David’s Catfish House in Dothan, Alabama, brings a century-old tradition of Southern hospitality and farm-fresh seafood to your table. This beloved eatery has built its reputation on hand-breaded catfish, made-from-scratch sides, and family-friendly service.
Located just off Ross Clark Circle, it’s a local landmark known for warm rooms and generous portions. Diners flock here to enjoy a taste of true Southern comfort food in a casual, welcoming setting.
History and Heritage
The roots of David’s Catfish House date back to the 1950s when the first roadside stand began serving freshly caught catfish. Over the decades, the brand expanded across the Southeast, each location preserving the original recipes and friendly atmosphere.
The Dothan restaurant opened its doors in the early 2000s and quickly became a community favorite. Patrons praise the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients, time-honored techniques, and genuine Southern charm.
Every dish carries a piece of history, from the specially blended cornmeal used for breading to the family-secret hushpuppy recipe. The Dothan location mirrors the rustic feel of the original stand, complete with wooden booths, vintage décor, and an open kitchen area.
Guests often remark on the satisfying aroma of fryers at work as soon as they step inside. Regulars and first-timers alike appreciate the cozy environment that feels like home.
Restaurant Ambiance
The interior decor at David’s Catfish House Dothan is warm and inviting, featuring polished hardwood floors, exclusively sourced barnwood accents, and maritime-themed art. Lantern-style fixtures cast a gentle glow, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere.
Families, couples, and solo diners all find comfortable seating options—from high-top tables to quiet corner booths. Soft background music complements friendly chatter without overpowering conversation.
Large windows let in natural light during lunch hours, while evenings are lit by Edison bulbs that add a touch of nostalgia. Walls adorned with historic photographs and vintage fishing gear celebrate local heritage and seafood history.
A modest bar area offers barstools and LCD screens showing regional sports events. Friendly staff members in crisp uniforms greet guests at the door, ensuring a memorable visit from start to finish.
Menu Overview
The menu at David’s Catfish House Dothan is divided into several sections: Appetizers, Signature Catfish Dishes, Seafood Specialties, Southern Side Dishes, Desserts, Beverages, and a Kid’s Menu. Each category features classic Southern recipes alongside creative seasonal items.
All catfish is hand-breaded and fried to order, served hot and flaky. Homemade sides are prepared daily, using fresh vegetables, local dairy, and farm-grade staples.
For diners seeking variety, combo platters allow selection of two or three items from different categories. Party platters and catering packages are available for larger gatherings, ensuring the same high quality for every occasion.
Gluten-free and lighter fare options are clearly marked, making it easy for guests with dietary restrictions to find delicious alternatives. Holiday specials and limited-time dishes keep the menu exciting year-round.
Appetizers
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Green Tomatoes | Hand-breaded, served with remoulade sauce | $6.49 |
| Hushpuppies | Golden-fried cornmeal with sweet onion | $4.99 |
| Onion Rings | Crispy beer-battered slices with dipping sauce | $5.99 |
| Catfish Nuggets | Bite-sized, hand-breaded pieces with tartar dip | $7.49 |
Appetizers at David’s Catfish House are perfect for sharing before the main course. The hushpuppies are a fan favorite, made fresh every hour.
Dipping sauces range from tangy remoulade to zesty cocktail sauce. All starters come out hot and crisp, ideal for pairing with a cold draft beer.
Signature Catfish Dishes
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Catfish Fillet Plate | Two hand-breaded fillets, fries, and slaw | $12.99 |
| Catfish Tenders | Six strips of catfish with fries and hushpuppies | $11.49 |
| Family Catfish Platter | Six fillets, choice of 3 sides, serves 4–5 | $39.99 |
| Blackened Catfish | Spiced and seared, served with rice and veggies | $13.99 |
David’s takes pride in its catfish, filing it to perfection before dredging in a proprietary cornmeal blend. Fillets are never frozen and are fried only upon order, guaranteeing a delicate crunch.
Blackened catfish is offered as a lighter, gluten-free alternative, seasoned with Cajun spices and pan-seared. Each plate includes choice of two sides and freshly baked hushpuppies.
Seafood Specialties
Beyond catfish, the Dothan menu boasts a variety of coastal favorites. Gulf shrimp, fried oysters, and savory crab cakes highlight the region’s best catches.
These items showcase Southern seafood traditions—light breading, simple seasonings, and high-quality produce. Seafood combos allow you to mix and match, offering flexibility for every palate.
| Seafood Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Gulf Shrimp | Twelve jumbo shrimp, cocktail sauce | $14.49 |
| Fried Oysters | House-breaded with tartar sauce | $15.99 |
| Crab Cake | Blue crab meat, served with remoulade | $13.99 |
| Seafood Trio | Shrimp, oysters, and catfish nuggets combo | $18.99 |
Southern Side Dishes
All sides at David’s Catfish House are made from scratch using fresh ingredients. Guests choose two sides with most entrees, allowing a mix of savory and sweet selections.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are clearly identified to make ordering simple. Seasonal sides appear throughout the year, reflecting local produce availability.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Coleslaw | Creamy cabbage blend with a hint of sweetness |
| French Fries | Hand-cut, lightly seasoned |
| Hushpuppies | Golden-brown and served hot |
| Green Beans | Sautéed with bacon and onions |
| Macaroni & Cheese | Creamy cheese sauce with elbow pasta |
| Turnip Greens | Slow-cooked with ham hock |
| Buttered Corn | Sweet kernels tossed in butter |
| Mashed Potatoes & Gravy | Rich, buttery potatoes with house gravy |
Desserts
Desserts at David’s Catfish House are all made in-house by skilled bakers. Southern classics like pecan pie and peach cobbler share the menu with seasonal specialties.
Each dessert is served warm whenever possible, often accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo after a hearty meal.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pecan Pie | Rich filling with flaky crust, whipped cream | $5.99 |
| Peach Cobbler | Fresh peaches with biscuit topping | $6.49 |
| Banana Pudding | Layered with Nilla wafers and whipped cream | $5.49 |
| Chocolate Brownie Sundae | Warm brownie, ice cream, chocolate drizzle | $6.99 |
Beverages
Beverages at David’s Catfish House range from sweet tea to craft sodas and regional draft beers. Self-serve tea and fountain drink stations ensure unlimited refills with every meal.
Specialty drinks include lemonade, fruit punch, and seasonal iced brews. A modest wine list and rotating craft beer selection cater to adult palates.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Tea | Freshly brewed, Southern-style | $2.49 |
| Unsweet Tea | Lightly brewed, unsweetened | $2.49 |
| Lemonade | House-made with real lemons | $2.99 |
| Craft Soda | Variety of regional flavors | $3.49 |
| Local Draft Beer | Rotating selection of ales and lagers | $5.99 |
| House Wine | Red or white by the glass | $6.49 |
Kids Menu
The Kid’s Menu is crafted with little appetites in mind, offering familiar favorites in smaller portions. Each meal comes with a choice of one side and a drink.
Healthy options like grilled cheese and apple slices are available alongside classic chicken tenders. Coloring pages and crayons keep children entertained while waiting for food to arrive.
| Kid’s Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tenders | Three strips, fries, and apple juice | $5.99 |
| Grilled Cheese | American cheese on Texas toast | $4.99 |
| Mini Corn Dogs | Five bite-sized dogs with fries | $5.49 |
| Catfish Nuggets | Five pieces, hushpuppies, and juice | $6.49 |
Daily Specials and Combos
Each day of the week brings a special combo dish at a discounted price. From Monday’s “Fish Fry Feast” to Friday’s “Shrimp & Grits Special,” the rotating offers encourage repeat visits.
Specials typically include two sides and a hushpuppy basket. Check the blackboard upon arrival or visit the website for current deals.
“Tuesday’s Catfish Taco Combo is unbeatable—crispy fillets in soft tortillas with slaw and chipotle sauce!” – Local Food Blogger
Combo platters let guests sample multiple menu items at value-driven prices. The Seafood Sampler pairs oysters, shrimp, and catfish, while the Southern Trio features fried chicken, catfish, and a slice of meatloaf.
Weekend brunch specials include catfish benedict and crab cake omelets. Seasonal combos highlight limited-time ingredients like Gulf red snapper.
Catering and Takeout
David’s Catfish House Dothan offers full-service catering packages for events of 20 to 200 guests. Menu options include party platters of catfish fillets, shrimp trays, side deliveries, and dessert assortments.
Experienced staff coordinate delivery, setup, and clean-up for stress-free gatherings. Customizable menus ensure dietary accommodations and themed presentations.
For quick takeout, guests can call ahead or order online for curbside pickup. Meals are packaged securely to preserve heat and flavor.
A dedicated takeout counter expedites orders, minimizing wait times. Specially priced family meal bundles feed 4–6 people with an assortment of entrees and sides.
Nutrition and Dietary Information
Caloric counts, allergy warnings, and gluten-free designations are clearly displayed on the menu. Seafood entrees typically range from 350 to 700 calories, excluding sides.
Lighter preparations, such as blackened catfish, reduce oil content and sodium. Vegetarian sides and grilled salad options offer alternatives for health-conscious diners.
Menu modifications are available, including removing breading or requesting sauces on the side. Dairy-free versions of mac & cheese and coleslaw can be prepared upon request.
Staff are trained to handle special dietary needs, minimizing cross-contamination risks. Nutritional guides are available in-house and online for easy reference.
Customer Reviews
“I’ve been coming here for over ten years—nothing beats the hand-breaded catfish and fresh hushpuppies!” – Samantha R.
“Great spot for a family dinner. The kids love the nuggets, and the adults can’t get enough of the peach cobbler.” – Marcus T.
“Excellent service, super-friendly staff, and really clean dining area. Highly recommended for any seafood lover.” – Jordan L.
Insider Tips for Visiting
Arrive early on weekends to avoid long lines, especially during lunch hours. Join the loyalty program to earn points for every dollar spent and receive birthday rewards.
Ask for extra hushpuppies—they’re complimentary with most meals. If you’re unsure what to order, the staff’s top recommendation is the Catfish Fillet Plate with mac & cheese and turnip greens.
Check social media for pop-up events like live music nights and charity fundraisers. During summer, enjoy patio seating with fans and misters to stay cool.
In winter, cozy up by the faux fireplace corner with a cup of hot tea. Don’t forget to grab a jar of house-made remoulade or hot sauce from the retail shelf to replicate the flavors at home.
Final Thoughts
David’s Catfish House Dothan Menu is a testament to Southern culinary tradition, offering a wide array of dishes that celebrate farm-fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, you’ll find something to satisfy every craving—from crispy catfish fillets to decadent peach cobbler.
The warm ambiance, attentive service, and commitment to quality make it a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts and families alike. Plan your next meal here to enjoy a genuine taste of the South, right in the heart of Dothan.
