Nau-Ti-Gal Restaurant - Waunakee, WI

I haven't been able to make it to many fish fries lately. Luckily, my friend Kaya has picked up my slack, yet again.

The deal: At Nau-Ti-Gal, the bastard stepchild of Mariner's Inn, you can enjoy views of piers and $9.99 cod fish fry served with curly fries, coleslaw and (sometimes) dinner rolls. There is also a baby walleye option for $12.99.

The food: As a huge fan of Mariner’s Inn (also owned by von Rutenberg Ventures), I always leave the Nau-Ti-Gal wishing I had spent the extra $30 or so dollars and gone to Mariner’s Inn. On my past few visits (most recently last Friday) the fish cod has been rubbery on the inside, I’ve received no rolls and the soup/appetizers have come the same time as the fish fry. The curly fries were limp and greasy and the coleslaw was bathed in mayonnaise. The one bright spot of the meal is their signature clam chowder. Perfectly seasoned with just a hint of nutmeg and topped with croutons, lovingly and incompetently served with a teaspoon.

The flavor: Casual dining atmosphere located on the water in Westport. Pretty views, kitschy nautical décor and Friday night karaoke. If you show up to dine late, you’ll be swinging to the sweet sounds of Poison, Warrant, Def Leppard and the like. Friendly but not always competent staff. Smoking is still allowed in Westport, so try to get a table in the far dining room if you are a non-smoker.

Second opinions

Madison Fish Fry