Overview

Nestled in the heart of Paradise, Michigan, Catch of the Day stands out as a must-visit destination for lovers of fresh, expertly prepared whitefish dishes. This charming spot on M-123 offers a focused menu that shines brightest with its signature whitefish sandwiches and baskets, highlighted further by their remarkable hand-dipped onion rings and crispy fries.

What sets Catch of the Day apart is not just the quality of their fish—locally sourced and fried to a delicate golden crisp—but the warmth of the experience it delivers. Visitors consistently praise the freshness and perfect seasoning of the whitefish, which is tender and juicy, making each bite deeply satisfying. Whether you choose the classic whitefish sandwich or indulge in a whitefish basket paired with golden fries or crunchy onion rings, the flavors are crafted to linger long after the meal ends.

The setting, though modest, exudes a welcoming, homey vibe amplified by attentive, friendly staff who genuinely care about their guests. Accounts of above-and-beyond kindness, like retrieving lost glasses, elevate the overall experience, making it more memorable. It's a spot where locals and travelers converge, especially those exploring the Upper Peninsula’s natural beauty, seeking hearty, authentic tastes without the need for extravagance.

Catch of the Day is particularly ideal for casual diners and families who appreciate straightforward, quality seafood meals presented with an inviting sense of community. The limited but curated menu ensures each item receives careful attention, cleaving to simplicity and flavor rather than overwhelming choices.

For anyone passing through Paradise, or attending local events like the Blueberry Festival, this restaurant promises a genuine taste of the region’s aquatic bounty. A visit here is more than just a meal—it’s a connection to the flavors and spirit of Michigan’s U.P., delivering warm hospitality and memorable, well-executed dishes time after time.


Amenities & Services

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Comfort food
Quick bite
Atmosphere
Casual

What Customers Say

Katherine Schiefer
Dec 10,2025
5/5
This was the best fish we had in the U.P., and we had a LOT of fish in the U.P. this past weekend. It was fresh, lightly fried to perfection, and the portion size was perfect. They had a limited menu because they were serving at the Blueberry Festival in Paradise, which just means we'll have to go back a different weekend next time so we can try the perch! So good, my husband will be thinking about it for a while.
Tracy Rice
Dec 10,2025
5/5
Oh man was this AMAZING!!! Not gonna lie, I was nervous because the online pics sometimes can be deceiving but these did not disappoint. We tried the whitefish baskets, I had fries and my husband had onion rings. The food was HOT and oh so delicious! Breading was seasoned to perfection. If you’re in the area, get ya some!!!
Angela Barnes
Dec 10,2025
5/5
Of all the places we've had whitefish, this is hands down, the best ever! Not even restaurants in Traverse City can come close.
Jason Fedewa
Dec 10,2025
5/5
We decided to try Catch of the Day on our trip last week to Tahquamenon Falls & so glad we did. We had the white fish basket, onion rings & fries. The white fish was super juicy & tender & flavorful. The onion rings were the most amazing onion rings I've had in a long time. The flavor & texture was so good. Service was amazing. On a side note & super shout out to COTD: I had dropped (without noticing) my eye glasses across the street after we left & they noticed & went & picked them up. We circled back after praying they were there. So appreciative for that! Thank you very much! Would highly recommend & will eat again when we return.
Irene
Dec 10,2025
5/5
We stopped here on our last day in town and I am glad we did! We arrived shortly after 6 and ordered quickly since they close @7. We all got the whitefish basket and along with a bucket of onion rings. The fish was fresh and tender but the onion rings were simply phenomenal! The owners were friendly and make you feel at home. If you're in the area, you must stop by!
Jessica McMannus
Dec 10,2025
5/5
I've had a lot of fish, but this place is the best! The owner does the batter just right and the fish is tender and not dry. If you're a fish lover, this is the place to go! Don't let the small food truck fool ya. It's worth it! Came up here from lower Michigan and I ate here more than once while visiting here on vacation. I couldn't get enough! Added note: This is the red food truck, not the black one.
Jamie Zelazny
Dec 10,2025
5/5
Great chip truck. Fast, friendly service. My two-piece basket had more fish in it than I was expecting.
Laurie Burton
Dec 10,2025
4/5
I dont usually leave 5's at all because that would be perfect. That being said, loved the food, whitefish was very fresh lightly breaded and not loaded down with grease. The onion rings super good! The owners got a five because of their excellent sense of humor and desire to make sure we enjoyed the food! And atmosphere, love me a food truck.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday 12:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Tuesday 12:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Wednesday 12:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Thursday 12:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Friday 12:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Saturday 12:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Sunday 12:00 PM - 07:00 PM
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