Best of 10 catfish in Philadelphia
Catfish in Philadelphia is a popular food option for seafood lovers. This southern classic is prepared in various ways, such as fried, grilled, or blackened. The city is home to several top-notch catfish spots, including Sid Booker's Shrimp Corner, Alaska King Crab House, J & P Seafood, Beck's Cajun Cafe, and Kelly's Seafood, offering mouth-watering catfish dishes that will satisfy any seafood craving.
1. J & P Seafood
Fresh seafood flown in daily, Outdoor seating available

If you're looking for a tasty dining option, consider trying the catfish sandwich. The fish used in the sandwich is fresh and crispy, making for a delightful culinary experience. The fried catfish is skillfully cooked and well-seasoned, adding to the overall flavor and appeal of the dish.
This sandwich is a standout option that comes highly recommended. Fresh and crispy catfish is used to create a delicious sandwich that is skillfully cooked and well-seasoned. If you're looking to try something new and exciting, this catfish sandwich is a must-try dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
TOPICS
- Cheap Eats
- American Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
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2. Kelly's Seafood
Fresh seafood flown in daily, Outdoor seating available
Many people enjoy the catfish at this location due to its freshness and great taste. The catfish stands out as a recommended dish in this establishment. However, there was an exception to this positive experience.
In one instance, the catfish served was overcooked, resulting in a dry and disappointing meal. This was not in line with the usual high standard expected from the restaurant, and it did not meet the diner's expectations.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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3. Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar
Authentic Cajun seafood experience in a lively atmosphere

The catfish I ordered was cooked slightly beyond the ideal point, but the expertly applied seasoning helped to offset this minor issue. The overall experience of enjoying this dish was positive.
My meal consisted of a catfish basket, which I found to be thoroughly delightful. The fish was fresh and combined perfectly with the other components of the basket. Additionally, the portion size was more than generous, making for a truly satisfying meal.
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4. Beck's Cajun Cafe
Live music on weekends, festive decor, popular for Mardi Gras celebrations

Sandwiches at the establishment are made-to-order and require ten minutes to prepare. The sandwich features multiple strips of breaded and fried catfish, along with lettuce, tomato, and pickles. My selection was the blackened catfish po'boy, which was smaller than expected and left me underwhelmed. I went in without high expectations, and while it wasn't terrible, it didn't impress me either. I likely won't order the catfish po'boy again.
The sandwich, although not meeting my expectations, had a decent combination of toppings, including crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy pickles. Despite the well-prepared toppings, the catfish itself fell short of making the sandwich memorable. However, I am curious if some of the other options may be worth trying in the future. The made-to-order aspect ensures freshness, so it could be worth exploring other sandwich combinations on the menu.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
5. Fresh Gulf Seafood
Family-owned restaurant serving high-quality seafood

The catfish dish I tried was skillfully prepared, with a perfect seasoning and a golden brown, crispy exterior. Its delicious taste made it a definite standout. My catfish platter was not only tasty but also fresh and generously portioned, making for a very satisfying meal.
This catfish meal was a clear example of excellent cooking. The exterior was perfectly fried to a crispy golden brown, while the inside was tender and well-seasoned. The platter was also impressive with its abundance of fresh fish, ensuring a fulfilling dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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6. Uncle's Seafood
Specializes in Cajun-style seafood with a Philadelphia twist

Catfish from Uncle's Seafood is a must-try for anyone who loves this type of fish. With a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful meat on the inside, it's easy to see why this restaurant's catfish stands out.
Uncle's Seafood is known for having some of the best catfish in town. The fish is cooked to perfection, resulting in a delicious flavor that keeps customers coming back for more. In addition to the great taste, the generous portion size ensures that you'll leave feeling satisfied.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Gluten-Free
- Downtown Spots
7. Philly Seafood Wing
Family-owned seafood restaurant with a cozy atmosphere

The catfish dish served was skillfully prepared, with a perfect frying job that sealed in its natural flavors. It was well-seasoned, providing a delightful taste with each bite. The quality of the catfish was outstanding, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
The catfish basket, in particular, stood out with its freshness and rich flavors. Its taste indicated high-quality ingredients, and the portion was satisfying. Overall, the catfish meal was an impressive one that left a lasting impression, prompting a return visit to have the same dish again.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
8. Ruby's Cajun Seafood Boilhouse
Authentic Cajun seafood boil experience, Casual and lively atmosphere

The restaurant has earned my utmost admiration and loyalty. One of my favorite dishes there is the Catfish Platter, which I find incredibly filling and satisfying. I have never been able to finish it all in one sitting, and I always appreciate the leftovers that I get to take home. The quality of the food, packaging, and service at this establishment is consistently impressive, which is why I eagerly anticipate my future visits.
My experiences at this restaurant have been nothing short of excellent. From the delicious food to the outstanding service and packaging, I am always left feeling grateful and content. The Catfish Platter is a standout dish that I highly recommend. I look forward to continuing to patronize this establishment and creating more wonderful memories there. I am grateful for the enjoyable and satisfying meals I have had thus far, and I have no doubt that there are many more to come.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
9. The Legends of Seafood and Soul Food
A legendary spot for soulful seafood and music

The catfish dish was a standout, with its perfect seasoning and crispy fried texture. Customers who tried it were impressed with the quality of the preparation. The flavor was praised for being on point, and the portion size was described as generous. Those who have tasted the catfish are already planning to have it again.
Overall, the catfish dish was a hit with its patrons. Its seasoning and cooking technique were spot on, leading to a delicious and satisfying meal. The portion size was more than enough, and the taste was so good that fans of the dish are looking forward to having it again.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. Seafood House Inc

TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
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