Memphis Catfish, Plano

The smell of fried catfish and laughter of customers didn’t always fill Memphis Catfish’s cozy eatery. In fact, the Frisco joint almost never opened, since the owners faced a slew of problems early in the southern food eatery’s inception. But what seemed like a curse eventually turned into a blessing as locals in the community rallied together, donating a stove and deep fryer as well as funds. This display of kindness fueled the owners to follow through with their dream restaurant, which now serves affordable and authentic southern cousine.

Retaining an atmosphere reminiscent of “Big Momma’s kitchen,” both of Memphis Catfish’s restaurants allow diners to slow down and unwind as they dig into hearty Southern eats that range from house-made hush puppies and candied yams to US-bred catfish fried in gluten-free oil. Though catfish and butterfly shrimp are the stars of the menu—served in everything from po’ boys and tacos to baskets filled with fries—the chefs also grill hot links and sausages shipped from Memphis.