10 Arkansas Fried Catfish Spots That Locals Say Are Worth Every Bite
Growing up in the South, I learned early that fried catfish isn’t just food—it’s a way of life.
Arkansas takes this crispy, golden tradition seriously, with restaurants serving up perfectly seasoned fish that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Whether you’re a lifelong local or just passing through, these catfish joints have earned their reputation through years of serving mouthwatering meals that keep people coming back for more.
1. Lassis Inn — Little Rock, AR
Walking into Lassis Inn feels like stepping back in time to when fried catfish was king. This legendary Little Rock establishment has been frying up perfection since way back, and locals will tell you there’s nowhere quite like it.
The catfish here comes out golden and crispy, with a coating that somehow manages to be both light and incredibly flavorful. I remember my first visit—I ordered the catfish plate and nearly fell off my chair when I saw the portion size.
What makes Lassis Inn special isn’t just the food, though. The atmosphere buzzes with conversation and laughter, creating that authentic Arkansas dining experience. Their recipe remains unchanged because, honestly, why mess with perfection?
2. Eat My Catfish — Multiple Arkansas Locations
Sometimes a name says it all, and Eat My Catfish doesn’t beat around the bush about what they do best. With multiple locations scattered across Arkansas, this place has turned catfish into an art form that’s accessible wherever you roam.
Their specialty lies in keeping things simple yet spectacular. The fish tastes incredibly fresh, and the breading strikes that perfect balance between crunchy exterior and tender, flaky interior. Plus, they offer catering services, which means you can bring that catfish magic to your next family reunion or backyard bash.
Each location maintains the same high standards, so you’re guaranteed quality no matter which spot you visit. Talk about consistency!
3. The Fish Nest — Glenwood, AR
Tucked away in Glenwood, The Fish Nest represents everything right about small-town Arkansas dining. Locals rave about this place like it’s a well-kept secret they’re almost reluctant to share with outsiders.
What sets The Fish Nest apart is their commitment to authentic fried fish that tastes like grandma made it—if your grandma happened to be a culinary genius. The catfish arrives piping hot, with that signature crunch that echoes through the dining room with every bite. The portions are generous enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetite.
Family Destinations Guide highlighted them for good reason. This isn’t fancy dining, it’s real food made with real care, and you can taste the difference in every single bite.
4. Dondie’s White River Princess — Des Arc, AR
Never-ending fried catfish? Yes, you read that right, and yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds. Dondie’s White River Princess in Des Arc has built their reputation on this glorious concept that makes every catfish lover’s heart skip a beat.
Picture this: plate after plate of perfectly fried catfish delivered to your table until you physically cannot eat another bite. The fish stays consistently crispy and delicious from the first piece to the twentieth—not that I’m admitting to eating that many in one sitting.
Located along the White River, this spot combines excellent food with a relaxed atmosphere that makes lingering over your meal feel natural. Fair warning: bring your appetite and maybe some stretchy pants.
5. The Whippet — Prattsville, AR
Prattsville’s The Whippet proves that great catfish needs equally great sidekicks. Sure, their fried catfish stands tall on its own merits, but the sides here deserve their own standing ovation.
The fish itself boasts that perfect golden-brown exterior that shatters satisfyingly with each forkful. But then you taste the sides—creamy coleslaw, perfectly seasoned fries, and hushpuppies that could make a grown person weep with joy. Everything works together like a well-rehearsed symphony.
I’ve driven out of my way specifically to eat at The Whippet, and I’ve never once regretted the extra miles. The combination of quality catfish and outstanding accompaniments creates a complete meal that leaves you completely satisfied.
6. JoJo’s Catfish Wharf — Mountain View, AR
Mountain View’s JoJo’s Catfish Wharf understands a fundamental truth: catfish and hushpuppies belong together like peanut butter and jelly. This winning combination has earned them a devoted following that spans generations.
Their catfish comes out hot and crispy, with meat so tender it practically melts in your mouth. But those hushpuppies—oh man, those hushpuppies!—arrive golden and slightly sweet, with crispy edges and soft, fluffy centers. Together, they create flavor harmony that’ll have you ordering seconds before you finish your firsts.
The wharf setting adds character to your dining experience, making every meal feel like a special occasion. JoJo’s proves that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most memorable meals.
7. Crazee’s Café — Little Rock, AR
Crazee’s Café in Little Rock takes a bold approach to catfish coating, and boy, does it pay off. Their thick, slightly sweetened crust sets them apart from every other catfish joint in Arkansas.
That extra-thick breading might sound heavy, but somehow it stays light and crispy while delivering an explosion of flavor with every bite. The subtle sweetness in the coating creates an interesting contrast with the savory fish, resulting in a taste experience you won’t find anywhere else. Some folks call it crazy—hence the name—but I call it genius.
The café atmosphere stays casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. Crazee’s proves that innovation and tradition can coexist deliciously.
8. Hurley House Café — Hazen, AR
Fish Friday at Hurley House Café in Hazen has become something of a local institution. Folks plan their week around this event, marking their calendars and inviting friends to join the catfish celebration.
The buffet setup means you can sample as much as you want, trying different preparations and loading up on sides until your plate resembles a delicious mountain of Southern comfort food. The fried catfish remains the star attraction, cooked fresh throughout the service to ensure everyone gets hot, crispy fish.
There’s something special about a restaurant that dedicates an entire day to celebrating catfish. Hurley House Café understands community dining at its finest, creating an experience that brings people together over great food.
9. Craig’s Bar-B-Q — DeValls Bluff, AR
DeValls Bluff sits right in the heart of catfish country, and Craig’s Bar-B-Q honors that heritage beautifully. While they’re famous for their barbecue, their fried catfish holds its own against any specialist restaurant in the state.
The preparation stays traditional and straightforward, letting the quality of the fish shine through without unnecessary fuss. That golden coating crunches satisfyingly, giving way to tender, perfectly seasoned meat that tastes like Arkansas itself. Locals know to order the catfish alongside some BBQ for a meal that covers all the Southern food groups.
The no-frills atmosphere keeps the focus where it belongs—on the food. Craig’s proves you don’t need fancy decorations when you’re serving up this level of deliciousness.
10. Stubby’s Bar-B-Q — Hot Springs, AR
Hot Springs’ Stubby’s Bar-B-Q rounds out our list with catfish that’ll make you understand why Arkansas takes this dish so seriously. This family-friendly spot combines casual dining with serious flavor, creating an experience that appeals to everyone from kids to grandparents.
Their catfish emerges from the kitchen with that picture-perfect golden color that promises deliciousness before you even take a bite. The texture hits all the right notes—crispy outside, tender inside, with seasoning that enhances rather than overwhelms the natural fish flavor. Pair it with their famous BBQ sides for a meal you’ll remember.
Stubby’s represents the best of Arkansas dining: unpretentious, delicious, and genuinely welcoming to all who walk through the door.