Fish Fry Spots In Louisiana That Locals Practically Treat As Weekend Rituals

Every weekend, something magical happens across Louisiana when families and friends gather at their favorite fish fry spots.

Crispy golden catfish, fluffy hushpuppies, and creamy coleslaw fill plates at restaurants that have been serving locals for generations.

These beloved establishments aren’t just places to eat they’re where communities come together to celebrate good food, great company, and a tradition that runs deep in Louisiana’s soul.

1. Deanie’s Seafood Restaurant

Walking into this place feels like stepping back in time to when seafood restaurants focused on one thing serving heaping portions of perfectly fried fish.

The address is 841 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70112.

Since opening its doors in 1961, this spot has built a reputation for catfish that arrives at your table hot, crispy, and impossible to resist.

Golden hushpuppies accompany every order, their sweet corn flavor balancing the savory fish beautifully.

Hearty sides round out the meal, making sure nobody leaves hungry.

The old-school atmosphere makes you feel right at home, whether you’re a first-timer or a regular who’s been coming for decades.

Friendly servers know exactly how to make your visit special, treating everyone like family from the moment you sit down.

2. Hawk’s

Crawfish season may get all the attention, but locals know this spot serves outstanding fried catfish year-round that deserves equal recognition.

You can visit them at 16103 LA-3235, Galliano, LA 70354.

Paper-lined baskets arrive piled high with golden fish that’s been fried to absolute perfection, with a coating that provides serious crunch without overwhelming the delicate meat inside.

Casual doesn’t even begin to describe the laid-back atmosphere, where nobody judges if you eat with your fingers or wear your fishing clothes to dinner.

Crawfish decorations cover the walls, reminding everyone of Louisiana’s deep connection to seafood in all its forms.

The staff treats regulars and newcomers exactly the same with warmth, efficiency, and genuine Southern hospitality that makes you feel valued.

Prices stay reasonable despite the generous portions they serve.

3. Sammy’s Grill

Home-style cooking reaches its peak at this neighborhood favorite where the fish fry special draws crowds every Friday and Saturday without fail.

Find this gem at 4524 Hwy 1 S, Port Allen, LA 70767. Cajun seasoning in the breading adds a spicy kick that sets their catfish apart from more traditional preparations you’ll find elsewhere.

Regulars arrive early because word spreads fast when the fish comes out of the fryer fresh and hot.

The grill atmosphere means you can watch your food being prepared, adding an element of theater to your dining experience.

Traditional Southern sides accompany every order, from creamy mac and cheese to tangy coleslaw that provides cooling relief from the spicy fish.

Portions always exceed expectations, often providing enough for lunch the next day if you can resist finishing everything on your plate immediately.

4. Landry’s Seafood House

Waterfront views complement perfectly fried catfish at this establishment that understands presentation matters just as much as taste.

Visit them at 8000 Lakeshore Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124.

Nautical themes throughout the dining room remind you of Louisiana’s deep connection to fishing culture and the Gulf waters that provide such incredible seafood.

Their catfish arrives plated beautifully, proving that fried food can look elegant when prepared with care and attention to detail.

Large windows let natural light flood the space while offering glimpses of the water beyond, making your meal feel like a mini vacation.

Weekend crowds pack the place, so calling ahead for reservations saves you from long waits during peak hours.

The menu offers plenty of variety, but regulars consistently order the fish fry because it never disappoints and hits that comfort food craving perfectly every single time.

5. Café Des Amis

Saturday mornings take on new meaning at this Breaux Bridge favorite where zydeco music accompanies your fish fry in a celebration of Louisiana culture.

The address is 140 E Bridge St, Breaux Bridge, LA 70517. Live bands get people dancing between bites, creating an energetic atmosphere that turns breakfast or lunch into a full-blown party.

Their catfish comes seasoned with traditional Cajun spices that pack heat without overwhelming your taste buds or masking the fish’s natural flavor.

Dancing off your meal becomes easy when the music keeps your feet tapping and the accordion player encourages everyone to join in.

Tourists discover this place through word of mouth, but locals have been keeping it busy for years with their loyal patronage.

The combination of excellent food and live entertainment creates an experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

6. Middendorf’s

Since 1934, this family-owned spot has been perfecting their thin-fried catfish technique, creating a style that’s become synonymous with authentic Louisiana fish fries.

Located at 30160 LA-51, Akers, LA 70421, this place draws crowds who travel from all over the state just to taste their signature dish.

The catfish gets sliced incredibly thin before frying, resulting in maximum crispiness and a texture unlike anywhere else.

Generations of the same families return year after year, introducing their children and grandchildren to the tradition.

Rustic charm fills the dining room, where walls display photos documenting decades of satisfied customers and local history.

The lakeside location adds to the appeal, making you feel like you’ve escaped the city for a true Louisiana experience.

Tartar sauce and hot sauce sit ready on every table for customizing your meal.