This Unique Seafood Restaurant Near Cleveland Is Perfect For A Day Trip Any Time Of Year
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
There’s nothing that quite compares to the thrill of seafood by the open water on a warm, sunny day. While Greater Cleveland may not always have pleasant weather, there is one local restaurant that specializes in delicious, authentic seafood and genuine hospitality. We’re talking about Brennan’s Fish House, nestled in the charming community of Grand River, Ohio. This iconic landmark of a destination has been providing a space to get together for 150 years, though it has only operated under its current name for a little less than half that time. Nevertheless, there’s never a bad time to take a trip to Brennan’s Fish House near Cleveland.
Nestled against the steady flow of the Grand River, you'd expect to find boats and nautical attractions.
You'll know when you've arrived in Grand River, Ohio. This quaint community about 30 minutes east of Cleveland is obviously recognizable for its namesake river, but the abundance of nautical-themed attractions is instantly eye-catching.
But one of the finest attractions in town is a charming eatery that stands as a testament to both history and good, old-fashioned comfort food.
This is Brennan's Fish House, a restaurant with a story to tell. The building in which Brennan's is housed, a sturdy structure built in 1865, was initially intended to be a grand hotel named the Richmond Inn. However, fate had other plans, and the hotel never quite took off as expected. So the owners started doing something funny... they sold beer and seafood meals to the local fisherman, and the groundwork for what would become Brennan's Fish House was officially laid.
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Throughout the entirety of its history, this storefront housed a restaurant of some sort, and it eventually became Brennan's Fish House in 1973.
In 2006, new ownership came in and reestablished Brennan's Fish House as a local landmark. Today, its specialties are local favorites like clam chowder, fish fry, and shrimp like you've never had it before.
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A delightful maritime ambiance sets the scene for every meal at Brennan's.
This cozy coastal retreat nestled along the banks of the Grand River is as authentic inside as it outside. The interior is adorned with nautical decor, with walls adorned with fishing nets, wooden oars, and vintage maritime memorabilia, offering a feast for the eyes while the aromas and flavors of fresh seafood tantalize your senses.
And a vast menu offers something for everyone, including the pickiest eaters.
From crab cakes to crab legs to orange roughy stuffed with crabmeat, you can rest assured that all your favorite seafood entrees are available. However, hot dogs, burgers, and grilled cheeses are available for itty bitty diners, and grownups will love the impressive selection of handhelds, local favorites like kielbasi, and land-based options like steak and chicken.
One of Brennan's most famous offerings is its fish fries, including favorites like southern fried catfish (pictured).
If you love fried food, you're going to be in heaven at Brennan's. From fried frog legs to golden fried shrimp and fried whitefish, there's an endless array of options waiting to delight your taste buds.
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If you're overwhelmed by the options at Brennan's Fish House, then The Fisherman’s Platter might be the perfect option for you.
For less than $35, you can enjoy your choice of two sides paired with Lake Erie yellow perch, whitefish, golden fried shrimp, scallops, and a crab cake. It's an excellent way to try their most famous offerings without breaking the bank!
But truthfully, there's no need to be overwhelmed at a place like Brennan's. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the atmoshpere.
The dining area is spacious yet cozy, creating an intimate and inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxed dining experience. Paired with a friendly and attentive staff, this place is the opposite of stuffy. Kick back and relax during your visit!
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Whatever you do, just be sure to save room for dessert.
In-the-know locals will point you to the banana cream pie, which is said to be some of the best near Cleveland. However, you can also enjoy coconut cream or key lime pie, or the seasonal dessert special. Of course, saving room is often easier said than done at Brennan's...
With massive portions and locally famous cuisine, it's no wonder Brennan's Fish House has remained a local landmark for decades.
Are you planning a visit to Brennan's? Be sure to connect with Brennan's Fish House on Facebook to keep a pulse on specials, events, and eye-catching photos of your favorite meals.
At Brennan's Fish House, visitors come for the ambiance, stay for the food, and return for the storied experiences that make this spot so iconic.
While you're visiting, take some time to soak in all the decorations around the space. Many are pieces of local history, and the restaurant is a bit like a museum in this respect. When you visit, you're contributing to the story of one incredible building that has housed memory-making fun for 150 years.
There's so much to love about Brennan's Fish House near Cleveland.
You'll find Brennan's near the railroad tracks at 102 River St, Grand River, OH, 44045.
Brennan’s Fish House near Cleveland is an absolutely legendary location. Locals can’t get enough of it, and people come from near and far to experience its incredible fish fries.
Want more of the Grand River? About 30 minutes north of Brennan’s, you’ll find the aptly-named Riverview Park. This gorgeous slice of paradise offers views like no other, and you’ll also find historic architecture hidden where you’d least expect it.
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Featured Addresses
Brennan's Fish House, 102 River St, Grand River, OH 44045, USA