Sharing is caring!
There’s something sacred about a Tennessee Friday night — the hum of conversation, the smell of hot oil, and the promise of catfish fresh from the fryer. When the week winds down, locals don’t head for fancy restaurants. They go where the hushpuppies are golden, the iced tea never stops flowing, and the catfish fillets are fried just right — crisp on the outside, tender inside, and seasoned with pure Southern pride.
So grab your appetite and leave your diet at the door. These nine Tennessee catfish houses prove that some traditions aren’t just worth keeping — they taste better every single Friday night.
Hagy’s Catfish Hotel — Shiloh / Savannah
Nestled near the Tennessee River, Hagy’s Catfish Hotel is famed for its whole fried catfish served old-school style. The rustic, cabin-like charm with stone fireplaces creates a cozy setting for diners. Generations of travelers detour off I-40 for its generous portions and classic sides…