Fish fry makes for delicious summer
Bandera has many offerings for locals and visitors to enjoy on Friday nightsm but on the first Friday of each month, the Fish Fry at the St. Joseph Hall of St. Stanislaus’ Catholic Church is one of its best. The Fish Fry is a fundraiser for the local Knights of Columbus Chapter. Their fried catfish dinner is one of the best meals in Bandera, bar none.
For just nine dollars, patrons get two large fried filets of catfish, two hushpuppies, one scoop of slaw, a bowl of home cooked pinto beans and a mound of fried potatoes. The Knights dish up this hearty meal to eat at the hall or to take home. Working tirelessly, the Knights keep the fryers going till everyone is fed.
Church members Marian Huck and Clayton Moulds are frequent dinners at the monthly event.
“The fish is always the best part of the meal,” Huck stated. “But then so are the beans and coleslaw.”
Huck says many locals and visitors stop to partake of the delicious dinner.
“I would estimate that half the people are locals, but we do get quite a few from the RV parks and even bikers riding through town,” she related.
Knight Dan Smith was working hard helping patrons who were packing up takeout plates.
“The summer is a slow time for the Fish Fry, but the last few Friday meals have been packed,” said Smith. “Last month we sold 190 dinners, and this Friday we will easily sell over 200.”
The Knights had a full crew staffing the serving line and plenty more helping diners get beans, tea, and condiments. Knight Tom Doebbler was at the head of the serving line giving patrons a friendly smile and a “hello” while stocking plates. The serving line does not slow down from the start of the meal till the end.
The desserts provided by the St. Stanislaus Altar Society were not to be missed. The homemade desserts ranged from peach and apple cobblers to cakes and cookies. Sugar free desserts were also provided. For a modest donation, diners could take home a sweet treat to enjoy after their meal.
The Knights use the funds earned through these dinners to support local and international causes. They have contributed to relief efforts for Ukraine as well as other local events like the annual basketball free throw contest. Annually, they provide scholarships to area seniors and upkeep on two cemeteries and the church grounds.
The Knights of Columbus sponsor a fish fry on the first Saturday of the month starting at 5:30 p.m. During Lent, the Knights sponsor a fish fry every Friday.