Review: Holy Redeemer

Hey all, happy Fish Fry-day! Today we have a review of Holy Redeemer in Jenison. We made the drive out there last Friday to check out their Fish Fry which is put on by the Knight of Columbus in the Activity Center.

We were drawn there because the menu is expansive guys, like they have broccoli. I love broccoli. Plus, not one, but TWO kinds of fried fish. Hello fried friends, get on my plate.

Despite the distance (kind of far away for us) we had a great time. We had a pretty big group (8) and luckily we were able to find a table to accommodate all of us. I mean, the place was packed, but we never had to wait more then a few minutes in line.The volunteers were super friendly too. They even have people who come around to refill your beverages. A few members of our group were digging the pink punch.

The food was good, I'd say a definite go-to if you're in the area. Personally I preferred the fried pollock to the fried perch. The perch was a little too chewy for me. But the pollock was flaky under the crispy batter. Mmmm… I really enjoyed the baked pollock as well. The mac and cheese was my favorite of the sides, gooey and rich. The broccoli was honestly a bit of a let down for me, although it probably would have been better with the melty cheese topping they had. Why did I turn down the cheese?! Momentary lapse of everything I hold dear, I have no excuse. They also have grilled cheese, rolls, coleslaw, baked potatoes and fries.

I for sure went up to the conveniently separate seconds station. And helped myself to some delicious brownies from the desert table, which is included in your ticket price. We brought along some Left Hand Sawtooth Ale, which is a pretty delicious brew.

Holy Redeemer Catholic Church
2700 Baldwin St.
Jenison, MI 49428

Arrival time: 6pm
Wait: <5 minutes
Parking: Parking Lot
Cost: $9.00 for Adults, $8.00 for Seniors (62+), $5.00 for Children (5-15)
Take-out: No
Tables: Circle

Would we go back? Yes, but it's a little out of the way for us. 

St. James

Last Friday we visited an old stand-by, the west side parish St. James. The first thing we
noticed was the catering truck in the parking lot. Unlike most volunteer-run frys, James
sources theirs out to the professionals.

We arrived at out destination around 6pm and were met with a manageable wait of 15 to 20
minutes. We had a large group but upon entering the gymateria comprised of round table
with chairs, we were able to acquire an entire table for ourselves with out much hassle.

After paying an entry fee of $8.50 for adults and $4.50 for Children one is met with plates,
trays and a two-sided buffet line. St. James does a great job of providing ample sides and
good fish. Not only are the staples of coleslaw, macaroni and cheese and french fries available
but they go the extra mile to provide garlic butter texas toast, applesauce and delicious red
skin potatoes.

The Pollock served is quite delicious if not to the level of this years favorites Blessed Sacrament
and St. Alphonsus. I’m quite sure the fried was the favorite or our group but the baked was
a nice alternative and prepared well. By the time we were ready for seconds on fish the fry
was winding down and there was not a lot left, but generally the fish is abundant and sides
perpetually stocked at this well-oiled fish fry.

We enjoyed Breckenridge brewery’s Amber Ale with our meal and it paired very nicely.
As always there is a dessert table, this one being donation based, and the obligatory 50/50 raffle
for those wishing to gamble.

St. James Catholic Church
733 Bridge Street Northwest
Grand Rapids, MI 49504

Arrival time: 6pm
Wait: 10-15 minutes
Parking: Large parking lot
Cost: $8.50 for adults, $6.50 for seniors (60 and over),  children 5-12 $4.50, 4 and under FREE.
Take-out: Available
Tables: Round