Why This Arkansas River Café’s Fish And Chips Have Become A Hidden Statewide Favorite
Flying Fish sits in the middle of Little Rock’s River Market, and everyone in Arkansas seems to have a story about eating there. I stopped in once on a busy Saturday, thinking it’d just be another quick lunch, but the smell of fried catfish told me I was in the right spot.
The place isn’t fancy, just easygoing and full of energy, with people digging into baskets piled high and swapping stories over hushpuppies.
The fish is fresh, the portions are big, and it feels like one of those spots you start craving again the minute you leave.
Classic Catfish Basket With All The Fixings
Every basket comes loaded with crispy catfish, a generous pile of fries, and two golden hushpuppies. You also get both tartar and cocktail sauce, so you can pick your favorite or mix them up. The portions are solid without being overwhelming.
I remember my first visit here years back. The tartar sauce had a tang that cut through the fried coating perfectly. It’s not fancy, but it works.
People who want a straightforward meal will appreciate this setup. Everything you need is right there in one basket, ready to go.
One-Pound Whole Catfish For Maximum Crunch
If you want more fish and extra texture, order the whole catfish. It weighs a full pound and gets dredged in cornmeal before frying. The result is a thicker, crunchier crust that holds up well.
This option takes a bit longer because they fry it fresh to order. The wait is worth it, though. You get more meat and more of that satisfying crackle with each bite.
Sharing is possible, but most folks who order this finish it on their own. It’s filling but not heavy.
Combo Baskets Let You Sample More Seafood
Can’t decide between catfish, shrimp, or oysters? The combo baskets solve that problem. You can mix catfish with either shrimp or oysters, getting a fuller plate with more variety. Each piece is fried the same way, so the flavors stay consistent.
My cousin always orders the catfish and shrimp combo when we go. She likes having options without committing to one thing. The shrimp are plump, and the oysters have a briny kick that balances the mild catfish.
It’s a good choice for anyone who wants to try more than one thing.
Billy Bass Adoption Center Earns You A Free Basket
This might be the most unusual promotion anywhere. Bring in one of those old singing Billy Bass fish, donate it to their collection, and you get a free catfish basket. The walls inside are covered with these things, all donated by customers over the years.
It’s quirky and fun, but it also works. People clean out their garages and get a meal out of it. I’ve seen folks walk in with fish wrapped in grocery bags, grinning the whole time.
If you have one gathering dust, this is your chance to put it to good use.
Riverside Location Perfect For A Waterfront Picnic
Flying Fish sits just steps from the riverfront walkway, making it easy to grab your food and head outside. The Arkansas River is right there, with benches and open space where you can sit and eat. It’s especially nice when the weather cooperates.
I’ve done this more times than I can count. You order, pick up your basket, and walk over to the water. The breeze helps cool things down, and the view beats sitting inside any day.
Families, couples, and solo diners all do this. It’s casual and relaxed.
Kids Boats Keep Families Happy And Fed
Families with young kids will appreciate the Kids Boats. These smaller baskets come with fish, fries, and a drink, all sized for children. The price is reasonable, and the portions match what a kid can actually finish.
Parents don’t have to worry about ordering too much or wasting food. The setup is straightforward, and kids seem to like the name. It makes the meal feel like an adventure rather than just another plate of fish.
It’s a practical option that takes the guesswork out of feeding younger eaters.
Extra Hushpuppies Available As A Dedicated Basket
Some people come here just for the hushpuppies. If you’re one of them, you can order a whole basket of them. They’re crispy on the outside, soft inside, and have just enough cornmeal flavor without being dry.
My neighbor swears by these. He orders a basket every time and eats them before his fish even arrives. They’re addictive in a way that’s hard to explain until you try them yourself.
If you love a good crunch and cornbread flavor, this is worth adding to your order.
Catfish Po’ Boy Comes On A Toasted Loaf
If you’d rather have a sandwich, the catfish po’ boy delivers. It comes on a toasted loaf with fried catfish tucked inside, along with lettuce, tomato, and sauce. You also get fries and two hushpuppies on the side, just like the baskets.
The bread holds up well against the fish and doesn’t get soggy. The toasting adds a bit of texture that makes each bite more interesting. It’s a different way to enjoy the same catfish without feeling like you’re eating the same thing.
Sandwich fans will find this satisfying and filling.