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	The Manchester Enterprise A Heritage Newspaper Weekly Publication

Fish Fries set for Lenten Fridays

Volunteers serve up hot meals at St. Mary's in weeks before Easter

By Daniel Lai, Editor

PUBLISHED: January 31, 2008

Continuing a proud tradition of humble service and delectable cooking, the annual Manchester Fish Fry will take place during the six Fridays of Lent.

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Volunteers from St. Mary Catholic Parish in Manchester served 3,500 customers last year. The 25-year tradition continues in 2008 from Feb. 8 through March 14. This year, dining will be at St. Mary's Parish Center.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m., full service starts at 5 p.m. and ends at 8 p.m.

"Last year, we served a record number of take-out dinners because we revamped the entire process," Bill Kwolek, co-chairman of this year's Fish Fry, said.

Kwolek said customers can call in their orders by calling 428-7211, answer a few questions about their food selection and expect to pick it up in 10 minutes.

"After you call, all you have to do is come to the front door marked 'take-out pickup,' give us your name, pay the cashier and take your meal," he said. "Take-outs are fast because we added another gas fryer to keep up with demand."

Lenten Fish Fries are common in many communities, but Kwolek claims the Manchester Fish Fry is a stand out.

"Each year, our customers tell us we serve the best-tasting fish and side dishes," he said. "Our Fish Fry attracts people from Jackson, Adrian, Ann Arbor and even Detroit."

Each entree is made from scratch, using traditional recipes.

The french fries — baked, and spicy 'little potatoes' - come from the DuRussel Farm near Manchester.

"The paprika and garlic roasted 'little potatoes' are a Manchester specialty. Last year we had to add another 50 pounds," Kwolek said.

The fish is North Atlantic cod. It is either hand-dipped in Drake's beer batter and deep-fried or filleted, marinated in Italian seasonings and oven-roasted.

The salad bar is a 40 square-foot selection of salads, baked potato toppings, condiments and specialty dishes.

"It's a feast in itself," Kwolek said.

Those who don't like fish can enjoy oven-crusted, homemade macaroni and cheese. Desserts include Oreo Cookie pudding, a Fish Fry favorite, plus homemade baked goods.

The all-you-can-eat full menu price is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $6 for children ages 6 through 10, and free for children 5 and under. King-sized take-out dinners are $9.

"Bring the whole family and tell your friends that in Manchester, good eating is the Chicken Broil in July and the Fish Fry during Lent. Look for our signs on Main Street," Kwolek said.