A restaurant where catfish dishes are offered.
Alabama is renowned for its Southern cuisine, and one of the most beloved dishes in the state is catfish.
Whether fried to a golden crisp, grilled to perfection, or cooked in a flavorful stew, catfish is a staple that you simply must try when visiting Alabama. Here’s a guide to some of the best places in Alabama to enjoy this Southern delicacy.
1. Ezell’s Fish Camp – Lavaca
Ezell’s Fish Camp is a legendary spot for catfish lovers. Located in a rustic, historic setting along the Tombigbee River, Ezell’s serves some of the best-fried catfish in Alabama.
Their catfish is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a side of hush puppies and coleslaw.
Must-Try Dish:
- Fried Catfish with Hush Puppies
2. Top O’ the River – Anniston, Gadsden, Guntersville
Top O’ the River is a family-owned restaurant chain with locations in Anniston, Gadsden, and Guntersville.
Known for their river views and hearty portions, they offer a variety of catfish dishes that are sure to satisfy. Their fried catfish is particularly popular, served with homemade slaw and cornbread.
Must-Try Dish:
- Fried Catfish Plate
3. David’s Catfish House – Atmore, Brewton, Monroeville, Spanish Fort
David’s Catfish House has been serving up delicious catfish for over 30 years. With several locations across Alabama, this restaurant is famous for its farm-raised catfish, cooked to perfection.
The catfish here is lightly breaded and fried, ensuring a crispy texture that complements the tender fish.
Must-Try Dish:
- David’s Special Catfish Platter
A restaurant offering seafood cuisine.
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4. The Original Oyster House – Gulf Shores, Spanish Fort
While primarily known for its seafood, The Original Oyster House also excels in catfish dishes. Their Southern-style catfish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The catfish is available grilled, blackened, or fried, and is served with their famous cheese grits and coleslaw.
Must-Try Dish:
- Southern-Style Catfish (fried or blackened)
5. Uncle Mick’s Cajun Market & Cafe – Prattville
For a taste of Cajun flair with your catfish, head to Uncle Mick’s in Prattville. This cafe offers a delightful blend of Alabama and Louisiana cuisines.
Their catfish is seasoned with Cajun spices and can be enjoyed fried or grilled, adding a zesty twist to the traditional Southern favorite.
Must-Try Dish:
- Cajun Catfish (fried or grilled)
6. Catfish Cabin – Athens, Hartselle
Catfish Cabin is a long-standing favorite for catfish in northern Alabama. With locations in Athens and Hartselle, this restaurant serves catfish that is always fresh and delicious. Their catfish is cooked in a traditional Southern style and comes with a variety of sides to complete the meal.
Must-Try Dish:
- Classic Fried Catfish
7. The Fish Market Restaurant – Birmingham
The Fish Market Restaurant in Birmingham offers an extensive menu of seafood options, including some excellent catfish dishes.
Their catfish is known for its light, crispy coating and is available fried, grilled, or blackened. Pair it with their famous Greek-style sides for a unique twist.
Must-Try Dish:
- Fried Catfish with Greek-style sides
A typical restaurant that serves catfish dishes.
8. Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar – Orange Beach
Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar is a casual spot near the Gulf Coast that’s perfect for enjoying fresh seafood, including catfish.
Their catfish is fried to golden perfection and served with a side of coleslaw and fries, making it a favorite among beachgoers.
Must-Try Dish:
- Fried Catfish Basket
Chart: Top Catfish Spots in Alabama
| Restaurant | Location(s) | Specialty Catfish Dish |
|---|---|---|
| Ezell’s Fish Camp | Lavaca | Fried Catfish with Hush Puppies |
| Top O’ the River | Anniston, Gadsden, Guntersville | Fried Catfish Plate |
| David’s Catfish House | Atmore, Brewton, Monroeville, Spanish Fort | David’s Special Catfish Platter |
| The Original Oyster House | Gulf Shores, Spanish Fort | Southern-Style Catfish (fried or blackened) |
| Uncle Mick’s Cajun Market & Cafe | Prattville | Cajun Catfish (fried or grilled) |
| Catfish Cabin | Athens, Hartselle | Classic Fried Catfish |
| The Fish Market Restaurant | Birmingham | Fried Catfish with Greek-style sides |
| Doc’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar | Orange Beach | Fried Catfish Basket |
FAQ
Q: What is the best time to visit these restaurants for catfish? A: Most of these restaurants serve catfish year-round, but visiting during lunch or dinner hours will ensure you get the freshest dishes.
Weekends can be busier, so consider going on weekdays if you prefer a quieter dining experience.
Q: Are there any vegetarian options at these catfish restaurants? A: While these restaurants specialize in catfish and other seafood, many of them offer vegetarian sides and salads. It’s always a good idea to check the menu or call ahead to confirm vegetarian options.
Q: Can I find gluten-free catfish options in Alabama? A: Some restaurants may offer gluten-free catfish dishes or can modify existing dishes to accommodate gluten-free diets. It’s best to inquire directly with the restaurant about gluten-free options.
Q: Is catfish farm-raised or wild-caught in these restaurants? A: The majority of the catfish served in these Alabama restaurants is farm-raised, ensuring a consistent and high-quality product. Some places may offer wild-caught catfish as well, so be sure to ask if you have a preference.
Q: Do these restaurants offer takeout or delivery? A: Many of these restaurants offer takeout and some may provide delivery services through third-party apps. Check with each restaurant for their specific takeout and delivery options.
Conclusion
Alabama is home to some of the best catfish you can find, with a variety of restaurants offering their unique takes on this Southern classic.
From the historic charm of Ezell’s Fish Camp to the Cajun-inspired flavors at Uncle Mick’s, there’s a catfish dish in Alabama for every taste.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these top spots for catfish is a culinary journey you won’t want to miss. So, bring your appetite and enjoy the best catfish that Alabama has to offer!
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