Had the pleasure of feasting on some of the best catfish I've ever had at Catfish City Barbecue and Grill - yes, they added the BBQ shortly after rebuilding the restaurant when it burned down in 2002.  What do they put in that seasoning?  Actually, Amy says they keep it simple, but you have to know how to cook it - and that's where long-time cook and co-owner Ray Lightfoot comes in.  Ray's brother, Ken, started the restaurant 26-years ago.  He'd dreamed of owning one as a young man.  They've apparently cooked up the recipe for success because some of the faithful customers drive from as far away as Cabot for a good meal.  But don't expect gigantic pieces because they serve the fish by weight. However, you will likely relish every bite.

While the fish is obviously the restaurant's bread and butter, the BBQ, smoked for 12-14 hours, (pulled pork and brisket) was delicious!  And, not everything is fried- they offer grilled, chicken, grilled fish and grilled shrimp... yum-yum.

I was quite impressed with the level of cleanliness in the dining area and the kitchen... coupled with the fact that those in the kitchen wore gloves.  Stock went up immediately!  

The University location, the original site, is the only Catfish City that remains open after a foray by owners into restaurant "chain-dom" (I know that's not a real word!  )  They closed the Cantrell and North Little Rock operations because Amy says they were spreading themselves pretty thin and wanted to focus on maintaining the same quality that their customers had come to love and appreciate.

Their extensive side offerings complete the meal; everything from green beans, to baked beans to potato salad. When I reviewed the restaurant, I wasn't a big fan of that day's slaw production - however, to be fair, I have since had a better experience.  And, the dessert menu is one you don't want to bypass - they have the best German Chocolate cake I've ever had - it is so moist and the word delicious doesn't do it justice!  That cake, the carrot cake along with fried peach and apple pies are all made in-house using family recipes.  Pecan pie, of the Sara Lee variety, is also offered.  

It's cafeteria-style, you walk through a line and order your entree, picking up some of your sides and desserts in  do-it-yourself  fashion.  They also have drive-through and amazingly, you can get your food relatively quick.  Additionally, they still offer catering services and even have a private dining room on the premises.

How do you like your fish? Lots of folks in the south "doctor up" their fish with hot sauce and mustard, (occasionally tarter sauce on the side).  I asked Amy about the right way to eat fish - her response, "I believe a good piece of fish is like a steak, you really don't have to put anything on it."  You go Amy... I tried it - she's right!

Catfish City and Barbecue Grill's hours of operation are Monday - Saturday, 10:30 am to 9 pm.  Closed - Sunday.  Inexpensive to Moderate.   They do have take-out and drive-through services.  For your convenience, the number is (501) 663-7224  Address:  1817 S. University, Little Rock

Credit Cards Accepted

Website:  www.catfishcityandbbqgrill.com