Paw Paw’s Catfish House brings down-home flavor and good times to Bastrop with a menu built around fresh, hand-breaded catfish and hearty sides. This family-run spot occupies a century-old building on Main Street and serves up classic Southern dishes in a casual, friendly setting. Whether you’re craving an all-you-can-eat fish fry or a juicy burger, Paw Paw’s has something to please every palate.
A Bite of History
Paw Paw’s Catfish House opened in 1985 when Leroy Carroll decided to share his family’s catfish recipe with friends and neighbors. The restaurant lives in a historic structure built in 1908, complete with original hardwood floors and tall windows that let in natural light. Over the years, ownership passed to Paula Carroll and Richard Steffens, who have kept the recipes and the welcoming vibe intact. The dining room still feels like stepping into someone’s cozy living room, if that living room smelled like sizzling fish and onion rings.
Where Flavor Meets Fun
Paw Paw’s menu revolves around farm-fresh catfish fillets that are lightly hand-dipped and breaded in a secret blend of cornmeal and seasonings. Each order comes golden brown and ready to pair with crispy hush puppies, tangy coleslaw, and your choice of sides. And if you can’t get enough fish, there’s an all-you-can-eat catfish dinner that lets you sample down-home goodness until you’re stuffed.
Beyond catfish, Paw Paw’s dishes up juicy burgers made from 100% Angus beef, crisp fried shrimp, savory chicken-fried steak, and Texas-style hot links. A cup of homemade gumbo or a bowl of red beans and rice makes for the perfect starter, and daily specials keep things interesting with rotating plates like shrimp po’ boys and fish tacos.
Family-Friendly Vibes
Bright walls, wooden booths, and friendly waitstaff make Paw Paw’s an easy pick for families, lunch meet-ups, and laid-back dinners. Kids will love the smaller portions of fish and fries or a classic grilled cheese sandwich. Regulars call out their orders by name, and the staff often remembers your favorite iced tea refill.
Outdoor seating on the patio offers a relaxed spot to watch Main Street go by. Grab a table under the string lights and listen to live music on weekend evenings while you sample a local craft beer from the taps.
Mouthwatering Menu Highlights
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All-You-Can-Eat Catfish Dinner served with hush puppies, coleslaw, and choice of two sides
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Hand-Breaded Shrimp Platter with spicy cocktail sauce and fries
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Catfish Po’ Boy piled high on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and house-made remoulade
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Chicken-Fried Steak smothered in pepper gravy, paired with mashed potatoes and green beans
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Angus Cheeseburger loaded with cheddar cheese, bacon, pickles, and Paw Paw’s secret sauce
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Gumbo Cup made with slow-cooked roux, chicken, and Andouille sausage
Each entree features fresh-cut potatoes for fries and sides made from scratch every day. Vegetarian guests can choose a garden salad or swap out animal proteins for extra hush puppies and seasoned vegetables.
Live Music and Local Brews
Friday and Saturday nights come alive with live bands playing blues, country, and rock favorites. Check the chalkboard by the bar for the week’s schedule. While you’re tapping your foot, choose from a selection of Texas craft beers, bottled soft drinks, or a frozen margarita blended to order. It’s a laid-back way to kick off the weekend without leaving town.
Plan Your Visit
Address
1014 Main Street
Bastrop, TX 78602
Phone
512 321 9800
Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Walk-ins are always welcome but if you have a big group, call ahead and reserve a table. Special events and private parties can be arranged during off-hours, complete with custom catering.
Why Folks Keep Coming Back
Guests return for the warm service, the simple goodness of hand-breaded fish, and the chance to enjoy genuine Southern hospitality in a charming historic spot. With fresh ingredients, generous portions, and a lively atmosphere, Paw Paw’s Catfish House delivers on flavor without the fuss.
Sources: pawpawscatfishhouse.com, yelp.com, Paw Paw’s Catfish House Facebook Page
Header Image Source: Paw Paw’s Catfish House Facebook Page
