Fast-food chains offering more fish-related sandwiches during Lenten season

FARGO – If you eat fast food regularly, you may have noticed that something’s been fishy lately.

During the Christian season of Lent, practicing Catholics abstain from eating meat on Fridays and eat fish instead.

To meet that demand for fish during the Lenten season, which runs through Easter on March 31, fast-food chains have been introducing and promoting new fish-related sandwiches or other products.

The Rev. Luke Meyer, chancellor of the Fargo Catholic Diocese, says it’s helpful for Catholics to have those added fast-food options during Lent.

“It’s very beneficial because it allows Catholics to observe the customary Lenten practice on Fridays in order to find practical ways to be united with Jesus,” Meyer says.

While he may not do it every week during Lent, Meyer says he’ll occasionally go grab a fast-food fish sandwich for a Friday lunch.

“Sometimes I do, absolutely,” he says.

This year, some new fish options swam their way to the fore of Lenten menus, like the new charbroiled Atlantic Cod Sandwich at Hardees or the Fish McBites at McDonalds.

For those observing Lent looking to get their fast-food fix, or even for those who just want to take advantage of the available fish sandwiches, here’s an overview of options around the Fargo-Moorhead area:

• McDonalds: McDonalds is home to the classic Filet-O-Fish, which was the very first Lenten fast-food alternative created back in 1962. The sandwich costs $2.89 for one or $6.37 for a two-sandwich combo.

The chain also recently introduced a different kind of fish option: the Fish McBites – small, breaded pieces of Alaskan Pollock served with tartar sauce for dipping.

A variation on the chicken nugget, the Fish McBites are available for order in three different sizes, ranging in price from $2.49 to $5.49.

Depending on how well it sells, McDonalds says the item may only be available for a limited time.

• Hardee’s: For the first time last month, Hardee’s debuted a new Charbroiled Atlantic Cod Fish Sandwich for $3.99, or for $6.99 as part of a combo meal. This is the first non-fried fish sandwich that a fast-food chain has offered during Lent.

On its regular menu, Hardee’s also offers its Fish Supreme Sandwich, as well as its Fish ‘n’ Chips Basket.

• Arby’s: Even Arby’s, known more for their roast beef sandwiches, is getting in on the fish boom this month. For a limited time, the chain is offering its Reel Big Fillet Sandwich. Diners can buy two sandwiches for $5.

• Wendy’s: Wendy’s recently brought back its seasonal Premium Fish Fillet Sandwich. That’s the only fish option available on the chain’s menu, and costs $3.79 or $5.49 in a combo meal.

• Burger King: At Burger King, the Premium Alaskan Fish Sandwich is a year-round part of the chain’s offering. The sandwich costs $3.39, or $5.39 in a combo meal.

• Taco John’s: It’s not really a sandwich chain, but Taco John’s has its own offering for Lent: the new Fish Taco. Made with “real ocean-caught whitefish,” according to the restaurant’s website, and served with sour cream and lime, the tacos cost $2.19 apiece.

• Long John Silver’s: Long John Silver’s has the largest fish-related menu of all area fast food establishments. Ranging from popcorn shrimp to whitefish fillet to a crab cake, Lenten observers will find much to like at this nautical-themed restaurant.

Readers can reach Forum reporter Sam Benshoof at (701) 241-5535

Tags: variety, food, tasty