11 Catfish Restaurants In North Carolina Locals Say Are Absolutely Worth The Trip
North Carolina has no shortage of good Southern cooking, but ask around and you’ll quickly hear locals rave about one thing above all: great catfish.
Crispy fillets piled high in classic fish camps, golden cornmeal breading crackling at first bite, hushpuppies rolling out of the kitchen faster than you can eat them, this is the kind of food that defines road-trip detours and hometown loyalty.
These 11 spots have earned a reputation so strong that people gladly drive miles just to grab a plate.
1. Catfish Cove Seafood (Belmont)
Belmont’s hidden treasure serves catfish so fresh you’ll think it jumped straight from the lake to your plate. The crispy coating locks in all the juicy goodness while the meat stays tender and flaky inside.
Locals rave about the generous portions that won’t leave your wallet crying. The cozy atmosphere makes you feel like family, and the staff treats regulars and newcomers with equal warmth.
Don’t skip the homemade tartar sauce—it’s the secret weapon that takes every bite to the next level of deliciousness.
2. Saltbox Seafood Joint (Durham)
Durham’s culinary scene got a serious upgrade when Saltbox opened its doors with a commitment to sustainable seafood. Chef Ricky Moore brings his coastal North Carolina roots to every plate, especially the catfish specials.
The no-frills counter service keeps things casual, but the flavors are anything but ordinary. Expect perfectly seasoned fish with a crunch that echoes through the dining room.
Weekend crowds pack this place tighter than sardines, so arrive early or prepare to wait—trust us, it’s absolutely worth every minute standing in line.
3. The Southern Pecan Gulf Coast Kitchen (Charlotte)
Charlotte’s upscale answer to Southern seafood brings Gulf Coast flair straight to the Queen City. The catfish here gets dressed up fancy with creative seasonings and presentation that photographs like a dream.
Southern hospitality meets sophisticated dining in an atmosphere that balances elegance with comfort. The menu rotates seasonally, but catfish remains a permanent star attraction that never disappoints hungry diners.
Pair your meal with one of their signature desserts for a dining experience that feels special without being stuffy or pretentious.
4. Twin Tops Fish Camp (Gastonia)
Gastonia residents guard this spot like a precious secret, though the secret’s definitely out among catfish enthusiasts. The rustic fish camp vibe transports diners straight to a lakeside retreat without leaving town.
Massive platters arrive loaded with golden catfish fillets, crispy fries, and enough hush puppies to feed a small army. The portions here don’t mess around—come hungry or plan to take home leftovers.
Friday nights turn into a full-blown fish fry celebration where neighbors become friends over shared love of perfectly fried catfish.
5. Pier 51 Seafood (Concord)
Concord’s seafood hotspot reels in customers with catfish that’s been perfected through years of trial and error. The kitchen crew knows exactly how long to fry each piece for maximum crispiness without drying out the fish.
Families fill the booths on weekends, creating a lively buzz that adds to the welcoming atmosphere. Kids and adults alike find something to love on the extensive menu.
The coleslaw deserves its own shoutout—tangy, crunchy, and the perfect cooling contrast to hot, spicy catfish that packs a flavorful punch.
6. Harbor Inn Seafood (Charlotte)
Charlotte’s Harbor Inn has been serving catfish longer than some of its customers have been alive. Decades of experience show in every perfectly executed plate that leaves the kitchen.
The no-nonsense approach focuses on quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods that never go out of style. Regulars claim they can taste the difference between this catfish and everyone else’s.
Prices remain refreshingly reasonable despite the prime location, making this spot perfect for budget-conscious families who refuse to compromise on taste or quality.
7. Captain Tom’s Seafood & Oyster Bar (Kernersville)
Kernersville’s Captain Tom runs a tight ship where catfish reigns supreme alongside fresh oysters and other coastal favorites. The nautical decor creates an atmosphere that feels authentically maritime without being cheesy.
Generous portions arrive piping hot with sides that complement rather than compete with the star attraction. The breading recipe remains a closely guarded secret that keeps customers guessing.
Weekend specials often feature catfish prepared in creative ways that showcase the chef’s willingness to experiment while respecting Southern seafood traditions and expectations.
8. Mayflower Seafood Restaurant (Raleigh – Capital Blvd)
Raleigh’s Mayflower has survived changing food trends by sticking to what works—perfectly fried catfish served with a smile. The retro dining room feels like stepping back to simpler times when seafood restaurants focused on food over Instagram-worthy decor.
Lunch crowds pack this place with state workers and locals who appreciate consistent quality at fair prices. The menu hasn’t changed much over the years because it doesn’t need to.
Order the catfish platter and prepare for a meal that fills both stomach and soul.
9. Fisherman’s Galley (Eden)
Eden’s best-kept culinary secret fries catfish with a technique passed down through generations of skilled cooks. The small-town charm extends from the friendly greetings at the door to the last bite of pecan pie.
Locals pack the tables during dinner rush, creating a community gathering spot where conversations flow as freely as sweet tea. First-time visitors quickly become regulars after experiencing the welcoming atmosphere.
The catfish here tastes like home cooking elevated to restaurant quality—comforting, familiar, and executed with obvious care and attention to detail.
10. Riverside Fish House (Dallas)
Dallas residents treasure this riverside gem where catfish tastes even better with scenic water views as your backdrop. The location alone makes dining here feel like a mini vacation from everyday stress.
Outdoor seating fills up fast during pleasant weather when diners want to combine fresh air with fresh fish. The kitchen maintains high standards whether serving two customers or twenty.
Sunset dinners here create memories that last long after the last piece of catfish disappears from your plate and the check arrives.
11. Big Fish Grill (Wilmington)
Wilmington’s coastal location gives Big Fish Grill serious seafood credibility, and their catfish proves they know their way around a fryer. The beach town vibe permeates every corner of this popular spot.
Tourists and locals mingle over plates of golden catfish that showcases why North Carolina takes its seafood seriously. The casual atmosphere encourages relaxation and lingering over meals.
After a day at the beach, nothing hits quite like their catfish platter paired with cold drinks and the sound of happy diners all around you.