New Braunfels' Best Catfish [Updated 2025]

I've personally reviewed 15 local hotspots, each offering a unique take on this Southern favorite. From crispy, fried fillets to smoky, grilled delicacies, I’ve tasted it all.

In this article, I’ll share my findings and highlight what makes each spot stand out. Whether you’re a lifelong catfish lover or a newcomer eager to dive in, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings right here in New Braunfels.

So grab your fork and prepare for a delicious journey through the town’s tastiest catfish offerings!

The Reel Seafood & Grill

Highlights
Delicious seafood options
Friendly and professional staff
Excellent atmosphere
Charming service experience
Highly rated food and service

The Reel Seafood & Grill in New Braunfels is a delightful gem that serves up some of the finest catfish I've encountered. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a friendly and professional staff that instantly made me feel at home. The atmosphere was vibrant yet relaxed, setting the perfect stage for a delicious meal.

Now, let's talk about the catfish! It arrived golden brown and irresistibly crisp, a true testament to their skilled kitchen team. Each bite was a celebration of flavors, with the fish being incredibly tender and flaky. It’s clear that they take great pride in sourcing high-quality seafood, as every dish I tried was simply divine.

What truly sets The Reel apart is the charming service experience I had. The staff went above and beyond, ensuring that my dining experience was uplifting and enjoyable. With exceptionally high ratings for both food and service, it’s no surprise that this place is a local favorite.

In my humble opinion, if you’re hunting for the best catfish in New Braunfels, you’d be missing out if you didn’t swing by The Reel Seafood & Grill!

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The Oyster Bar

Highlights
Phenomenal raw and broiled oysters
Attentive and energetic service
Delicious crab dip and sides
Unique ginger coleslaw option
Great atmosphere and bartenders

The Oyster Bar in New Braunfels is more than just a seafood joint; it’s a vibrant oceanic oasis that boasts a menu full of delightful surprises. As I stepped inside, the lively atmosphere greeted me, hinting at the good times to come. The service was nothing short of attentive and energetic, making me feel right at home.

Now, let’s talk catfish! Though the broiled oysters might steal the show, the catfish here is a delightful surprise. Crispy and golden, each bite is perfectly seasoned, and the generous portions left me feeling more than satisfied. I also couldn’t resist complementing my meal with their unique ginger coleslaw, which added a refreshing crunch and zest to my plate.

If you’re looking for a place where the culinary experience is paired with a spirited atmosphere, The Oyster Bar is definitely a must-visit. Don’t forget to indulge in their delicious crab dip as a starter; it’s the perfect way to set the stage for the main event. Whether you’re a catfish connoisseur or just in the mood for some great seafood, The Oyster Bar delivers with flair.

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Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Beautiful Atmosphere
Delicious Food
Superb Service
Texas Size Onion Rings

As soon as I walked into Gristmill, I was captivated by its beautiful atmosphere. Nestled by the river, the restaurant emanated a charming and rustic vibe. The friendly staff promptly seated me at a cozy table by the window, and my catfish adventure was about to begin.

I ordered their famous catfish dish, hopeful for a delightful culinary experience. And oh boy, was I in for a treat! The catfish fillets were perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The flavors were well-balanced, with just the right amount of seasoning, allowing the true taste of the catfish to shine through. By the first bite, I knew this place meant business.

The service at Gristmill was superb. The staff was attentive, ensuring that all my needs were met with a smile. From the moment I entered until the moment I left, they made me feel like a valued guest. It was truly a standout experience.

Now, let's talk about those Texas size onion rings. Holy catfish! These crispy and mouth-watering onion rings were a game-changer. Each bite was a perfect combination of crunchy goodness and a hint of sweetness from the onions. Trust me when I tell you, these onion rings were worth every calorie.

Overall, Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar lived up to its reputation as one of the best spots for catfish in New Braunfels. With its beautiful atmosphere, delicious food, and superb service, it's a place catfish enthusiasts cannot miss. Don't forget to pair your catfish feast with those Texas size onion rings for the complete experience.

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Union Station Diner

Highlights
Fantastic breakfast
Homemade buttermilk biscuits
Perfectly cooked eggs
Friendly and welcoming staff
Delicious and affordable food

Walking into Union Station Diner, I knew I was in for a treat. The friendly and welcoming staff greeted me warmly, and I knew I was in good hands. As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice that they offered breakfast all day, which instantly won me over.

I decided to start my catfish adventure with their fantastic breakfast. The menu boasted homemade buttermilk biscuits, a promise that did not disappoint. They were flaky and tender, the kind that make you want to close your eyes and savor every bite. The eggs were cooked to perfection, with a silky yolk that oozed onto my plate with each cut.

Now, onto the main event: the catfish. Union Station Diner knows how to cook catfish just right. The golden-brown breading was crispy and flavorful, giving way to tender and juicy filets. Each bite was a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. I could tell that the catfish was fresh and expertly prepared.

What impressed me the most about Union Station Diner was the affordability of their food. I left satisfied and with a full belly, all without breaking the bank. It's rare to find a place that offers such quality food at reasonable prices.

In conclusion, Union Station Diner is a gem in New Braunfels when it comes to catfish. With their fantastic breakfast, homemade biscuits, perfectly cooked eggs, and friendly staff, they have certainly earned their place among the best catfish spots in town. Don't miss out on this delightful dining experience!

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Clear Springs Restaurant

Highlights
Outstanding menu
Delicious food
Best shrimp
Consistent quality
Amazing onion rings

Oh boy, was I in for a treat when I stepped into Clear Springs Restaurant in New Braunfels! From the moment I sat down, it was clear that this place was something special. The outstanding menu had my taste buds tingling with excitement.

Now, let's talk about the delicious food. The catfish here was simply divine - perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It was like a piscatorial symphony in my mouth. But what really stole the show was the best shrimp I've ever had. Each bite was like a burst of flavor, and I could not stop myself from indulging.

What impressed me the most about Clear Springs Restaurant was their consistent quality. Each time I have visited, the food has been exceptional, never faltering in its flavor or texture. That's the sign of a truly remarkable establishment.

And let's not forget the amazing onion rings. These crispy, golden delights were the perfect accompaniment to the catfish, providing an irresistible crunch that had me coming back for more.

All in all, Clear Springs Restaurant in New Braunfels has definitely earned its place on my list of the best catfish joints in town. With its outstanding menu, delicious food, and consistent quality, it's a must-visit for any catfish lover. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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McAdoo's Seafood Company

Highlights
Yummy Chilean sea bass
Delicious crab cake appetizer
Fantastic drinks and cheesecake
Attentive waiter with great personality
Affordable happy hour options

McAdoo's Seafood Company exceeded my expectations when it comes to finding the best catfish in New Braunfels. But before I dive into the catfish, let me tell you about some other delightful surprises at this place.

To start, the Chilean sea bass was absolutely yummy. The tender and flaky texture of the fish was cooked to perfection, leaving me craving for more. The restaurant also offers a delicious crab cake appetizer that was bursting with flavor – crispy on the outside and oh so tender on the inside.

Now, let's talk drinks and dessert. McAdoo's Seafood Company has a fantastic selection of drinks, from refreshing cocktails to ice-cold beers. But what truly stood out for me was their cheesecake. It was the perfect way to end my meal – creamy, rich, and oh-so-satisfying.

Not only was the food delightful, but the service was exceptional as well. Our attentive waiter had a great personality and made our dining experience even more enjoyable.

And did I mention the value for money? McAdoo's Seafood Company offers affordable happy hour options, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Overall, McAdoo's Seafood Company truly impressed me with their catfish and other delectable dishes. So if you're on the hunt for the best catfish in New Braunfels, be sure to give this place a try. You won't be disappointed!

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Sea Island Shrimp House

Highlights
Amazingly Delicious
Quick Service
Kid-friendly
Tasty Fried Seafood
Beautiful Interior

As soon as I entered the restaurant, I was greeted by a beautiful interior that exudes a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The waitstaff were friendly and attentive, offering quick service that left no room for hunger-induced impatience.

Now onto the star of the show - the catfish. The catfish at Sea Island Shrimp House was nothing short of amazingly delicious. Each juicy bite was bursting with flavor, perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection. The crispy exterior flawlessly complemented the tender and flaky flesh, creating a harmonious symphony for my taste buds.

Despite the focus on shrimp in its name, Sea Island Shrimp House certainly knows their way around a catfish fryer. In addition to the catfish, the restaurant offers an array of tasty fried seafood options that would satisfy any seafood lover's cravings.

One aspect that caught my attention was how kid-friendly this place is. The friendly staff went above and beyond to make my little ones feel welcome, offering a menu that caters specifically to their preferences. It’s always a relief when you can enjoy a delicious meal while knowing that your children are also happily indulging.

With its winning combination of exceptional catfish, quick service, and a welcoming atmosphere for families, Sea Island Shrimp House is undoubtedly a top contender for serving the best catfish in New Braunfels. If you have a hankering for some fin-tastic fish, don't hesitate to dive in and experience the flavors for yourself!

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Willie's Grill & Icehouse

Highlights
Friendly staff
Plenty of parking
Nice selections
Attentive server

Walking into Willie's Grill & Icehouse, I was immediately greeted by a friendly staff, ready to assist and guide me towards a delightful catfish experience. The restaurant offers plenty of parking, so it was a stress-free experience from start to finish.

Once seated, I perused the menu and was pleasantly surprised by the nice selection of catfish dishes available. From classic fried catfish to unique grilled options, there was something for every catfish lover. It was evident that the restaurant takes pride in catering to different preferences and tastes.

As I eagerly awaited my order, an attentive server approached the table, ready to fulfill any request or answer any questions I had. Their knowledge of the menu and sincere enthusiasm for the food made the dining experience even more enjoyable.

When my plate of catfish finally arrived, I was not disappointed. Each bite was a harmonious blend of crispy outer coating and tender, flavorful catfish at its core. The accompanying sides were no afterthought either, with each providing just the right complement to the star of the show - the catfish.

Overall, my visit to Willie's Grill & Icehouse was a delightful journey into the world of catfish. The friendly staff, ample parking, nice selection, and attentive service all contributed to an experience that left me satisfied and eager to come back for more. I highly recommend Willie's Grill & Icehouse to any true catfish aficionado in New Braunfels.

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Comal Crawfish Company

Highlights
Cajun ambiance
Clean and well-maintained
Friendly and prompt service
Delicious Dungeness Crab
Highly recommended dishes

When I stepped into Comal Crawfish Company, the enticing aroma of Cajun spices instantly transported me to the heart of Louisiana. The cozy and rustic ambiance added to the overall experience, making it feel like a genuine Southern seafood shack.

The restaurant was impeccably clean and well-maintained, a clear reflection of their attention to detail. The staff was friendly and wasted no time in promptly seating me and taking my order.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the catfish. The menu at Comal Crawfish Company boasts an array of tantalizing seafood options, but their catfish was truly outstanding. The catfish fillets were, without a doubt, some of the best I've ever tasted. Each piece was crispy, perfectly seasoned, and tender on the inside, melting in my mouth with every bite.

Not only did the catfish impress, but their other seafood options were equally commendable. I couldn't resist ordering their Dungeness crab, which exceeded my expectations. The meat was incredibly succulent and full of flavor.

As a devoted catfish enthusiast, I wholeheartedly recommend Comal Crawfish Company to anyone seeking the best catfish in New Braunfels. The combination of their fantastic food, Cajun ambiance, and welcoming service makes it a must-visit for seafood lovers. Don't miss out on this hidden gem!

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Pat's Place

Highlights
Scenic location
Friendly service
Perfectly cooked food
On point gravy
Sublime margarita

Imagine sitting by the water's edge, overlooking a scenic location while enjoying the best catfish in town. That's exactly what you get at Pat's Place. The moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and friendly smile, creating an instant sense of comfort.

The star of the show, the catfish, was nothing short of perfection. The fish was cooked to crispy perfection, with a delicate flakiness that melted in my mouth. Each bite was a testament to the chef's expertise. And let's not forget about the gravy – it was on point, adding a savory and indulgent touch to the already delicious dish.

While Pat's Place specializes in catfish, they also know how to whip up a sublime margarita. Sipping on this refreshing and zesty concoction was the perfect accompaniment to the rich flavors of the catfish.

From start to finish, it was clear that Pat's Place not only delivers incredible food but also provides attentive and friendly service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was enjoyable and memorable.

If you're seeking a spot that combines great food, stunning views, and a welcoming ambiance, look no further than Pat's Place. Whether you're a catfish connoisseur or simply looking for a delicious meal, this place is a must-visit. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Bayseas#30

Bayseas#30 in New Braunfels is a hidden gem for catfish enthusiasts. Their crispy and golden fried catfish is out of this world, with a tender, flaky texture that melts in your mouth. The friendly staff and cozy ambiance add to the overall dining experience. It's a definite must-try for catfish lovers!

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Long John Silver's | A&W

I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by the catfish at Long John Silver's | A&W in New Braunfels. The catfish was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, just the way I like it. The flavors were satisfying, with a hint of seasoning that added an extra kick. The side of coleslaw was also a refreshing touch. Although the atmosphere may not scream fine dining, the friendly service and reasonable prices made up for it. Overall, I would definitely recommend Long John Silver's | A&W for a casual catfish fix in New Braunfels.

Gruene River Grill

Gruene River Grill in New Braunfels is a catfish lover's dream come true! The catfish at this playful yet professional joint is flawlessly fried to crispy perfection. With a sweet and tangy tartar sauce on the side, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors. Catfish enthusiasts, rejoice and make your way to Gruene River Grill for an unforgettable catfish feast!

Montana Mike's

Montana Mike's in New Braunfels is a delightful spot for catfish lovers like me. The playful yet professional ambiance drew me in, but it was the succulent and flavorful catfish that stole the show. The perfectly crispy breading and tender meat left me wanting more. It's definitely a must-visit for catfish enthusiasts in New Braunfels!

Avery's Kitchen

Avery's Kitchen in New Braunfels is a hidden gem for catfish lovers. Their crispy and flavorful catfish is out of this world. The portion sizes are generous and the service is friendly. Don't miss out on their homemade tartar sauce - it's the perfect companion to the catfish.