11 Mississippi Spots Known For Fried Catfish Worth Every Single Bite
Catfish runs deep in Mississippi, and nowhere else will you find golden, crispy perfection quite like this. All over the state, family-owned spots and legendary local eateries turn out catfish fried to crunchy, flaky goodness.
No matter if you’re a longtime catfish devotee or just tasting it for the first time, these restaurants pile plates high with Southern comfort that’ll have you craving a return trip in no time.
1. Jerry’s Catfish House (Florence)
Jerry’s Catfish House has been feeding hungry folks in Florence for decades, earning a reputation that spreads far beyond the county line. The catfish here comes out hot and crispy, with a coating so perfect it practically crackles when you bite into it.
Locals swear by the hushpuppies and coleslaw that come alongside every plate. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it the kind of place where strangers become friends over shared love of good food.
2. Taylor Grocery & Restaurant (Taylor)
What started as an actual grocery store has transformed into one of Mississippi’s most beloved catfish destinations. Taylor Grocery serves up catfish that’s been perfected over generations, with a secret seasoning blend that keeps people guessing.
The building itself tells a story, with creaky wooden floors and walls covered in photos and memorabilia. Don’t expect fancy dining—expect honest-to-goodness catfish that tastes like home, served in generous portions that’ll satisfy even the hungriest appetite.
3. Aunt Jenny’s Catfish Restaurant (Ocean Springs)
Aunt Jenny’s brings coastal flair to classic catfish, combining Gulf Coast hospitality with down-home cooking that hits all the right notes. The fish is always fresh, hand-breaded, and fried to a beautiful golden brown that looks as good as it tastes.
Families pack this place on weekends, and for good reason—the portions are huge and the prices won’t break the bank. The staff treats everyone like family, remembering regulars by name and making first-timers feel right at home.
4. Moss Creek Fish House (Pearl)
Moss Creek Fish House takes catfish seriously, sourcing quality fish and preparing it with care that shows in every bite. Their catfish fillets are thick and meaty, with a light, crispy coating that doesn’t overpower the natural flavor of the fish.
The menu offers plenty of Southern sides to choose from, letting you build your perfect plate. Whether you’re grabbing lunch or bringing the whole family for dinner, Moss Creek delivers consistent quality that keeps Pearl residents coming back week after week.
5. Cuevas Fish House (Picayune)
Cuevas Fish House brings a touch of family tradition to Picayune’s dining scene, serving catfish that’s been prepared using recipes passed down through generations. The fish arrives at your table piping hot, with a crust that stays crunchy from the first bite to the last.
What sets Cuevas apart is the attention to detail—from perfectly seasoned fish to homemade tartar sauce that complements without overwhelming. It’s the kind of place where quality matters more than flash, and every plate proves it.
6. Berry’s Seafood & Catfish House (Florence/Magee)
Berry’s operates two locations, doubling your chances to experience their legendary catfish that locals rave about constantly. The fish is always fresh, never frozen, making a noticeable difference in texture and taste that catfish connoisseurs appreciate.
Beyond catfish, Berry’s offers a full seafood menu, but regulars know the catfish is the real star of the show. The friendly service and comfortable atmosphere make it perfect for casual weeknight dinners or special family gatherings that call for something delicious.
7. Shivers Creek Catfish House (Crystal Springs/Pinola)
Tucked away in the Mississippi countryside, Shivers Creek Catfish House serves up catfish that’s worth the drive no matter where you’re coming from. The restaurant specializes in all-you-can-eat catfish that draws crowds from neighboring towns and beyond.
The catfish is consistently excellent, with a light batter that lets the fish shine through. Pair it with their homemade hushpuppies and sweet tea for a meal that captures everything wonderful about Southern cooking in one satisfying sitting.
8. Newt’s Catfish, Seafood & Steaks (Hattiesburg)
Newt’s has become a Hattiesburg institution, serving catfish that’s earned them a loyal following spanning multiple generations of families. Their catfish comes perfectly seasoned and fried, with a coating that achieves that ideal balance between crispy and tender.
The menu is diverse enough to please everyone in your group, but locals know to stick with the catfish—it’s what Newt’s does best. The portions are generous without being wasteful, and the prices remain reasonable despite the restaurant’s well-deserved popularity.
9. LandShark Seafood & Catfish (Oxford)
LandShark brings Oxford a catfish experience that combines college-town energy with serious Southern cooking skills. The catfish here is hand-breaded and made to order, ensuring every plate arrives fresh and hot from the fryer.
Students and locals alike pack this place during lunch and dinner rushes, creating a lively atmosphere that makes eating out feel like an event. The catfish is affordable enough for college budgets while being delicious enough to impress visiting parents and out-of-town guests.
10. Harvey’s Fish Hut (Pearl)
Harvey’s Fish Hut proves that great catfish doesn’t need fancy surroundings—just skilled cooks and quality ingredients. This no-frills spot focuses on what matters: serving up catfish that’s crispy, flavorful, and satisfying down to the last morsel.
The menu is straightforward, letting the catfish take center stage without unnecessary distractions. Regulars appreciate the consistent quality and quick service that makes Harvey’s perfect for a satisfying lunch break or easy weeknight dinner when cooking at home feels like too much work.
11. Cock of the Walk (Ridgeland)
Cock of the Walk has been a Mississippi favorite for years, serving catfish in a rustic setting that feels authentically Southern from the moment you walk through the door. The catfish is cornmeal-crusted and fried in cast-iron skillets, creating a texture and flavor that’s hard to replicate.
Every meal starts with cornbread and turnip greens, setting the stage for the catfish main event. The restaurant’s commitment to traditional cooking methods and quality ingredients has earned them a reputation that extends well beyond Ridgeland’s city limits.