Tucked along River Road in Prospect, Cunningham’s Creekside has built a loyal following over the past 20 years — especially during Lent, when its signature fried fish sandwich draws packed crowds every Friday.
From the sunny back porch overlooking Harrods Creek to the mix of regulars inside — from veterans to basketball fans — the casual riverfront eatery has become a neighborhood staple.
The Risk and Reward of Riverfront Dining
Owner Brent George says operating at 6301 River Road comes with beauty and burden.
“The best part about being on the river is being on the river,” George said. “The worst part about being on the river is being on the river.”
Flooding has repeatedly forced temporary closures over the years, including two major shutdowns in 2025 — one lasting 11 days in March and another stretching more than a month from early April to early May. Road construction along River Road added another challenge, complicating access for customers.
As of early 2026, though, George says the worst is behind them as the restaurant celebrates its 20th anniversary at the Creekside location.
Lent Brings “Chaos” — and Cod
Lent, which begins Feb. 18 and runs through April 2 this year, marks the restaurant’s busiest stretch.
George describes it simply: “Chaos.”
While many Louisville-area restaurants offer fish fries during Lent, Cunningham’s stands out for portion size and preparation. Each sandwich features a half-pound of golden-brown cod with a light, crispy breading made from a closely guarded house recipe.
“It’s like the Colonel’s chicken,” George joked, referencing Harland Sanders. “You get me the seven herbs and spices recipe and we’ll make a swap.”
Regulars say the consistency keeps them coming back year after year.
A Family Legacy
The Cunningham’s story stretches back to 1870. Brent’s father, Donnie George — known to many as “The Codfather” — took ownership in 1981 when the restaurant was located downtown at Fifth and Breckenridge streets.
After a 2001 fire destroyed the original building, the family relocated and later opened the Creekside location in Prospect in 2006. When Donnie George passed away in 2015, the downtown location closed, leaving Creekside as the sole home of the Cunningham’s name.
Today, Brent George and his brother Joey continue the family tradition, preparing most menu items from scratch — from tartar sauce to salad dressings. In addition to fish, the menu features burgers, onion rings, fried chicken and a bologna sandwich named in honor of Brent’s late brother Jeff.
“But no matter how much we do,” George said, “fish still rules the day.”
Looking Ahead
After Lent, warmer weather typically brings deck crowds for margaritas and river views — provided the Ohio River cooperates.
Following a flood-heavy 2025, George hopes for what he calls “an event-less spring and summer.”
Cunningham’s Creekside is open:
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Sunday–Thursday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
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Friday–Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
For now, as Lent approaches, one thing is certain: Friday night is fish fry night on River Road.
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