Don’t Miss These Friday Fish Fry Spots In Tennessee
Friday nights in Tennessee mean one thing: crispy, golden fish and all the fixings. Whether you’re craving catfish, shrimp, or something fried to perfection, the Volunteer State has you covered.
I’ve tracked down the absolute best spots where the fish is fresh, the batter is crunchy, and the atmosphere screams Southern hospitality. Get ready to eat your way through Tennessee’s finest fish fry tradition.
1. The Shrimp Dock, Knoxville
This place knows shrimp like nobody’s business. The Shrimp Dock doesn’t mess around with tiny portions or soggy breading. Every piece comes out hot and crackling, begging to be devoured immediately.
You’ll find hush puppies that could win awards and coleslaw that’s tangy without being weird. The vibe is laid back, the prices won’t wreck your wallet, and the staff treats you like family.
When Friday rolls around, this is where Knoxville locals go to get their seafood fix done right.
2. Uncle Bud’s, Donelson
Where the catfish is king and the portions are ridiculous. Uncle Bud’s serves up fish so tender it practically falls apart before you even touch it. The crispy coating has that perfect crunch that echoes in your ears.
Fries come piled high, and the tartar sauce is homemade with just the right kick. It’s a no-frills kind of spot where the food does all the talking.
Locals swear by it, tourists stumble in and never forget it, and I’m telling you it’s worth the drive.
3. JoJo’s Fish House, Murfreesboro
How do you make fried fish even better? You serve it with mac and cheese that’s creamy enough to make you weep. JoJo’s Fish House gets the balance just right between crispy fish and soul-warming sides. Every bite feels like a hug from your favorite aunt.
The green beans are cooked down Southern style, and the cornbread is sweet without being cake. It’s casual, it’s fun, and the staff genuinely cares about your experience.
Murfreesboro folks know this is the Friday night spot.
4. Huck Finn’s Catfish, Pigeon Forge
Though Pigeon Forge is known for tourist traps, this spot is the real deal. Huck Finn’s Catfish fries up fish that’s flaky on the inside and impossibly crunchy outside. The atmosphere leans into the fishing theme without being cheesy, and the portions are built for hungry folks.
Hush puppies here are legendary, slightly sweet and perfectly fried. Coleslaw provides the cool contrast you need after all that heat.
When you’re done with the Smoky Mountains, come here and eat like a champion.
5. Boonies at Boone Lake, Near Bluff City
Are you ready for fish with a view? Boonies at Boone Lake sits right on the water, so you can watch the sunset while munching on some seriously good fried fish. The breading is light but flavorful, and the fish tastes like it was swimming that morning.
The outdoor seating makes it feel like a mini vacation. Sides are classic and comforting, nothing fancy, just done well.
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger long after your plate is empty.
6. Ed’s Fish & Pizza House, Nashville
Did you know a place could do both fish and pizza this well? Ed’s Fish & Pizza House is a Nashville institution where the fried fish is just as beloved as the pies. The batter is seasoned to perfection, and the fish stays moist no matter how long you chat before eating.
It’s quirky, it’s old school, and it’s packed every Friday. The staff moves fast, the jukebox plays classics, and the vibe is pure nostalgia.
You’ll leave full, happy, and planning your next visit.
7. Cracker Barrel, Dyersburg
When you think Cracker Barrel, you might not think fish fry champion, but hear me out. The Dyersburg location does Friday fish right, with catfish that’s flaky and well seasoned. Turnip greens and cornbread round out the plate like old friends showing up to the party.
It’s dependable, it’s comforting, and you know exactly what you’re getting. Sometimes that’s exactly what you need after a long week.
Plus, you can browse the country store while you wait. Win-win.
8. Red Perch, Nashville (The Nations)
However trendy this spot looks, the fish fry game is serious. Red Perch brings a modern twist to the classic fish fry with perfectly crispy fillets and inventive sides that surprise you. The fish sandwich alone is worth the trip, with a bun that holds up and toppings that pop.
The atmosphere is cool without being pretentious, and the service is quick and friendly. It’s where Nashville’s younger crowd goes to get their fry fix with style.
Trust me, you’ll want to come back every Friday.
9. Captain D’s Seafood Kitchen, Cookeville
Nothing beats the smell of fresh fish sizzling in hot oil on a Friday evening. Captain D’s in Cookeville has been serving up their famous battered fish for decades, making it a beloved tradition for locals and travelers alike. The secret lies in their perfectly seasoned coating that stays crispy from the first bite to the last.
Families pack the dining room every Friday, drawn by generous portions and wallet-friendly prices. The menu offers plenty of choices, from classic cod to Southern-style catfish, all served piping hot. Don’t skip the hush puppies, they’re sweet, fluffy, and absolutely addictive.
Located right off Interstate 40, this spot makes an easy stop for anyone passing through. The staff treats everyone like regulars, creating that warm, hometown atmosphere Tennessee is famous for.
10. Long John Silver’s, Jackson
Jackson’s Long John Silver’s turns every Friday into a seafood celebration worth planning your week around. Walk through those doors and you’re greeted with the irresistible aroma of fish frying to perfection in their signature batter.
This location stands out because the crew takes pride in serving everything fresh, never letting quality slip.
What makes this place special is how they’ve become part of the community’s Friday routine. Grandparents bring grandkids, coworkers meet up after work, and everyone leaves satisfied. The crumbly fish paired with their seasoned fries creates that perfect comfort food combination.
