San Antonio's Best Fried Catfish [Updated 2024]

From dive bars to upscale restaurants, I’ve had the privilege of tasting some of the city’s finest offerings.

After reviewing 15 different spots, I’ve uncovered hidden gems, local favorites, and some unexpected surprises along the way.

Whether you prefer a classic Southern-style fry or a unique twist, San Antonio’s catfish scene has something for everyone.

Join me as we dive into the crispy, flaky goodness that defines this beloved dish in our vibrant city!

Bill Miller's Laguna Madre Seafood Company

Highlights
Plump, juicy fried cod
Creamy coleslaw option
Generous portion sizes
Tender, lightly breaded shrimp
Ample free parking

At Bill Miller's Laguna Madre Seafood Company, I found an inviting atmosphere that beckons catfish lovers from near and far. The moment I took my first bite of the plump, juicy fried cod, a heavenly crunch and tender fish danced on my palate. It's almost as if the chefs have perfected the frying process, draping a light, golden-brown crust that tantalizes with every single crunch.

What caught my attention was their creamy coleslaw—a perfect accompaniment that offers a refreshing contrast to the crunchy richness of the catfish. The generous portion sizes are a delightful surprise, meaning you won't leave hungry! And let’s not forget about the tender, lightly breaded shrimp that I couldn't resist sampling; it felt like a hug on a plate.

With ample free parking, visiting this gem is a breeze, making it an ideal spot for lunch or dinner. If you’re looking for the best fried catfish in San Antonio, Bill Miller's Laguna Madre Seafood Company is a must-visit. I walked away not just satisfied but also eager to return—because let’s be honest, who can resist the call of such irresistible fried delights?

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Bayseas Catfish House

Highlights
Inviting dining experience
Fantastic food quality
Friendly and attentive staff
Great for large parties
Memorable celebrations

From the moment I stepped into Bayseas Catfish House, I was greeted by an inviting ambiance that instantly made me feel at home. The friendly and attentive staff were quick to introduce themselves, eager to share recommendations from the menu. Now, let's get to the star of the show: the fried catfish!

Once I took my first bite, I was transported to flavor paradise—crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. It was perfectly seasoned, showcasing a delightful blend of spices that married beautifully with the fresh fish. The quality was simply fantastic, and it wasn't long before I found myself craving more.

What I truly appreciated was the versatility of this establishment; it's great for large parties, making it an ideal spot for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a meal with family and friends. The energy in the room was alive with laughter and chatter—truly a testament to how food brings folks together.

In a city rich with culinary offerings, Bayseas Catfish House stands out as a top contender for the best fried catfish in San Antonio. Whether you're a lifelong catfish lover or a first-time taster, be prepared for an unforgettable experience!

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Bayseas Catfish House #5

Highlights
Great food for the price
Crispy and crunchy catfish
Tasty and freshly made fish fillets
Prompt and friendly service

Walking into Bayseas Catfish House #5, I couldn't help but notice the cozy ambiance and the tempting aroma of freshly fried catfish. It's truly a hidden gem in San Antonio. The best part? The affordable prices that won't break the bank!

I eagerly dove into my plate of fried catfish and was absolutely blown away. The catfish fillets were perfectly crispy and crunchy, a true testament to their masterful frying technique. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavor, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. The fish was so tender and juicy, it practically melted in my mouth.

What sets Bayseas Catfish House #5 apart from other establishments is their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients. You can taste it in every bite. From the flaky fish fillets to the golden brown batter, it's clear that they take pride in serving their customers nothing but the best.

Not only was the food top-notch, but the service was also impeccable. The staff at Bayseas Catfish House #5 were prompt and friendly, ensuring that every aspect of my dining experience was met with utmost care and attention.

If you're looking for a place to indulge in some amazing fried catfish in San Antonio, look no further than Bayseas Catfish House #5. They've truly mastered the art of frying catfish to perfection. It's safe to say that this establishment deserves a spot on the list of the best fried catfish in San Antonio!

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Rudy's Seafood

Highlights
Great seafood
Delicious food
Exceptional portions
Reasonable pricing
Wide variety of condiments

I must say, I was hooked the moment I walked into Rudy's Seafood. The smell of the freshly fried catfish filled the air, making my anticipation grow even stronger. As I sat down at my table, I couldn't help but notice the delightful aroma that lingered throughout the restaurant.

I placed my order for their famous fried catfish and eagerly awaited its arrival. When it finally arrived, I couldn't believe my eyes! The portion size was exceptional. It was clear that Rudy's Seafood doesn't skimp on their servings. Each piece of catfish was perfectly coated in a golden, crispy batter that was a treat for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

I took my first bite, and boy was I in seafood heaven! The catfish was cooked to perfection, flaky on the inside and crispy on the outside. The flavor was simply divine, with a subtle hint of spices that enhanced the taste without overpowering it. It was clear that Rudy's Seafood knows how to season their catfish.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the pricing was reasonable as well. I appreciated that Rudy's Seafood offered such quality seafood at affordable prices. It made the experience all the more enjoyable.

To top it off, Rudy's Seafood provided a wide variety of condiments to accompany the catfish. From tangy tartar sauce to zesty cocktail sauce, they had it all. These condiments really elevated the flavors and added a fun element to the meal.

Overall, my visit to Rudy's Seafood was a true delight. They excel in providing great seafood, delicious food, exceptional portions, reasonable pricing, and a wide variety of condiments. If you're on the hunt for the best fried catfish in San Antonio, Rudy's Seafood should definitely be on your list of places to try.

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J Anthony's Seafood

Highlights
Love the service
Great food
Professional staff
Polite and nice
Prepared menu

When I entered J Anthony's Seafood, I was immediately greeted with a warm smile and a friendly "Howdy, partner!" The service was simply outstanding. The staff was attentive and quick to address any questions or concerns throughout my visit.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the fried catfish. Oh mama, did it deliver! The crispy exterior gave way to tender, moist fish that practically melted in my mouth. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavor, perfectly seasoned and cooked to absolute perfection. The fish was so fresh, you could practically taste the sea.

Not only was the food phenomenal, but the staff were absolute professionals. They went above and beyond to ensure that every customer was taken care of with the utmost care and respect. Their polite and friendly demeanor made the dining experience all the more enjoyable.

The menu at J Anthony's Seafood was thoughtfully prepared, offering a variety of options for both seafood aficionados and those looking for alternatives. Whether you're in the mood for catfish, shrimp, or even crab, they've got you covered.

In conclusion, my visit to J Anthony's Seafood left me with a deep appreciation for their fantastic fried catfish, outstanding service, and professional staff. If you're searching for the best fried catfish in San Antonio, I highly recommend you mosey on down to J Anthony's Seafood. Yeehaw!

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The Lighthouse Seafood

Highlights
Delicious catfish
Flavorful hush puppies
Friendly atmosphere
Generous portion sizes

Walking into The Lighthouse Seafood, I was immediately greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The friendly staff made me feel right at home as I took a seat at a cozy booth.

Now, let's talk about the main attraction: the fried catfish. Oh boy, was it a treat! The golden-brown batter was perfectly crispy, giving way to moist and tender fish inside. Every bite was a delightful explosion of flavor. I could taste the freshness of the catfish, and it was clear that quality ingredients were used. The seasoning was spot-on, just the right balance of savory and a hint of spice.

As I savored my catfish, I couldn't resist trying the hush puppies. These delightful nuggets of cornmeal goodness were fried to perfection. They were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with a delightful hint of sweetness. It paired perfectly with the catfish, adding an extra dimension of flavor to each bite.

What I truly appreciated about The Lighthouse Seafood was the generous portion sizes. They didn't skimp on anything here! I left feeling satisfied and ready for a nap.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best fried catfish in San Antonio, The Lighthouse Seafood is a must-visit. With its delicious catfish, flavorful hush puppies, friendly atmosphere, and generous portion sizes, this establishment truly impressed me. So, grab your appetite and head over to The Lighthouse Seafood for a memorable and mouthwatering seafood experience.

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Fish City Grill

Highlights
Fried calamari
Shrimp and crab queso
Seafood platter
Roasted jalapeno soup
Oyster nachos

Fish City Grill in San Antonio is a seafood lover's paradise. From the moment I stepped into the restaurant, I could feel the coastal vibes and knew I was in for a treat.

To begin my culinary adventure, I ordered the fried calamari, which was a perfect combination of crispy breading and tender calamari. It was served with a zesty dipping sauce that added an extra kick to every bite.

Next up was the shrimp and crab queso, a creamy blend of melted cheese and succulent seafood. The combination of flavors was simply divine, leaving me longing for more.

But let's talk about the star of the show – the fried catfish. The catfish fillets were expertly seasoned and perfectly fried to achieve a golden, crispy exterior while retaining all the moistness and flavor of the fish within. Each bite was a delightful revelation, with the fish flaking apart effortlessly and melting in my mouth.

The seafood platter was another highlight, featuring a medley of fresh and juicy shrimp, oysters, and crab. It was a generous portion that left me feeling like a satisfied seafarer.

To round off my delicious experience, I had a bowl of the restaurant's roasted jalapeno soup which offered a delightful balance of heat and creaminess, a true treat for the taste buds.

Let's not forget the unconventional yet delightful offering of oyster nachos, a unique twist on a Tex-Mex classic. The crispy tortilla chips topped with plump oysters and tangy sauce were truly memorable.

Overall, Fish City Grill is a must-visit for all fried catfish enthusiasts in San Antonio. Their commitment to quality ingredients and flawless execution sets them apart from the rest. So, grab a friend, bring your appetite, and embark on a seafood adventure that will leave you coming back for more.

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Fred's Fish Fry

Highlights
Delicious fish
Clean dining
Friendly service
Quick order preparation
Amazing tartar sauce

From the moment I stepped into Fred's Fish Fry, I could tell I was in for a treat. The scent of delicious fish frying in golden batter filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. The dining area was clean and well-maintained, with plenty of seating options available.

The friendly service at Fred's was also noteworthy. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and took the time to answer my questions about the menu. They were attentive, ensuring that I had everything I needed throughout my meal.

One aspect that stood out to me was the quick order preparation. Despite the restaurant's busy atmosphere, my fried catfish platter arrived promptly. The fish was perfectly fried to a crispy golden brown, while still remaining tender and flaky on the inside. Each bite was a delight, with the batter adding a satisfying crunch.

What truly elevated the experience was the amazing tartar sauce. It was creamy, tangy, and had just the right amount of zing to complement the fish. I found myself dipping each bite enthusiastically, savoring the harmonious combination of flavors.

All in all, my visit to Fred's Fish Fry in San Antonio was a delight. The delicious fish, clean dining area, friendly service, quick order preparation, and the amazing tartar sauce made for an incredible dining experience. If you're searching for the best fried catfish in San Antonio, look no further than Fred's Fish Fry—it's a true seafood lover's haven.

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Baysea’s Seafood and Soul Food Restaurant

Highlights
Fresh and delicious food
Friendly and professional service
Owners actively involved
Huge shrimp
Wheelchair accessible

When I first walked into Baysea’s Seafood and Soul Food Restaurant, I could immediately smell the tantalizing aroma of freshly fried catfish. My taste buds danced with anticipation as I took my seat and eagerly awaited my plate of delight.

The fresh and delicious food did not disappoint. The catfish was perfectly seasoned with a crispy, golden-brown coating that gave a satisfying crunch with every bite. The flaky and tender fish inside was seasoned to perfection, keeping me hooked from the first taste until the very last morsel.

What truly stood out at Baysea’s was the friendly and professional service. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and made sure I felt welcomed throughout my entire dining experience. The owners themselves were actively involved, making sure each dish was prepared to perfection and ensuring every customer left with a smile.

One standout feature of Baysea’s was their huge shrimp. These succulent creatures were not only colossal in size but also perfectly cooked. They had a delightful crunch on the outside and were juicy and flavorful on the inside. Each bite was a burst of savory goodness that left me wanting more.

Another noteworthy aspect of Baysea’s is its commitment to accessibility. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy their mouthwatering fried catfish without any limitations.

Overall, Baysea’s Seafood and Soul Food Restaurant has earned its spot on the list of the best fried catfish in San Antonio. With their fresh and delicious food, friendly service, huge shrimp, and accessibility, it is an experience that every catfish lover should indulge in. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Sea Island Shrimp House

Highlights
Friendly staff
Fantastic food
Homemade hush puppies
Affordable prices
Family-friendly

Walking into Sea Island Shrimp House, I was immediately greeted by a friendly staff that made me feel right at home. As I settled into my seat, the smell of fantastic food wafting from the kitchen had my taste buds tingling with anticipation.

When it came time to order, the catfish was a clear choice for me. And boy, was it a wise decision! The catfish was perfectly seasoned and the crispy golden batter had just the right amount of crunch. Each bite offered a delightful combination of flavors that left me craving more.

But what truly set Sea Island Shrimp House apart was their homemade hush puppies. These little balls of fried goodness were melt-in-your-mouth delicious, perfectly complementing the catfish.

One of the things that impressed me the most about Sea Island Shrimp House was the affordable prices. They deliver exceptional value for the quality and portion sizes they offer. It's a place where you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

What's even better is that Sea Island Shrimp House is family-friendly. The relaxed atmosphere and accommodating staff make it a perfect spot to bring the whole gang for a delicious meal.

If you're looking for the best fried catfish in San Antonio, Sea Island Shrimp House is definitely a contender. With their friendly staff, fantastic food, homemade hush puppies, affordable prices, and family-friendly environment, it's a seafood lover's dream come true. Don't miss out on this treasure in the heart of San Antonio!

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Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

I have to say, Pappadeaux nailed it with their fried catfish! The fish was crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and had just the right amount of seasoning. The accompanying remoulade sauce was the perfect zesty touch. Overall, a delicious and satisfying meal!

Acadiana Cafe

Acadiana Cafe in San Antonio offered a delightful plate of fried catfish that left me begging for more. The crispy breading, seasoned to perfection, added a mouthwatering crunch to each bite. The catfish itself was tender and flaky, with hints of Cajun seasoning that elevated the flavor to another level. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere only added to the overall experience. If you're searching for the best fried catfish in San Antonio, make sure to visit Acadiana Cafe – you won't be disappointed!

Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen Downtown

Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen Downtown in San Antonio absolutely serves up a mean plate of fried catfish! The crispy golden coating was the perfect blend of savory and flavorful. The flaky fish inside was so tender and moist that it practically melted in my mouth. A truly finger-lickin' experience that catfish lovers should not miss!

Fishland Fish Market

Fishland Fish Market in San Antonio is a hidden gem for fried catfish enthusiasts like me. The catfish fillets were crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, bursting with a delightful mix of seasonings. The portion sizes were generous, making it a great value for money. Don't miss out on this finger-lickin' goodness!

Cap'n Jim's Fish & Chicken to Go

Cap'n Jim's Fish & Chicken to Go in San Antonio is a hidden gem for catfish enthusiasts. The crispy golden batter encasing the succulent catfish fillets will have you hooked. Don't forget to pair it with their tangy tartar sauce for the perfect bite. A must-try for any seafood lover in San Antonio.