10 Mississippi Buffets Serving Catfish You Have To Try
Mississippi takes catfish seriously, and these buffets prove why.
From crispy golden fillets to tender, perfectly seasoned bites, each spot offers more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Southern flavor.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious first-timer, the endless portions and savory sides make every visit a feast.
Get ready to dig in, savor every bite, and experience catfish done the way locals know it best.
1. Country Fisherman — Jackson
Locals swear the catfish at Country Fisherman practically jumps from the Pearl River straight into the fryer.
Family-owned since 1975, this Jackson institution seasons their cornmeal batter with a closely guarded spice blend that gives each filet its signature golden crust.
Weekend crowds form early, especially after church on Sundays. The buffet also features hushpuppies so light they might float away if you don’t grab them quickly enough.
2. Country Fisherman Cafe — Pearl
Sister location to the Jackson original, Pearl’s Country Fisherman Cafe takes catfish buffets to new heights.
Their double-dipped technique creates an extra-crunchy coating that somehow stays crisp even under heat lamps.
What sets this spot apart is their signature remoulade sauce made fresh daily. Regulars know to save room for their famous banana pudding, which disappears faster than you can say “Mississippi.”
3. Berry’s Seafood & Catfish House — Florence
Founded by a former commercial fisherman, Berry’s in Florence serves catfish so fresh you’d swear it was caught that morning.
Their farm-raised fillets are soaked in buttermilk before being hand-breaded, creating a tangy undertone that perfectly balances the cornmeal crust.
Weekends feature their legendary “Catfish & Fixins” buffet where the catfish is replenished every fifteen minutes. Don’t miss their crispy catfish tails – a local delicacy that regulars consider the best part.
4. Mama Hamil’s — Madison
Tucked away in Madison, Mama Hamil’s serves catfish that would make your grandmother jealous.
Unlike other spots that focus solely on fillets, Mama includes whole catfish on her buffet, giving adventurous eaters the chance to enjoy those extra-flavorful parts near the bone.
The century-old family recipes shine through in every bite. Their Thursday night all-you-can-eat special draws crowds from as far as Alabama, with many making the pilgrimage monthly just for a taste of authentic Delta cuisine.
5. Penn’s Restaurant — Forest
Started as a tiny catfish shack in 1967, Penn’s has evolved into a Mississippi institution while keeping their original recipes intact.
The Forest location boasts the largest catfish buffet in central Mississippi, with three different preparations available daily. Their signature thin-cut fillets achieve the perfect fish-to-batter ratio.
The buffet rotates seasonal sides harvested from local farms, but the catfish recipe remains gloriously unchanged since opening day. True enthusiasts know to request the spicy version not listed on the menu.
6. The Front Porch BBQ & Seafood — Hattiesburg
Combining two Mississippi favorites, The Front Porch offers a unique BBQ and catfish buffet that satisfies multiple cravings at once.
Their cornmeal-dusted catfish filets are fried in cast iron skillets rather than deep fryers, creating a distinctively light and crisp texture.
Saturdays bring out their expanded seafood spread featuring both farm-raised and wild-caught options.
The rustic dining room with its actual front porch seating creates the perfect atmosphere for lingering over multiple helpings of their perfectly seasoned fish.
7. Mack’s on the River — Hattiesburg
Perched alongside the Leaf River, Mack’s serves catfish with a view you won’t find anywhere else. Their weekend buffet features catfish caught from the very waters you’re gazing at through their panoramic windows.
Third-generation fishermen supply their kitchen daily. The cornmeal coating includes a hint of lemon pepper that brightens each bite. Between helpings, wander onto their deck where you might spot fishermen bringing in the next day’s catch just yards from your table.
8. Berry’s Seafood & Catfish House — Magee
The Magee outpost of Berry’s empire might be the younger sibling, but locals argue it’s the crown jewel.
Their catfish fillets are butterflied before frying, creating more surface area for that perfectly seasoned cornmeal to cling to.
Friday nights bring out multi-generational families who’ve made weekly visits a tradition. The buffet’s secret weapon? Homemade tartar sauce with just enough dill and pickle to make you forget about ketchup forever.
9. Catfish Country — Booneville
When a restaurant puts catfish right in its name, expectations soar, and Catfish Country delivers spectacularly.
This Booneville landmark serves their signature fish in massive portions that have customers unbuttoning their pants before dessert arrives.
Their distinctive touch? A sprinkle of cayenne in the cornmeal mixture that leaves a gentle warmth rather than heat.
Fourth-generation owner Miss Patty still inspects every batch of fish before it hits the buffet line. Her grandfather’s original recipe card, faded and splattered, remains framed above the register.
10. Golden Corral — Hattiesburg
Golden Corral in Hattiesburg stands out with its lavish buffet spread featuring a variety of dishes. The catfish here is a must-try, offering a crunchy exterior and tender, flavorful meat inside.
Patrons flock here not only for the catfish but for the welcoming atmosphere and friendly service.
Golden Corral caters to diverse tastes with its extensive menu that includes Southern favorites and international cuisines.
The catfish is often accompanied by classic sides like hush puppies and coleslaw, making for a satisfying meal.