Best Chain Restaurants for Fried Fish & Mac and Cheese – Eat This Not That!

The combination of crispy fried fish and creamy macaroni and cheese is a comfort food classic, and thankfully, several chain restaurants are delivering on this satisfying pairing. Finding that perfect balance – flaky fish, a flavorful coating, and a rich, cheesy mac – can be a quest, but a few establishments consistently rise to the top. As of today, March 16, 2026, here’s a look at five chain restaurants where you can reliably find excellent fried fish alongside a generous serving of macaroni and cheese.

Cracker Barrel’s Friday Fish Fry: A Southern Staple

For those who enjoy both seafood and classic Southern sides, Cracker Barrel’s Friday Fish Fry is a popular choice. The meal features four hand-battered cod fillets, tartar sauce, a lemon wedge, and your choice of two or three country sides, alongside biscuits or corn muffins. Crucially, their macaroni and cheese – described as “elbow macaroni noodles mixed with cheese and baked in the oven” – is available as a side, completing the comforting meal. You can find details about their mac and cheese here.

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen: Hearty Portions and Flavor

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen offers a Cornmeal White Fish dish that’s consistently praised for its generous portion size and light, crispy coating. Served with tartar sauce, two sides, and hushpuppies, it’s a hearty meal. Diners frequently recommend pairing it with their creamy mac and cheese, which features cavatappi pasta in a rich cheddar cheese sauce.

Long John Silver’s: A Rapid-Food Favorite

Long John Silver’s is a long-standing favorite for fast-food fish, known for its light and crispy batter. Their signature Alaskan pollock is a popular choice, and whereas mac and cheese availability may vary, it’s worth checking if it’s on the menu to complete the meal. The chain is known for its “Crumblies” – fried batter sprinkled on top of the mac and cheese.

Popeyes Flounder Fish Sandwich: A Seasonal Treat

Popeyes’ Flounder Fish Sandwich, when available, is a popular choice, featuring responsibly sourced, wild-caught fish. Pair it with their mac and cheese side for a satisfying combination. Availability is often seasonal, so it’s best to check your local Popeyes to see if it’s currently on the menu.

Culver’s North Atlantic Cod: Quality Ingredients

Culver’s North Atlantic Cod Sandwich is made with fish caught in the North Atlantic, hand-cut, battered, and cooked to order. Their mac and cheese is also highly rated, often compared favorably to homemade versions. You can find more information about their menu here.

the best pairing of fried fish and macaroni and cheese will depend on individual preferences. Yet, these five chains consistently deliver quality and flavor, making them excellent choices for satisfying this classic comfort food craving.