We didn’t think it possible, but Pike Street Fish Fry just got a whole lot more irresistible. Starting this week is a new thing called “Free Fridays.” That means complimentary boats of fries (yes! Free!) and $2 pints of Fat Tire, Blue Paddle Pilsner, and Hoptober Golden Ale from 5-8 p.m. (You can get the fries at neighboring Moe Bar, too.)

That aside, the other reason you’ll want to check out this tiny restaurant tucked next to Neumos is, of course, the golden-browned seafood that comes wrapped in newspaper. Pick your poison from a lengthy chalkboard menu—we’re talking catfish and ling cod to hood canal oysters, coho salmon, and halibut, all $7–$10. On a health kick? Switch to the grilled menu, which ranges from $6–$11 and proffers portabella mushrooms and Hawaiian ahi tuna. If you’re in the mood to snack, nosh on their famed fried asparagus or wax beans ($5), which you can pair with a wide array of dipping sauces, including lemon aioli, smoked chili mayo, and tartar.

With a $10 bill, I went for an old standby: the cod fish and chips. The succulent fish was expertly dunked and fried in a light, crispy batter and paired with a perfectly tangy house made tartar sauce and fries. Kudos for the battered and fried lemon wedge that comes on top—a seriously delicious touch.

“What’s the must-try item?”
[Mark “Chewy” Crowder, assistant kitchen manager] “Well fish and chips are our staple, and for that the halibut is a great item. A good alternative is the vegan field roast sandwich, which is like a sausage but made of grains and other vegan items by the Original Field Roast Grain Meat Co., a local Seattle company. We also do a pulled pork that’s delicious.

MORE CHEAP EATIN’:
Thai Tom
Homegrown
The Counter
Baguette Box
Citizen