The Fat Fish

Found this place while looking for "fish fry" since a friend and I were talking about the dish. I'm happy I found this place and would be back. The food was solid, the service was friendly, and the pricing was reasonable. Most people seem to be doing takeout but there are a few seats in the cozy space and the staff keeps the dining area clean. The menu looks extensive but it's basically various combinations of their fried fish, chicken, shrimp or oysters with the various sides in various quantities. Since this was an afternoon snack/linner for me, I opted for just 2 pieces of fried catfish and 2 oysters. I also got half spicy and half regular so I can check out the various seasonings. The person taking my order told me it would be 10-15 minutes since they make every order as it comes in. My food came out in the middle of that time frame so if you want your food sooner, you should order ahead. I had time to kill and I wanted to eat my food right when it came out so I didn't mind ordering there. Everything was cooked perfectly, crispy and not too greasy. I personally preferred the spicy over the regular seasoning since the regular seasoning didn't have enough flavor for me. The catfish had a bit of a muddy flavor so if you don't like it like that, I would recommend trying the other fish. Cormeal crust is a bit on the thicker side. They took a break right after I got my order so I was in my car noshing on my eats while watching other people walk up and be disappointed that they were closed. If this is a regular thing, they should update their hours to reflect appropriately.

I ordered catfish and chicken wing combo. I was unable to eat the food because it was extremely oily and the fish tasted like rancid cod liver oil. Yuck! The coating/batter on the chicken was mushy because it was drenched in oil. I threw the entire plate in the trash.

TFF serves up some very tasty fried fish. While it's not a cheap meal, it's the best Southern -cornmeal based-fried fish I've tasted in the area and the reason I have patronized the business for so long. Perhaps there are pop-ups serving some good Southern fried fish in Oakland, but I haven't found one yet. That said, the establishment is always clean and tidy and never -ever- smells like fried fish or fired foods. For some that would be an immediate red flag, but I appreciate not coming out smelling like a skillet of hot grease. I've never had issue with tainted or burnt oil flavors or greasy foods. Both Ben and Crystal season and fry fish well however, I'm partial to Crystal in the galley. The tartar sauce is house-made and always fresh. TFF has even done an à la carte catered menu for me and the fish varieties and prawns were incredible and enjoyed by everyone! Typically, I order on site and wait because I add a bit of customization to my order. I request extra seasoning on everything and the seafood fried crispy. The additional seasoning and crispy-fry does make a difference to me and my family.

Fat Fish serves up ritchous fried seafood. Cooked to order so not laying out under a heat lamp. Fair price too. Service was spot on. Not really a place to sit down and eat but the take out is on point.Will definitely be back for more.

Highly disappointed, I will never patronize with this business EVER again, definitely a waste of money. Fish was old, cold and bland. Fries were old, hard and cold. Food should be made to order, I asked if the fries were fresh because I previously received old fries, I was told "yes your order just came out," and to my surprise everything was cold, bland and old. I really wish I'd checked before I drove home, this really use to be a good fish spot with fresh seasoned fish.

Unexpected fish and chips are their own special delight. This was certainly not the neighborhood in which I expected this fare.The cornmeal makes for a dry (not oily) crust. The Alaskan Pollock was tasty. The catfish will be next.The staff are friendly, efficient, and know their stuff. Their cook time estimates were spot-on.Despite a couple handfuls of chairs inside the usually quiet place, orders are packed to go because that's what the clientele wants. We ate in and enjoyed seeing the flow of people. Worth it.

Good food. Would recommend calling ahead and ordering your food for faster service. But food is great well seasoned and affordable pricing.

I'm extremely disappointed with my meal I received from The fat fish. I came in about a week ago for fish, shrimp and oyster combo. The fries were ok. The shrimp was the only edible thing on my plate. The fish just tasted old and dry. I couldn't even eat it. I'm just so saddened that I can't eat at this establishment. High price for low quality food. The service is always great but food is lacking greatness.

Earlier this morning, I called and asked did they serve fish with an egg dip and they told me no so I drove 20 minutes and when I got there at 6 PM tonight the lady told me they have egg in the batter which my son is allergic if you're running a business, you have to know exactly what's in your batter and don't waste people time

Food was delicious, great service. I usually pick my mom up her favorite, catfish, coleslaw and french fies. On Fridays!