10 Oregon Fried Catfish Spots That Locals Agree Are Worth Every Bite
There’s something about the golden crunch of a perfectly fried catfish fillet that feels like home-especially when you’re in Oregon, where the unexpected meets the delicious.
I grew up chasing the best comfort food bites across backroads and small-town diners, and let me tell you: Oregon’s fried catfish scene might surprise you.
From cozy lakeside shacks to family-run joints tucked into quiet neighborhoods, I’ve tasted my way across the state, following hunches, recommendations, and that unmistakable smell of frying batter in the air.
After years of hunting, sampling, and yes-eating way more catfish than any one person should-locals and I agree: these 10 spots are worth every single bite. Ready to dig in?
1. Screen Door Eastside
Brunch lovers know Screen Door Eastside at 2337 E Burnside St in Portland as the place where weekend waits stretch around the block.
But savvy diners also know this Southern comfort heavyweight serves up fried catfish that earns every bit of hype it gets.
Coated in a perfectly seasoned cornmeal crust, each fillet arrives hot and shatteringly crisp on the outside while staying moist and flaky inside.
Pair it with creamy mac and cheese, tangy collard greens, or buttery cornbread, and you’ve got a plate that tastes like a trip to the Deep South without leaving Portland.
Regulars swear by the catfish dinner, often ordering it alongside sweet iced tea and hush puppies for the full experience.
The restaurant’s warm, welcoming vibe makes it easy to settle in and savor every bite.
Service stays friendly even during the busiest rushes, and the portions never disappoint.
If you’re hunting for fried catfish that locals genuinely rave about, Screen Door Eastside should top your list.
2. The Fried Spot
Tucked away at 17180 SE McLoughlin Blvd in Milwaukie, The Fried Spot has built a devoted following among soul-food enthusiasts who crave authentic flavors and generous helpings.
Walk through the door and you’ll immediately smell the magic happening in the kitchen, where catfish fillets sizzle to golden perfection in hot oil.
Each piece gets a well-seasoned coating that crunches beautifully with every forkful, delivering that satisfying texture contrast people dream about.
Sides here shine just as brightly as the main event, with options like candied yams, greens simmered low and slow, and creamy potato salad rounding out the plate.
Regulars return week after week, often bringing friends and family to share the experience.
The atmosphere feels unpretentious and welcoming, making it a spot where everyone feels at home.
Portions run large, so come hungry or plan to take leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.
For soul-food staples done right, The Fried Spot delivers every single time.
3. Le Bontemps Café & Catering Bon Appetit
Step into Le Bontemps Café & Catering Bon Appetit at 2716 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd in Portland, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to Louisiana.
This Cajun-style café channels bold Southern flavor through every dish, but the fried catfish plate stands out as a true showstopper.
Seasoned with a lively blend of spices that wake up your taste buds without overwhelming them, the catfish arrives with a crackling crust that holds up beautifully bite after bite.
One local recalled bringing out-of-town guests here last summer, watching them devour the catfish and immediately ask for the recipe.
Sides like dirty rice, red beans, and cornbread complete the experience, making each meal feel like a celebration.
The café’s cozy atmosphere and friendly service add to the charm, creating a dining experience that feels both authentic and approachable.
Whether you’re a Cajun cuisine veteran or trying it for the first time, Le Bontemps delivers flavors that linger long after the last bite.
4. Styr Kurbside Kitchen
Springfield’s Styr Kurbside Kitchen has earned a reputation for Southern comfort food that hits all the right notes, especially when it comes to Cajun-fried catfish baskets.
Locals praise the way each fillet gets coated in a spicy Cajun breading that adds just enough kick to keep things interesting.
The catfish baskets come loaded with crispy fries and coleslaw, making them a complete meal that satisfies even the heartiest appetites.
Flavorful seafood sandwiches also grace the menu, but regulars know the catfish basket is where this spot truly shines.
The kitchen keeps things fresh and hot, ensuring every order arrives at peak crispiness.
Service stays quick and friendly, perfect for grabbing lunch on a busy day or picking up dinner to enjoy at home.
Portions run generous, so you definitely get your money’s worth here.
The casual vibe makes it easy to stop by anytime you’re craving something fried and delicious.
For Cajun-style catfish that delivers on flavor and value, Styr Kurbside Kitchen never disappoints.
5. Po’ Shines Café De La Soul
Community love runs deep for Po’ Shines Café de la Soul in Portland, where the golden fried catfish has achieved signature status among regulars.
This soul-food café has been feeding neighbors and visitors alike with dishes that feel like home cooking at its finest.
The catfish arrives with a beautifully bronzed crust that crackles under your fork, revealing tender, flaky fish that practically melts on your tongue.
Seasoning hits that sweet spot where you taste every flavor without any single spice taking over the show.
Pair it with classics like collard greens, black-eyed peas, or cornbread, and you’ve got a meal that warms you from the inside out.
The café’s welcoming atmosphere makes everyone feel like part of the family, whether you’re a first-timer or a weekly regular.
Locals consistently praise not just the food but also the genuine warmth and care that goes into every plate.
For fried catfish that’s earned its place in Portland’s soul-food hall of fame, Po’ Shines delivers every time.
6. Kee’s Loaded Kitchen
Northeast Portland’s Kee’s Loaded Kitchen lives up to its name by piling plates high with soul-food favorites that keep customers coming back for more.
The fried catfish here holds its own alongside standout offerings like smoky brisket and crispy wings, proving this kitchen knows how to handle multiple proteins with equal skill.
Each catfish fillet gets a well-seasoned coating that fries up golden and crunchy, providing that satisfying texture everyone craves.
Hearty sides like mac and cheese, yams, and greens round out the experience, making every meal feel complete and comforting.
The kitchen keeps portions generous, so you’ll definitely leave satisfied or with a to-go box for later.
Service stays friendly and efficient, even during busy dinner rushes when the dining room fills with hungry neighbors.
The casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for family dinners or catching up with friends over good food.
Regulars appreciate the consistency here, knowing they can count on quality every single visit.
For soul food done right in Northeast Portland, Kee’s Loaded Kitchen delivers on all fronts.
7. Flying Fish Company LLC
Located at 3004 E Burnside St in Portland, Flying Fish Company LLC has built a loyal following among seafood lovers who appreciate Pacific Northwest fish prepared with care and creativity.
While the menu rotates based on what’s fresh and available, crispy fried catfish makes regular appearances and always draws praise from regulars.
Last fall, a customer mentioned ordering the catfish on a whim and being blown away by how perfectly it was executed, with a light, crispy coating and perfectly cooked flesh inside.
The kitchen treats catfish with the same respect given to local salmon and halibut, resulting in a dish that stands out for its quality and flavor.
Sides here lean toward fresh, simple preparations that let the fish shine without competing for attention.
The casual, laid-back vibe makes it easy to relax and enjoy your meal without any fuss.
Service stays knowledgeable and helpful, with staff happy to explain what’s fresh and recommend preparations.
For fried catfish served alongside other excellent seafood options, Flying Fish Company delivers a well-rounded experience.
8. The Frying Scotsman
British-style fish and chips get a fun twist at The Frying Scotsman, located in the BG Food Cartel in Beaverton at 97005.
This popular cart has earned a devoted following for its crispy, golden fried fish, and lucky diners sometimes find fried catfish featured as a rotating seafood offering.
When catfish makes an appearance on the menu, it gets the full British treatment with a light, battered coating that fries up incredibly crisp and flaky.
Served alongside hand-cut chips and traditional accompaniments, the catfish feels like a delicious fusion of Southern and British culinary traditions.
The cart’s cheerful Scottish theming adds personality to the experience, making it more than just another food stop.
Portions run generous, and the quality stays consistently high no matter what fish is on offer that day.
Regulars check the menu frequently to catch catfish when it’s available, knowing it won’t last long once word gets out.
For a unique take on fried catfish that blends cultures and flavors beautifully, The Frying Scotsman is worth seeking out.
9. Tony’s Fish Market
Classic fish markets hold a special place in Oregon’s food scene, and Tony’s Fish Market at 1316 Washington St in Oregon City exemplifies everything great about these neighborhood gems.
Beyond selling fresh seafood to take home, Tony’s also serves up hot, ready-to-eat options at the counter, including fried catfish that locals grab for quick lunches or easy dinners.
The catfish here gets a straightforward preparation that focuses on quality fish and proper frying technique, resulting in a simple but satisfying meal.
Crispy coating gives way to moist, flaky fish that tastes fresh and clean without any muddy aftertaste.
You can pair it with other seafood favorites from the counter or grab sides to complete your meal.
The market’s no-frills atmosphere puts all the focus on the food, where it belongs.
Staff knows their seafood inside and out, offering helpful suggestions and answering questions with genuine expertise.
Prices stay reasonable, making it easy to enjoy quality fried catfish without breaking the bank.
For straightforward, well-executed fried catfish in Oregon City, Tony’s Fish Market hits the mark every time.
10. Frying Nemo Oregon Coast LLC
Coastal dining takes on new meaning at Frying Nemo Oregon Coast LLC, located at 775 N Front St in Coos Bay.
This coast-side seafood window has become known for crispy fried seafood baskets that showcase the bounty of Oregon’s waters.
When catfish season rolls around, golden fried catfish joins the menu and quickly becomes a favorite among both locals and visitors exploring the coast.
The kitchen treats catfish with the same care given to local catches, resulting in perfectly fried fillets with crackling crusts and tender interiors.
Served in classic seafood baskets with fries and slaw, the catfish makes for a satisfying meal whether you’re grabbing lunch between beach walks or picking up dinner to enjoy with a view.
The casual window service keeps things simple and efficient, perfect for the laid-back coastal vibe.
Portions run generous, ensuring you get plenty to fuel your coastal adventures.
Locals appreciate having a reliable spot for quality fried seafood that doesn’t skimp on flavor or freshness.
For fried catfish with a coastal twist, Frying Nemo delivers delicious results worth seeking out.