A Wisconsin Tradition on the Shores of Lake Mendota
Nestled along the shoreline of Lake Mendota at 1001 Wisconsin Place inside The Edgewater, The Boathouse offers one of Madison’s most scenic dining experiences. Whether arriving by car or by boat, guests are welcomed by panoramic waterfront views, a relaxed atmosphere, and a menu that celebrates Wisconsin favorites. For decades, The Edgewater has been a gathering place for both locals and visitors, and The Boathouse continues that tradition with casual lakeside dining in the heart of downtown Madison.
The restaurant’s setting is a major part of its appeal. Outdoor seating during warmer months allows diners to enjoy the sights of Lake Mendota while watching boats come and go from the pier. The combination of waterfront scenery, comfortable hospitality, and a menu featuring regional classics makes The Boathouse a popular destination throughout the year. It has also earned recognition from Madison Magazine readers as one of the city’s favorite places for lakefront dining and drinks with a view.
Friday Fish Fry Done the Wisconsin Way
For anyone searching for an authentic Madison fish fry, Friday evenings at The Boathouse are worth adding to the calendar. The restaurant features a dedicated Friday Night Fish Fry that highlights one of Wisconsin’s most beloved traditions while pairing it with spectacular views of the lake.
The menu includes beer-battered cod prepared with Potosi beer, served alongside crispy fries, house-made tartar sauce, fresh lemon, rye bread, and coleslaw. Guests looking for another seafood favorite can also enjoy The Codfather, a beer-battered cod sandwich topped with cheddar cheese, remoulade, and coleslaw on a brioche bun. These offerings showcase the classic flavors that Wisconsin fish fry enthusiasts have come to expect while adding the restaurant’s own lakeside personality.
Pair your meal with one of the restaurant’s Wisconsin craft beers, including selections such as New Glarus Spotted Cow, Karben4 Fantasy Factory, Potosi Cave Ale, or Lakefront Eastside Dark. The emphasis on local breweries helps create a dining experience that feels distinctly Wisconsin from start to finish.
More Than a Restaurant, It’s a Madison Experience
While the Friday fish fry draws plenty of attention, The Boathouse offers something special throughout the week. Guests can enjoy burgers, sandwiches, seafood, salads, fish tacos, and seasonal specialties while taking in one of Madison’s most recognizable waterfront settings. The casual atmosphere makes it equally suited for family dinners, date nights, happy hour with friends, or welcoming out-of-town visitors.
Its location at The Edgewater also makes it a convenient stop before or after exploring downtown Madison, the Capitol Square, or the city’s lakeshore paths. During boating season, diners can even arrive by water using The Edgewater’s pier, adding another memorable touch to the experience.
For anyone looking to enjoy a Wisconsin fish fry with exceptional scenery, local craft beverages, and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere, The Boathouse offers a combination that’s difficult to match. It’s a place where classic fish fry traditions meet one of Madison’s most beautiful lakefront settings, making every Friday dinner feel like a special occasion.
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