Best of 225 awards weekly pick – Best fried catfish

A mildly controversial winner for sure since it’s outside Baton Rouge. But Middendorf’s, between LaPlace and Ponchatoula, is simply legendary. You can order your catfish thick or thin, it’s always fried to perfection. There are no reservations at Middendorf’s, founded in the 1930s, but that doesn’t stop the masses from waiting patiently. The wide slices flake apart, while the thin ones crunch audibly, almost like a potato chip. Hwy. 51 North, exit 15 off of I-55 North, Manchac. Runners up: Mike Anderson’s, Parrain’s. Find more great dining and entertainment ideas and other 2007 Best of 225 award winners here.