8 Local Restaurant Chains In South Carolina Known For Their Fried Fish
South Carolina’s coastal heritage has given rise to some incredible seafood traditions, with fried fish taking center stage at many local restaurant chains.
From crispy catfish to perfectly battered flounder, these establishments have mastered the art of Southern-fried seafood.
I’ve spent years exploring these delicious destinations across the Palmetto State, and I’m excited to share my favorite spots where locals gather for that perfect golden-brown fish with all the fixings.
1. Lizard’s Thicket: Where Country Cooking Meets Seafood Excellence
Holy mackerel, the first time I tasted Lizard’s Thicket’s Friday Fish Special, I nearly fell out of my chair! This family-owned chain has been serving South Carolinians since 1977, and they’ve perfected their cornmeal-crusted catfish to an art form.
The fish arrives piping hot with a crackling exterior that gives way to moist, flaky goodness inside. What makes their fish truly special is the secret seasoning blend that’s been passed down through generations of the Williams family.
Paired with their legendary hushpuppies and homemade tartar sauce, it’s a meal that keeps locals coming back week after week. With 15 locations scattered across central South Carolina, you’re never too far from this fish-frying phenomenon.
2. Captain D’s: Fast-Casual Seafood With Southern Roots
Confession time: Captain D’s was my go-to Friday night treat when I was growing up in Charleston! While technically born in Tennessee, this chain has become a South Carolina staple with its distinctive batter-dipped fish that shatters satisfyingly with each bite.
The secret to their success lies in their consistent quality and affordable prices. Their signature three-piece fish meal comes with two sides and their famous hushpuppies that I swear are addictive.
Captain D’s has evolved over the years, adding grilled options to their menu, but locals know that the classic fried fish is still the star of the show. With locations from Greenville to Myrtle Beach, Captain D’s has anchored itself firmly in South Carolina’s seafood scene.
3. Fatz Cafe: Mountain-Inspired Calabash-Style Fish
Stumbling into Fatz Cafe after a long hike in the Blue Ridge foothills, I discovered their Calabash-style fried flounder that changed my fish-eating life forever! This Upstate-born chain might be known for steaks, but their seafood deserves a standing ovation.
The fish comes lightly dusted with seasoned flour rather than heavy batter, allowing the delicate flavor of the flounder to shine through. Each bite delivers that perfect crunch followed by tender, flaky fish that practically melts in your mouth.
Founded in Spartanburg in 1988, Fatz has spread its seafood gospel throughout South Carolina with a loyal following. Pro tip: Ask for extra Fatz sauce – a tangy, slightly spicy concoction that pairs perfectly with their golden-fried fish.
4. Shrimp Boat: The Grand Strand’s Hidden Gem
“Y’all need to try the flounder!” shouted my cousin across the picnic table at Shrimp Boat, and boy, was she right! This modest chain with locations primarily along South Carolina’s coast serves what locals consider the most authentic Lowcountry fried fish experience around.
The fish is prepared with a cornmeal-and-flour blend that creates the perfect light crust. What makes Shrimp Boat special is their commitment to freshness – much of their seafood comes from local waters and is prepared within hours of being caught.
Their newspaper-lined baskets filled with golden fish, fries, and hushpuppies transport you straight to a beachside fish fry. Family-owned since the 1970s, Shrimp Boat maintains that small-town charm while consistently delivering big-time flavor.
5. Mayflower Seafood: All-You-Can-Eat Fish Feasts
The first time my uncle took me to Mayflower Seafood’s Friday night all-you-can-eat fish fry, I thought I’d died and gone to seafood heaven! This beloved chain has been satisfying South Carolina’s fried fish cravings since the 1980s with a simple but irresistible recipe.
Their lightly breaded whitefish arrives in generous portions, with a distinctively crisp exterior that somehow remains light rather than greasy. The fish is mild enough to please picky eaters but flavorful enough to satisfy seafood enthusiasts.
Mayflower’s buffet-style service means you can sample multiple preparations, though the classic fried version always disappears fastest. With locations primarily in the Midlands and Upstate regions, Mayflower has built a loyal following of families who make weekly pilgrimages for their fish fix.
6. Hudson’s Seafood House On The Docks: Waterfront Fish Perfection
Celebrating my anniversary at Hudson’s last summer, I watched fishing boats unload their catch while waiting for what would be the freshest fried flounder I’ve ever tasted! This Hilton Head institution has grown into a small regional chain that defines waterfront dining in the Lowcountry.
Their fish is dipped in a beer batter that creates an airy, crisp coating that complements rather than overwhelms the delicate fish. The restaurant’s dock-to-dish philosophy means your meal likely swam in local waters earlier that same day.
Founded as a humble fish shack in 1967, Hudson’s has expanded while maintaining its commitment to quality and atmosphere. The combination of breathtaking water views and impeccably prepared seafood makes this place worth every penny – and explains the hour-long waits during tourist season!
7. Sea Captain’s House: Oceanfront Legacy Of Fried Seafood
Squeezing into the last available table at Sea Captain’s House during a thunderstorm, I ordered their famous fried flounder almost by accident – a happy accident that’s become a mandatory stop on every Myrtle Beach trip since! This oceanfront landmark has expanded to several locations while maintaining its 1960s charm.
Their flounder is butterfly-cut and fried to golden perfection, with a delicate seasoning that enhances the fish without masking its natural sweetness. The portion size is enormous – typically hanging off both sides of the plate!
What began as a single oceanfront cottage has grown into a small chain representing the gold standard of South Carolina seafood. Despite its popularity with tourists, locals still pack the place year-round, especially for their weekday lunch specials featuring smaller portions of their legendary fried fish.
8. Gilligan’s Seafood Restaurant: Charleston’s Fried Fish Phenomenon
“Just get the Charleston Fried Fish Platter,” whispered an elderly local when he spotted me studying Gilligan’s menu during my first visit. That sage advice led to a transcendent seafood experience I’ve replicated dozens of times since!
Gilligan’s signature dish features local fish (usually flounder or catfish) encrusted with a parmesan-herb breading that forms a crackling shell around the moist flesh. The fish is served atop red rice with their famous remoulade sauce that packs just enough heat to wake up your taste buds.
Starting as a single location in 1991, Gilligan’s has expanded throughout the Charleston area while maintaining fanatical quality control. Their commitment to sustainable fishing practices and local sourcing has earned them a devoted following among environmentally conscious seafood lovers throughout the Lowcountry.