Top 20 catfish in Oakland
Discover the vibrant world of "catfish in Oakland" and its unique significance in the local food scene. From mouth-watering Southern-style catfish to sustainable aquaculture initiatives, Oakland has embraced this versatile seafood. Join us as we explore the delicious culinary culture and responsible fishing practices revolving around "catfish in Oakland."
- 1. JJ Fish & Chicken Oakland - Int'l
- 2. Mama T's Oakland
- 3. JJ Fish and Chicken
- 4. Y’s Choice
- 5. Brenda's Oakland
- 6. Quick Bite
- 7. Lois The Pie Queen
- 8. Smellys Creole Catering LLC.
- 9. Hapuku Fish Shop
- 10. Las Palmas Super Burrito
- 11. Jusla Eats / Jusla Catering
- 12. Oeste - Bar
- 13. Southern Café
- 14. The Fat Fish
- 15. Flip N Soul
- 16. Elaine's Cajun Cuisine
- 17. Big Momma's Kitchen
- 18. Uncle Willie's Original BBQ and Fish
- 19. JJ Fish and Chicken
- 20. Trap Kitchen Oakland
1. JJ Fish & Chicken Oakland - Int'l
Family-owned business since 1985, using high-quality ingredients

The catfish nuggets and fried catfish at this establishment are delicious and crispy, leaving a positive impression and a desire to return for more. The food offerings, particularly the catfish, have been highly praised for their crispy texture.
The service at this place is worthy of mention, characterized by friendliness that enhances the dining experience. The portions of the dishes, especially the fried catfish, are generous, adding to the value and satisfaction of the meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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2. Mama T's Oakland
Family-owned restaurant serving Southern comfort food

Mama T's Oakland is a highly regarded soul food restaurant in Oakland, known for its consistently delicious dishes. Two of the most frequently mentioned menu items are the fried catfish and chicken wings, which are favorites among patrons. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, making it a reliable go-to spot for those seeking out soul food.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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3. JJ Fish and Chicken
Family-owned business since 1996, using signature recipes and fresh ingredients

The catfish dish served was a delightful and satisfying meal. Both orders came with a well-seasoned and expertly cooked fish. The flavors were exceptional, making it a delicious choice. The catfish was fresh and cooked to perfection, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
In addition to the delicious catfish, the portion size was generously large. The dinner plate was filled with a sufficient amount of food, providing great value for the money. Whether it was the freshness of the fish or the generous portion size, the catfish dinner was an outstanding meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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4. Y’s Choice

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
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5. Brenda's Oakland
Serves sustainable and locally-sourced seafood, Gluten-free and vegan options available

The catfish po'boy is a highly recommended dish, featuring fresh bread and expertly seasoned catfish. This combination creates a delightful dining experience. Similarly, the fried catfish benedict is a standout option, boasting a harmony of flavors and a satisfyingly substantial portion.
Diners will not be disappointed with the seafood offerings at this establishment. The catfish po'boy, in particular, is a noteworthy selection, offering a perfect blend of fresh bread and well-seasoned catfish. Additionally, the fried catfish benedict is a must-try, bursting with flavor and providing a substantial, gratifying meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
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6. Quick Bite
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Southern cuisine in Oakland

The catfish dish is a standout at this establishment, featuring a perfectly seasoned and crispy fried preparation. It's no wonder that regular customers recommend ordering it in advance, as it is available for take-out only. This popular menu item is a must-try for anyone looking to sample some of the restaurant's best fare.
To ensure availability, it is advisable to phone ahead and place an order for the catfish and fries. This popular dish is only offered for take-out, making it a convenient option for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal at home. The seasoned and fried catfish is sure to be a hit with diners, providing a flavorful and satisfying meal that is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Breakfast
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7. Lois The Pie Queen
Homestyle cooking in a relaxed atmosphere

The catfish dinner offered a satisfying and delightful experience. The portion served was plentiful, and the taste was excellent, making for a memorable meal. The catfish dish consisted of three sides and a cornbread muffin, showcasing a well-rounded and flavorful meal. The fish itself was fresh and cooked to perfection, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the dinner.
The quality of the catfish dinner was commendable. The fish was fresh and skillfully prepared, while the accompaniments added to the meal's overall satisfaction. With a generous portion size and a spot-on flavor, the catfish dinner proved to be a delicious and enjoyable dining experience. The combination of a tasty fish and the perfect sides made for a highly recommended meal choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
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8. Smellys Creole Catering LLC.
Family-owned catering company specializing in Creole cuisine

The catfish I tried was incredibly fresh, perhaps the freshest I have ever tasted. The meal consisted of catfish and shrimp, which I combined in one dish. Unfortunately, the shrimp did not meet the same high standards as the catfish. It's possible that the shrimp was not as fresh or that it was not prepared as carefully as the catfish.
In summary, the catfish was a standout dish with its exceptional freshness. However, the shrimp did not live up to the same level of quality, which was disappointing. It's unclear whether the issue was with the freshness of the shrimp or with its preparation, but it detracted from the overall enjoyment of the meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
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9. Hapuku Fish Shop

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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10. Las Palmas Super Burrito
Family-owned Mexican restaurant serving unique burritos with various seafood options

A friend of Sam K., posting on July 26, 2021, gave two thumbs up for pictures of fried catfish shared by Las Palmas. Despite some concerns prompted by the restaurant's 2.5-star rating, Sam decided to visit and try the fried catfish dish for themselves. Sam was impressed and awarded the dish a full 5-star rating.
Sam K.'s friend was enticed by the appealing pictures of Las Palmas' fried catfish and gave a positive recommendation. Sam chose to ignore the restaurant's less-than-ideal 2.5-star rating and decided to see if the fried catfish lived up to the hype. After trying it, Sam was more than satisfied and gave the dish the highest possible rating of 5 stars.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
- Dinner
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11. Jusla Eats / Jusla Catering

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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12. Oeste - Bar
Stylish atmosphere, live music, extensive drink menu

The first dish that stood out was the habanero margarita. This unique drink offered a refreshing twist on the classic margarita, with a spicy kick from the habanero pepper. The balance of flavors was expertly executed, allowing the agave taste of the tequila to shine while providing just enough heat to excite the taste buds. It was a perfect starting point for the meal.
The second recommendation is the red beans with catfish. The catfish was fried to perfection, with a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. The red beans served as an excellent accompaniment, providing a rich and savory flavor that complemented the catfish perfectly. Overall, both the habanero margarita and red beans with catfish are must-try dishes for anyone looking to explore the menu at this establishment.
Summary:
The meal consisted of a spicy habanero margarita and red beans with perfectly fried catfish. The margarita offered a refreshing twist on a classic drink, while the catfish was cooked to perfection with a crispy exterior and tender interior. The red beans served as a savory accompaniment, making both dishes standout choices for any meal at the establishment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
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13. Southern Café
Emphasis on Southern cuisine and hospitality

The fried catfish dish is a standout option, known for its delicious taste and perfect seasoning. Freshly prepared, this dish offers a tantalizing experience for anyone who tries it.
If you're looking for a must-try dish, the fried catfish should be at the top of your list. With its fresh preparation and delightful flavor, it's sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
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14. The Fat Fish
Local Berkeley favorite with a friendly atmosphere

The catfish and oysters at this dining spot are standouts, featuring a crispy batter that is highly recommended. While the potato salad is acceptable, it is the coleslaw that many patrons rave about, noting its perfect cooking. Although this restaurant is small and quaint, it has earned a reputation as a must-visit dining destination.
Fried fish and fried catfish are additional menu items that have received praise from customers. The recipe for success of this establishment includes its delicious flija and delectable fruitcake. Despite its unassuming size, the restaurant has gained a loyal following due to its high-quality offerings and excellent service.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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15. Flip N Soul
Family-owned restaurant serving up traditional southern comfort food

The catfish dish was a hit, with its perfect seasoning and frying making a lasting impression. The outside was crispy, while the inside was tender and juicy, making for a delicious and satisfying meal. The catfish was undoubtedly the star of the show, leaving a positive impact on those who tried it.
With high recommendations coming in, the catfish dish excelled in both flavor and texture. Its crispy exterior and tender interior made for a delightful eating experience, while the seasoning was on point, adding an extra layer of goodness to the meal. Those who have tried it would surely come back for more of this delicious catfish.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
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16. Elaine's Cajun Cuisine

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
17. Big Momma's Kitchen
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Southern comfort food

If you're looking for a memorable dining experience, consider trying perfectly cooked prawns, catfish, and rich gumbo. These dishes showcase the unique and delicious flavors of Cajun and Creole cuisines. The prawns are sure to be juicy and well-seasoned, while the catfish is flaky and tender. And you can't go wrong with a steaming bowl of gumbo, filled with various meats and vegetables and thickened with roux.
Don't hesitate to visit and try these dishes for yourself. The combination of spices and cooking techniques used in Cajun and Creole cuisines is truly special and will not disappoint. Again, ordering the perfectly cooked prawns, catfish, and rich gumbo is a great idea. You will be able to taste the love and care that goes into each dish, and you may even discover a new favorite food. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience these delicious flavors for yourself.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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18. Uncle Willie's Original BBQ and Fish
Family-owned restaurant since 1961, Serves Southern and Creole cuisine

The best barbecue in Oakland offered a memorable meal featuring their delicious links and catfish. Accompaniments such as potato salad and baked beans elevated the dining experience. The establishment's hospitality and culinary skills will certainly inspire a return visit.
The Fried Seafood Plate is a standout option on the menu, offering a selection of sole, snapper, prawns, or catfish. Diners can enjoy five pieces of their chosen seafood, served with a side of their preference, providing a variety of flavors for a satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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19. JJ Fish and Chicken
Family-owned business since 1996, Dine-in, takeout, and delivery options

The fried catfish dish has received mixed reviews, with some customers raving about its delicious taste and others finding it merely satisfactory. The catfish is known for its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior that makes it a popular choice among diners.
However, not all customers have shared the same enthusiasm for the dish. While some have praised it as the best catfish they've ever had, others have found it to be unremarkable or lacking in comparison to other versions they've tried. Despite the mixed opinions, the crispy and tender texture of the catfish remains a highlight of the dish.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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20. Trap Kitchen Oakland
Authentic Louisiana-style cooking in the heart of Oakland

The food at the establishment was impressive with notable options for seafood and chicken. The catfish and shrimp combo as well as the chicken tender combo were specifically enjoyed. However, there was a discrepancy between the appearance and taste of the catfish basket. Despite the seasoning on the exterior, the catfish was disappointingly bland.
The catfish basket was visually appealing, but the taste did not live up to its appearance. The seasoning on the fish, although plentiful, seemed to lack flavor. This led to a somewhat disappointing dining experience, as the catfish was a major component of the meal. On the other hand, the chicken tender combo was a success and was likely enjoyed by the recipient.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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