Best Chains for Fried Fish & Hush Puppies in 2024
The aroma of crispy batter and the comforting taste of golden-fried fish with fluffy hush puppies – it’s a Southern tradition many seek out, especially during Lent. But finding that perfect combination doesn’t always require a trip to a local seafood shack. Several national chain restaurants consistently deliver on this classic comfort food. Here’s a appear at five options where you can reliably find delicious fried fish and hush puppies, and what makes each one stand out.
Captain D’s: A Seafood Staple
Captain D’s has long been a go-to for affordable and satisfying seafood. Their commitment to the classic fish fry experience is evident in their menu, where hush puppies are a standard accompaniment. Diners can order them as a side, or enjoy them as part of a larger meal like the Supreme Sampler platter, which includes fish, chicken tenders, and shrimp. Captain D’s emphasizes the care taken in preparing their hush puppies, noting that the batter is “freshly prepared and hand scooped.”
Long John Silver’s: A Bit of History with Your Fish
Long John Silver’s, known for its nautical theme and generous portions, also delivers a solid fried fish and hush puppy experience. The chain offers hush puppies alongside popular menu items like the Popcorn Shrimp Basket and the Fish & Shrimp Platter. Long John Silver’s even shares a bit of folklore about the origins of hush puppies, suggesting they were originally created to quiet dogs during outdoor fish fries.
Shrimp Basket: Southern Charm and Seafood
The Shrimp Basket, with locations primarily in the Southeast, prides itself on its hand-breaded seafood. Their Signature Hand-Breaded Baskets are served with southern slaw, two hush puppies, a corn fritter, and french fries. One diner shared on Yelp a particularly positive experience, praising a meal split with a friend that included boom boom shrimp, white fish, fried okra, and, of course, hush puppies and a corn fritter.
Joe’s Crab Shack: A Festive Seafood Experience
Joe’s Crab Shack offers a more casual and lively atmosphere, and their menu includes several options served with hush puppies. The Fish & Chips, Shrimp & Fish plate, and Crispy Fried shrimp plate all come with a side of these savory bites. For those looking to share, the Shrimp & Seafood Ensemble is a substantial offering that includes a variety of fried seafood, fries, coleslaw, and – you guessed it – hush puppies.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: A Unique Hush Puppy Twist
Inspired by the film *Forrest Gump*, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Offers a fun dining experience and a menu featuring a variety of shrimp preparations. What sets their hush puppies apart is that they are made with actual seafood, giving them a distinct flavor profile. Menu items like Forrest’s Seafood Feast are served with these unique hush puppies, alongside fries, coleslaw, and various dipping sauces.
Whether you’re observing Lent or simply craving a classic Southern meal, these chain restaurants provide reliable options for satisfying your fried fish and hush puppy fix. Each offers its own unique take on this beloved combination, ensuring there’s something to please every palate.