The traditional Friday fish fry is merely a myth. At least around here.

That's what I discovered while trying to compile a handy, interactive map pointing readers to times and places for local fish frys.

We called many of the area's Catholic parishes, only to find out that while most parishes host "Stations of the Cross" ceremonies, and maybe serve parishioners a small meal before the ceremonies, the full-blown neighborhood fish fry simply doesn't exist in Oak Park and River Forest.

Which is too bad, because I have visions of breaded shrimp and perch plates, cheap beers, take-out orders, kindly old ladies in aprons and live music. Maybe a polka dance or two.

Anyway, the closest we could find requires a short ride up Austin Boulevard to Chicago's St. Ferdinand Church. Here's their schedule, menu and entertainment roster.

Happy Friday.