Wendy C., how can you review a place that you've never been to? I'm sure the Great Barrier Reef is worth a 5 star review, but I can't give it only 3 stars because its inconvenient (or any review for that matter).
Anyway...saw Crandalls in Madison Magazine and the photos stood out to me. I didn't want to drive to the East Side for the Esquire Club. I was reluctant to try take out fish fry because I was worried about fried food getting soggy.
I gave it a shot and I was impressed!
First, the fish to beading ratio was really good. Big thick pieces of flaky fish with a dense, probably corn meal based, and crumb-style breaking (as opposed to the extra greasy tempura- style batter). It was nice and crunchy and the breading stayed that way on my 5-10 minute drive home. Tip: crack the styrofoam container to let the steam out for extra insurance against soggy fish. Served with a lemon.
The fries were coated in something that made them extra crispy and they had a good seasoning.
The slaw had good flavor but lots of dressing. Purists might say it was over dressed; others might say its just right.
Tarter sauce was a little sweet and tangy, which was good contrast with the fish. The server gladly gave me extra.
The bun was just as you would expect from a supper club, cheap, white, and doughy. Served with a butter chip.
Everything was served together in a box; everything you need except several icy cold beers.
The service was fine. The take out window was nice. It takes a few minutes for the order but I think they fry-to-order which is well worth it to me and a big plus. Any you cut it, it takes less time than waiting in line for dine in Friday Fish Fry.
A little spendy for take out fish fry ringing up at over $25 for two dinners. That would be more than fair if I could park my fat ass there all night and eat all-you-can-eat.
It's worth it though and I'll be back.