St. Claire of Assisi’s Fish Fry was my first, so I could be a little biased when I say it was one of the best things ever. I have had my fair share of fried fish, so I think I know a good one when I taste it. And St. Claire’s got some good ones.
My younger brother and I went to the church, which is located at 15700 Clayton Rd, on Friday, Feb. 19. The Fish Fry opens at 4 p.m. and ends at 7 p.m. The place was packed. There were tables and chairs lining the sides of the gym and every table seemed to be occupied.
Despite the crowds, the church had set up a fairly efficient system. When I first walked in the door, there was a table to order and pay. The volunteers working at that table gave me a sheet of paper and directed me to another line. Once in that line, I waited for a few minutes and handed my paper to another volunteer. That volunteer then filled my order and asked me which sides I would like. That was it. There was no one standing in front of the food line saying, “Umm what comes with the fish?” Because we had already ordered, the food line was swift, which was good because the fried fish smell was starting to make my tummy growl.
After we got our plates, we found a seat. Then, I tore into my fish. I had ordered the Combo #1 for $8 which had one piece of fish, three fried shrimps and two sides. It was phenomenal. My sides were macaroni and cheese and green beans, both of which were awesome. The fish had a thick batter around tender white meat. There was no fancy seasoning on it, so the taste of the fish and the cornmeal batter was simple, yet delicious. The shrimp was big and meaty with a crunchy shell of fried goodness. I was really impressed.
So was my brother. He had ordered two pieces of fish and macaroni and cheese and French fries for his sides. He liked it so much that he asked to order some more to take home.
Drinks at St. Claire’s are $1.50 for bottled sodas and fruit drinks and $1.00 for fountain sodas. They had Pasta House salad, which was $2.50 for a side portion, and brownies and cheesecake for desert, each $2. For my brother and I, the meal cost us $18. That’s not bad for a filling, tasty meal.
My brother and I were so impressed we went back again a week later. St. Claire’s Fish Fry might become our Friday tradition during Lent, and I recommend the same to anyone who enjoys a good piece of fried fish.
