The Absolute Best Catfish in Grapevine [Updated 2025]

Each bite of catfish tells a story, and let me tell you, Grapevine has some delicious tales to tell! I’ve scoured 12 of the top spots in town, sampling everything from crispy fried fillets to mouthwatering blackened options. With years of experience and a love for this Southern delicacy, I know what to look for: that perfect crunch, the right seasoning, and, of course, the freshest fish.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, trust me—I've tasted my way through the good, the bad, and the downright unforgettable. So, let’s dive into the best catfish this charming town has to offer, and I promise, you won’t leave hungry!

Big Fish Seafood Grill & Bar

Highlights
Fresh, flavorful crawfish
Perfect Cajun spice
Vibrant atmosphere
Convenient parking
Delicious seafood specials

Big Fish Seafood Grill & Bar is where my catfish dreams came to life! From the moment I walked in, the vibrant atmosphere made me feel like I was stepping into a festive coastal town. The delightful aroma of fresh seafood filled the air, setting the stage for what would be a culinary adventure.

I was eager to try their catfish, which turned out to be a fantastic choice. Each bite was a perfect balance of crispy outside and tender, flavorful flesh on the inside. The Cajun seasoning was spot-on, providing just the right amount of kick without overwhelming the delicate taste of the fish. Accompanied by a side of their mouthwatering crawfish, I knew I had struck gold.

What’s more, the convenient parking made my visit hassle-free—something I greatly appreciate. With a variety of seafood specials, there’s always something new to explore. If you’re looking for a place that serves some of the best catfish in Grapevine, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Big Fish Seafood Grill & Bar a try. You might just find yourself swimming back for more!

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Tolbert's Restaurant & Chili Parlor

Highlights
Incredible chili experience
Warm, lively ambiance
Family-friendly atmosphere
Knowledgeable and friendly staff
Great for casual dining

Tolbert's Restaurant & Chili Parlor in Grapevine is a delightful blend of vibrant atmosphere and culinary tradition. Walking into the restaurant, I was immediately swept away by the warm, lively ambiance; the walls adorned with charming decor created a welcoming space perfect for families and friends.

Now, let’s dive into the main attraction—the catfish! I was pleased to find that Tolbert's brings its own unique flair to this classic dish. The catfish was beautifully seasoned and expertly fried, boasting a perfectly crispy outer layer that gave way to tender, flaky fish. Each bite was a comforting reminder of down-home cooking.

What truly enhanced my dining experience was the friendly and knowledgeable staff. They were happy to recommend the best beverage pairings, which showcased their commitment to ensuring each guest feels at home. The restaurant excels not only in catfish but also in its incredible chili, making it hard to resist an order of both!

Tolbert’s is a great spot for casual dining—whether you're a local or just passing through, indulge in their catfish for a taste that promises to leave you smiling. Grab your friends, and make a night of it; I’m confident you’ll find yourself wanting to return for more!

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AJ's On Main

Highlights
Awesome Texas hospitality
Welcoming staff experience
Casual dining atmosphere
Prominent downtown location
Indoor and outdoor seating

AJ's On Main is a gem that perfectly encapsulates the charm of Grapevine while delivering a delightful catfish experience. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with awesome Texas hospitality that set the tone for a memorable meal. The friendly staff not only welcomed me with bright smiles but also made me feel right at home—a true testament to their dedication.

The atmosphere is wonderfully casual, making it a fantastic spot to unwind after a day of exploring downtown Grapevine. Whether you prefer a breezy outdoor table or a cozy spot indoors, AJ’s caters to your comfort.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the catfish! With a perfectly crispy coating and a tender fillet, each bite was a satisfying celebration of flavor. There’s an undeniable, heartwarming comfort in their preparations that speaks to both tradition and quality.

In summary, if you’re seeking the best catfish in Grapevine, AJ's On Main deserves your attention. Come hungry and ready for a delightful feast in a vibrant setting, where the experience is just as important as the mouthwatering dish on your plate!

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Texas Best Smokehouse

Highlights
Friendly and quick service
Clean and inviting atmosphere
Moist brisket without sauce
Loaded scalloped potatoes
Variety of food options

Texas Best Smokehouse is a delightful surprise nestled in the heart of Grapevine. What caught my attention first was the inviting atmosphere—the moment I walked in, I was welcomed with a burst of warmth that felt like a hug from an old friend. The service was notably friendly and efficient, which is always a plus when you're hungry.

Now, let’s talk about the catfish. It was perfectly moist and cooked to a golden hue that beckoned me to dive in. Each bite was a celebration of flavors, paired beautifully with some of the best loaded scalloped potatoes I’ve ever tasted. Talk about a side dish stealing the spotlight! While their brisket deserves its own mention for being juicy and savory, the catfish truly had my heart racing with excitement.

What impressed me, too, was the wonderful variety of options on the menu. It’s clear that Texas Best Smokehouse isn’t just a one-trick pony. If you’re in Grapevine and you’re on the hunt for mouthwatering catfish, look no further. This spot has solidified its place in my list of favorites, and I can't wait to return for another satisfying meal!

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R&J's Bar and Grill

Highlights
Exceptional Service
Friendly Owner Atmosphere
Flavorful Beans Served
Attentive Waitstaff
Great Dive Bar Experience

Visiting R&J's Bar and Grill was an absolute delight, and let me tell you, the catfish here is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. As I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly owner atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home. The exceptional service from the staff was refreshing; they were attentive without being intrusive, making sure my experience was enjoyable from start to finish.

Now, let's talk about the catfish! Cooked to perfection, the fish had a crisp, golden batter that encased tender, flaky meat. Each bite burst with flavor, making it evident that they take pride in their craft. As a welcoming surprise, I also savored their flavorful beans served alongside, which complemented the meal beautifully.

R&J’s offers that quintessential dive bar experience where you can kick back, enjoy live music, and indulge in some truly memorable catfish. If you're searching for the best catfish in Grapevine, do yourself a favor and stop by R&J’s; it might just become your new favorite spot!

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Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse - Dallas-Fort Worth

Highlights
Fantastic Sunday brunch
Incredible meat selection
Top-notch service
Elegant yet comfortable vibe
Great for special occasions

Chama Gaúcha Brazilian Steakhouse is a delightful surprise for catfish enthusiasts like myself. Nestled in the heart of Grapevine, the restaurant offers an elegant yet comfortable vibe that makes every visit feel special. On a sunny Sunday, I indulged in their fantastic brunch, which, while famed for its incredible meat selection, also showcased a surprisingly delicious catfish dish that caught my attention.

The catfish was expertly prepared, exhibiting a perfect balance of crispness on the outside while remaining tender and flaky on the inside. Accompanied by traditional sides, it felt like a comforting nod to Southern culinary roots—the kind that warms your heart. Despite being predominantly a meat lover's paradise, I found myself returning for that lovely catfish more than once!

The top-notch service made the experience even better. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, happy to suggest pairings that complemented the catfish marvelously. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a treat, Chama Gaúcha is a gem. Don’t miss out on this unique culinary experience; it might just redefine your catfish expectations!

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Feedstore BBQ & More

Highlights
Welcoming atmosphere
Friendly staff
Delicious comfort food
Generous portion sizes
Great smoky flavor

Feedstore BBQ & More is more than just a hungry eyesore; it’s a culinary treasure nestled in the heart of Grapevine. As I stepped inside, I was immediately enveloped by a warm and welcoming atmosphere that felt like a hug from a favorite aunt. The friendly staff greeted me with genuine smiles, setting the stage for what would be an unforgettable meal.

Now, let's get to the star of the show: the catfish! A generous portion was served up, beautifully crispy on the outside and tender within. Each bite was a delightful symphony of flavors, amplified by a hint of that delightful smoky essence often found in great barbecue. I can't stress enough how comforting this dish felt—like a cozy blanket on a cool evening.

Accompaniments were equally enticing, rounding out the comfort food experience that Feedstore is known for. It’s tough to resist such hearty fare! Overall, if you're on the hunt for the best catfish in Grapevine, look no further than this spot. With its amazing variety and generous portions, it’s a feast worthy of both your taste buds and your spirit!

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Shuck Me

Highlights
Variety of menu options
Friendly and patient staff
Enjoyable drink specials
Solid fried catfish
Great ambiance

Shuck Me in Grapevine has swiftly captured my heart with its inviting ambiance and an impressive menu that goes beyond just catfish. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly and patient staff, eager to help me navigate their delicious offerings.

I decided to indulge in their solid fried catfish, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The fish had a perfectly crispy exterior that encased a tender, flaky interior—absolutely delectable! Each bite was seasoned to perfection, making it a delightful experience.

What truly elevated my visit were the enjoyable drink specials that complemented the meal beautifully. I sipped on a refreshing beverage while soaking in the lively atmosphere, filled with laughter and chatter from fellow diners. The place strikes an ideal balance between casual and fun, making it perfect for a laid-back dining experience.

Overall, if you're on the hunt for the best catfish in Grapevine, I wholeheartedly recommend Shuck Me. It's a place where flavor and friendliness blend seamlessly—a true gem in the heart of Grapevine!

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Perry's Steakhouse & Grille

Highlights
Elegant and welcoming ambiance
Exquisite, flavorful dishes
Attentive and knowledgeable staff
Memorable for special occasions
Exceptional valet service

When I stepped into Perry's Steakhouse & Grille, I was immediately enveloped in an atmosphere that exuded elegance and warmth. The unexpectedly welcoming ambiance made me eager to explore their famed catfish offerings. Nestled among steak and seafood delights, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the catfish here holds its own with delightful flavors that dance on your palate.

Upon tasting the dish, the catfish was perfectly cooked, striking a balance between crispy and tender. Each bite revealed a depth of flavor that I found simply enchanting. The accompanying sides complemented the dish beautifully, enhancing the overall experience. The attentive and knowledgeable staff were eager to offer insights which made my meal even more enjoyable; their passion for the food was palpable.

Perry's is not just another restaurant—it's a place where special occasions come to life. From exceptional valet service to meticulously crafted dishes, every aspect left me feeling indulged. If you're on the hunt for catfish that elevates the standard, then Perry’s is a must-visit. Don’t miss the chance to revel in the extraordinary flavors they serve. Trust me, it’s an experience worth savoring!

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Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

From the moment I walked into Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, the vibrant atmosphere set the stage for a delightful culinary adventure. Their catfish, expertly fried to a golden crisp, practically danced on my taste buds, revealing a juicy interior that was simply irresistible. Paired with their zesty remoulade sauce, this dish was a harmonious blend of flavors. The generous portions left me satisfied, while the attentive service made the experience even more enjoyable. If you're on the hunt for the best catfish in Grapevine, look no further—Pappadeaux is a must-try destination!

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Ring of Honor Kitchen & Bar

The catfish at Ring of Honor Kitchen & Bar is a delightful surprise! Crisp on the outside and tender within, this dish truly stands out. The seasoning is a perfect blend of spices, enhancing the natural flavors without overshadowing them. Served with a side of their creamy coleslaw, each bite feels like a warm hug. I appreciated the welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for casual dining or gatherings. If you're seeking catfish that knows how to impress, Ring of Honor is a must-try on your quest for the best in Grapevine!

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Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles

During my visit to Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles, I was pleasantly surprised by their catfish delight! The fillets were perfectly fried—crispy on the outside yet tender and flaky within. Each bite was a burst of flavor, enhanced by their signature spices that danced on my palate. Paired with their fluffy waffles, it created an unexpected harmony that left me craving more. The atmosphere was inviting, and the friendly service only added to the charm. If you’re in Grapevine and seeking a unique twist on catfish, Lo-Lo's is a must-try that won't disappoint!

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