The Absolute Best Catfish in Durham [Updated 2025]

Having tasted my way through 12 top spots, I can confidently say that Durham's catfish scene is nothing short of a culinary adventure. Each restaurant brings its own unique flair, from crispy, golden fillets to rich, savory sides that’ll make your taste buds dance.

As someone who dives deep into every dish, I’ve developed a keen palate and an eye for quality, so you can trust that my recommendations are backed by both passion and expertise. Whether you're a longtime fan of this Southern staple or just curious to explore, I’ve got the scoop on where to find the most mouthwatering catfish in town. Let’s dive in!

Succotash Southern and Creole Kitchen.

Highlights
Perfectly Fried Catfish
Generous Portion Sizes
New Orleans Influences
Casual and Chill Atmosphere
Excellent Service

Review of Succotash Southern and Creole Kitchen

As I stepped into Succotash Southern and Creole Kitchen, the warm ambiance instantly enveloped me, recalling the charm of New Orleans. I was drawn in by the aroma of fried catfish wafting through the air, and I knew I was in for a treat. When my catfish arrived, it was nothing short of a masterpiece—golden brown and fried to perfection, the fish practically sparkled on the plate.

The portions were indeed generous, aligning perfectly with my hearty Southern expectations. Each bite revealed tender, flaky fish with a crispy crust that had just the right amount of seasoning. I couldn’t help but revel in the flavors that danced on my palate, reminiscent of Creole roots and Southern hospitality.

Adding to the experience was the unhurried, casual atmosphere of the restaurant—it felt like home. To top it off, the service was exceptional; the staff was friendly, making sure I felt pampered. Overall, my visit to Succotash left me not just satisfied but eager to return. If you’re hunting for the best catfish in Durham, make sure to stop by—your taste buds will thank you!

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Sho Nuff Seafood

Highlights
Fantastic seafood variety
Hot fried fish perfection
Welcoming atmosphere
Prompt and friendly service
Highly recommended combo

Sho Nuff Seafood has quickly become my favorite spot for catfish in Durham. As soon as I walked in, I was captivated by the welcoming atmosphere—the warmth of the décor and the friendly chatter made me feel right at home. I was excited to try their infamous catfish, and it did not disappoint. The moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. It was hot fried fish perfection, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

The menu boasts a fantastic variety of seafood, but I couldn't resist the highly recommended combo that features their catfish alongside other delightful options. Each accompanied dish was just as scrumptious, highlighting the skill in the kitchen.

Of course, let's not forget about the service—prompt and genuinely friendly, making every diner feel like a valued guest. Sho Nuff Seafood is definitely a must-visit for anyone craving the best catfish in Durham. If you're in the mood for a fish fry that feels like home, this place is sure to satisfy your seafood cravings and leave you smiling!

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Locals Seafood - Restaurant & Market

Highlights
Fresh Oysters Weekly
Insanely Delicious Share Plates
Friendly and Efficient Staff
Grilled Fish with Shrimp
Highly Recommended Dining

At Locals Seafood - Restaurant & Market, I was on a mission to uncover the best catfish in Durham, and boy, did I hit the jackpot! As I strolled in, the welcoming atmosphere enveloped me, with friendly staff ready to assist. I opted for their renowned grilled fish with shrimp, which was not only vibrant in flavor but also cooked to perfection. The catfish – definitely the highlight of my meal – was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with a love that could only come from fresh, high-quality ingredients.

What truly set this place apart, though, was its commitment to serving only the freshest seafood. When I learned they feature fresh oysters weekly, I couldn’t help but think that each visit could unveil another treasure. The share plates were simply insanely delicious, appealing to both flavor and visual aesthetics.

Overall, Locals Seafood is a delightful spot for seafood enthusiasts, boasting catfish that rivals any dish I've tasted in Durham. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, treat yourself to this hidden gem. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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The Blue Note Grill

Highlights
Delicious-smelling atmosphere
Great selection of drinks
Good live music experience
Busy and vibrant atmosphere
Sports on television

The Blue Note Grill is a lively gem that promises not only a delicious dining experience but also a fun night out. As I walked in, the aroma of fried catfish wafted through the air, instantly enticing my taste buds. The atmosphere buzzes with a vibrant energy, enhanced by the live music echoing throughout the restaurant.

Perched on a barstool, I took in the great selection of drinks. They offer an impressive list of local brews that complemented my meal perfectly. And let’s not forget the catfish: it was simply divine! The crispy exterior gave way to tender, flaky fish that transported me straight to a southern fish fry. Each bite was seasoned impeccably, making it evident that they genuinely care about their craft.

As I savored the dish, I couldn’t help but glance at the TVs showing sports games, gathering excited fans around. This place truly encapsulates the spirit of Durham—good food, good music, and great company. If you’re on the hunt for some of the best catfish in town, The Blue Note Grill should be at the top of your list. Trust me, you’ll leave with a smile and a full belly!

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It's a Southern Thing - Ellis Crossings

Highlights
Excellent friendly service
Original scratch-made recipes
Perfectly seasoned fried green tomatoes
Laid-back brunch atmosphere
Convenient parking available

Review of It's a Southern Thing - Ellis Crossings

Nestled in the charming Ellis Crossings area, It's a Southern Thing boasts a delightful dining experience that pays homage to Southern cuisine. Upon entering, I was greeted by the warm ambiance and excellent, friendly service that instantly put me at ease. Now, let's talk about the star of the show: their catfish!

The perfectly golden, crispy catfish was seasoned just right, delivering that satisfying crunch with every bite. Each fillet was moist and flaked effortlessly, showcasing the original scratch-made recipes that truly shine through. I couldn’t resist pairing it with their perfectly seasoned fried green tomatoes—an absolute must-try! The subtle tang complemented the fish beautifully, elevating the entire meal.

Adding to the charm was the laid-back brunch atmosphere that creates a perfect spot for gathering with friends or indulging in a solo feast. With convenient parking available, it’s easy to swing by for a delicious meal. If you’re searching for the best catfish in Durham, look no further—It’s a Southern Thing will leave you craving more!

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Home Plate Restaurant

Highlights
Friendly staff service
Good food for the price
Nostalgic country vibe
Popular banana pudding
Some service inconsistencies

When I stepped into Home Plate Restaurant, I was immediately struck by the nostalgic country vibe that enveloped me like a warm hug. The friendly staff greeted me with genuine smiles that made me feel right at home, which is exactly what you want when you're about to indulge in some catfish goodness.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the catfish. Cooked to perfection, these golden fillets were tender, flaky, and seasoned just right. Every bite transported me to a place where southern comfort foods reign supreme. It’s worth noting that the prices here are wonderfully reasonable, making it easy on the wallet for such delicious fare.

But what truly made my visit memorable was the delightful banana pudding that I couldn’t resist ordering for dessert. However, I did encounter a few service inconsistencies throughout my meal, which served as a mild distraction from the otherwise superb experience.

In conclusion, if you’re in Durham and craving some stellar catfish, Home Plate Restaurant should be at the top of your list. Just don’t forget to save room for that banana pudding! 🍌🍰

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It's a Southern thing - Downtown Durham

Highlights
Delicious BBQ pulled pork
Friendly and welcoming staff
Great daily food and drink specials
Consistently attentive beverage service
Ideal for social gatherings

At It's a Southern thing - Downtown Durham, I discovered more than just catfish; I experienced a full Southern culinary embrace. The fried catfish is a standout dish that danced on my palate, crispy on the outside and tender within. The seasoning was a sublime blend, coaxing the natural flavors of the fish to shine through.

But don't stop there! Their BBQ pulled pork is equally delightful, perfectly complementing the catfish for those who crave a bit of variety. The friendly and welcoming staff are always at the ready, making sure your glass is never empty and your appetite is fully satisfied.

One of the best parts was their great daily food and drink specials. I indulged in a refreshing sweet tea that paired wonderfully with my meal. The atmosphere is pleasantly vibrant, ideal for social gatherings or just enjoying a laid-back dinner.

In a nutshell, It's a Southern thing is a must-visit for catfish lovers in Durham. With an attention to detail in their service and an array of flavors that made me feel at home, I left with a full belly and a happy heart. I can't wait to return!

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The Seafood Box

At The Seafood Box, the catfish stole the spotlight! Fried to golden perfection, each bite was a delightful crunch followed by flaky tenderness. The secret seasoning gave it a burst of flavor that kept me reaching for more. Paired with their zesty dipping sauce, it was a match made in culinary heaven. The casual atmosphere felt warm and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for catfish lovers. If you're hunting for the best catfish in Durham, don’t miss out on this gem. It’s a tasty adventure you won’t want to pass up!

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Saltbox Seafood Joint

Saltbox Seafood Joint is a delightful little gem in Durham that serves a catfish experience worth every bite. The moment I walked in, the aromas of fresh seafood enveloped me, sparking a sense of anticipation. Their catfish is perfectly seasoned with a crispy outer layer that gives way to tender, flaky meat. Paired with a side of homemade coleslaw, each mouthful feels like a hug from the sea. The casual, charming atmosphere makes it a great spot to unwind. If you're craving a catfish dish that's both fun and satisfying, look no further than Saltbox—it's a seafood lover's paradise!

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Vittles at the PARK

At Vittles at the PARK, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of Southern cuisine that immediately set the stage for a delightful meal. The catfish stole the show—perfectly fried, with a crispy exterior that gave way to tender, flaky fish. Each bite was bursting with flavor, enhanced by their signature seasoning blend. The accompanying sides, especially the creamy coleslaw, complemented the dish beautifully. The atmosphere was vibrant and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a casual dining experience. If you're a catfish enthusiast, this gem in Durham is not to be missed!

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Sam's Southern Eatery

From the moment I stepped into Sam's Southern Eatery, the aroma of fried delights set the stage for what I hoped would be a culinary adventure. I ordered the catfish plate, and let me tell you, it was a joyful revelation. The catfish was beautifully crispy on the outside while remaining tender and flaky within. Each bite was seasoned to perfection, dancing between salty and savory notes that made my taste buds sing. With a side of hushpuppies and slaw, it was a true Southern feast! For anyone craving authentic catfish in Durham, this place is a must-visit.

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Skrimp Shack

At Skrimp Shack, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly fried catfish that instantly sparked my enthusiasm. The golden crust was perfectly seasoned, offering a delightful crunch with each bite. The fish itself was tender and flaky, embodying the essence of Southern comfort food. Paired with their homemade tartar sauce, it was a match made in culinary heaven. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff added to the overall charm. If you're on the hunt for unforgettable catfish, this gem is a must-visit in Durham. Trust me, it’s a fishing expedition worth taking!

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