These warm days have boating fans hungry not just for leisurely days on Carlyle Lake, but for enjoying a meal outside at The Fish House restaurant, a favorite lakefront spot.
The Fish House is the reincarnation of a restaurant that was opened in 1985 just east of the Kaskaskia River by the current owner’s father. It closed after a fire three years later. Today’s Fish House, located on the south shore of Carlyle Lake, is a large space offering indoor dining, outdoor seating on a covered patio and a deck extending to the lake. Boaters love it because they can dock right at the restaurant.
While the setting is great, so is the food, and that’s also what makes the place a top draw. Early weekend risers flock there for hearty breakfasts that include a lineup of favorites from eggs dishes to biscuits and gravy, and pancakes and crepes. Chicken wings are a favorite on the appetizer menu, and on Thursdays diners can enjoy them for just 60¢ each, in a choice of seven different flavors. Love fried pickles? They’re on the starter list too, along with onion rings and deep-fried cheese balls.
The Fish House offers a salad bar and sandwiches that include fried catfish or cod, and a tasty chicken bacon cheddar combo with bbq or ranch. And be sure to check the board for the daily dinner offerings.
In keeping with its location, the restaurant rents kayaks and bicycles for cruising on water or the lakefront trail.
The Fish House
13551 Dam East Access Road, Carlyle, IL
Thursday – Friday, 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Sunday, 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
618-304-5273
Carlyle Lake is the largest man-made lake in Illinois, with great fishing, beaches, fun—and food. Come check it out!
Photos courtesy of The Fish House.