When my friend and I planned our trip to Laurel, MS, there was one thing she was adamant about. We HAD to go to Charlie’s Catfish House. Now, what’s so special about Charlie’s you might ask? There are catfish restaurants all over the southern United States. Two words – whole catfish. I grew up in rural Arkansas and catfish “houses” are in abundance but mostly they serve catfish filets. Growing up and living in and near Laurel, she assured me that there was a difference.
Since I was little we have always gone here for birthdays & get togethers. I'm a picky eater but this place is the best! The hamburger steak, Texas toast, fries & hush puppies are so good!! I've never been disappointed, there might be a wait but it's worth it!
This place flat out rocks when it comes to whole catfish, awesome Cole Slaw and tarter sauce as well. I wish we had something this good where I live. The service is excellent very friendly!! The decor needs a little upgrading.
The cream of the crop of Fish Houses. It's where my kids always want to go for Bday dinners and where our extended family ALWAYS chooses for family dinners. They soak their raw onion rings so they are crisp and mild; greatest cole slaw; old fashioned steak fries and very good hush puppies. The tartar sauce is awesome, too!
Absolutely the best catfish. I dare you to find better catfish anywhere. I used to go to Laurel, MS on business trips in the 70's and would always make sure I ate at Charlie's...sometimes twice a day! I have driven many miles out of my way on family trips to eat there. Believe me, even if you think you don't like catfish, this place will change your mind. Their slaw is also the best I've ever had...and I usually don't like slaw.
Thinking about that catfish makes me want to hop in the car and drive 10 hours just to have dinner. I haven't been there in about ten years...wish I lived closer.
It pretty good! A little busy but not busy enough for the service we received. There was 4 of us and between the time we ordered 3 sweet teas and one half and half she forgot who had what. We were never offered seconds on the Cole slaw or hush puppies. Our table was never cleared of dirty plates, she just kept handing us new ones and got frustrated when we had try and find room. 2 of us had the whole catfish and all 4 pieces were served on one plate? Asked for 2 to-go boxes and was handed 4 boxes, 4 cups, 4 lids and a bag then she walks away after she tells me to use what we need and leave the rest on the table...
I had to sit in my chair and hold all the things she just brought me while one of us took it to go box and filled it, put the full box on the table next to us to try and bag up the rest. We literally had 13 plates & four glasses, a empty hush puppy basket and an empty coleslaw bowl on a table for four...
I wasn't going to say anything but as we were standing up to go this waitress had the nerve to look at the plates we had to move, roll her eyes, shake her head and walk away mumbling.
The food was not worth such an experience. We felt rushed and we felt like our business was a inconvenience for this woman.
We paid over $80 to eat here. We tip 25 to 35 percent for good service. If we come back to this place it will be the first time I specifically asked to avoid being seated in a server's area.
Can't tell you her name it was never offered in a description would probably come across as me being insulting so instead I will say short blonde haired lady who speaks very quickly.
Lovely place, food was amazing. Great service!!!
NOTICE:
If you come here, BRING CASH. They do not take cards or checks. There is an ATM in the lobby if you need so.
Charlie's is an family owned business that employs several people locally. Yes it can be expensive. Yes, It takes a awhile for them to get your order. Try to call in and order BEFORE they get busy. They DO care about how the food is made.
I don't think I've ever had a complaint about them. It's always a good place to have get togethers with friends. The only issue I have is their waiting lobby can be a bit chilly during winter.
I've been going here my whole life. Non of that lazy fish fillet bull it's on the bone like it should be. Seriously, amazing food. Any problems you would have with the restaurant doesn't even matter.
It was standing room only, that's how popular they are! People came from near and far. I came 1100 miles and family took me there. The fish seasoning was awesome! They serve cornbread, Cole slaw, French fries and a Vidalia onion. $12.95. If you visit Ellisville, Mississippi or near by, please visit for their catfish! Absolutely delish!
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