Closet thing you will get to New Orleans style seafood. When I want a taste of home I go here. Turkey necks are great,poboysare great. My man I had pretty much everything on the menu. Being New Orleans I appreciate the authenticity of their food. 10/10
Overview
When you're in the mood for some delicious Southern comfort food in Arlington, TX, Bayou Cat is the place you’ll want to check out. Located at 2505 E Arkansas Ln STE 131, Arlington, TX 76010, United States, this local gem brings the essence of Louisiana's famous flavors straight to Texas. From classic po'boys to flavorful gumbo, their menu promises to take your taste buds on a journey to the Bayou.
Walking into Bayou Cat, you're greeted by a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes it feel like a true neighborhood spot. The decor is a nod to the rich cultural history of Louisiana, with subtle touches that make you feel right at home. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind with friends or grab a bite after a busy day.
One thing that sets Bayou Cat apart is its authentic, made-from-scratch menu. Whether you're a fan of seafood, spicy dishes, or classic Southern staples, there's something for everyone. Their gumbo, for example, is a standout. The rich, flavorful broth is packed with shrimp, sausage, and chicken, making every spoonful an absolute delight. It's clear the kitchen takes pride in their recipes, with flavors that have been perfected over time. A local favorite, the jambalaya, also stands out. It’s served with a perfect balance of rice, sausage, and chicken, all cooked in a seasoned sauce that brings a deep, comforting taste with every bite.
Seafood lovers are in for a treat at Bayou Cat. Their po'boys are stuffed with perfectly fried shrimp, catfish, or oysters, piled high on a soft, crunchy roll. Each bite is a crispy, flavorful combination that feels like a bite of New Orleans in Texas. They don’t just stop at po'boys either. Their fried catfish is one of the crispiest and most flavorful you'll find in the area, served with a side of homemade tartar sauce that’s creamy and zesty, just the way it should be.
Of course, no meal at Bayou Cat would be complete without dessert. Their beignets are a must-try. These deep-fried pastries are light, fluffy, and dusted with just the right amount of powdered sugar. It’s the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note. They also offer bread pudding, a Southern classic that’s rich, decadent, and soaked in a perfect sauce that adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the texture.
The service at Bayou Cat is always top-notch. The staff is friendly and attentive, and you never feel rushed, making it a great spot for a leisurely meal with friends or family. The ambiance is cozy, and the vibe is laid-back, making it an ideal location for a casual meal that feels special. Plus, the prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food you get, making it a solid choice for those looking to enjoy great Southern fare without breaking the bank.
When it comes to location, Bayou Cat is centrally located, making it easy to swing by whether you live in Arlington or are just passing through. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch, dinner, or even a casual snack, the location is perfect for anyone craving a taste of the Bayou.
Reviews for Bayou Cat are consistently positive, with many visitors praising the food and service. It's no surprise that this spot has earned a loyal following among locals. From the perfectly seasoned dishes to the friendly service, everything about this restaurant exudes authenticity and passion for great Southern cuisine. Whether you're a fan of spicy dishes, fried food, or seafood, this restaurant offers something for everyone.
So next time you find yourself in the Arlington area, be sure to make a stop at Bayou Cat. With its cozy ambiance, delicious menu, and commitment to authentic Southern flavors, it’s a place that will keep you coming back for more. If you're in the mood for something unique and full of flavor, Bayou Cat is the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great dessert ✓ Great tea selection ✓ Serves local specialty ✓ SportPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Comfort food ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small platesDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Groups ✓ Tourists ✓ University studentsPlanning
✓ Usually a wait ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 2114 reviews
amazing. worth the 30 minute drive. long line but it moves super fast so it doesn’t feel fast. everyone there is super nice too, from employees to people eating there lol .. they have tables but it’s a little hard to get one so be prepared to take your order elsewhere. i only got these two “before” pictures and like 20 after pictures (not included bc it’s all shells lol). food was so good we were nonstop eating. must visit!!! best potatoes of my life
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Bayou Cat is hands down my favorite spot in Arlington for true Cajun/Creole comfort food. I’ve been coming here for over 10 years, and the consistency is incredible — the flavors are bold, authentic, and always cooked to perfection. The turkey necks and sausage are my absolute go-to, and their crawfish is easily the best in the city. What really sets this place apart isn’t just the food; it’s the people. The owners are regularly on site and treat everyone like family, and the entire staff delivers world-class customer service every time. It’s rare to find a restaurant that maintains this level of quality and hospitality year after year, but The Bayou Cat nails it. If you’re craving real Louisiana flavor with a welcoming, family-style atmosphere, this is definitely the place.!
I’ve had red beans and rice all over New Orleans, I’ve been to Mother’s, Coop’s, etc. There are the best red beans and rice I’ve ever had. The fried chicken wings are also on point. This is one of my new feel good places.
Here's my thing. Bayou Cat has that New Orleans crawfish down pat. However, my only dislike is that because I drive an hour i stand a chance of thwm being out. I wish they would bring back the option to pay via phone for an order and pick up. Otherwise I 100% recommend.
I ordered the fish and shrimp basket with gumbo. It was pretty decent. But they need to give more tartar sauce, not a 3/4 small cup. And the so called chicken gumbo flavor was ok, but I don't know what that was that they call chicken. That was not diced chicken. Soon as you put it in your mouth, it MELTS. I put a piece on the table and pressed it, and it turned to mush. That's not chicken.