'Every Friday I come here': Fish fries fill up for first Friday of Lent

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The first Friday of Lent means Friday fish fries are packed, and many Milwaukee residents say their go to spot has become a favorite tradition.

"The portions are great, the prices are right, the people are very friendly," said customer Frank Markel.

Voted Milwaukee's favorite fish fry 5 years in a row, American Serb Hall continues to be the go-to spot for hundreds of people for Friday fish fry.

"They have one of the best fish fries year-round," said customer Joe Talatzko. "Every Friday I come here and it's the same thing delicious."

Joe Talatzko has been coming to Serb Hall every Friday during Lent for 50 years now and he says it's become one of his favorite traditions.

"The fish fries are great, the service is great, and it's not that expensive," said Talatzko.

Serving up fish fry every Friday through the 40 days of Lent, they will sell fish by the tons.

"We have new customers, we have customers that are third generation that are coming in," said Sonja Vujatovic, the president of the board of directors, Serb Hall. "They used to come with their grandparents and now they are bringing their grandchildren. It's really heartwarming."

While the fish fry gets rave reviews, loyal customers say it's all about more than just the food.

"The people here are just fantastic," said customer Milan Sasich.

Serb Hall fish fry takes place every Friday even going beyond Lent.