These Lakeside Fish Fries In North Carolina Turn A Meal Into A Getaway
There’s something magical about a North Carolina lake on a sunny afternoon: the water sparkling, a gentle breeze in the air, and the unmistakable smell of crispy fried fish sizzling nearby. Lakeside fish fries aren’t just meals, they’re little escapes from reality.
Here, the fish is golden, the hush puppies are buttery, and every bite comes with a side of laughter, chatter, and maybe a little friendly competition over who gets the last piece. From catfish to flounder to shrimp that crunch just right, these eleven spots turn an ordinary weekend into a mini adventure worth the drive.
Pack your appetite, grab your friends, and let the lake do the rest.
1. Twin Tops Fish Camp
Crispy golden flounder arrives at your table in waves, hot and endless, begging you to loosen your belt. Twin Tops Fish Camp has been perfecting mountain-style fish camp fare since 1968, and the secret is simple: generous portions and zero shortcuts.
You’ll find this beloved spot nestled in Gastonia, at 4574 S New Hope Road, where locals have been making pilgrimages for decades.
The all-you-can-eat fried flounder platters are legendary, but don’t sleep on the hushpuppies. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy within, and perfectly seasoned. Each bite feels like a warm hug from someone’s grandmother who really knows her way around a fryer.
Families fill the dining room on weekends, creating a lively buzz that makes solo diners feel welcome, too. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, which means you can show up in jeans and leave happy.
Service moves quickly despite the crowds, and the staff treats regulars and newcomers with equal warmth.
If you’re hunting for authentic North Carolina fish camp vibes, this place delivers without trying too hard. It’s comfort food at its finest, served with a side of nostalgia.
2. Riverside Fish House
Golden flounder fillets glisten under the lights, their crispy coating crackling with every fork press. Riverside Fish House sits along the river in Dallas, at 1341 Dallas Stanley Hwy, offering hearty portions that make your stomach and wallet equally happy.
The green shrimp here are plump and tender, fried to perfection without a hint of grease.
Hushpuppies arrive in baskets, still steaming, begging to be dipped in tangy tartar sauce. Kids love the casual vibe, and parents appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere that doesn’t sacrifice quality.
The dining room overlooks the water, giving diners a peaceful view while they devour plate after plate.
What sets this spot apart is the consistency. Visit once, and you’ll get the same excellent meal as your tenth visit. The kitchen clearly takes pride in every order, no matter how busy the lunch rush gets.
Portions are generous enough to share, though you might not want to. The catfish is another standout, flaky and mild, paired with crispy fries and coleslaw.
If you’re driving through Dallas and your stomach starts rumbling, this riverside gem won’t disappoint.
3. Lake Todd Fish Camp
Freshly fried flounder lands on your plate with a satisfying crunch that echoes across the table. Lake Todd Fish Camp in Concord, at 5905 Alexander Road, offers a rustic lakeside retreat where the fish is always fresh and the welcome always warm.
This spot embraces family-style dining, meaning platters get passed around, and conversations flow freely.
The portions are ridiculously generous, designed to feed hungry families without breaking the bank. Flounder is the star here, delicate and flaky beneath a golden cornmeal crust.
Each bite melts on your tongue, leaving behind a subtle sweetness that keeps you reaching for more.
The lakeside setting adds magic to every meal, especially during sunset when the water glows orange and pink. Diners can sit outside when the weather permits, enjoying cool breezes and the occasional duck sighting.
Inside, the decor is simple but cozy, with wooden tables and fishing memorabilia adorning the walls.
Service feels personal, like you’re visiting a friend’s house rather than a restaurant. The staff remembers faces and orders, creating a sense of community that’s rare these days. If you’re seeking authentic fish camp charm, Lake Todd delivers effortlessly.
4. Long Creek Fish Fry
Salt and peppered catfish arrives in simple cardboard containers, steaming and fragrant, ready to be devoured. Long Creek Fish Fry in Dallas, at 1031 Lower Dallas Hwy, has been operating since the 1960s, staying true to its take-out-only roots.
You won’t find fancy dining rooms or tablecloths here, just honest fried fish done right.
The catfish is the main attraction, seasoned perfectly with a blend that enhances rather than overpowers. Each piece is fried to order, ensuring maximum crispiness and heat.
You’ll smell the fryers working before you even park, a mouthwatering preview of what’s coming.
This no-frills approach keeps prices low and quality high. Locals know to call ahead during peak hours to avoid long waits.
The menu is straightforward, focusing on what they do best without unnecessary extras.
Grab your order and head to a nearby park or lake for an impromptu picnic. The fish stays crispy even after a short drive, a testament to the perfect frying technique.
It’s old-school fish fry culture at its purest, unchanged by trends or gimmicks. If you value substance over style, Long Creek Fish Fry will become your new obsession.
5. Catfish Cove
Fried catfish fillets arrive hot and crispy, surrounded by fluffy hushpuppies and creamy coleslaw. Catfish Cove has been a Belmont staple, at 1401 State Rd 2519, since the 1960s, serving hearty plates that satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
The buffet here is legendary, offering endless options for those who can’t decide on just one dish.
Broiled seafood provides a lighter alternative for health-conscious diners, though the fried selections remain the crowd favorite. Juicy steaks round out the menu, proving this spot knows its way around more than just seafood.
The cozy, down-home setting makes everyone feel like family.
Wooden booths line the walls, worn smooth by decades of happy diners. The staff moves efficiently through the dining room, refilling drinks and clearing plates with practiced ease.
Regulars greet each other by name, creating a neighborhood vibe that newcomers quickly embrace.
Prices remain reasonable despite the generous portions, making this a favorite for budget-conscious families. The buffet allows picky eaters to find something they love while adventurous types sample everything.
Whether you choose fried, broiled, or grilled, the quality never wavers. Catfish Cove proves that longevity comes from consistency and genuine hospitality.
6. The Captain’s Cap
Friday nights mean one thing at this Belmont institution: all-you-can-eat flounder, perch, or Calabash shrimp. The Captain’s Cap, at 3140 Linwood Rd, Gastonia, has perfected the art of the fish fry, with each piece arriving piping hot and perfectly coated.
The cornmeal coating provides a satisfying crunch without overwhelming the delicate fish beneath.
Flounder is mild and flaky, practically melting on your tongue with each bite. Perch offers a slightly firmer texture, ideal for those who prefer meatier fish.
Calabash shrimp come by the dozen, sweet and tender inside their golden shells.
The dining room fills quickly on Friday evenings, so arriving early is smart. Families claim their favorite tables while friends gather for weekly traditions.
The atmosphere buzzes with conversation and laughter, creating an infectious energy.
Service keeps pace with demand, ensuring hot food reaches tables without long waits. Sides include classic Southern fare like green beans, fries, and coleslaw. Everything tastes homemade, prepared with care rather than rushed out.
The all-you-can-eat format means you can sample multiple options without choosing favorites. It’s seafood heaven for indecisive diners who want to try everything. The Captain’s Cap turns ordinary Fridays into special occasions worth celebrating.
7. Shrimp Boat
Green shrimp glisten under the dining room lights, their Southern-style coating crackling with each bite. Shrimp Boat in Gastonia, at 120 S Broad Street, is a beloved local gem that doesn’t need fancy decor to impress.
The friendly, no-frills setting lets the food speak for itself, and boy, does it have a lot to say.
Flounder arrives perfectly fried, delicate and flaky inside a golden crust. Hearty seafood plates pile high with shrimp, fish, and sides, challenging even the biggest appetites.
The portions are generous without being wasteful, hitting that perfect sweet spot.
What surprises many first-timers is the legendary fried chicken. It rivals the seafood in popularity, crispy and juicy, with seasoning that makes your taste buds dance. Locals often order both seafood and chicken, unable to choose between their favorites.
The staff treats everyone like regulars, remembering orders and asking about families. This personal touch transforms a simple meal into a community experience.
Prices remain affordable, allowing families to dine out without financial stress.
The no-frills approach means your money goes toward quality ingredients rather than expensive ambiance. Shrimp Boat proves that great food doesn’t need pretense, just skill and genuine care.
8. Love’s Fish Box
Crispy fried flounder fillets overflow from generous plates, accompanied by golden fries and tangy coleslaw. Love’s Fish Box in Kings Mountain, at 1104 Shelby Road, is a seafood lover’s paradise where the portions match the passion.
This local-owned spot treats every customer like family, creating an atmosphere of warmth and genuine hospitality.
The menu offers an impressive variety, from fried and broiled flounder to catfish, shrimp, oysters, and deviled crab. Each option showcases careful preparation and quality ingredients.
The broiled selections provide healthier alternatives without sacrificing flavor, perfectly seasoned and tender.
Fried oysters arrive plump and juicy, their breading light enough to let the briny sweetness shine through. Deviled crab is rich and savory, a perfect choice for adventurous eaters. Catfish remains a consistent favorite, mild and flaky with a perfectly crispy exterior.
The friendly setting encourages lingering over meals, chatting with neighbors, and savoring every bite. Staff members take pride in their work, evident in the care given to each order.
Prices reflect the generous portions, offering excellent value for money.
Love’s Fish Box represents everything great about local seafood joints: quality food, fair prices, and genuine community spirit. It’s the kind of place that becomes a weekly tradition rather than an occasional treat.
9. Lake Holt Lakeside Grill
Breakfast arrives hot and custom-made, exactly how you ordered it, with views of calm water stretching beyond the deck. Lake Holt Lakeside Grill sits at 1200 Lake Holt Road in Butner, offering a peaceful escape from busy routines.
The staff greets everyone with genuine warmth, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like visiting old friends.
The food is simple but excellent, prepared with care rather than rushed. Steak and cheese sandwiches are local favorites, loaded with tender meat and melted cheese. Breakfast is served all day, perfect for those who crave eggs and bacon at noon.
What sets this spot apart is the scenery. Benches line the lakeside, inviting diners to relax before or after meals.
A playground keeps kids entertained while parents finish their coffee. You can rent kayaks or boats, turning a meal into a full day adventure.
The grill uses air induction ovens rather than fryers, creating healthier options without sacrificing taste. Shrimp gets grilled on flat tops, developing a delicious char. Everything feels fresh and thoughtfully prepared.
Prices are remarkably reasonable, especially considering the beautiful setting. It’s a hidden gem that locals treasure and visitors stumble upon with delight.
10. Captain’s Galley Seafood
Platters overflow with perfectly fried seafood, each piece golden and steaming hot. Captain’s Galley Seafood, at 1261 16th St NE, brings coastal flavors inland, serving up dishes that rival anything found at the beach.
The menu offers an impressive variety, ensuring everyone finds something to love.
Flounder remains the star, delicate and flaky with a light cornmeal coating. Shrimp comes in multiple preparations, from classic fried to spicy Calabash style.
Oysters arrive plump and juicy, their breading providing a satisfying crunch without overwhelming the briny sweetness.
The lakeside location adds special charm to every meal, especially during golden hour. Diners can watch boats glide across the water while savoring their food. The peaceful setting encourages slow eating and genuine conversation.
Families appreciate the kid-friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices. The staff moves efficiently through busy shifts, maintaining quality despite high volume.
Regulars swear by the hushpuppies, which are perfectly seasoned and impossibly fluffy inside.
Sides include classic Southern options like green beans, fries, and coleslaw. Everything tastes homemade rather than pre-packaged. The portions are generous enough to satisfy without causing uncomfortable fullness.
Captain’s Galley proves that great seafood doesn’t require ocean proximity, just skill and fresh ingredients.
11. Fisherman’s Feast
Steam rises from heaping plates of fried catfish, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas. Fisherman’s Feast, at 1215 E Marion St, Shelby, combines excellent seafood with stunning water views, creating an experience that transcends ordinary dining.
The rustic decor and casual atmosphere make everyone feel immediately comfortable.
Catfish is the specialty here, seasoned with a secret blend that locals rave about. Each fillet is fried to order, ensuring maximum crispiness and heat.
The coating adheres perfectly, never falling off in disappointing chunks.
Flounder and shrimp round out the menu, both prepared with equal care and expertise. The kitchen clearly takes pride in consistency, delivering the same excellent quality meal after meal. Sides are classic Southern fare, prepared from scratch rather than frozen bags.
The lakeside deck offers prime seating during warm months, with cool breezes and water views enhancing every bite. Inside, the dining room feels cozy and welcoming, decorated with fishing memorabilia and local photographs.
Service is attentive without being intrusive, striking that perfect balance.
Prices reflect the quality and portions, offering excellent value for money. Fisherman’s Feast proves that lakeside dining can be both affordable and memorable, combining great food with beautiful surroundings effortlessly.
