Mississippi Buffets Serving Delicious Catfish You Can’t Miss
Mississippi knows catfish like no other state. From the Delta to the Gulf Coast, crispy fried catfish is more than just a meal, it’s a tradition passed down through generations.
These buffets serve up some of the best catfish you’ll ever taste, with golden crusts, tender meat, and sides that’ll make your mouth water.
1. The Dinner Bell
This place serves food the old-fashioned way, with everyone sitting together at giant tables. The Dinner Bell makes you feel like family from the moment you walk in.
Catfish here comes out hot and crunchy with a seasoning that’ll haunt your taste buds forever. They don’t skimp on portions either, so bring your appetite and maybe some stretchy pants. The sides rotate daily but they’re always homemade perfection.
Locals have been coming here for decades and they know what’s up. You’ll see grandmas, truckers, and tourists all bonding over buttermilk-battered goodness.
2. Hollywood Cafe
Did you know this place inspired a famous movie scene? Hollywood Cafe has been slinging catfish since way back when, and they’ve perfected their craft.
The buffet line here is dangerous because everything looks incredible. Catfish fillets are thick, juicy, and fried to absolute perfection with a coating that stays crispy. You’ll also find coleslaw that actually tastes good and not like sad cabbage.
The atmosphere is quirky and fun with movie posters everywhere. Servers here treat you like you’re somebody special, even if you’re just a hungry traveler.
3. Big Apple Inn
Though known for other specialties, their catfish game is seriously underrated. Big Apple Inn has been feeding Jackson since 1939, so they know a thing or two about flavor.
The catfish here is no-frills but absolutely delicious with a simple cornmeal crust. What makes it special is the soul food sides that accompany it, turning a simple fish into a complete experience. Portions are generous without being wasteful.
This spot feels authentic in every way possible. You won’t find fancy decorations or Instagram walls, just honest food that tastes like home.
4. Ajax Diner
When college students and professors agree on something, you know it’s legit. Ajax Diner sits right in the heart of Oxford serving up catfish that converts skeptics.
Their buffet features catfish with a light, crispy coating that doesn’t overpower the fish itself. The meat inside stays moist and flaky, never dry or rubbery like some places serve. They pair it with turnip greens that actually have flavor and cornbread that crumbles just right.
The energy here is always buzzing with conversation and laughter. You’ll want to come hungry and leave happy.
5. The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint
However unexpected, this barbecue spot also serves catfish that’ll knock your socks off. The Shed BBQ & Blues Joint brings together two Mississippi traditions in one delicious place.
Catfish here gets a smoky twist that you won’t find anywhere else in the state. The breading is perfectly seasoned with spices that dance on your tongue without burning. They serve it alongside their famous barbecue sides, creating a flavor party.
Live music plays while you eat, making the whole experience feel like a celebration. The vibe is laid-back and fun, just like Mississippi should be.
6. Shapley’s
Are you ready for a buffet that goes on forever? Shapley’s understands that variety is the spice of life, especially when catfish is involved.
The catfish station here always has fresh fillets coming out hot from the kitchen. They fry them in small batches, so you’re never getting soggy leftovers that have been sitting around. The batter is light and crispy with just enough seasoning to enhance the natural flavor.
You’ll also find at least twenty other dishes to choose from, but honestly the catfish steals the show. Families love this place for good reason.
7. Cock Of The Walk
Hence the name, this place doesn’t mess around when it comes to confidence. Cock of the Walk serves catfish with attitude and backs it up with flavor.
Their whole catfish fillets are massive and cooked to golden perfection every single time. The cornmeal breading has a satisfying crunch that makes every bite exciting. They serve it with white beans and coleslaw that complement the fish beautifully.
The riverside location adds to the charm, making you feel connected to where the catfish actually comes from. It’s an experience, not just a meal, and you’ll remember it.
8. Leatha’s Bar-B-Que Inn
This gem has been family-owned forever and you can taste the love in every dish. Leatha’s Bar-B-Que Inn combines barbecue expertise with traditional catfish frying skills.
The catfish here is tender and flaky inside with a golden crust outside that shatters perfectly. They season it just right so the fish flavor shines through without getting lost. The buffet includes amazing sides like mac and cheese that’s creamy and rich.
Service is warm and genuine because they actually care about your experience. You’ll feel welcomed the second you walk through the door and satisfied when you leave.
9. Weidmann’s Restaurant
When a restaurant survives since 1870, you know they’re doing something incredibly right. Weidmann’s Restaurant brings elegance to catfish without losing the soul that makes it special.
Their catfish is refined yet still recognizably Southern with a delicate crust and perfectly cooked flesh. The buffet presentation is beautiful without being pretentious, making you feel fancy while eating comfort food. They offer unique sides that you won’t find at typical catfish joints.
The historic atmosphere adds a special touch to your dining experience. It’s catfish with a side of Mississippi history and culture.
10. Taylor Grocery
Where legends are born and catfish dreams come true, this spot is pure magic. Taylor Grocery sits tucked away like a well-kept secret that everyone somehow knows about.
The buffet spread here is ridiculous in the best way possible. Golden fillets pile high while hushpuppies practically beg you to grab them. Every bite tastes like your grandmother’s kitchen met a professional chef.
People drive hours just to get a table here. The walls are covered in history and the air smells like heaven. Trust me, you’ll leave planning your next visit before you even finish eating.
