Borlands - Belleville

Best darn fried chicken there is no comparison!! A must visit if you are anywhere near Belleville!

Stay away unless you are willing to get spoiled forever by there amazing fish fry. In fact don't even come into Belleville on fridays because they lure you for miles around with the amazing aroma. Seriously though. Don't let the line bother you. It seems crazy long but they turn tables fast and it's worth 10 or 15 minutes. The best coleslaw anywhere ever. I don't even like coleslaw but I'd eat there's by the plate full.

This place has a delish fish fry, with a down home feel. Usually my BF and I are city dwellers, but we will make it out to Borland's for Friday fish fry on occasion. I did feel a little uncomfortable, and like an outsider when we were there. Definitely not a place that sees many fashionista's or women in heels! I am like 99% sure they only take cash too, so something to remember on your way..

Just thought I'd post an update, since we found ourselves in Belleville again recently. It was early 4:30 and they were just opening. Empty except for a few early bird elderly couples and a person getting take out. But within 30 minutes, the place was full. Lots of people waiting for take out, bar area full, dining area full, and a line a dozen deep waiting to be seated. Fish was again excellent. Yummy cole slaw (even my dining companion admitted it *was* very good despite his preference for larger pieces). He said the shrimp were even better this time.

Last minute decision to go find fish fry and that is never easy on a Friday much less a holiday Friday. Drove down to Belleville and was able to find seats at the bar. Friendly bartender Van took car of us with great service. He's a big St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan so we connected over our mutual Cardinals fandom. Van knew all the regulars by name, so my goal is to someday achieve that status. Fish was perfectly cooked as was my shrimp. Breading is a bit thick, not the panko and club soda light batter, but tasty. Plate came with fries, buttered bread and coleslaw. In fact the Friday menu only says the kind of fish or chicken you want. The sides are as described. All of that food for $9.50/ person was a great deal. Bottled beer, mixed drinks and cans of soda. All in all a good Sconnie bar on a Friday night.