Batzler’s Trackside Inn

Nice local vibe. Good burgers and value. Fresh cut fries were delicious. Prices were fine. Only real downside was the service — a little slow and not very friendly. But that hardly ruined lunch.

I’ve driven past this joint dozens of times but never considered it a must try. Then I saw a photo of their fish fry on the Friday Fish Fry Guide Facebook page and added it to my list.
I went in during the lunch and ordered the perch fry for $ 14.95. I was disappointed to learn that the potato pancakes are only available after 4:00, but when my lunch came out and I saw a large mound of fresh cut, skin on fries, I quickly got over my disappointment. There was plenty of food and flavor to justify the price.
The fries were limp instead of crispy, but they were perfectly seasoned. I required no ketchup to enjoy them.
The perch was perfectly breaded and cooked. The breading had enough seasoning that I didn’t need to add a squeeze of lemon or use the tarter sauce. I did try the tarter sauce and it was great, but barely touched it.
The cole slaw was creamy and the rye bread was served warm and soft.
This was easily one of the best fish fried I’ve had and I will go back soon because I MUST try the potato pancake if I enjoyed the fries as much as I did. I might try the battered haddock or the deep fried walleye next time, but there will be a next time.
The bartender wasn’t the friendliest but his job is to serve and he did that.
Overall, my lunch was a pleasant surprise.

I was concerned when I saw the parking lot, but found a spot. The sign said «seat yourself» so we waited for the waitress to clean a table. I enjoyed the rye bread, even though it came from a typical grocery store. Also, I was in a mood for French fries rather than my usual potato pancakes. They said home made, skin on,… But you can’t just cut them and fry them. I’ve found it works best if they are salted, and allowed to drain for 30 minutes, rinsed, then fried twice. Obviously, time usually doesn’t permit this in a busy restaurant, but the fries suffer if you don’t. My brother was happy with his potato pancake, which was huge. The fish was excellent! It’s a pretty small place, there were two waitresses, and the service was excellent. 2 fish dinners, iced tea and one Guinness, $ 28.50. Good deal!

Busy Friday Fish Fry! Service is fast and the food is great. This is a nice place to go to to unwind and have drinks.

Great corner bar. Cold drinks, friendly, and good bar food.