12 Spots In Mississippi That Could Serve Crispy Golden Catfish Every Visit

Mississippi knows catfish like nobody’s business. From the Delta to the Gulf Coast, perfectly fried catfish is practically the state’s unofficial dish.

The crunch of that golden cornmeal crust giving way to flaky, tender fish is something locals take seriously. These twelve restaurants have mastered the art of catfish frying, offering plates that’ll make you wonder why you’d ever order anything else.

1. Doe’s Eat Place Greenville, Mississippi

Family recipes passed down through generations make Doe’s catfish something special. The restaurant might look unassuming from outside, but locals know this place serves some of the crispiest catfish in the Delta region.

Perfectly seasoned cornmeal batter creates that signature crunch while keeping the fish inside moist and flaky. Their secret? Using only farm-raised Mississippi catfish and changing their frying oil frequently.

Most folks pair their catfish with hushpuppies and coleslaw for the full Southern experience. If you’re extra hungry, their family-style platters let everyone share in the bounty of golden-fried goodness.

2. Payne’s Catfish Jackson, Mississippi

Hidden away on a quiet Jackson street, Payne’s has been frying up catfish perfection for over thirty years. The modest dining room fills quickly during lunch hours as state workers and locals rush in for their catfish fix.

What makes their fish special is the ultra-thin cornmeal coating that shatters like glass when you take a bite. They serve their catfish hot from the fryer with homemade tartar sauce that has just the right amount of pickle and tang.

Regulars know to save room for their Mississippi mud pie a sweet ending to a savory meal. Their prices remain surprisingly reasonable despite serving some of the freshest fish in central Mississippi.

3. The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Though famous for barbecue, The Shed’s catfish deserves its own spotlight. This quirky roadside spot with tin roof and mismatched furniture serves catfish with a smoky twist that keeps folks coming back.

Their catfish gets a light dusting of their secret BBQ rub before hitting the fryer, creating a unique flavor profile you won’t find elsewhere. Served alongside their vinegar-based slaw and sweet potato fries, it’s a meal that hits all the right notes.

Live blues music often accompanies your meal, making the whole experience feel authentically Mississippi. Weekend crowds can get wild, so arrive early if you want a quieter dining experience with your perfectly fried fish.

4. King’s Fish House Biloxi, Mississippi

With panoramic views of the Gulf, King’s Fish House elevates catfish to fine dining status. Their elegant plating doesn’t mean smaller portions these generous fillets hang off the plate!

Unlike many places, King’s offers both traditional cornmeal-crusted catfish and a lighter panko version for those wanting something different. The lemon-herb butter they serve alongside adds a touch of sophistication without masking the fresh fish flavor.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try their blackened catfish option with Cajun spices. Weekend brunch brings out their famous catfish Benedict a creative twist that pairs perfectly with their spicy Bloody Marys and views of fishing boats returning with the day’s catch.

5. Captain Al’s Seafood Hattiesburg, Mississippi

College students and professors alike flock to Captain Al’s for catfish that’s worth breaking the budget for. The nautical-themed restaurant might seem kitschy, but there’s nothing funny about how seriously they take their fish.

Their signature thick-cut catfish steaks maintain moisture while developing an extraordinarily crunchy exterior. These aren’t your typical thin fillets each piece provides substantial bites of tender fish. Thursday nights feature their all-you-can-eat special that’s legendary among Southern Miss students.

The homemade banana pudding makes for the perfect ending, though you might need a short nap afterward. Many regulars claim the catfish here rivals any found closer to the Delta region.

6. Casanova’s Catfish Gulfport, Mississippi

Grandma’s kitchen meets professional kitchen at Casanova’s, where the recipes haven’t changed in fifty years. The small, family-run establishment serves catfish so fresh you’d think they caught it that morning and sometimes they have!

Their distinctive preparation includes a buttermilk soak that tenderizes the fish before it meets a spicy cornmeal mixture. The result is a tangy, zesty flavor that balances perfectly with their sweet hushpuppies. Many customers drive from neighboring states just for a taste of their legendary whole fried catfish.

When available, try their catfish ribs a lesser-known delicacy that the owners only prepare when they can source the perfect fish. Call ahead on Mondays as they’re often closed to prep for the week.

7. Floyd’s Catfish Clarksdale, Mississippi

Blues history permeates every corner of Floyd’s, where catfish and music create the perfect Mississippi marriage. Black and white photos of blues legends cover walls while the kitchen turns out consistently excellent fried catfish.

Their unique approach includes a hint of yellow mustard in the batter that gives their catfish a distinctive tang. Served atop newspaper with house-pickled green tomatoes on the side, it’s a Delta experience you can taste.

Weekends bring live blues performers who play while you eat, creating an authentic Mississippi experience. The restaurant’s location near the famous Crossroads makes it a natural stop for music tourists, but locals know the real star is the crispy, golden catfish that arrives steaming hot at your table.

8. Big Fish Grill Oxford, Mississippi

University crowds keep Big Fish Grill hopping, especially after Ole Miss football games. The upscale-casual atmosphere manages to be both date-night appropriate and family-friendly. Their catfish gets a cornbread batter treatment that creates an exceptionally thick, crunchy crust with a slightly sweet undertone.

Each fillet comes with their signature comeback sauce a Mississippi specialty that’s like remoulade with extra kick. Though they offer grilled options for the health-conscious, their fried catfish remains the bestseller for good reason.

During crawfish season, ask for the special catfish topped with étouffée that combines two Mississippi favorites in one indulgent dish. Reservations are essential on game weekends when the restaurant fills with hungry fans.

9. The Fish House Tupelo, Mississippi

Elvis’s hometown knows good eating, and The Fish House stands as proof with catfish that would make the King proud. This no-frills joint focuses on quality over atmosphere, serving some of northeast Mississippi’s finest fried fish.

Their preparation remains proudly old-school whole catfish fried with head and tail intact for maximum flavor. Locals know to ask for them “extra crispy” for a deeper golden crust while maintaining that tender interior. Don’t miss their hand-cut onion rings that make the perfect accompaniment.

The sweet tea comes in mason jars and refills are automatic when your glass gets low. During peak hours, a line forms outside, but regulars insist the 30-minute wait for a table is absolutely worth it.

10. Catfish Kitchen Natchez, Mississippi

Overlooking the Mississippi River, Catfish Kitchen offers views as impressive as their perfectly fried fish. The historic building once served as a cotton warehouse before being transformed into this beloved restaurant.

Their catfish gets a light dusting of white cornmeal mixed with river seasonings a blend they claim comes from an old riverboat cook’s recipe. The result is an exceptionally light, crisp coating that lets the quality of the fish shine through. Sunset dinners on their deck have become a Natchez tradition, especially when paired with their famous jalapeño hushpuppies.

Their Mississippi mud dessert a gooey chocolate creation with pecans provides the perfect ending to a river-inspired meal. Locals recommend coming on Thursdays when they serve their special catfish gumbo alongside the fried fillets.

11. Southern Catch Vicksburg, Mississippi

History buffs appreciate Southern Catch’s Civil War-era building almost as much as their perfectly fried catfish. Located near Vicksburg National Military Park, this restaurant serves history with a side of excellent food.

Their catfish gets dipped in buttermilk then coated in a mixture that includes crushed saltine crackers for extra crunch. This unique preparation creates a distinctively textured crust that regulars crave. Weekends bring their famous catfish and grits special that combines two Southern classics.

The restaurant’s walls feature historical photos of Mississippi River fishing operations, creating an educational experience alongside your meal. Their house-made pepper sauce adds just enough heat without overwhelming the delicate fish flavor.

12. Riverfront Catfish Pascagoula, Mississippi

Fresh catches arrive daily at Riverfront Catfish, where boats sometimes deliver fish directly to the restaurant’s back dock. This dockside eatery specializes in catfish prepared multiple ways, though their classic fried version remains the star.

Their signature preparation includes a spicy cornmeal mix with cayenne that gives their catfish a distinctive reddish hue and pleasant heat. Served with pickled green tomatoes and their famous Mississippi comeback sauce, it’s a flavor combination that represents the best of Gulf Coast cooking.

Hurricane survivors might recognize the building it’s been rebuilt twice after storms, with locals pitching in to save their favorite catfish spot. The outdoor seating area offers views of fishing boats and occasional dolphin sightings while you enjoy some of the freshest catfish in southern Mississippi.