The Catholic Friday Lenten Fish Fry tradition continued during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic but not on the church campus. Instead, St. Raymond Fish Fry committee members recruited five local restaurants to cook and serve the fish and pizza to patrons and then donate a portion of the proceeds to the church, according to Joe Irick, owner of Station 34 at 34 S. Main Street.
“Last year St. Raymond’s had asked if Station 34 would provide cheese pizzas for their Fish Fry as an alternative for those who do not consume fish,” he recalled. “Then, this year we mutually discussed putting on the Fish Fry at the restaurant and donating a portion of the proceeds back to the church since the Archdiocese of Chicago had said parishes could not do their traditional Fish Fry.”
“I asked other restaurant owners in downtown Mount Prospect to participate, too, because with the number of parishioners St. Raymond’s has, there was absolutely no way I could handle that many additional patrons on top of our usual busy Friday night business,” Irick continued. “You see, St. Raymond reported that they served between 450 and 650 people on each Fish Fry Friday, which they held every other week during the Lenten season.”
“Chris Boznelos of Mrs. P & Me was the first to hop in with us and we’re very glad he did, to help shoulder the load! In fact, I’ve heard that they are even doing a fish fry on Thursday nights, too. I also alerted the Downtown Merchants Association of this to see if they could help reach out to other restaurant owners, as well, and a few more hopped in with their assistance.”
The other participating restaurants included Canta Napoli Pizzeria and Ristorante, Jameson’s Charhouse and Mr. Beef and Pizza.
Interestingly, prior to this, Station 34 did not have fish on their menu. But Irick said that they have now expanded their Lenten season menu to include Alaskan cod.
“It’s been great! The St. Raymond members/supporters are incredible,” he continued. “Theoretically, it would be nice if this encourages more people to stop in and try Station 34. But right now, I’m just happy to be a part of such a strong tradition that I still remember fondly from my childhood.”
“St. Raymond de Penafort hopes to return to offering their traditional Fish Fry events in Lent of 2022 as it is such a sought-after community event,” said Sharon Moeykens, Engagement Director. “The parish is extremely grateful that in such a time of uncertainty, these five Mount Prospect restaurants have rallied together to creatively serve a parish and its community during Fridays in Lent this year. We hope to continue strong relationships with restaurants in the area for future events.”