UPDATE: Brennan’s Fish House in Grand River, Ohio, has just been awarded second place in the Cleveland.com / The Plain Dealer’s “Best Seafood in Northeast Ohio” competition. This lakeside gem, known for its fresh Lake Erie perch and walleye, continues to reel in accolades from seafood lovers and critics alike.
Located at 102 River St., just steps from the Grand River, Brennan’s Fish House has been a staple in the community since 1865. The family-owned restaurant has become a beloved institution, serving more than 80,000 customers annually with over 30,000 pounds of perch and 18,000 pounds of walleye each year.
Owner Tim Freeman, who bought the restaurant from his mother in 2021, has deep roots in the business. “It had to stay in the family,” Freeman stated, emphasizing the importance of preserving his family’s legacy. Under his leadership, the restaurant has maintained its commitment to quality, serving dishes made from scratch using original family recipes.
The restaurant’s rich history began as the Richmond Inn, evolving through various names and ownerships until Tim and his mother, Sharon Hill, transformed it into Brennan’s Fish House in 1973. The decor reflects its maritime heritage, featuring ship wheels and other nautical memorabilia that enhance the dining experience.
Freeman’s brother, Tom Freeman, who serves as head chef, recommends the lightly breaded perch as a must-try for first-time visitors. “Walleye has a stronger profile,” he explains, noting the unique flavors that have kept patrons returning for generations.
Among the standout dishes are crab legs, clam chowder, and even lightly breaded frog legs, with generous servings that cater to all tastes. Notably, the Friday Lake Erie perch or walleye sandwich is a customer favorite, priced at an affordable $9.99.
The restaurant’s outdoor patio, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, has become a hotspot for summer visitors from nearby beaches, further boosting its popularity. The warm atmosphere, complemented by a gas fireplace and a commitment to fresh, local ingredients, makes Brennan’s a key player in the regional dining scene.
As the award-winning establishment continues to thrive, its legacy remains intact, proving that in Grand River, the best catch doesn’t come from the lake—it comes from the kitchen. With its rich history and dedication to quality, Brennan’s Fish House is set to remain a cornerstone of Northeast Ohio’s seafood offerings.
Brennan’s Fish House operates from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, closed on Sundays. For seafood lovers in the area, this is a destination not to be missed.
