Fried catfish is a quintessential Southern comfort food, with a crispy coating and tender, flaky flesh. From Louisiana to Mississippi, there are countless restaurants across the South that serve up this delicious dish in a variety of styles. Here, we’ve rounded up some of the best fried catfish in America, from Southern comfort to Cajun style.

Southern Comfort Fried Catfish

In the South, fried catfish is often served with classic sides like hushpuppies, coleslaw, and mac and cheese. Some of the best Southern-style fried catfish can be found at family-owned restaurants like Uncle Bud’s Catfish Shack in Tennessee and Mama’s Catfish Kitchen in Mississippi. These spots serve up generous portions of catfish coated in a crispy cornmeal batter, with a range of sides to complement the dish.

Cajun Style Fried Catfish

In Louisiana, fried catfish gets a spicy twist with Cajun seasoning and a tangy remoulade sauce. Restaurants like Prejean’s in Lafayette and The Chimes in Baton Rouge are known for their flavorful Cajun-style fried catfish, served with sides like dirty rice and jambalaya. The catfish is often coated in a seasoned flour mixture before being fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and moist, tender flesh.

Midwestern Fried Catfish

While the South and Louisiana may be the most famous regions for fried catfish, the Midwest has its own take on this classic dish. In Illinois, spots like Long John Silver’s and Huck’s Harbor serve up crispy fried catfish, often with a side of fries or onion rings. The catfish is usually coated in a seasoned flour or cornmeal mixture before being fried, resulting in a deliciously crispy texture.

West Coast Fried Catfish

While fried catfish may not be as prevalent on the West Coast, there are still plenty of spots that serve up this Southern classic. In California, restaurants like Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken and The Crabby Lady in San Francisco offer their own take on fried catfish, with crispy coatings and flavorful seasoning. The catfish is often served with sides like collard greens or potato salad, creating a true Southern-style meal.

Beyond the Classics

While classic fried catfish will always be a favorite, there are plenty of innovative and creative takes on this dish as well. In New Orleans, restaurants like Cochon and Commander’s Palace serve up catfish in unique preparations like catfish courtbouillon or catfish beignets. These dishes offer a new spin on the classic dish, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of catfish as an ingredient.

Conclusion

Fried catfish is a beloved Southern comfort food that has become a staple across America. From classic Southern-style to spicy Cajun-style, there are countless variations of this dish to try. Whether you prefer your catfish with hushpuppies and coleslaw or a tangy remoulade sauce, there’s no denying that this dish is a delicious and satisfying meal. So the next time you’re in the mood for some comfort food, head to your local fried catfish spot and enjoy one of America’s favorite dishes.