

52b3fc6f-3e3a-4c21-8a83-39e7e09d71df

As part of my mission to try every fish fry in Southeast Wisconsin I have to say this place is somewhere between the best and the worst, on the you should try it at least once side. It's a nice neighborhood bar with friendly inefficient service. A big drawback is it's a blue plate special blue hair crowd type of place, busy early in the evening, out of fish by mid evening. Since I like to eat dinner more like around dinner time, I had to come here three times, each time successively earlier to make it before they ran out of fish.

31e4accf-c325-4789-8e00-ed9c8ec5402f

If I could give this place zero stars I would. We called this evening for fish fry. They said there was a 45 minute wait for 7 people. So we drove over there just to be asked, "did you call?" We said "we just spoke with you on the phone and you said it would be a 45 minute wait." She said, "well we still have to feed the people at the bar and we have people who usually come in around 7:00 and we have to feed them too." There were FOUR six tops open and we were even WILLING TO WAIT for service. They pushed us away way too willingly. Find somewhere else to enjoy a Friday night fish fry, this place is ridiculous.

e0f823a9-c65b-41c8-abbe-b5eb3c9fc0e7

We are visiting from out of town and wanted a Friday night fish fry. We called ahead and were told there was a 45 minute wait, but there was room to hang out at the bar. We showed up less than 5 minutes later, willing to wait, and the hostess at the door literally turned us away and told us she wouldn't even put us on a waiting list. Plenty of open tables, but gave us all kinds of reasons like they had to feed the people at the bar, they had regulars coming in, etc. Real fantastic hospitality. Would not recommend coming here.

40ddd0a7-f4e2-4639-91cd-1d43b08b33e6

Absolutely horrible service. The staff there are beyond rude. I asked to talk to a manager and the person literally walked up to me and asked me "What the hell is your problem?" UNBELIEVABLE!!! I would give it no stars if I could. I normally do not take the time to rate places, just use the app to read reviews, but in this case I felt the need to say something. I don't know how they stay in business treating people that way.

ea567323-d7da-4be0-b104-57de518fbd58

Excellent food and service! Friendly staff and great drinks. Love the ambience! The music and decor makes me think of going out to supper clubs with my grandparents.

Discover the State Fair Inn in Milwaukee, WI, a top restaurant offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. Book your memorable dining experience today.

State Fair Inn Milwaukee - Top Local Restaurant & Dining Experience

Milwaukee County

State Fair Inn

Wisconsin

Explore the full menu at State Fair Inn in Milwaukee, WI. Discover signature dishes, drinks & must-try items. Visit us at 8101 W Greenfield Ave.

State Fair Inn Menu – Food & Drinks in Milwaukee, WI

Learn about State Fair Inn in Milwaukee, WI. A beloved local restaurant offering classic American cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere at 8101 W Greenfield Ave.

About State Fair Inn, Milwaukee, WI

Opening hours for State Fair Inn, Milwaukee, WI. Find opening hours for State Fair Inn at 8101 W Greenfield Ave on our website.

State Fair Inn Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

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Experience the Menu at State Fair Inn

Jock Stop

Krautland

The State Fairgrounds