Why is a catfish restaurant on a list about barbecue joints? Well it’s quite simple, in a complicated sort of way.

Every summer I volunteer at a church youth camp in Hulaco, Alabama. My drive takes me through Baileyton, right past Kim’s Parkside Catfish. Usually, my passing is early in the morning, not a convenient time for fried fish. But I noticed them every year and was just waiting for an excuse to skip camp or a schedule alteration to put me there during the feeding frenzy.

This year I was needed a day earlier and by midday, meaning we could be at Kim’s around noon time. This led me to check the menu online and discover that catfish AND barbecue are on the menu. Well…that’s PERFECT!!! If there’s one thing I love almost as much as barbecue, it’s fried catfish. If I can get both on the same plate, that’s almost more than a fella can stand. Chase had to make a stop to review Kim’s barbecue or he’d be derelict in his duties, right?

Let me save you the trouble. Don’t bother with the barbecue. You’ll almost never hear me say that, but it’s happening today. To be just, the pulled pork was smoky and was covered in a sticky, sweet sauce that delivered a hint of spice on the backside. But the fried catfish, that’s the star! It was nice and crispy with a light cornmeal breading. The inside was soft and light and an amazing bite. They clearly know how to fry as the fish wasn’t greasy in the least, meaning they hit the perfect temp on the oil. The fried squash were summer fresh and the slaw was a cool, refreshing break from all the fatty goodness. The ratio of vinegar to mayo hit a sweet spot that was perfect for a summer day, especially served cold.

Kim’s showed off a technique that was new to us. My traveling buddy ordered the whole catfish. Before dredging it, they cut slits in both sides to get the breading inside the meat and give it a more even fry. It seemed to work as my partner left nothing but the bones, even chomping down on the tail. Fried fish tails are like potato chips, packing a crunch that will rattle your fillings. If you dig fried fish, this is the destination for you!

Kim’s is a good ole, neighborhood staple. A gravel lot with attractive exterior leads into a plain dining room that’s comfortable, with busy tables full of families and friends. Its modest attitude reflects the nature of the country lifestyle. The dominant attire was ballcaps, with one old guy proudly sporting a Jesus hat. Faith, family, and food all honestly displayed and done exceptionally well.