Seafood restaurants

Carl’s Catfish Hut

4.6 77 reviews 04:00 AM - 09:00 PM 108 9th St, Oakdale, LA 71463, United States

Discover this place

Carl’s Catfish Hut, nestled in Oakdale, LA, has quickly become a beloved destination for seafood enthusiasts. Established with a rich legacy, this cozy restaurant is helmed by a devoted husband-and-wife team, ensuring a warm, welcoming atmosphere paired with incredible service. Customers rave about the perfectly seasoned fried catfish, characterized by its golden, crispy exterior and tender, flaky layers. Percella Snyder reminisces about the family roots of Carl’s, praising both the consistent quality and the attentive service from waitstaff like Madelyn, who consistently receives high marks from patrons.

The reliable salad bar complements the meals beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience, while weekend crawfish offerings promise a fantastic value. Critics agree that the pricing is reasonable, making it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors alike. With its nostalgic charm reminiscent of traditional southern kitchens, Carl’s Catfish Hut stands as a testament to both culinary excellence and heartfelt service. Each visit is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience you’ll want to repeat. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, prepare to be enchanted by the flavors and warmth at Carl’s Catfish Hut.

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Amenities & More

Service options

Takeout
Dine-in
Delivery

Highlights

Serves local specialty

Popular for

Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Dining options

Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities

Restroom

Atmosphere

Casual
Cozy

Crowd

Family-friendly
Groups
Tourists

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Carl’s Catfish Hut before visiting.

Reviews for Carl’s Catfish Hut

4.6

77 reviews

100%

14%

Review highlights

Based on 77 reviews

Carl’s Catfish Hut is widely praised for its authentic Southern seafood experience, particularly its expertly seasoned and perfectly cooked fried catfish. Reviewers frequently highlight the welcoming, relaxed atmosphere and family-oriented management, which preserves a strong legacy within the community. The quality of service stands out, with attentive staff creating a friendly dining environment. Customers appreciate the affordable pricing and the addition of a complimentary salad bar, along with seasonal offerings like crawfish. The spacious dining area and consistent food quality make it a favored destination in Oakdale. Overall, Carl’s Catfish Hut is recognized for combining tradition, excellent taste, and hospitable service, drawing both locals and visitors alike.

Percella Snyder

Oct 08, 2025

It’s just like we remembered it. My mama worked at carls in glenmora for as long as I can remember and Parrish has honored his dad’s legacy for sure. Prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is relaxed. Madelyn is the best waitress we have ever had. Make sure you ask for her section and tip her good! Also check out that cute guy that works in the kitchen. His name is Nathan. Excellent experience all the way around.

Sep 12, 2025

Hands down the best fried catfish I've ever had. Perfectly seasoned, golden crispy outside, and flaky inside. Worth the trip every time.

L. Rocha

Sep 03, 2025

So glad this place reopened in Oakdale. It’s managed by husband and wife team. The husband cooks and the wife is the waitress. Awesome service and food. They also have crawfish on the weekends during the season at the best prices in Oakdale. Catfish is perfectly tender and the salad bar is a nice touch for free. Large dining area

AJ Horton

Aug 26, 2025

Catfish was perfectly cooked and seasoned. Coleslaw was great and available on the salad bar. Service was right on the money with friendly staff. Much better than Roy’s Catfish in Kinder. Well worth the drive to Oakdale. Priced right and I’ll definitely be coming back.

Melissa Thompson

Aug 22, 2025

I Love the food is great. I remember them being on the Glenmora ,La/ Pitkin,La Hwy that's when the old man had it. I remember walking it reminded me so much of Polly's Catfish Kitchen if I'm not mistaking they were friends. My mom worked at Polly's Catfish Kitchen down towards Oberlin,La Great Environment both places.

Veronica Reyes

Jul 24, 2025

Carl's is great! The service is always good and the food never disappoints. Thin & crispy catfish and fried shrimp are my favorite choices when crawfish is not an option. They also have a good salad bar.

Bridgette Smith

Jul 12, 2025

Everytime I'm visiting from Texas I make sure to eat at Carl's! The food is on point every-single-time! Wether it's the delicious fried catfish, which I always order "thin & crispy", or any of the shrimp (fried, grilled or boiled) you can't go wrong! The staff is always so nice & the restaurant & bathrooms are very clean! Bonus you can hardly find anywhere to eat seafood this good at such a great price and with huge portions! Go visit Carl's, you won't be disappointed!