13 Memphis, Tennessee Fried Catfish Places Locals Can’t Get Enough Of
Saturdays in Memphis, for me, always meant one thing: a pilgrimage for fried catfish.
The scent of perfectly seasoned cornmeal crust hitting hot oil is etched into my memory – a signal of pure bliss.
My dad always declared you haven’t truly experienced the Delta until you’ve savored its crispy, flaky catfish, drenched in hot sauce and a squeeze of lemon.
It’s more than just a meal; it’s a foundational piece of our culinary soul, a taste of home that runs deep in the veins of this city.
After countless plates and unofficial taste tests, I’m thrilled to share the 13 local spots keeping that Memphis magic alive, places my neighbors and I simply can’t get enough of.
1. Soul Fish Cafe (East Memphis)
Crispy perfection meets casual dining at this East Memphis favorite that has folks lining up for lunch and dinner.
Located at 4720 Poplar Ave, this spot serves up catfish so good you’ll want to write home about it.
The fish arrives at your table with a golden-brown crust that crunches with every bite, revealing tender, flaky meat inside.
Their secret lies in the seasoning blend that makes each piece burst with flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the fish.
You can order it as a plate with classic sides like coleslaw and baked beans, or pile it high on a po’ boy sandwich.
The laid-back atmosphere makes everyone feel welcome, from families with kids to solo diners grabbing a quick meal.
Service stays friendly even during the busiest hours.
Local tip: arrive before the lunch rush hits to snag a table without the wait.
2. The Four Way Restaurant
History and hospitality blend beautifully at this legendary soul food institution that’s been feeding Memphis since 1946.
Situated at 998 Mississippi Blvd, this restaurant holds a special place in the city’s heart and stomach.
The catfish here comes from generations of perfected recipes, fried to a delicate crunch that speaks of decades of kitchen wisdom.
What makes this place truly special goes beyond the food, though the cornmeal-crusted fish certainly deserves all the praise it gets.
Walking through the doors feels like stepping into Memphis history, with walls that have witnessed countless family gatherings and community celebrations.
The menu offers traditional soul food sides that complement the catfish perfectly, from creamy mac and cheese to perfectly seasoned greens.
Portions come generous enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
This spot reminds you why Memphis catfish became famous in the first place.
3. A&J’s Catfish Station
No-frills catfish done absolutely right awaits you at this neighborhood gem on 5950 Knight Arnold Rd Ext.
The name says it all: this place focuses on catfish and does it better than most fancy restaurants could ever dream.
Frying technique produces a crust that stays crispy even after the ride home, which makes it perfect for takeout orders.
My cousin swears by their fish basket, claiming it cured his homesickness when he moved back from Atlanta.
The fish arrives hot and fresh, with a coating that has just the right amount of peppery kick to keep things interesting.
You won’t find fancy decor or trendy menu items here, just honest-to-goodness catfish that tastes like someone’s grandmother made it with love.
The prices stay reasonable, which means you can feed the whole family without emptying your wallet.
Locals know this spot delivers consistent quality every single visit.
4. Don’s South Memphis Fish Market
Freshness defines everything at this South Memphis landmark located at 600 S Parkway E.
The fish market aspect means you’re getting catfish that was swimming recently, which translates to superior taste and texture on your plate.
When they fry it up, the result tastes cleaner and sweeter than frozen fish ever could.
Don’s has built a loyal following by keeping things simple and focusing on quality above all else.
The catfish comes out piping hot with a light, crispy coating that doesn’t overwhelm the delicate fish flavor underneath.
You can watch your order being prepared, which adds to the experience and proves they have nothing to hide about their cooking methods.
The staff knows their regulars by name and treats newcomers like old friends.
This place proves that market-fresh fish makes all the difference in the world when it comes to fried catfish.
5. Memphis Best Soul Food (Shop & Save)
Bold flavors and generous portions make this spot at 1499 S 3rd St a true South Memphis treasure.
The name might sound like a boast, but one bite of their catfish proves they can back it up with serious cooking skills.
Seasoning blend brings together traditional Southern spices in a way that makes each piece memorable.
The fish gets fried to order, which means you might wait a few extra minutes but the payoff is worth every second.
That crispy exterior gives way to moist, flaky fish that practically melts on your tongue.
What sets them apart is how well they balance the soul food sides with the main attraction, creating plates that feel complete and satisfying.
The collard greens have just the right amount of tang, and the cornbread comes out fluffy and slightly sweet.
Budget-conscious diners appreciate the value they get for their money here.
6. Hot Fish Express
Speed meets quality at this North Memphis spot located at 394 N Watkins St.
The express part of the name isn’t just marketing talk, they really do get your catfish to you faster than most places without sacrificing the taste.
Efficient kitchen operation means you can grab lunch during a short break and still have time to enjoy it.
The catfish arrives with a thin, extra-crispy coating that shatters when you bite into it, revealing perfectly cooked fish inside.
They understand that not everyone has an hour for lunch, so they’ve streamlined their process while maintaining high standards.
I stopped here once when running late for an appointment and was amazed that something made so quickly could taste so good.
The portions are substantial enough to keep you full for hours.
This place proves fast food doesn’t have to mean bad food when done right.
7. Hollywood Fish Market
North Memphis residents know that 1383 N Hollywood St holds one of the city’s best-kept catfish secrets.
This fish market turned restaurant serves up catfish that tastes like it came straight from the Mississippi River to your plate.
The coating has a distinctive cornmeal crunch that locals recognize and crave.
What makes Hollywood special is their commitment to using quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods that have been passed down through generations.
The fish never tastes greasy or heavy, just perfectly fried with a golden exterior.
Sides rotate based on what’s fresh and available, which means you might discover new favorites with each visit.
The casual atmosphere encourages you to relax and enjoy your meal without any pretense.
Regulars often call ahead to make sure their favorite fish hasn’t sold out for the day, which should tell you something about the popularity of this place.
8. The Cupboard Restaurant
Midtown Memphis has cherished this Union Avenue institution at 1400 Union Ave for decades.
The Cupboard brings a cafeteria-style approach to Southern cooking, letting you see all the options before making your selections.
Catfish stands out among the many choices, with a light breading that lets the fish flavor shine through.
This restaurant attracts everyone from business folks on lunch breaks to families celebrating special occasions, creating a diverse and welcoming atmosphere.
The line moves quickly even when the place is packed, thanks to their efficient setup.
You can mix and match sides to create your perfect plate, choosing from an impressive array of vegetables and starches that change daily.
The catfish comes out consistently good no matter when you visit, which speaks to their well-trained kitchen staff.
First-timers should ask the friendly servers for recommendations since the menu offers so many tempting options beyond just catfish.
9. Flying Fish
Downtown Memphis gets its catfish fix at this modern spot located at 105 S 2nd St.
Flying Fish takes a slightly different approach to the traditional fried catfish, offering it in various creative preparations alongside the classic plate.
You can get your fish in tacos, on salads, or prepared in ways that might surprise catfish purists.
The downtown location makes it perfect for office workers, tourists, and anyone exploring the city center who needs a satisfying meal.
The catfish maintains that essential crispy exterior while incorporating flavors that feel fresh and contemporary.
My friend dragged me here thinking I’d hate the modern twist on a classic, but I left completely converted to their style.
The atmosphere feels more upscale than your typical catfish joint, but the prices remain reasonable for what you get.
This place proves that tradition and innovation can coexist peacefully on the same menu when done with respect and skill.
10. Corky’s Ribs & BBQ
Known primarily for ribs, this Memphis institution at 5259 Poplar Ave also serves outstanding Fried Delta Catfish.
Corky’s brings their barbecue expertise to the catfish game, creating a unique preparation that benefits from decades of cooking experience.
The Delta-style preparation means a lighter, more delicate coating that emphasizes the natural sweetness of the fish.
You can order the catfish alongside famous ribs if you want to sample multiple Memphis specialties in one meal, making it perfect for indecisive diners.
The restaurant’s comfortable atmosphere and attentive service make it suitable for both casual dinners and special celebrations.
Sides complement the catfish beautifully, with options like baked beans and coleslaw that pair perfectly with fried fish.
The portions are generous without being overwhelming, hitting that sweet spot of leaving you satisfied but not stuffed.
Visitors to Memphis often discover this catfish gem while seeking out the city’s famous barbecue scene.
11. McEwen’s Memphis
Sophistication meets Southern tradition at this upscale downtown spot located at 120 Monroe Ave.
McEwen’s elevates fried catfish to fine dining status while respecting the dish’s humble roots and essential character.
The preparation technique results in an impossibly light and crispy coating that somehow stays delicate despite the high heat of frying.
The presentation looks restaurant-magazine worthy, but the taste remains authentically Memphis through and through.
You’ll pay a bit more here than at neighborhood fish shacks, but the refined atmosphere and expert preparation justify the price difference.
Chef sources quality catfish and treats it with the same respect given to more expensive seafood options on the menu.
The sides lean toward upscale versions of Southern classics, reimagined with modern techniques and premium ingredients.
This restaurant proves that fried catfish deserves a place at the fancy table alongside any other celebrated dish.
12. The Second Line
New Orleans flavors meet Memphis sensibilities at this Midtown favorite sitting at 2144 Monroe Ave.
The Second Line brings a Louisiana influence to their catfish preparation, adding Creole spices and cooking techniques to the Memphis tradition.
Their version comes with a slightly spicier kick than most local spots, appealing to those who like their fish with some heat.
The restaurant’s lively atmosphere reflects its Big Easy inspiration, creating an energetic dining environment that feels celebratory even on regular weeknights.
You can taste the care that goes into each order, from the perfectly seasoned coating to the careful monitoring of oil temperature.
Catfish works beautifully with the other menu items if you want to create a mixed Southern feast with friends.
The staff knows the menu inside and out and can guide you toward the perfect combination of dishes.
This spot offers something different for Memphis catfish lovers looking to expand their horizons.
13. Highway 61 Fish Market
South Memphis locals make regular pilgrimages to this fish market at 5320 S 3rd St for their catfish fix.
Highway 61 combines market-fresh fish with time-tested frying techniques that have made them a neighborhood staple.
The catfish here tastes clean and sweet, with none of the muddy flavor that sometimes plagues inferior fish.
The coating strikes that perfect balance between substantial and light, giving you plenty of crunch without making the fish feel heavy.
The market atmosphere means you can also buy fresh fish to take home and cook yourself, though most people can’t resist ordering the fried version.
Prices stay competitive with other local spots, making this a great option for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
The no-nonsense approach to service means they focus on getting you great food quickly rather than unnecessary frills.
This place represents everything that makes Memphis catfish culture special and worth celebrating.