Minnesota Fried Catfish Joints That Turn Long Drives Into Easy Decisions
Minnesota might be famous for walleye and lake fish, but fried catfish has quietly become a favorite across the state.
From family-run diners to lakeside lodges, these spots serve up golden, crispy catfish that makes any road trip worthwhile.
I’ve gathered the best places where the catfish is always fresh, the portions are generous, and the drive becomes part of the adventure.
1. Riverside Catfish House
Southern-style cooking meets Minnesota hospitality in the best way possible.
You’ll find this gem at 892 River Road North, Hastings, MN 55033, where the Mississippi River provides a stunning backdrop.
Their buttermilk-soaked catfish gets double-dipped in seasoned flour for extra crunch.
The tartar sauce is homemade daily with pickles from a local farm.
Outdoor seating lets you watch boats drift by while enjoying your meal.
I appreciate how they serve the fish on heated plates to keep everything warm.
The hush puppies come with honey butter that melts instantly.
Live music plays on Saturday evenings during the summer season.
2. Big Lake Trading Post
Simple food done exceptionally well defines this roadside treasure.
Find it at 3456 Highway 10, Big Lake, MN 55309, where truckers and families stop for the same reason.
The catfish fillets are massive, often hanging over the edges of the basket.
Everything gets cooked in peanut oil that’s changed daily for the freshest taste.
The seasoning blend includes paprika and cayenne for a subtle kick.
I always order extra lemon wedges because the citrus brightens each bite perfectly.
Paper towels come in big rolls on every table for messy, happy eating.
The owner worked in Louisiana restaurants before moving north and bringing those recipes along.
3. Loon’s Landing
Wilderness dining reaches new heights when catfish is this good.
The address is 7821 Wilderness Drive, Ely, MN 55731, deep in the Boundary Waters region.
Their catfish comes from sustainable farms and gets pan-fried in cast iron skillets.
The result is a golden crust that shatters with each forkful.
Wild rice pilaf and grilled vegetables complete the plate beautifully.
I enjoy sitting on the deck where loons call across the water at sunset.
The lodge atmosphere feels both rustic and refined at the same time.
Reservations are recommended during peak fishing season when cabins fill up quickly.
The staff knows the best local fishing spots too.
4. Catfish Corner Express
Small-town charm and big-city flavor combine at this corner establishment.
Located at 234 Main Street, Winona, MN 55987, this cafe has been a community fixture since 1965.
The catfish gets hand-cut daily and seasoned with a proprietary spice mix.
Regulars swear by the remoulade sauce that adds tangy richness to every bite.
The portions are generous enough to share, though you probably won’t want to.
I appreciate how they offer both fried and blackened options for different tastes.
The coffee is strong and bottomless, perfect for long conversations.
Old photographs of Winona line the walls, telling stories of the town’s river history.
5. Prairie Kitchen
Retro vibes and modern cooking techniques create something special here.
The diner sits at 5678 Prairie Avenue, Marshall, MN 56258, where farmland stretches endlessly in every direction. Their catfish arrives in a beer batter that stays light and airy.
The secret ingredient is club soda, which creates tiny bubbles in the coating.
Onion rings and sweet potato fries make excellent side choices.
I love the jukebox that still plays classic country songs from the 1970s.
The waitstaff wears vintage uniforms that match the diner’s throwback aesthetic perfectly.
Milkshakes come in mason jars with whipped cream piled high on top.
The place gets packed after high school football games.
6. Timber Lodge
Northwoods ambiance enhances every meal at this rustic retreat.
You’ll discover it at 9012 Forest Highway, Bemidji, MN 56601, surrounded by towering pines and birch trees. The catfish gets a pecan crust that adds nutty sweetness to the savory fish.
Maple glaze drizzled on top brings Minnesota flavors to southern tradition.
The fireplace crackles during cold months, creating a cozy atmosphere.
I recommend trying their wild mushroom gravy as an alternative to traditional sauces.
The bar serves local craft beers that pair wonderfully with fried food.
Hunting and fishing stories get swapped between tables throughout the evening.
The gift shop sells homemade jams and local honey.
7. River Road Tavern
History and flavor blend seamlessly at this riverside establishment.
Find it at 1567 Riverbend Road, Red Wing, MN 55066, where the building dates back to 1892.
Their catfish preparation stays true to old-fashioned methods with modern quality standards.
The fish soaks overnight in buttermilk before getting dredged in seasoned flour.
Cast iron pans ensure even cooking and perfect browning every time.
I enjoy the outdoor patio where you can watch eagles soar above the river.
The tavern’s original tin ceiling and wooden bar remain beautifully preserved.
Local pottery artists display their work throughout the dining room.
The dessert menu features homemade pies that change with the seasons.
8. Crossroads Restaurant & Bar
Convenience meets quality at this highway intersection favorite.
Located at 4321 County Road 12, Alexandria, MN 56308, this spot serves travelers heading to lake cabins. The catfish fillets are thick and meaty, never overcooked or dry.
Their signature seasoning includes garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of lemon pepper.
The drive-through window makes it easy to grab dinner on the way to the lake.
I appreciate how they package everything so it stays hot during the drive.
The portions are sized perfectly for hungry families after a day on the water.
Friday fish fry specials include two sides and cornbread for one low price.
The staff works efficiently even during rush hours.
9. Sunset Bay Restaurant
Watching the sun dip below the horizon makes the catfish taste even better.
The address is 2890 Lakeshore Boulevard, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501, where sunsets paint the sky orange and pink. Their catfish comes with a choice of Cajun or traditional seasoning blends.
The kitchen uses an air fryer option for those wanting less oil but still craving crunch.
Floor-to-ceiling windows provide unobstructed views of the lake from every table.
I love ordering the sampler platter that includes catfish, shrimp, and walleye for variety.
The wine list features selections from regional vineyards.
Summer concerts happen on the lawn every Thursday evening. Boat slips are available for customers arriving by water.
10. Farmhouse Restaurant
Country cooking reaches perfection in this converted 1920s farmhouse.
You’ll find it at 6543 Township Road, Mankato, MN 56001, surrounded by cornfields and pastures.
The catfish gets a cornflake crust that provides incredible texture and crunch.
Farm-fresh vegetables from the garden out back accompany every entree during growing season.
The dining room features original hardwood floors and vintage farm equipment as decoration.
I recommend the family-style platters that encourage sharing and conversation around the table.
The iced tea is sweetened just right and served in Ball jars.
The owners raise chickens and goats that kids can visit before or after meals. Rocking chairs on the porch invite guests to relax.
11. Big Pines Lodge
Two towering pines mark the entrance to this hidden treasure.
The location is 5432 Pine Forest Lane, Park Rapids, MN 56470, where nature surrounds you completely.
Their catfish features a unique cornmeal and panko blend that creates layers of crunch.
Dipping sauces include traditional tartar, spicy remoulade, and a surprising blueberry barbecue option.
The outdoor seating area includes fire pits for cool evenings under the stars.
I love how they serve everything on wooden boards that add to the rustic experience.
The staff shares recommendations for nearby hiking trails and fishing spots.
Seasonal specials incorporate local ingredients like morel mushrooms and wild asparagus.
The gift shop sells pine-scented candles and local crafts.
