12 Alabama restaurants known for serving some of the state’s best catfish

Is that catfish craving starting to kick in? When you are in the mood for the quintessential Southern dinner—crispy fried catfish, a baked potato, tangy coleslaw, and a side of golden hushpuppies—Alabama has you covered with a wealth of legendary dining spots.

205focus.com recently reached out to our readers to find the best spots for a fish fry, and the community response proved that whether you like your catfish filleted, whole, or served up as nuggets, the Yellowhammer State is home to some truly world-class options. Here are 12 Alabama restaurants where you can find the state’s best catfish.

The Ark (Riverside and Springville)

With nearly a century of history at its original Riverside location, The Ark remains a local staple. Whether you order the filets, the nuggets, or the whole fish platter, you are guaranteed a top-tier meal. It is no wonder their fried catfish and shrimp earned a spot on the Alabama Tourism Department's list of 100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die.

Top Hat Barbecue (Hayden)

Located at 8725 U.S. Highway 31, Top Hat Barbecue has spent seven decades mastering hickory-smoked meats, but their farm-raised, country-fried catfish is equally impressive. Their $11.99 lunch special—featuring two fillets, two sides like fried green tomatoes or a baked potato, and a drink—is one of the best deals around.

Top ‘O the River (Anniston, Guntersville, and Gadsden)

Since opening its doors in 1982, Top ‘O the River has built a reputation for its grain-fed, farm-raised catfish. Served broiled or fried, the Riverboat Special is a must-try, complete with a half-pound of catfish, hushpuppies, and a baked potato.

David’s Catfish House (Multiple Locations)

If you have never paired your catfish with cheese grits, David’s Catfish House is the place to change that. Both their famous catfish dinner and their signature cheese grits were honored by the Alabama Tourism Department’s 100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die.

Full Moon BBQ (Multiple Locations)

Full Moon BBQ is famed for its brisket and pulled pork, but do not overlook their hand-breaded, cornmeal-crusted Southern fried catfish. It is available by the plate or as a hearty open-face sandwich.

Catfish Charlie’s (Northport)

For those who prefer a casual to-go meal, head to 13971 Highway 43 N. in Northport. Catfish Charlie’s is a quick-service spot open four days a week, offering made-to-order, crispy catfish in fillets, po' boys, or alongside shrimp.

Katy’s Katfish (Rainsville)

Housed in a historic log cabin at 1382 Main Street E., Katy’s Katfish has been a local favorite since 1993. As a hidden gem, their fried catfish earned a well-deserved spot on the official 100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama Before You Die list.

Catfish House (Millbrook)

Located at 3011 Cobbs Ford Road, the Catfish House offers a quintessential family-style dining experience. With over 50 years of tradition, they serve broiled or fried catfish accompanied by white beans, coleslaw, and hushpuppies.

Ezell’s Fish Camp (Lavaca)

A true landmark, Ezell’s Fish Camp has been serving perfectly fried fish since the 1950s. Located at 776 Ezell Road, this rustic destination remains a favorite for anyone seeking authentic Alabama catfish.

Catfish Springs (Russellville)

For a unique twist, Catfish Springs at 17901 U.S. Highway 43 serves their “Voodoo Catfish”—a golden fried fillet served over jambalaya and topped with a creamy shrimp sauce.

Greenbrier Restaurant (Madison)

Evolving from a one-room takeout joint in the 1950s, Greenbrier Restaurant has grown into a major destination at 27028 Old Highway 20. Their pond-raised catfish is served with classic sides—just be careful not to fill up on their famous hushpuppies too early.

The Back Porch Restaurant (Talladega)

Enjoy a scenic meal at 270 Marina Drive, where The Back Porch Restaurant offers stunning views of Logan Martin Lake. Their menu features fried catfish in every iteration, and you should definitely finish your visit with their signature chocolate peanut butter pie.