18 Fish Fry Hotspots Across Texas That Bring The Southern Flavor
Texas knows how to fry fish the right way, mixing Southern traditions with Gulf Coast seafood magic. From crispy catfish to golden-fried shrimp, these restaurants serve up platters that make your mouth water and your heart happy.
Whether you’re craving hush puppies on the side or a full-on seafood feast, the Lone Star State has spots that’ll satisfy every fried fish lover out there.
1. Flying Fish in Garland
If you’ve been hunting for authentic East Texas fish camp vibes, this Garland gem delivers exactly what you need. Flying Fish creates an atmosphere that feels like you’re sitting by the lake, minus the mosquitoes and humidity.
Their catfish fillets come out hot and crispy, seasoned with a blend that makes every bite memorable. The portions are seriously generous, so come hungry or plan to take home leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.
Hush puppies here aren’t just an afterthought they’re fluffy inside with a perfect crunch outside. The fries complement the fish beautifully, making this a complete Southern meal. Locals have been raving about this place for years, and once you try it, you’ll understand why people keep coming back for more delicious fish.
2. Fish Tales Seafood in Cleveland
Since 1999, this Cleveland favorite has been serving up seafood that keeps families coming back generation after generation. Fish Tales understands that variety matters when you’re feeding hungry Texans who love their fried fish.
Their menu goes beyond basic catfish, offering po’boys stuffed with crispy seafood and rich gumbo that warms you up on cooler days. Each location maintains the same quality standards, so you know what to expect no matter which one you visit.
The fried catfish here has that perfect golden coating that crunches when you bite into it. Staff members are friendly and helpful, making sure your sweet tea stays filled throughout your meal. It’s the kind of place where you can bring the whole family without worrying about picky eaters finding something they’ll enjoy eating happily.
3. Soulman’s Bar-B-Que Friday Special
When Friday rolls around, barbecue lovers switch gears and head to Soulman’s for their legendary Fish Fry tradition. This Garland location proves you don’t have to choose between smoked meats and fried seafood you can have both under one roof.
Their deep-fried catfish fillets arrive at your table with that signature Southern golden color and satisfying crunch. Classic sides like coleslaw, beans, and potato salad round out the plate perfectly. The hush puppies are crispy little nuggets of cornmeal heaven that disappear fast.
It’s become a weekly ritual for many locals who appreciate good food without fancy frills. The casual atmosphere lets you relax and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed or overdressed for the occasion at all.
4. Razzoo’s Cajun Cafe in Dallas
Bold flavors hit you the moment your plate arrives at this Dallas hotspot that brings Louisiana spice to Texas tables. Razzoo’s doesn’t play it safe with bland seasonings they go all in with Cajun flair that makes your taste buds dance.
The fried catfish here comes with a distinctive seasoning blend that sets it apart from typical fish fry spots around town. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the gator tail for something you won’t find everywhere else in the state.
The atmosphere is lively and fun, perfect for groups who want to enjoy good food while having a great time together. Service stays quick even during busy hours, and the menu offers enough variety to please seafood lovers and landlubbers alike perfectly well always.
5. Catfish Parlour in Austin
Austin’s live music scene isn’t the only thing worth celebrating this local institution has been frying up catfish since way back when. Catfish Parlour represents old-school Texas dining at its finest, where simplicity and quality matter most.
Their catfish is hand-breaded and fried to order, ensuring every piece comes out fresh and hot. The cornmeal coating provides that classic texture people expect from traditional Southern fish fries done right every single time.
Families appreciate the relaxed vibe and reasonable prices that don’t break the bank on Friday nights. The coleslaw is tangy and refreshing, cutting through the richness of the fried fish beautifully. It’s one of those places where tourists and locals sit side by side, all enjoying the same delicious meal together happily each visit.
6. Gilhooley’s in San Leon
Did you know this San Leon spot sits right near Galveston Bay, giving them access to incredibly fresh seafood daily? Gilhooley’s specializes in oysters, but their fried fish offerings deserve serious attention from anyone passing through the area.
The Gulf location means the seafood tastes like it just came out of the water that morning. Their fried shrimp and fish platters come piled high, satisfying even the hungriest appetites after a day on the water or exploring nearby beaches.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere lets the food do all the talking here. Picnic tables and outdoor seating make it feel like a true coastal experience. Locals guard this place like a secret, but word keeps spreading about how good everything tastes when it’s this fresh daily.
7. Cajun Greek in Houston
How often do you find a restaurant that successfully blends two completely different cuisines into something amazing? Cajun Greek in Houston pulls off this unlikely combination, creating dishes that surprise and delight everyone who walks through their doors.
Their fried catfish gets a unique twist with seasonings that incorporate both Cajun heat and Mediterranean herbs. The result is something familiar yet excitingly different from your typical fish fry experience around town.
The menu offers plenty of options beyond fish, but seafood lovers will find the fried selections particularly memorable. Staff members are enthusiastic about explaining the fusion concept to first-time visitors. It’s proof that Texas cuisine continues evolving while still honoring traditional Southern cooking methods that everyone loves so much always.
8. BB’s Tex-Orleans in Houston
When Texas meets New Orleans, magic happens on your plate at this Houston favorite that celebrates both cultures equally. BB’s Tex-Orleans brings authentic Louisiana flavors to the Lone Star State without making Texans feel like they’re abandoning their roots.
The fried catfish here comes with remoulade sauce that adds a tangy kick you won’t forget anytime soon. Sides like dirty rice and red beans complete the Gulf Coast experience perfectly. The atmosphere feels festive and welcoming, like you’re attending a backyard crawfish boil with good friends.
Live music on certain nights adds to the ambiance, making dinner feel like an event rather than just a meal. Portions are generous, and the prices won’t make you regret ordering that extra appetizer you’ve been eyeing since you sat down here today.
9. Fisherman’s Wharf in Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi’s coastal location means seafood restaurants have to compete at a higher level to stand out from the crowd. Fisherman’s Wharf rises to the challenge, offering fried fish that tastes like the Gulf waters just outside their windows.
Their fried flounder is particularly popular among locals who know good fish when they taste it. The light, crispy batter lets the delicate flavor of the fish shine through beautifully. Waterfront views make your meal even more enjoyable, especially during sunset hours when the sky turns brilliant colors.
The restaurant has been a Corpus staple for decades, earning trust through consistent quality and service. Whether you order catfish, shrimp, or oysters, everything comes out perfectly fried and seasoned just right every single time you visit this wonderful place.
10. The Shack Seafood and Oyster Bar in Galveston
Galveston’s beach culture demands restaurants that serve fresh seafood fast without sacrificing quality or flavor. The Shack delivers exactly that, with fried fish baskets that satisfy beachgoers and locals alike throughout the year.
Their fried shrimp and catfish combo lets you enjoy the best of both worlds on one plate. The casual atmosphere matches the island vibe perfectly flip-flops and sandy feet are completely acceptable here. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy the coastal breeze while munching on crispy, golden seafood.
Prices are reasonable for a tourist destination, making it accessible for families on vacation budgets. The oyster bar adds another dimension for those who want raw seafood alongside their fried favorites. It’s the kind of place you’ll remember fondly when you’re back home craving beach vibes again.
11. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen (Multiple Locations)
Though it’s a chain, Pappadeaux maintains quality standards that rival independent seafood restaurants across the state. Their multiple Texas locations make it easy to find great fried fish no matter where you’re traveling through the Lone Star State.
The fried catfish here gets paired with sophisticated sauces and sides that elevate it beyond typical fish fry fare. The atmosphere is a bit more upscale than most fish shacks, making it perfect for special occasions or business dinners.
Their Louisiana-inspired menu brings Cajun and Creole flavors to every dish they serve. Service is attentive and professional, and the extensive menu means everyone in your party will find something they love. It’s proof that you can have consistent quality across multiple locations when you care about food.
12. Floyd’s Cajun Seafood in Webster
Webster’s hidden gem brings authentic Louisiana seafood traditions to the Houston area with passion and expertise. Floyd’s Cajun Seafood doesn’t hold back on the spices, giving you that genuine Cajun kick with every bite you take.
Their fried catfish comes seasoned with a blend that’ll make you reach for your sweet tea regularly. The crawfish options are fantastic too, but the fried fish deserves its own spotlight for being consistently delicious. Hush puppies here are addictive light, fluffy, and perfectly seasoned to complement the main dish.
The restaurant maintains a casual, family-friendly vibe where everyone feels welcome from the moment they walk in. Portions are generous, and leftovers reheat surprisingly well for lunch the next day at home or work.
13. Landry’s Seafood House (Multiple Locations)
Are you looking for reliable seafood that won’t disappoint when you’re entertaining out-of-town guests? Landry’s Seafood House offers consistency across their Texas locations, making them a safe bet for quality fried fish every time.
Their fried catfish and shrimp platters come with all the classic sides you’d expect from a proper fish fry. The nautical decor creates an ocean atmosphere even when you’re miles from the nearest coast. Menu variety means you can visit multiple times without ordering the same thing twice.
Service is generally quick and efficient, perfect for lunch breaks or family dinners when you’re hungry. The prices are reasonable considering the portion sizes and quality of ingredients used. It’s become a go-to spot for many Texas families celebrating special occasions together.
14. Pier 21 Seafood in Fort Worth
Fort Worth might not have ocean views, but Pier 21 proves you don’t need beaches to serve outstanding fried seafood. This inland spot has built a reputation on quality ingredients and Southern hospitality that keeps customers returning regularly.
Their fried catfish is tender inside with a perfectly crispy coating that doesn’t fall off when you cut into it. The shrimp options are equally impressive, offering variety for those who want alternatives to catfish. Sides like mac and cheese and green beans add comfort food appeal to every meal.
The restaurant feels welcoming and comfortable, like eating at a relative’s house who happens to be an amazing cook. Staff members treat regulars and first-timers with equal warmth and attention throughout the entire dining experience here always.
15. Boudreaux’s Cajun Kitchen in San Antonio
San Antonio’s food scene gets a Louisiana injection at this Cajun kitchen that doesn’t compromise on authenticity or flavor. Boudreaux’s brings the bayou to South Texas, complete with all the spices and traditions that make Cajun cooking so special.
The fried catfish here comes with a spicy kick that’ll wake up your taste buds without overwhelming them completely. Sides like jambalaya and red beans add to the Louisiana experience authentically. The atmosphere feels lively and fun, with music and decor that transport you straight to New Orleans.
Portions are substantial, and the prices won’t shock you when the check arrives at your table. It’s a great spot for groups who want to share plates and try multiple items. Service stays friendly even during busy weekend rushes when everyone wants fish.
16. Crazy Cajun Seafood in El Paso
El Paso sits far from Louisiana, but Crazy Cajun brings those Gulf Coast flavors to the western edge of Texas successfully. This spot proves that great fried fish can thrive anywhere when you have the right recipes and commitment to quality ingredients.
Their fried catfish and shrimp combinations let you sample different textures and flavors on one plate. The Cajun seasoning adds complexity without overpowering the natural taste of the seafood itself. Corn and potatoes round out the meal, soaking up all those delicious spices perfectly.
The restaurant attracts locals and visitors alike, becoming a favorite for those craving seafood in the desert. Prices are competitive, and portion sizes ensure you’ll leave satisfied. It’s comfort food with a spicy twist that keeps people coming back regularly.
17. Bayou City Seafood in Houston
Houston’s nickname is Bayou City, so it’s fitting that this spot celebrates that heritage through outstanding seafood offerings. Bayou City Seafood operates as both a market and restaurant, ensuring the freshest possible ingredients go into every dish.
Their fried catfish benefits from that market-fresh quality, tasting cleaner and more flavorful than most competitors. The light breading lets you appreciate the fish itself rather than just coating. Sides are simple but well-executed, complementing rather than competing with the main attraction.
The casual setup encourages quick meals or takeout for busy families who want quality without the wait. Prices reflect the freshness factor but remain reasonable for what you’re getting. It’s a neighborhood favorite that tourists often discover and wish existed in their hometown too.
18. Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood in Arlington
Arlington’s seafood scene gets a modern twist at Hook & Reel, where traditional Cajun cooking meets contemporary dining trends. This spot has become popular with younger crowds who appreciate good food served in a fun, energetic atmosphere.
The fried catfish here comes with signature sauces that add layers of flavor to each bite. Their seafood boil options let you combine fried items with steamed selections for variety. The restaurant stays busy, especially on weekends when families and friends gather for shared meals.
Service is generally quick despite the crowds, and the menu offers enough choices to please different preferences. Prices are moderate, making it accessible for regular visits rather than just special occasions. It’s where traditional Southern fish fry meets modern Texas dining culture perfectly well.
