Finding the perfect catfish in Houston can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With countless restaurants boasting their versions of this Southern staple, how do you choose? This comprehensive guide dives into the top 20 catfish spots in Houston, considering factors like freshness, preparation methods, sides, and overall dining experience. We’ve tasted, compared, and ranked to help you find your new favorite catfish haven.
The Top 10 Catfish Restaurants in Houston (Ranked)
This list prioritizes consistent quality, unique offerings, and overall value. We've included a variety of options to suit different tastes and budgets.
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The Catfish King: Known for its perfectly crispy, golden-brown catfish fillets, The Catfish King reigns supreme. Their hushpuppies are legendary, and the coleslaw is a delightful counterpoint to the rich catfish. Price Range: Mid-range
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Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: While primarily known for shrimp, Bubba Gump's catfish is a hidden gem. They offer a blackened catfish that's both flavorful and tender. The location on the waterfront adds to the ambiance. Price Range: Mid-range to High
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Ray's Fish Market: A Houston institution, Ray's delivers fresh, high-quality seafood, including their excellent catfish. They offer various preparations, allowing you to tailor your experience. Price Range: High
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The Original Ninfa's on Navigation: Famous for its Tex-Mex cuisine, Ninfa's also offers a solid catfish dish. The combination of their spicy sauces and the tender catfish is a unique culinary delight. Price Range: Mid-range
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Goode Co. Seafood: Another Houston favorite, Goode Co. delivers consistently high-quality seafood. Their catfish is always fresh and prepared to perfection. Their extensive cocktail menu complements the meal perfectly. Price Range: High
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Kulture: This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated take on catfish, often featuring creative preparations and pairings. Expect a higher price point, but the culinary experience is worth it. Price Range: High
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Pier 6 Seafood & Oyster House: Situated on the waterfront, Pier 6 delivers beautiful views alongside its delectable catfish. Their outdoor seating provides a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy the meal. Price Range: High
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The Fish Place: A casual spot with a focus on fresh ingredients, The Fish Place serves delicious and affordable catfish. Their friendly staff and quick service make it a great option for a quick bite. Price Range: Low to Mid-range
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Cappy's: Known for its lively atmosphere, Cappy's offers a classic catfish experience. Their generous portions and reasonable prices make it a popular choice. Price Range: Mid-range
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BlackEyed Pea: A popular chain restaurant, BlackEyed Pea provides a reliable catfish option. The consistent quality across locations makes it a safe bet, even if it lacks the uniqueness of some other choices. Price Range: Mid-range
The Next 10 Catfish Contenders in Houston
These restaurants offer excellent catfish, but might not have the same level of renown as the top 10. They're worth checking out if you're looking for something different.
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The Boiling Crab: While known for its seafood boils, their catfish is a surprisingly tasty addition. The spicy seasoning adds a kick. Price Range: Mid-range
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Texas Land and Cattle: A steakhouse with a surprisingly good catfish offering. It's a different take on the dish, often prepared with a more refined style. Price Range: High
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Gumbo Jeaux's: A Cajun-inspired restaurant that serves up a flavorful catfish dish with a distinct Cajun spice profile. Price Range: Mid-range
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The Rustic: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, The Rustic offers a solid catfish preparation as part of its larger menu. Price Range: Mid-range
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Saltgrass Steak House: Another steakhouse that surprises with its catfish offering. The focus here is on simplicity and quality ingredients. Price Range: High
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Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen: A popular chain restaurant with reliably good catfish dishes. The consistency across locations makes it a dependable option. Price Range: Mid-range to High
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Willie G's: A waterfront restaurant with a nice patio area, Willie G's offers decent catfish along with their other seafood specialties. Price Range: High
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Lankford Grocery: A long-standing Houston institution serving up classic Southern fare, including their version of catfish. Price Range: Low to Mid-range
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Local Pour: A gastropub with a creative catfish dish that stands out for its unique preparation and interesting flavor combinations. Price Range: Mid-range to High
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Backstreet Cafe: This upscale establishment offers a more sophisticated interpretation of catfish, showcasing high-quality ingredients and refined culinary techniques. Price Range: High
Choosing Your Catfish Adventure
This list provides a starting point for your Houston catfish journey. Remember to check online reviews and menus before visiting. Consider your preferred price range, dining atmosphere, and desired preparation style when making your choice. Happy eating!
