Elks Lodge is a point of interest in Manistee, MI. Phone: (231) 723-2060. Average rating is 4.2 stars from 38 reviews. Website: http://www.manistee-elks.org/.
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks emblemManistee, MI Elks Lodge #250
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Exterior view of the Elks Lodge building.
4.2 38 reviews

Brotherhood, Community, and the Best Fish Fry

Manistee's Elks Lodge on River Street serves up Friday fish fries, community events, and genuine Michigan hospitality.

Charity

Giving without expectation

Justice

Fairness for every person

Brotherly Love

Fellowship above all

Fidelity

Faithful to our word

About Us

View of the river from the Elks Lodge balcony.
View of the river from the Elks Lodge balcony.

Every Friday, the parking lot at 432 River Street fills up early. Word travels fast in Manistee about the fish fry here, and reviewers don't mince words: "the best fish ever." That's not marketing copy, that's a neighbor talking to a neighbor. The food is cooked and served by lodge volunteers who show up because they care about this community, not because they're punching a clock.

The Manistee Elks Lodge has been a gathering point for local members and their guests through decades of Michigan winters and summers alike. St. Patrick's Day fish sandwiches, holiday events, charity fundraisers, the clatter of folding chairs and the smell of a deep fryer warming up on a cold Friday afternoon. This is not a restaurant chasing a Michelin star. It is a working fraternal lodge that keeps its doors open through community support and gives that support right back.

If you walk in expecting a polished dining experience, recalibrate. If you walk in ready to sit with your neighbors, eat honest food prepared by people who genuinely want you there, and put a few dollars toward an organization that does real good in Manistee County, you will leave satisfied every single time.

What We Offer

The lodge's signature draw is the Friday fish fry, a weekly tradition that pulls in regulars and newcomers alike. Fresh-fried fish served up by friendly volunteers has earned this lodge some of the most enthusiastic reviews in town. Arrive early because it moves fast.

Beyond Fridays, the lodge hosts seasonal community events including holiday dinners, St. Patrick's Day gatherings, and member-driven fundraisers throughout the year. The hall is available for lodge-sanctioned events, and the bar provides a relaxed spot for members and guests to unwind after a long week on the water or in the woods.

Membership in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks opens access to the full calendar of events, volunteer opportunities, and the broader BPOE network. Prospective members can visit the website at manistee-elks.org or stop by during an event to learn more about joining one of America's oldest fraternal organizations right here on the Manistee River.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

“Great community organization. Made a lot of good friends after moving to area. Good public dinners during the week. come join us!!!”

— Jaye Keyes

What Our Guests Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear it from our members & guests

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐
5 months ago
"It’s a community club not an actual restaurant. They operate to produce revenue and promote their club. The food is edible and the service is okay for unpaid workers. We go to support them not because it’s great. Keep improving the club and eventually you’ll get there. It’s not the best but you can find much worse options in Manistee."
— Brett Alan
8 years ago
"Wow this place is BAD! Came here St. Patrick's Day, and the only options were cornbeef sandwiches, hot dogs, and fish. I don't know about you, but I HATE all of those, service is bad, you have to go downstairs to get your food! I hate this place! VERY BAD!! 👎 👎"
— Honest Reviews4U
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
8 years ago
"Great fish fry Friday place! I just went to this lodge today for fish fry Friday. This place serves the best fish ever. It was delicious. Staff was super nice too! Highly recommended! UPDATE: Ignore the negative review, He's just bashing because they don't have what he likes, I came here for Fish Fry Friday and even though I sat upstairs, The waitress brought my Fish meal upstairs! How nice is that?!"
— Chad M.
⭐⭐⭐
4 years ago
"Excellent Fish fry WHEN they occur. Excellent job with the remodeling. However 2 of the last 3 times we tried the fish fries were cancelled without notice (we are members). The club has not been run smoothly since Jamie left. If the fish fries are canceled there needs to be more a sign out front notifying people as well as emails to members. I would have rated the club a 5 when Jamie was there but 3 is a stretch now."
— Charles Koopmann
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
a year ago
"Great community organization. Made a lot of good friends after moving to area. Good public dinners during the week. come join us!!!"
— Jaye Keyes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Manistee Elks Lodge open to the public or members only?

Many events, including the popular Friday fish fry, are open to guests accompanied by members. Some events are members-only. Check the lodge website at manistee-elks.org or contact them directly for event-specific access policies.

When is the Friday fish fry held?

The fish fry runs on Fridays, though hours and availability can vary by season and volunteer scheduling. It is best to confirm the current schedule on the lodge website or by stopping in, as it is one of the most popular events and can sell out early.

How do I become a member of the Manistee Elks Lodge?

To join, you must be a U.S. citizen, believe in God, and be sponsored by a current Elks member. Visit manistee-elks.org for local membership information or attend a public event to meet current members and ask about the application process.

Does the lodge host private events or rent out the hall?

The lodge hosts a variety of member and community events throughout the year. For information about hall availability or event hosting, reach out through the official website at manistee-elks.org for the most current details.

Where exactly is the Manistee Elks Lodge located?

The lodge is at 432 River Street in Manistee, Michigan 49660, situated along the Manistee River in downtown. Parking is available on-site and along the surrounding streets.

What kind of food is typically served at lodge events?

The Friday fish fry is the standout offering, consistently praised by visitors for quality and freshness. Seasonal events like St. Patrick's Day feature themed menus. Food is prepared by lodge volunteers, so the menu reflects what the community brings to the table each week.

The Order · Since 1868

Community. Friendship. Charity.

Every Elks lodge belongs to one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders. Through the Elks National Foundation, the Order has given more than $481 million to college scholarships, veterans, and neighbors in need.

Join the Elks
A Proud Heritage

The Elks gave America
Flag Day.

Long before it was a national observance, the Order set aside June 14th to honor the flag. Patriotism has always been one of our cardinal principles, and every lodge meeting still closes the same way it has for over a century.

“To our absent members.” — the Eleven O’Clock Toast

Get In Touch

Ready to get started? Contact us today!

Map showing Elks Lodge Open in Maps
Call Us (231) 723-2060
Visit Website www.manistee-elks.org
Get Directions 432 River St, Manistee, MI 49660, USA
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Community · Friendship · Charity

Who are the Elks?

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders, founded in 1868. Every lodge is a home for fellowship, service, and patriotism in its own hometown.

$481M+given through the Elks National Foundation for scholarships, veterans, and community programs.

What the Order does

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