15 New York Catfish Restaurants Locals Swear Serve The Best Bayou Bites

When you think about New York food, catfish might not be the first thing that pops into your head. But trust me, this city has some seriously amazing spots where Southern-style catfish gets the royal treatment it deserves.

From crispy fried fillets to spicy Cajun-seasoned plates, these restaurants bring authentic bayou flavors straight to the Big Apple, and locals can’t get enough of them.

1. The Commodore

If you’re hunting for catfish that tastes like it came straight from Louisiana, this Williamsburg gem won’t disappoint. The Commodore serves up their catfish with a perfectly golden crust that crunches with every bite. I love how they balance the seasoning so it’s flavorful without being too spicy for those who prefer milder tastes.

Their menu changes with the seasons, but the catfish stays a constant favorite among regulars. You’ll find it paired with classic Southern sides like creamy coleslaw and buttery cornbread. The atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Locals swear by their weekend brunch, where catfish and grits steal the show.

2. Melba’s Restaurant

Are you ready for some authentic Harlem soul food? Melba’s has been dishing out comfort food that makes you feel right at home since day one. Their catfish comes out hot and crispy, seasoned with a secret blend that keeps people coming back week after week.

What makes this place special is how they treat every customer like family. The portions are generous, and the sides are just as impressive as the main dish. Mac and cheese, collard greens, and candied yams complement the catfish beautifully.

It’s the kind of restaurant where you’ll want to loosen your belt a notch. The weekend crowds can get pretty intense, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting during peak hours.

3. Peaches HotHouse

How do you make catfish even more exciting? Add some serious heat like they do at Peaches HotHouse in Bedford-Stuyvesant. This spot takes inspiration from Nashville hot chicken but applies that fiery magic to their catfish. The result is a dish that’ll make your taste buds dance and your forehead sweat just a little.

They offer different heat levels, so you can choose your adventure wisely. Even the mild version packs some punch, while the extra hot is reserved for true spice warriors. The fish stays moist inside despite the crispy, spice-coated exterior.

Pair it with their signature sides and a cold drink to balance the heat perfectly.

4. Miss Lily’s

Though Caribbean cuisine takes center stage here, Miss Lily’s knows how to work magic with catfish too. Their approach blends Jamaican spices with Southern frying techniques, creating something totally unique. The fish gets marinated in a flavorful mix before hitting the fryer, which adds layers of taste you won’t find elsewhere.

The vibrant atmosphere matches the bold flavors on your plate perfectly. Reggae music sets the mood while you enjoy your meal alongside traditional Jamaican sides. Rice and peas, fried plantains, and festival bread round out the experience.

It’s a fun departure from traditional Southern catfish while still honoring the fish itself beautifully.

5. Jacob Restaurant & Bar

Did you know that blackening catfish creates an entirely different flavor experience than frying? Jacob Restaurant brings authentic New Orleans cooking to the East Village, and their blackened catfish proves they know their stuff. The spice crust forms a dark, flavorful shell that contrasts beautifully with the tender white meat inside.

This technique requires high heat and perfect timing, which the kitchen here executes flawlessly every time. The remoulade sauce they serve alongside adds a tangy, creamy element that cuts through the richness. Dirty rice and green beans complete the plate in true Louisiana fashion.

Jazz music often fills the dining room, transporting you straight to Bourbon Street without leaving Manhattan.

6. Red Rooster Harlem

When celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson opened Red Rooster, he wanted to celebrate Harlem’s rich culinary history. The catfish here reflects that mission perfectly, combining traditional Southern preparation with modern presentation. A cornmeal crust gives each piece the right amount of crunch and texture.

The restaurant buzzes with energy, especially during their famous gospel brunch on Sundays. Live music creates an unforgettable dining experience that goes way beyond just the food. The catfish arrives beautifully plated, proving comfort food can look elegant too.

Hot sauce options range from mild to wild, letting you customize the heat level. Reservations are highly recommended since this place stays packed with both tourists and locals.

7. Amy Ruth’s

It’s hard to imagine a more iconic Harlem soul food spot than Amy Ruth’s. Politicians, celebrities, and regular folks all line up for their take on Southern classics. The catfish gets fried to perfection with a light, crispy coating that doesn’t overpower the fish itself.

Their unique twist involves pairing catfish with their famous waffles, creating a sweet and savory combination that sounds weird but tastes incredible. The contrast of textures and flavors works surprisingly well together. Traditional sides are also available if you prefer a more conventional approach.

The walls showcase photos of famous visitors, adding to the restaurant’s legendary status in the neighborhood and beyond.

8. Pies-N-Thighs

Originally starting as a tiny spot in Williamsburg, Pies-N-Thighs has grown into a Brooklyn institution. Their catfish benefits from a buttermilk soak before frying, which tenderizes the meat and adds subtle tanginess. The result is incredibly juicy fish inside that crispy exterior everyone craves.

Biscuits are their specialty, so definitely order some on the side with honey butter. The combination of warm, flaky biscuits with perfectly fried catfish creates pure comfort food bliss. Their portions are substantial without being overwhelming.

The casual, no-frills atmosphere keeps the focus exactly where it should be on the delicious food. Both locations in Brooklyn get busy during meal times, but the wait is always worth it.

9. Charles’ Country Pan Fried Chicken

Despite the name focusing on chicken, Charles’ serves some of the best catfish in Harlem. Pan-frying instead of deep-frying gives their fish a different texture that many people prefer. The method uses less oil while still achieving that coveted crispy coating.

This counter-service spot keeps things simple and focused on quality home-style cooking. The catfish comes out fresh throughout the day, never sitting under heat lamps. Candied yams and mac and cheese are must-order sides that complement the fish beautifully.

Prices remain incredibly reasonable, making it easy to enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. The no-nonsense approach means you get great food fast, perfect for lunch breaks or casual dinners when you’re craving comfort.

10. Melt Bakery

While Melt Bakery is famous for their grilled cheese, their catfish po’boy deserves equal attention. Crispy fried catfish gets piled onto fresh French bread with all the traditional fixings. Lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and remoulade sauce create that authentic New Orleans sandwich experience.

The bread quality makes a huge difference here it’s crusty outside but soft inside, holding everything together perfectly. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch from the fish and bread combined. They don’t skimp on portions, so come hungry.

It’s a different way to enjoy catfish that feels more casual and portable. The sandwich works great for lunch or a quick dinner when you want something delicious but not too heavy or formal.

11. The Gumbo Bros

Have you ever tried catfish in gumbo form? The Gumbo Bros specialize in authentic Louisiana stews and soups that warm you from the inside out. Their catfish gumbo features tender chunks of fish swimming in a rich, flavorful roux-based broth. Okra, peppers, and Cajun spices round out the complex flavor profile.

Served over rice, this dish offers a different way to experience catfish beyond the typical fried preparation. The fish absorbs all those wonderful spices while maintaining its delicate texture. It’s comfort food that feels a bit healthier than fried options.

The brothers who run this place grew up in Louisiana, so authenticity runs deep in every bowl they serve daily.

12. Bobwhite Counter

When you need a quick catfish fix in the East Village, Bobwhite Counter delivers without compromise. This lunch-counter-style spot serves up honest Southern cooking in a fast-casual format. Their catfish gets the full Southern treatment with a well-seasoned cornmeal coating that crisps up beautifully.

Counter seating creates a communal, friendly vibe where you might chat with strangers about the food. The menu stays focused and simple, which means everything gets done really well. Collard greens cooked with smoked meat provide the perfect vegetable side.

Prices stay affordable, making it easy to become a regular without feeling guilty. The small space fills up quickly during lunch rush, so timing your visit matters if you want to avoid crowds.

13. Butter & Scotch

Okay, so catfish tacos might sound unconventional, but Butter & Scotch makes them work incredibly well. The fried catfish gets broken into chunks and tucked into soft tortillas with crunchy slaw. Spicy mayo and fresh cilantro add brightness and heat that complement the fish perfectly.

This Crown Heights spot combines a bakery, bar, and restaurant all in one fun space. The creative menu takes Southern ingredients and gives them unexpected twists. These tacos prove that catfish doesn’t have to follow traditional rules to taste amazing.

Their cocktail program is equally impressive, so consider pairing your tacos with one of their creative drinks. The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for casual hangouts with friends who appreciate adventurous eating.

14. Bayou

Staten Island’s Bayou brings serious Louisiana flavor to a borough often overlooked by food tourists. They serve whole fried catfish that arrives at your table looking impressive and tasting even better. Creole seasoning coats every inch, delivering bold flavors that make each bite memorable.

Eating a whole fish might feel intimidating at first, but the reward is worth it. You get more variety in texture and flavor compared to just fillets. The kitchen knows exactly how long to fry it so the meat stays moist while the skin crisps perfectly.

Squeeze fresh lemon over the top to add brightness that balances the rich, seasoned coating beautifully and refreshingly.

15. Miss Mamie’s Spoonbread Too

For over two decades, Miss Mamie’s has been serving authentic Southern soul food to Upper West Side residents. Their catfish recipe hasn’t changed because it doesn’t need to it’s been perfected over years of practice. A simple seasoned flour coating lets the natural flavor of the fish shine through.

Black-eyed peas and other traditional Southern vegetables make excellent side choices here. The portions are generous, and the prices remain reasonable despite the Manhattan location. Save room for their famous sweet potato pie, which provides the perfect ending.

The homey atmosphere makes you feel like you’re eating at a relative’s house rather than a restaurant, which is exactly the vibe they’re going for successfully.