Review
We rolled into Ollie's around 5:30 and honestly weren't sure what to expect. Ollie's has their $16 Fish Fry on the menu every day of the week with nothing seemingly special on Friday. Many reviews online also decry their 20% service charge and reportedly odd ordering system so we came ready to roll with the punches. To our surprise the experience was very straightforward, much like you'd get at any restaurant (but with accommodations for those who may need it).
We were seated straightaway and our waiter brought us water and took our drink and cheese curd order shortly after. When he returned with the booze we ordered our fish - very standard. The old fashioned was nothing less than superb and the cheese curds followed suit. A great start.
The fish arrived not long after and looked very proper. The four long fingers of cod were easy to handle and made dipping in the silky tartar a breeze. Each "stick" was light and flaky and highlighted by a subtly salty breading that made each bite blissful.
The decorative basket of fries looked cute, but what it held was simply handsome. The fat Julienne-cut fries were perfectly fried and dusted with a fantastic seasoning. While the portion didn't look like much it was more than satisfactory once we got down to business.
Rounding out this Fish Fry was a ramekin of fresh and inviting slaw. Clearly made in-house, this slaw was well-balanced and just a joy to eat.
All in all, this was a great Fish Fry and there's no doubt we'll be back. If you're worried about the 20% service charge, don't be. Our waiter had no qualms about telling people that it essentially serves as a tip, and since we typically tip over that anyway it was no big deal. We also added a little more in the end since he was good and we felt he deserved a little more love. Overall, our experience at Ollie's was a good one.
The $16 4-piece cod sits on the menu every day and doesn't come with a side by default, so if you want some fries make sure to let them know. This cod is actually really good. The lightly-textured and heavily-salted breading shines on the flaky and grease-free loins. It's also idyllically cut for dipping in the thin yet zesty tartar.
The aforementioned fries are worth the $3 up-charge and I have to admit the meal would be a little lacking without them. The house-made slaw was also inviting with a good tang. No bread comes with the fish no matter how much you're willing to pay.
Ollie's still has their default 20% gratuity so don't be shocked when you see it in the bill...it's basically your tip. Overall, we recommend this Fish Fry and while it's not the best deal around it is worth the price...especially when get a BOGO with your Mad City Coctails book.