16 Texas Fish Fry Joints That Keep Locals Coming Back Every Friday For Southern Charm
Friday nights in Texas mean one thing: golden, crispy fish served with all the fixings that make Southern cooking unforgettable.
From bustling barbecue spots that switch gears for the weekend to family-owned fish shacks tucked along country roads, these places have perfected the art of the fish fry.
Locals know exactly where to go for that perfect crunch, tangy coleslaw, and hush puppies that melt in your mouth.
Whether you’re craving catfish or looking for a Friday tradition, these sixteen spots deliver Southern hospitality and flavors worth the drive.
1. Soulman’s Bar-B-Que – Garland
Barbecue might be the main draw, but Friday fish fry at this beloved spot turns heads and fills tables fast.
Located at 3410 Broadway Blvd, Garland, TX 75043, this restaurant switches from smoked meats to deep-fried catfish fillets every week.
Crispy hush puppies arrive hot alongside award-winning sides like house-cut fries and Southern-fried cabbage that locals swear by.
The catfish comes out golden and flaky, with just the right amount of seasoning in the cornmeal coating.
Families and coworkers alike gather here for the relaxed vibe and generous portions that never disappoint.
Service tends to be friendly and efficient, even during the Friday dinner rush when the parking lot fills up quickly.
2. Catfish Haven – Whitesboro
Soul food meets small-town hospitality at this charming restaurant that specializes in cornmeal-crusted catfish done right.
You’ll find it at 24059 US-377, Whitesboro, TX 76273, where the menu focuses on comfort classics made from scratch.
Homemade tartar sauce adds a tangy kick to every bite, while sides like candied yams and collard greens bring authentic Southern flavor to the plate.
The catfish is always fresh, never frozen, and fried to a perfect golden brown that stays crispy even after a few minutes on the table.
Regulars love the cozy atmosphere and the way staff treat everyone like family, making first-time visitors feel right at home.
Portions are hearty, so arrive hungry and ready to enjoy a meal that tastes like a home-cooked tradition.
3. Fred’s Fish Fry – San Antonio
Since 1963, this San Antonio institution has been wrapping flaky white fish in paper and serving it with a side of nostalgia.
The address is 1406 Bandera Rd, San Antonio, TX 78228, and the building itself feels like a step back in time.
Fresh-cut fries and homemade coleslaw complete every order, offering the perfect balance of crunchy, tangy, and satisfying.
The fish sandwiches are legendary here, with perfectly seasoned fillets that break apart easily and stay moist inside the crispy coating.
Lines can get long on Fridays, but the wait is always worth it according to generations of loyal customers.
Simple, no-frills service keeps the focus on the food, which has stayed consistently delicious for over sixty years.
4. Flying Fish – Garland
East Texas fish camp vibes come alive at this lively seafood spot where catfish is the star of the show every single day.
Located at 4430 Lavon Dr, Garland, TX 75040, the restaurant captures the spirit of lakeside dining without leaving the city.
Hot and crispy catfish fillets arrive with fluffy hush puppies that practically melt in your mouth, while generous portions ensure nobody leaves hungry.
The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for families, date nights, or just a Friday tradition with friends who appreciate good seafood.
Service is usually quick and friendly, with staff who know the menu inside and out and offer helpful suggestions for first-timers.
Peak hours can get busy, so arriving a bit early or calling ahead may help avoid the longest waits.
5. BB’s Tex-Orleans – Houston
Cajun spices meet Texas tradition at this Houston favorite where the fish fry comes with a Louisiana twist.
The restaurant sits at 515 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006, bringing bold flavors and a lively atmosphere to the table every Friday.
Catfish fillets get a Cajun-spiced cornmeal coating that adds a kick without overwhelming the delicate fish inside.
Sides like dirty rice, red beans, and fried okra round out the meal, offering a taste of the Gulf Coast in every bite.
The dining room buzzes with energy, especially on weekend evenings when live music sometimes fills the space.
Portions are generous, and the staff keeps drinks refilled and plates coming at a comfortable pace that lets you savor every flavor.
6. Catfish Parlour South – Austin
Austin locals have been flocking to this spot since the 1980s for catfish that’s fried to perfection and served with a smile.
You’ll find the original location at 4705 E Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX 78741, where the menu stays simple and the quality stays high.
All-you-can-eat catfish options make this a favorite for big appetites, while sides like coleslaw, fries, and hush puppies keep everyone satisfied.
The fish arrives hot and crispy, with a light breading that doesn’t overpower the mild, flaky catfish underneath.
Families appreciate the relaxed vibe and kid-friendly menu, while regulars love the consistency that keeps them coming back week after week.
Service is attentive without being rushed, making it easy to settle in and enjoy a leisurely Friday meal.
7. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen – Fort Worth
Louisiana-inspired seafood takes center stage at this Dallas location where the fish fry tradition meets upscale casual dining.
The address is 2708 West Fwy, Fort Worth, TX 76102, United States and the spacious dining room offers a comfortable setting for groups and families.
Fried catfish here comes with a Cajun flair, served alongside jambalaya, crawfish etouffee, or other Gulf Coast favorites.
The menu offers variety beyond catfish, but the Friday fish fry specials keep locals returning for that perfect combination of crispy coating and tender fish.
Service is polished and professional, with servers who know the menu well and can guide diners through the many tempting options.
The atmosphere strikes a nice balance between lively and relaxed, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions.
8. O’ Taste & See Eatery – Houston
Known primarily for steaks, this Houston landmark also serves up a mean fish fry that surprises first-time visitors.
Located at 10971 Northwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77092, the restaurant offers a Texas-sized menu with something for everyone.
Fried catfish and shrimp platters come with classic sides like baked potatoes, green beans, and freshly baked bread from the on-site bakery.
The fish is always fresh, lightly breaded, and fried just until golden, maintaining moisture and flavor throughout.
Families appreciate the spacious dining room and welcoming atmosphere, while the salad bar adds extra value to every meal.
Service tends to be attentive and warm, with staff who take pride in making sure every guest leaves happy and well-fed.
9. Luby’s Cafeteria – Various Locations
Cafeteria-style service meets classic Texas comfort food at this beloved chain where Friday fish is a long-standing tradition.
Multiple locations exist throughout Texas, including 9797A S Post Oak Rd, Houston, TX 77096, where the setup makes ordering easy and stress-free.
Guests slide trays along the line, choosing from fried fish, multiple sides, and desserts that look as good as they taste.
The fish is lightly battered and fried fresh throughout the day, ensuring every serving comes out hot and crispy.
Seniors and families love the affordable prices and the ability to customize each meal with different side combinations.
The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner without any fuss or pretense.
10. Fisherman’s Wharf – Galveston
Gulf Coast charm defines this Galveston spot where fresh catch meets traditional fish fry techniques every day of the week.
The restaurant sits at Pier 22, 2200 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX 77550, offering waterfront views that enhance every meal.
Fried snapper, flounder, and catfish all make appearances on the menu, giving diners plenty of options beyond the usual catfish-only selections.
The breading stays light and crispy, allowing the fresh fish flavor to shine through without being masked by heavy seasoning.
Locals and tourists mix comfortably in the dining room, where the relaxed coastal vibe makes everyone feel welcome.
Service is friendly and knowledgeable, with staff who can explain the daily catch and make recommendations based on personal preferences.
11. Cajun Corner – Arlington
Spicy Cajun flavors and Texas hospitality blend seamlessly at this Arlington favorite where the fish fry comes with extra kick.
Located at 2304 W Park Row Dr, Pantego, TX 76013, the restaurant brings Louisiana cooking to North Texas with authentic recipes and fresh ingredients.
Catfish fillets get coated in a spicy cornmeal mix that adds heat without overwhelming, while remoulade sauce offers a tangy, creamy contrast.
Sides like red beans and rice, fried pickles, and corn on the cob complete the meal with bold, satisfying flavors.
The casual dining room fills up quickly on Fridays, so arriving early or calling ahead can help avoid the longest waits.
Staff members are welcoming and quick to offer suggestions, making first-time visitors feel like regulars from the moment they walk in.
12. Butter & Grace – Waxahachie
Country roads lead to this Waxahachie gem where catfish is the only thing on the menu, and that’s exactly how locals like it.
The address is 1585 N Hwy 77, Waxahachie, TX 75165, and the rustic building fits perfectly into the small-town Texas landscape.
All-you-can-eat catfish draws crowds on Friday nights, with platters piled high with golden fillets, hush puppies, and coleslaw.
The fish is always fresh, never frozen, and fried in small batches to maintain that perfect crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior.
Service is warm and personal, with staff who remember regulars by name and treat newcomers like old friends.
The atmosphere is simple and unpretentious, focusing attention on the food and the company rather than fancy decor or complicated menus.
13. Catfish Station & More – Fort Worth
Fort Worth families have trusted this local spot for decades, returning every Friday for catfish that tastes like home.
You’ll find it at 4158 E Rosedale St, Fort Worth, TX 76105, where the focus stays on quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
Catfish fillets arrive perfectly seasoned and fried, with a cornmeal crust that stays crispy even after the meal cools slightly.
Hush puppies and french fries come standard, while homemade tartar sauce and cocktail sauce add extra flavor to every bite.
The dining room is comfortable and unpretentious, with booths and tables that accommodate groups of all sizes.
Service is dependable and friendly, with staff who keep water glasses full and plates coming at a comfortable, unhurried pace.
14. Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl And Grill – Round Rock
Entertainment meets dining at this unique Round Rock spot where fishing-themed decor sets the stage for a fun, family-friendly meal.
Located at 200 Bass Pro Dr, Round Rock, TX 78665, the venue combines mini-golf, games, and a full-service restaurant under one roof.
Fried catfish and fish tacos share menu space with burgers and salads, offering something for every taste and appetite.
The fish comes out hot and crispy, with a light batter that doesn’t weigh down the tender catfish underneath.
Kids love the lively atmosphere and the chance to play games before or after dinner, while parents appreciate the varied menu options.
Service is energetic and accommodating, with staff who handle large groups and birthday parties with ease and good humor.
15. The Boiling Crab – Multiple Locations
While seafood boils dominate the menu, Friday fish fry specials at this chain bring a different kind of crispy satisfaction.
One popular location is at 13340 Audelia Rd #106, Dallas, TX 75243, where the casual, roll-up-your-sleeves vibe makes every meal feel like a celebration.
Fried catfish baskets come with corn, potatoes, and a choice of Cajun spice levels that range from mild to mouth-scorching.
The fish is always fresh, fried to order, and served in generous portions that satisfy even the biggest appetites.
The atmosphere is loud and lively, with paper-covered tables and a no-frills approach that puts all the focus on the food.
Service is fast-paced and efficient, perfect for diners who want to dig in quickly and enjoy a casual, fun meal with friends.
16. Rogers BBQ Barn – Beaumont
Barbecue takes a back seat on Fridays when this Beaumont favorite switches gears to serve up some of the best fried fish in Southeast Texas.
The restaurant is located at 15879 Sour Lake Rd, Beaumont, TX 77713, where smoky aromas give way to the sizzle of frying catfish every weekend.
Golden catfish fillets arrive with classic barbecue sides like baked beans, potato salad, and buttery dinner rolls that soak up every last drop of flavor.
The fish is seasoned simply and fried perfectly, with a crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the tender, flaky fish inside.
Locals love the combination of barbecue tradition and fish fry excellence, making this a go-to spot for Friday dinners all year long.
Service is warm and welcoming, with staff who treat every customer like a valued neighbor stopping by for a home-cooked meal.
