San Antonio's Best Catfish [Updated 2024]

Having sampled and reviewed 15 establishments across the city, I've developed a refined palate for what makes catfish truly exceptional.

From the crispy golden fry to the rich, flavorful seasoning, each dish tells a story of tradition and culinary creativity.

In this article, I’ll share my top picks, highlighting the unique qualities that set each restaurant apart.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, my goal is to help you find the perfect spot to indulge in this Southern delicacy.

Let’s dive into the heart of San Antonio’s thriving catfish scene!

Bill Miller's Laguna Madre Seafood Company

Highlights
Deep fried Cod
Generous food portions
Creamy coleslaw
Tender, lightly breaded shrimp
Ample free parking

Review of Bill Miller's Laguna Madre Seafood Company

When I stepped into Bill Miller's Laguna Madre Seafood Company, I was immediately enveloped by the delightful aroma of seafood sizzling away. Having come in search of the best catfish in San Antonio, my expectations were as high as the Texas skyline.

I decided to indulge in their deep-fried cod, and oh boy, was it a mouthwatering choice! Each bite was a delicious revelation, with the fish perfectly flaky and enveloped in a lightly golden batter. The portion size was generous, leaving me pleasantly stuffed but eager for more. To accompany my main dish, I couldn’t resist the creamy coleslaw, which provided a refreshing crunch that balanced the fried fare spectacularly.

And let's not forget about the shrimp! Their tender, lightly breaded shrimp offered the perfect bite, although I still had my heart set on catfish. While they didn’t serve the catfish I initially sought, the overall experience and variety certainly made up for it.

With ample free parking and a cheerful atmosphere, Laguna Madre is a gem worth exploring. If you're in the mood for great seafood, this restaurant should top your list!

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Dry Dock Oyster Bar

Highlights
Great old school beach vibes
Phenomenal food and service
Freshly made sauces
40+ year San Antonio landmark
Extremely personable servers

Review of Dry Dock Oyster Bar

Nestled in the heart of San Antonio, Dry Dock Oyster Bar exudes that charming old-school beach vibe that immediately transports you to a coastal haven. As I stepped inside, I was greeted not just by the retro decor but also by a wonderfully personable staff who made me feel right at home.

When it comes to catfish, Dry Dock truly shines. Their catfish platter was nothing short of phenomenal, featuring freshly made sauces that perfectly complemented the crispy, golden fillets. Each bite was like a warm hug on a plate, with flavors dancing around my taste buds, reminding me why catfish is a culinary classic.

What impressed me even more was the exceptional service. My server was not only attentive but shared delightful insights about the dish, enhancing my overall dining experience. For over 40 years, Dry Dock has stood as a beloved San Antonio landmark, and after indulging in their catfish, it’s easy to see why. If you’re after a place where you can savor crispy, delectable catfish while soaking up a bit of local history, I highly recommend making a pit stop at Dry Dock Oyster Bar—you’re in for a genuine treat!

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Bayseas Catfish House

Highlights
Inviting experience
Fantastic food
Friendly staff
Excellent service
Amazing oxtails

Walking into Bayseas Catfish House, I immediately felt a sense of warmth and comfort. The inviting atmosphere made me excited for what was to come.

First and foremost, let's talk about the catfish. Oh, what a delight! The catfish at Bayseas Catfish House is simply fantastic. The crispiness of the batter combined with the tender and flavorful meat is a match made in catfish heaven. Each bite was like a little piece of Southern magic.

But it's not just about the catfish here. The staff at Bayseas Catfish House are some of the friendliest folks you'll ever encounter. From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with smiles and welcoming hellos. Their hospitality truly added to the overall delightful experience.

And let me tell you about the service. It was excellent! The waitstaff were attentive and knowledgeable, always ready to offer recommendations or answer any questions I had. They made me feel like a valued customer, and that made all the difference.

One unexpected surprise was the oxtails. Yes, you heard that right. Amazing oxtails. Succulent, fall-off-the-bone goodness that left me craving for more. Who knew that a catfish joint could also excel at oxtails?

Overall, Bayseas Catfish House is a hidden gem in San Antonio. With its inviting atmosphere, fantastic food, friendly staff, and excellent service, it's clear why it's considered one of the best spots for catfish in the city. So, seafood lovers, make sure to visit Bayseas Catfish House and prepare to have your taste buds tantalized.

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Bayseas Catfish House #5

Highlights
Great food for the price
Crispy and crunchy catfish
Tasty freshly made fish filets
Friendly and prompt service
Good value for the money

Walking into Bayseas Catfish House #5, I immediately felt the warmth of a southern-style eatery mixed with a casual charm. The first thing that caught my eye was the great food for the price. As a catfish connoisseur, I couldn't wait to dig into their renowned crispy and crunchy catfish.

The moment my plate arrived, I knew I was in for a treat. The fish filets were tasty and freshly made, with a perfect golden brown coating that promised a delightful crunch with each bite. The catfish was tender and moist, leaving me wanting more after every mouthful. Pairing it with their creamy tartar sauce took the experience to a whole new level.

Aside from the outstanding food, I was also impressed by the friendly and prompt service. The staff at Bayseas Catfish House #5 made sure I felt like a welcomed guest throughout my visit. They were attentive to my needs, and my order arrived promptly without compromising on quality.

One aspect that stood out was the good value for the money. The portion sizes were generous, leaving me pleasantly full without breaking the bank. It's not often that you find such a balance between flavor and affordability.

Overall, Bayseas Catfish House #5 offers an excellent culinary experience for anyone craving delicious catfish. From the crispy and crunchy texture to the friendly service, this place has everything a catfish lover could ask for. Don't miss out on this delightful spot in San Antonio!

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Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

Highlights
Authentic Cajun flavors
Exceptional service
Incredible seafood
Great drinks
Reasonable prices

Upon stepping into Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, I was immediately immersed in the lively atmosphere that transported me to the heart of Louisiana. The restaurant's commitment to delivering authentic Cajun flavors was evident from the first bite.

The exceptional service at Pappadeaux made my dining experience all the more delightful. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about their menu, ensuring that each customer received personalized attention. Their recommendations for seafood dishes left me salivating in anticipation.

Speaking of seafood, Pappadeaux truly lives up to its reputation for serving incredible seafood. The catfish dish that I ordered was cooked to perfection - crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside. The fish was wonderfully seasoned, complemented by a medley of Cajun spices that danced on my taste buds with every bite. It was a true indulgence for any catfish lover.

To complete my meal, I savored their selection of great drinks. From refreshing lemonades to inventive craft cocktails, Pappadeaux's drink menu offered a perfect accompaniment to my delectable seafood feast.

What amazed me most was the reasonable prices at Pappadeaux. Given the excellent quality of the food, the portions, and the overall dining experience, I left the restaurant feeling like I had gotten an incredible value for my money.

In conclusion, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen stands out as a catfish haven in San Antonio. With its authentic Cajun flavors, exceptional service, incredible seafood, great drinks, and reasonable prices, it's no wonder that catfish enthusiasts flock to this establishment for their fix. If you're in the mood for some lip-smacking catfish, Pappadeaux is an absolute must-visit.

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J Anthony's Seafood

Highlights
Love the Service!
Great food and service
Friendly and polite staff
Consistently delicious dishes

As soon as I walked through the doors of J Anthony's Seafood, I knew I was in for a treat. The friendly and polite staff greeted me with warm smiles, instantly making me feel welcome. Love the service!

After scanning the menu filled with tempting seafood options, I couldn't resist ordering their famous catfish. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Each bite was filled with juicy and tender catfish that was cooked to perfection. The flaky texture and mild flavor of the catfish were truly delightful. Great food and service!

Not only was the catfish outstanding, but the entire dining experience at J Anthony's Seafood was top-notch. The staff was knowledgeable, providing recommendations and ensuring I had everything I needed. The atmosphere was inviting, making it a perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends or family.

What impressed me most about J Anthony's Seafood was their consistency in delivering delicious dishes. It's no wonder locals keep coming back for more. Whether you're a catfish connoisseur or new to the world of catfish, J Anthony's Seafood is sure to satisfy your craving. Friendly and polite staff!

In conclusion, J Anthony's Seafood stands out as one of the best catfish spots in San Antonio. Their commitment to excellent service and consistently delicious dishes sets them apart from the rest. If you're seeking a catfish experience that will leave you smiling and satisfied, look no further than J Anthony's Seafood.

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Sea Island Shrimp House

Highlights
Helpful and friendly staff
Fantastic food
Homestyle hush puppies
Affordable family seafood restaurant
Wheelchair accessible

Upon entering, I was greeted by a helpful and friendly staff who made me feel instantly at home. The restaurant boasted a relaxed and casual atmosphere, perfect for a family seafood experience.

Let's talk about the star of the show – the catfish. I was blown away by the quality and taste of the catfish at Sea Island Shrimp House. It was fantastic. The fish was fresh and cooked to perfection, with a crispy and flavorful batter that had me coming back for more.

But what really set this place apart were the homestyle hush puppies. They were warm, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside, with just the right amount of seasoning. Each bite was a burst of deliciousness that perfectly complemented the catfish.

One of the things I also appreciated about Sea Island Shrimp House was its affordability. Being a family seafood restaurant, they offered generous portions at reasonable prices. It's the kind of place where you can bring the whole family without breaking the bank.

Lastly, I'd like to mention that Sea Island Shrimp House is wheelchair accessible, which is a bonus for those with mobility challenges.

Overall, Sea Island Shrimp House is a must-visit for catfish lovers in San Antonio. With its fantastic food, helpful staff, and affordable prices, you won't be disappointed. So grab a friend, bring the family, and indulge in some amazing catfish at Sea Island Shrimp House. You won't regret it!

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The Lighthouse Seafood

Highlights
Friendly atmosphere
Delicious catfish
Crispy fish batter
Great value
Clean restaurant

From the moment I walked in, I felt a warm and friendly atmosphere enveloping me. The staff greeted me with genuine smiles and made me feel right at home.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the catfish. Oh boy, was it delicious! The catfish fillets were tender, perfectly seasoned, and oh-so-satisfying. And the crispy fish batter? It added the right amount of crunch to every delightful bite. I could hardly believe how flavorful it was.

What impressed me even more was the value I got for my money. The portions were generous, satisfying both my craving and my wallet. I felt like I was getting a gourmet meal at a local price. It's not every day you find that kind of combination.

The cleanliness of the restaurant was also commendable. The floors sparkled, the tables were immaculate, and the overall ambiance was inviting. It's clear that they take pride in the cleanliness of their establishment.

Overall, my experience at The Lighthouse Seafood was nothing short of fantastic. From the friendly atmosphere to the delicious catfish and crispy fish batter, this place is a top contender for the best catfish in San Antonio. So if you're in the mood for a truly enjoyable catfish dining experience, don't hesitate to give The Lighthouse Seafood a try.

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Rudy's Seafood

Highlights
Great seafood
Delicious food
Exceptional portions
Reasonable prices

Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately greeted by the tempting aroma of great seafood. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a relaxed vibe that made me feel right at home.

After perusing the menu, my eyes were drawn to the catfish offerings. Now, as a connoisseur of this extraordinary fish, my expectations were high. And let me tell you, Rudy's Seafood did not disappoint! The catfish was simply delicious. It was perfectly seasoned, with a crispy exterior that gave way to tender, flaky meat.

But the real highlight was the portion size. Exceptional is an understatement! Rudy's Seafood definitely knows how to satisfy hungry catfish lovers. The plate was piled high with golden-brown catfish fillets that were so big, they practically hung off the edges.

And the best part? The prices were remarkably reasonable for the quality and quantity of the food. Rudy's Seafood delivers an incredible value for your money.

Whether you're a catfish enthusiast or simply looking for a fantastic seafood experience in San Antonio, I highly recommend Rudy's Seafood. From the great seafood and delicious food to the exceptional portions and reasonable prices, this place truly stands out. Give it a try, and prepare to have your taste buds delighted!

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Fishland Fish Market

Highlights
Accommodating
Homelike feeling
Fast customer service
Great fried fish
Plenty of parking

Walking into Fishland Fish Market, I immediately felt a warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff was incredibly accommodating and made me feel right at home. It wasn't just the delicious scent of fried fish that made me feel cozy, but also the homelike feeling that the restaurant exudes.

The customer service at Fishland Fish Market was exceptional. The employees were quick to serve me and cater to my needs, ensuring a fast and enjoyable experience. It's refreshing to find a restaurant that values its customers' time.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show—the catfish. Fishland Fish Market truly excels in creating great fried fish. The catfish had a crispy exterior and was perfectly cooked with tender and juicy meat. Each bite was a burst of flavor, making me savor every moment.

Additionally, Fishland Fish Market provides a plenty of parking, which is a huge convenience for visitors. It's always a relief to find a restaurant that not only serves excellent food but also takes care of the practical aspects.

In conclusion, Fishland Fish Market has left a delightful impression on me. From their accommodating nature to their delicious fried fish, it's a place worth visiting for any catfish enthusiast. So, if you're in the San Antonio area, make sure to stop by Fishland Fish Market and discover the true joy of savoring some of the best catfish in town.

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Fish City Grill

Fish City Grill is a delightful seafood joint where the catfish is seriously sensational. The crispy golden breading gave the fish an irresistible crunch, while the tender and flaky flesh melted in my mouth. Their secret blend of spices added a punch of flavor that made each bite exciting. Trust me, you'll be hooked after one taste!

Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen Downtown

I must say, my taste buds embarked on a flavorful adventure at Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen Downtown! The catfish was cooked to perfection, boasting a crispy exterior and a tender, succulent flesh. The seasoning was exquisite and left me longing for more. Don't miss out on this delightful catfish haven in San Antonio!

Baysea’s Seafood and Soul Food Restaurant

I must say, Baysea's is nothing short of a catfish paradise! From the crispy golden crust to the tender, juicy fish inside, every bite was a taste bud fiesta. The friendly staff and cozy ambiance added the extra spice to this catfish adventure. Baysea's is a must-visit for any catfish connoisseur roaming through San Antonio!

Acadiana Cafe

I'm thrilled to report that Acadiana Cafe knows how to fry up some tasty catfish! The crispy coating on the fish was delightfully seasoned and had just the right amount of crunch. The catfish itself was flaky and moist, making for a perfect bite every time. The portion size was generous, allowing me to indulge without feeling guilty. The side dishes, such as the hush puppies and coleslaw, were the perfect accompaniment to the star of the show. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere enhanced the dining experience. If you're in search of the best catfish in San Antonio, Acadiana Cafe should definitely be on your list!

Fred's Fish Fry

Fred's Fish Fry in San Antonio was a delightful surprise. The catfish was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with flavor. The portions were generous and the service was friendly. It's a hidden gem for catfish lovers in the city.