9 Mississippi Waterfront Restaurants Where Catfish And Beautiful Views Go Hand In Hand
Mississippi’s rivers and coastlines don’t just sparkle with natural charm – they’re also the gateway to some of the tastiest catfish you’ll ever sink a fork into.
Along the Mississippi River, down by the Gulf, and tucked into hidden bends in between, you’ll find eateries where crispy golden catfish pairs perfectly with breezy waterfront views.
Travelers and locals alike flock to these 9 spots for a true Southern experience that blends comfort cooking with the magic of dining right by the water.
1. Cock of the Walk – Ridgeland
Perched right on the Ross Barnett Reservoir at Madison Landing, this Mississippi institution has been flipping cast-iron skillets of cornbread for decades.
The servers toss the skillets with theatrical flair before serving up what many locals consider the best catfish in the state.
Their signature catfish platter comes with all the fixings – hushpuppies, coleslaw, and pickled onions that perfectly complement the crispy, farm-raised fillets.
2. Pelican Cove Grill – Main Harbor
Boat up or drive in to this casual eatery at Main Harbor, where the dress code is decidedly “just off the water.”
I still remember pulling our pontoon right up to their dock last summer, walking straight to a table still in my swimsuit, and diving into their catfish basket within minutes.
The friendly staff never bats an eye at wet footprints. Their crispy catfish comes with a generous portion of fries and slaw.
3. Magnolia Grill – Historic Natchez
Tucked in Natchez’s famous Under-the-Hill district, Magnolia Grill offers floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the mighty Mississippi like a living painting. River barges and occasional paddle wheelers drift by as you savor their perfectly seasoned catfish.
The restaurant, established in 1990, was built to echo the district’s historic riverfront architecture, adding an authentic layer of Southern charm to your dining experience.
Choose between their hearty catfish entrée or the popular sandwich version.
4. McElroy’s Harbor House – Biloxi
A coastal institution since 1974, McElroy’s overlooks the bustling Biloxi Small Craft Harbor with the Gulf of Mexico stretching beyond.
Fishermen unload their daily catches just yards from where you’ll be enjoying yours – talk about fresh! Their fried catfish platter comes with a generous helping of hushpuppies that locals swear by.
The casual, breezy atmosphere makes it perfect for families, and the constant parade of boats provides entertainment between bites.
5. The Reef – Biloxi Beach
Sitting directly on Biloxi Beach, The Reef offers catfish with a side of Gulf waves. The restaurant’s deck and skybar provide unobstructed views that stretch to the horizon.
Opened in 2014 as a post-Katrina, new-concept restaurant, it quickly earned a special place in Biloxi’s heart.
Try their Catfish Monica, a unique twist featuring creamy sauce over pasta, or stick with the classic basket that comes with portions generous enough to match the expansive view.
6. White Cap Seafood Restaurant – Gulfport
This Beach Boulevard classic has been serving seafood with a view since before many of today’s flashier spots were even conceived.
The restaurant sits just across Highway 90 from the beach, providing diners with calming water views through large picture windows. Their catfish fingers are a particular favorite – crispy, perfectly seasoned, and ideal for dipping.
White Cap’s unpretentious atmosphere keeps locals coming back for generations.
7. Bacchus on the Beach – Pass Christian
Named for the Roman god of wine and celebration, Bacchus delivers on both fronts along with excellent seafood on Scenic Drive.
The breezy patio offers the perfect setting to enjoy their catfish platter while watching boats come and go from the harbor.
I spent my anniversary here last year, and the combination of fresh seafood, gentle Gulf breezes, and sunset views made it absolutely magical.
Consider trying their seafood combo that includes catfish alongside other local favorites.
8. Aunt Jenny’s Catfish Restaurant – Ocean Springs
Moss-draped live oaks frame this Fort Bayou institution where catfish reigns supreme. The storybook setting enhances the experience of their all-you-can-eat catfish, served with hushpuppies that have achieved legendary status among locals.
The restaurant occupies a historic antebellum home on Fort Bayou – once Dr. H.B. Powell’s Sanitarium and later the Bayou Inn – lending authentic character you can’t manufacture.
Servers keep bringing fresh batches of golden fillets until you surrender, making this the ultimate destination for serious catfish enthusiasts.
9. Brady’s Steaks & Seafood – Pascagoula
The covered deck at Brady’s offers a front-row seat to the peaceful Pascagoula River, America’s largest free-flowing waterway by volume in the lower 48 states.
The restaurant’s dockside feel creates the perfect backdrop for their consistently excellent fried catfish. Regulars know to request a river-facing table when making reservations.
Their seafood platters feature catfish that has earned them spots on multiple “best catfish” lists throughout the Gulf Coast region.