Evansville Is Now Home to the Best Fried Catfish in Indiana

Southern Indiana may be the next "Catfish Capital of the World," as it's now home to more than one of the Hoosier State's favorite spots for a fried fish fillet.

I'm no stranger to catfish, whether that be in terms of a fishing hole or a dinner table. In fact, fried catfish fillets were one of my favorite dishes growing up in rural southern Indiana. As an adult, that hasn't changed, which makes it one of my go-to menu items to order at several local restaurants. However, in Evansville specifically, it seems I have even more places to explore when it comes to the local food scene.

Why Is Fried Catfish Such a Popular Dish in Indiana?

According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Indiana is home to 13 species of catfish and madtoms that can range from 2 inches to over 4 feet in length. Blue, channel, and flathead catfish are extremely popular for both commercial and recreational fisheries and remain relatively inexpensive to the consumer. While catfish are considered "bottom feeders" and are not the most sought-after fish in the world, most Hoosiers seem to enjoy them on their plate.

Get our free mobile app

My Favorite Spot to Order Fried Catfish

Growing up in Daviess County, Indiana, one of my favorite places to order fried catfish was a restaurant called American Table Family Dining. They've since expanded to include more locations, including one in Princeton, where I currently reside. While I think their version of this popular dish is well deserving of some sort of award, they unfortunately did not make the list of the five best places to order fried catfish in Indiana. However, as already alluded to, the list does feature some familiar favorites.

The Best Places to Get Fried Catfish in Indiana

According to Only In Your State, the following five restaurants are said to serve the best fried catfish in all of Indiana:

• Catfish Willy's Seafood & Comfort Cuisine (Evansville)
• Knob Hill Tavern (Newburgh)
• Stookey's Family Dining (Thorntown)
• Country Catfish Restaurant (Kokomo)
• Louie Wingz & Catfish (Valparaiso)

A Closer Look at the Fried Catfish Landscape in Evansville

Knob Hill Tavern has been serving craft beer, whiskey, and daily lunch and dinner specials since 1943. Located at 1016 Highway 662 West in Newburgh, Knob Hill is well-known for its fried catfish fiddlers. However, the famous tavern also offers a variety of other delicious dishes, including pork tenderloin sandwiches, burgers, and fried chicken.

Catfish Willy's Seafood & Comfort Cuisine can be found just 11 minutes northwest of Knob Hill, and as the name suggests, specializes in fried catfish. It's located at 5720 East Virginia St. in Evansville, and while I've never had their catfish, I can say their sandwiches and fried alligator are fantastic. Both tri-state favorites are definitely worth a visit.