The Absolute Best Catfish in Arlington [Updated 2025]

I’ve scoured menus, chatted with chefs, and tasted my way through ten of Arlington’s top spots to bring you the ultimate catfish experience. Trust me, I know what makes a great catfish—whether it's the crispy, golden exterior or that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that keeps you coming back for more.

This isn’t just a list of restaurants; it’s a journey through flavors and memories that define our local culture. So grab your napkin and get ready, because I’m about to take you on a delicious ride through the best catfish Arlington has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you!

Dirty Cajun Seafood Kitchen

Highlights
Delicious food experience
Smooth jazz atmosphere
Friendly and professional service
Family-friendly environment
Affordable pricing

Dirty Cajun Seafood Kitchen is a hidden gem that takes your taste buds on a delightful journey. From the moment I stepped inside, I was enveloped by a smooth jazz atmosphere that perfectly complemented my culinary adventure. The ambiance not only sets the stage for an enjoyable meal, but it also makes you feel at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: their catfish! It’s fried to a golden perfection, boasting a crispy exterior while remaining tender and flaky on the inside. Each bite sent waves of flavor dancing across my palate, reminding me why I adore this dish. The seasoning is just right, balancing spices that evoke a true Cajun experience.

Moreover, the staff were as friendly as they were professional. I felt like an esteemed guest rather than just another customer. Their warm hospitality and a family-friendly atmosphere made my visit even better.

To top it all off, the pricing is wonderfully affordable, making it easy to indulge without breaking the bank. If you’re searching for the best catfish in Arlington, I highly recommend checking out Dirty Cajun Seafood Kitchen—it’s a flavor-packed experience that you won’t want to miss!

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The Catch- Arlington

Highlights
Friendly bar service
Phenomenal food choices
Great shrimp and whitefish
Welcoming regulars
Awesome bartenders

The Catch- Arlington is quite the gem in the heart of Arlington, where great hospitality meets fantastic flavors. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by the welcoming smiles of the regulars and the energetic ambiance that made my heart sing. The bar service was exceptionally friendly, making me feel right at home from the get-go.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the catfish! At The Catch, you can expect nothing less than a culinary celebration. The catfish was perfectly fried, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—just the way I like it. As an added bonus, I couldn’t resist diving into their phenomenal food choices, including shrimp and whitefish, which were equally delightful.

What truly stood out to me was the awesome bartenders—their knowledge and passion for mixology added an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience. Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to stop by The Catch. You’ll enjoy more than just a meal; you'll be part of a community that genuinely loves its food. In Arlington's catfish scene, The Catch is a must-visit!

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Spice and Gravy Southern Eatery

Highlights
Family-Owned and Friendly
Delicious Catfish & Grits
Inviting Atmosphere
Genuine Hospitality
Warm Jazz Vibes

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Spice and Gravy Southern Eatery, and let me tell you, the catfish they serve is nothing short of a culinary revelation! This family-owned establishment is not only charming but also infused with genuine hospitality that makes you feel as though you're dining at a cherished family gathering. The inviting atmosphere is set to the warm sounds of jazz, which adds an extra pinch of joy to the dining experience.

Now, onto the star of the show: the catfish! It was beautifully crispy on the outside, while the inside remained tender and flaky—exactly what I look for in a great catfish dish. Paired with a side of creamy grits, it was a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. Each bite transported me to the South, filled with nostalgia for home-cooked meals.

If you're searching for that perfect catfish in Arlington, Spice and Gravy will not disappoint. With such a welcoming vibe and outstanding food, I left with a full belly and a happy heart, knowing I had found a true gem in this bustling city. Don't miss out!

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Red Claws Crab Shack

Highlights
Delicious garlic noodles
Fast service under 10 minutes
Highly recommended catfish
Great for casual dining
Busy nights may vary

Upon stepping into Red Claws Crab Shack, I immediately noticed the lively atmosphere that resonated with the spirit of casual dining. Their reputation for serving highly recommended catfish preceded my visit, and I couldn’t resist the urge to dive right into a plate.

The catfish was nothing short of a culinary masterpiece, perfectly fried with a delightful crunch that led to a tender, flaky inside. Accompanying the star of the show were delicious garlic noodles that complemented the meal beautifully, adding a unique twist that I hadn’t anticipated.

What impressed me more was the efficiency of the service; my food arrived in less than 10 minutes, which is nothing short of miraculous during busy nights. Although the restaurant can fill up quickly, the staff kept the atmosphere upbeat and welcoming.

If you’re on the hunt for the best catfish in Arlington, I wholeheartedly recommend Red Claws Crab Shack. With its casual vibe, speedy service, and undeniably fantastic food, you're bound to leave with a smile (and a full belly)!

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Rockfish Seafood & Grill

Highlights
Excellent customer service
Well-seasoned grilled salmon
Delicious crawfish boil
Consistently checks on customers
Tasty basic fish and chips

Rockfish Seafood & Grill is a treasure trove for catfish lovers, and trust me, my taste buds danced with joy during my visit! Upon stepping in, I was immediately greeted with exceptional customer service—the staff genuinely made me feel at home, constantly checking in to ensure my dining experience was nothing short of delightful.

Now, let's talk about the catfish! While their menu offers an enticing selection that goes beyond just catfish, I couldn't resist trying it. The catfish was beautifully seasoned and fried to perfection, delivering that satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining tender and flaky on the inside. It felt like a warm culinary hug!

Though the catfish stole the show, I’d be remiss not to mention the delicious crawfish boil that was a delightful companion to my meal. The atmosphere was vibrant yet relaxed, making it a perfect spot for both casual outings and special celebrations.

If you're in search of tasty fish and chips alongside that memorable catfish experience, Rockfish is definitely the place to be. So grab your friends and make your way to Rockfish; your taste buds will thank you later!

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Catfish Sam's

Stepping into Catfish Sam's feels like a warm hug from a Southern grandmother. The fried catfish here is golden and crispy, with a tantalizing spice blend that dances on your palate. I couldn’t resist pairing it with their creamy coleslaw and fluffy hushpuppies—simply divine! The ambiance is laid-back, making it a great spot for a relaxing meal. Don’t skip their signature tartar sauce; it's the perfect complement! Overall, Catfish Sam's delivers comfort food with a delightful twist, solidifying its place as a top contender for the best catfish in Arlington.

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Bayou Cat

At Bayou Cat, the ambiance transported me straight to the heart of Louisiana! The catfish was perfectly fried, boasting an irresistibly crispy coating that crackled with each bite. Paired with zesty tartar sauce and creamy coleslaw, the flavors danced on my palate. Don’t miss their signature hushpuppies—these golden bites are a delightful surprise! The service was friendly and prompt, making me feel right at home. If you’re in search of soulful catfish, Bayou Cat truly delivers a culinary experience that leaves you wanting more. I can’t wait to return for seconds!

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KING CRAB PARADISE

At KING CRAB PARADISE, the catfish is a delightful surprise! Tender and flaky, each bite melts in your mouth, boasting a flavorful breading that strikes an impeccable balance between crispy and light. The dish is perfectly complemented by their house-made tartar sauce, adding a zesty twist that elevates the dining experience. The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, making it an excellent spot for both casual meals and special gatherings. With generous portions and friendly service, this catfish gem is a must-try for any seafood fan. Dive into flavor at KING CRAB PARADISE—you won't regret it!

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Sharks fish & chicken ( S Collins st )

My visit to Sharks Fish & Chicken on S Collins St left me pleasantly surprised! The catfish was flaky and tender, with a delightful crunch that made each bite a two-texture treat. Seasoned just right, the spices danced on my palate without overwhelming the fish's natural flavor. I paired it with a side of crispy fries, which complemented the dish perfectly. The atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming, making it a fantastic spot for casual dining. If you're in Arlington and craving some catfish that'll make you smile, Sharks is undoubtedly a must-try!

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Flying Fish

At Flying Fish, I was greeted by a vibrant atmosphere that set the stage for my culinary adventure. The catfish was nothing short of spectacular—crispy on the outside and delectably flaky within, it had just the right seasoning that danced on my palate. Paired with their homemade tartar sauce, each bite felt like a celebration! The friendly staff added to the ambiance, making the experience even more enjoyable. If you’re in the mood for a delightful seafood feast, Flying Fish is a must-visit destination that truly delivers a taste of catfish perfection. Hooked and can’t wait to return!

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