I was in college when I was introduced to catfish—and LOVED it! Now, before you say…”you never ate catfish growing up?” Let me explain. My Mom and Dad used to cook catfish, but for whatever reason (perhaps me being a picky eater *shrug*), I only ate Perch and Whiting mostly. I do remember the good old fish fry in the hood…or the ones at my Granny’s house with Rhythm & Blues blaring—or even way back when churches used to sell hot fish plates in the parking lot during the summer.
We didn’t need a “Hot Sign” like Krispy Kreme…all you needed to see was the big, white poster board sign, lawn chairs, kids playing chase in the parking lot, and someones auntie waving her hand to come get a plate! Did I just take you down memory lane? If you grew up in the south, you definitely know what I’m talking about. All you needed was a few slices of “light” bread (i.e., white bread), and a lil’ mustard and hot sauce. Now…when I was a kid, I was a ketchup-only girl. Whew! Those were the good old days. Goodness, how times have changed.
My junior year in college I fell in love with catfish by way of catfish nuggets. I still enjoy catfish fillets, and blackened is one of my favorite ways to have it prepared. But LISTEN! There’s something about those nuggets fried hard! When I discovered HB could fry up some of THE best fish—I instantly rekindled my love for catfish! He seasons it to perfection, and it’s so good that this Condiment Queen doesn’t need anything else added to my mounds of deliciousness. But of course I do…sometimes. Clearly (as you saw above). My M-I-Love makes some amazing fried fish, too! I guess he gets it from his Mama!
We actually celebrated our Juneteenth/Soul Food Sunday with a Catfish + Shrimp Dinner with peas, collard greens, cornbread, sweet tea, and I made dessert! Everything was delicious! I figured…with everything going on, this would be a great time to share some of my favorite restaurants in Birmingham that serve up some of THE BEST catfish! Also it’s a great way to show local support during this season.
So here are a few of my favorites to celebrate National Catfish Day!
Granny’s Fish ‘N Grits who was also featured on The Food Network!
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Saw’s BBQ (several locations) – the Catfish Po’Boys are LEGIT!
Jim ‘N Nick’s BBQ (I had to throw this one in here!)
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Urban Smoke Bar & Grill + Food Truck – I had to add this one just for the Hot Lemon Pepper Catfish ALONE!
There are so many great restaurants and local spots here in Birmingham! Make sure you check out my Birmingham Eats tab to discover other local favorites. Some restaurants may be operating on a curbside, limited menu, or limited seating capacity. Call before you visit. Happy Summer!
Who has the best catfish in your city?
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