A little of the beaten path but worth the drive. Good catfish. Scenic views however the red river is almost dried up right now. Will definitely go back. read more

So it is out of the way but, well worth the detour. Best catfish Ever! If you are old enough you may remember when Kentucky Fried Chicken first introduced Extra-Crispy chicken. That is exactly the deliciousness that this catfish has. Unfortunately KFC changed that recipe to a cheaper vendor and I haven't been back since. This is definitely down home hole-in-the wall goodness. Will be back next trip to Dallas! read more

McGehee Catfish Restaurant - Served family style. - American Near Me - Marietta, Oklahoma

As with every great moment in my life, it sounds like an episode of "Scooby-Doo" that was never made: a group of friends go driving to an all-you-can-eat catfish place built in an abandoned airport in the country while insane thunderstorms are raging. If the ghost of a pilot who crashed into a catfish hatchery somehow haunted the place, I would legally change my name to "Shaggy" and communicate solely through "Zoinks!" for the remainder of my life. Fortunately, this was not the case, and McGehee Catfish was absolutely worth the drive and war of the elements we endured to get here. A couple friends and I got out of work a little early on Friday afternoon for this mini-roadtrip. They had both been before, but I was coming in blind and opted to minimize the lunch I ate that afternoon so I would be better prepared for the miraculous catfish and tasty green tomatoes they raved about. As we fought our way through 5:00 traffic, we remained motivated by the promise of all-you-can-eat wonders and a radio that somehow retained a signal through the roughened country roads we navigated. To make a long story short, the weather got intense and it looked like we were threading the proverbial needle between two sets of storms that seemed to be competing for Mother Nature's affection. With an "adult superstore" off the highway looking like a potential haven from the storm's wrath, we opted to push onward toward McGehee's because that would probably be a more promising "final resting place" if things got really bad. Eventually we exited the highway and began making our way through a jumble of unpaved roads. It was dark and stormy but I'm told the view when the sun is out rules. I did see an old tower that was once used when the airport was up and running, at least. Personally, I was having flashbacks to "Night of the Living Dead," but I need not have thought that because it was only a matter of minutes before we pulled into the lot where McGehee's rests, seemingly nestled away from the rest of the world. There were a couple of cars in the lot when we arrived, so clearly there were others among us who recognized the allure of amazing food in the face of torrential downpours. We walked into the empty waiting area and I took a moment to appreciate the hunting trophies, humorous placards and the easygoing nature of the place. You seat yourself, a server greets you and you get down to the business of eating yourself into oblivion. There's a guestbook to sign, knickknacks on the walls, and an assortment of saws and unnerving wrenches that would totally look cool in a Halloween-themed display. When we sat down, I think we were only the third table seated. But when we left, two more groups had come in, and it looked like we all had the same end game in mind: all-you-can-eat fish. Mind you, I got off to a false start by shoveling those green tomato chunks and hush puppies into my mouth as fast as I could. Oh man, those were good. But then I got my second wind and ate more catfish filets than a man should eat unless he is part barbarian suffering from a debilitating childhood catfish memory. The filets are perfectly crisped with a seasoning that must be tasted to be believed, and even the fries that came with the literal mountain of food for the three of us were outstanding. Perhaps the only thing more impressive than the food was the service. Our waitress was taking care of the whole dining room, and she had the most positive personality I had come across in a good while. She was talking to families, a couple on a date, hunting buddies bonding over dinner, the other members of her team, and our table of three men who consumed an almost lethally embarrassing amount of food. That she kept all of us content with refills on drinks and catfish with an efficiency typically reserved for Olympic athletes was even more amazing. And the woman running the register out front has never met a stranger. I'm convinced. I kind of wanted to stay behind and just talk to her for another five minutes because she was that warm and inviting. Nonetheless, we exited into the rain with our next mission on the horizon: a bar for a nightcap if we survived the storm. We did, and we did. But even while we were sitting in a lounge drinking our spirits, we all kept talking about how wonderful McGehee's was. All of us ate like kings for under $20, and we experienced a meal that you cannot find anywhere else. Regardless to how far you drive to get here, you owe it to yourself and your stomach to get here. It's that good, and I eagerly look forward to coming back, possibly in the daylight or with a talking dog that solves mysteries, whichever is easier to manage. read more

Awesome catfish! I really enjoyed eating here. Besides the great catfish, the fries and hush puppies were delicious as well. The service was excellent. I will definitely be going back again. read more

This place is amazing. My wife and I drive around an hour to eat here and don't mind one bit. Plus the fried pies are great.

Very good catfish, light texture to the fish and the breading is light, tastes like fresh fish. Fries also very good, fresh cut, not frozen. Slaw and relish both a bit sweet for my taste. read more

Thanks again for the lousy referral Yelpers! You that have posted apparently know nothing about catfish. As we were going thru the area and the reviews looked favorable compared to others, convinced my wife we needed to try this place. I am now sleeping in a third bedroom! I hate to say something that held such promise, was such a failure. This is not good catfish - overcooked - which is the way too many places do it. Plus, some of the catfish had a bad fishy taste - which it is not supposed to have. Fries tasted like they were cooked in old oil. Positive side - cole slaw and tomato relish decent - not outstanding. Hush puppies so-so. Service was good - but this place looks like it is dying and for good reasons. By the way, they promote on their site that they are actually a catfish farm - not so anymore. This is a terribly hard place to get to - not an easy off and on from I-35. Charming place that would be great if the food were anywhere close. Don't waste your time or money (pretty expensive for catfish). Again, Yelpers - there is no such thing as a 5 star unless it is way above anything else. Please quit skewing the scale. This was a waste of an otherwise neat little trip to the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur. We will not be going back. read more

McGehee's all-you-can-eat catfish dinner is the reason to go. They have steak, sandwiches, salads, and desserts on the menu. Large picture windows overlook the Red River valley. McGehee's offers some of the best fried catfish I've ever had. Definitely the best hushpuppies, all honor to my sainted relatives with a knack for cooking, these are the best hushpuppies ever. The catfish is perfectly cooked. It is moist and tender, never tough, and the breading is crispy crunchy. It is served with hushpuppies, an assortment of sweet pickles, fresh white onion, and tartar sauce. A huge pile of French fries covers the catfish when it arrives. Take home boxes are available. I've never tried the desserts, because I've always been too full to even think it. Others tell me the desserts are very good, especially the hot cherry tart. They are always open for weekend lunch Saturday & Sunday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Dinner winter hours are restricted. Call to make sure exactly when they are open. (The website has been down for some time.) McGehee's is located at the west end of McGehee Road. Watch for signs. Getting there is a bit tricky the first time. From I-35 take the Hwy 32 exit (Exit 15). Go west on 32 about 1.2 mile. Turn south on Allen Road (N3280 Rd.). Keep going straight on Allen Road until it hits a T-intersection (about 3 miles). Turn Right (west) on McGehee Road and follow it to the end (about 1 mile). McGehee Rd. ends in the restaurant parking lot. (CORRECT ADDRESS: McGehee Road, Marietta, OK 73448 (580) 276-2751 This is way out in the country, at the end of about 5 miles of country roads.) (WRONG ADDRESS: 407 W Broadway St, Marietta. This is the BUSINESS OFFICE, not a restaurant.) If you choose, you may fly to the private airstrip on the property. To make your flight plan, look up: T40 MCGEHEE CATFISH RESTAURANT MARIETTA OK . It is in the Dallas sectional. Do a web search on this airstrip and you will find links to accurate maps to guide you there by automobile. read more

JP from Plano is, with apologies, nuts. This is the granddaddy of the catfish restaurants -- and since I was recently traveling with fish-averse teens, I learned that their steaks are good as well. That green tomato relish is something I have to figure out how to make! read more

Not sure how or why I had not visited this place before, but I am sure glad I did today. That Catfish is amazing and it's all you can eat. Little bit of a challenge to find. But if you get in the neighborhood look for the signs directing you to the store. Well worth it. Sit on the porch and you can see the Red River. But it is a little warm out there. But forget that... go for the fish!!! Mmmm. read more

I'm not a huge catfish fan, and there is only ONE place I would ever consider eating catfish at: McGehee's. It's worth the 1 and a half hour drive for us to get there, it's a pilgrimage we make a couple times a year. What you'll get is the best all you can eat catfish, ever. They are fried, crisp, fresh and clean. I don't know how they do it, but it is as if the oil they fry the catfish in is brand new and light every time you go there. Awesome hush puppies wit chunks of onions in them. Very "home made", IMHO. The french fries are fairly thick cut strips of potatoes, like my mom made when I was a kid. Not the best fries in the world, but that's not what your focusing on at McGehee's anyways. Just read the review from Anny I. - I don't think there is anything I can add to it. Have a great day! read more

Overpriced. $42 plus tip for all you can eat catfish. I can get it cheaper without having to drive so far. The catfish was just average, nothing spectacular. I had high expectations of this restaurant because they are supposed to specialize in catfish. But it just wasn't all that great. read more

Incredible. Worth the trip from Texas to eat it. Service is outstanding, catfish is incredible, fried pies taste like Grandma's and the view of the overlook is really neat. Wish I could eat there everyday. PS) The pickle relish, hushpuppies and cole slaw are mind-blowing. read more

Awesome fresh homemade cats! The fried pies are to die for don't forget to take one home!!

I try to come to McGehee's every time I go south on 35. It is the best catfish I have found in that area. I have heard recommendations of other catfish restaurants but have not had the leisure to try them yet. So far this is my go to spot for catfish. read more

Fantastic catfish, relish, and coleslaw! Out of the way but worth the trip! Call ahead to make sure they are open. Fantastic view of the Red River. read more

McGehee Catfish Restaurant - American Near Me - Marietta, Oklahoma

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Off the beaten path gem. Next to the river bed and a comfort food environment that makes me want to stay for a couple hours. Nice staff who are made up of the family that started this place 40+ years ago. Would definitely come back on the next road trip! read more

McGehee Catfish Restaurant - Catfish, fries and tomato relish. - American Near Me - Marietta, Oklahoma

This is certainly a diamond in the rough. I am originally from Marietta Oklahoma, born and raised for 18 years, before moving to a place that actually has a population. Now realize, this place is the epitome of nostalgia for me, as we would get McGehee's religiously every week, but it remains very decent catfish. Their homemade hushpuppies were always my favorite. As to JP's post, I like my catfish a little over cooked, but I agree that it is not supposed to be. I think perhaps he went on an off night, or perhaps things have changed since I ate there last year. On a side note, if you are ever in the North and they offer you Catfish and it's beer battered, please punch them in the face. I seriously lectured a restaurant here in Chicago about the ridiculousness of treating catfish like cod. While doing so I was totally thinking of the good people of this restaurant and how blasphemous this concept would be to them. I definitely think it's charming, and it is great comfort food. However, since the airport is closed, and they no longer raise their catfish privately, the establishments days might very well be numbered. It is very hard to get to as it is well off the beaten path, but worth the trip if you can spare the time. Looses a star because again, I agree with JP, that five stars are reserved for the truly remarkable, and despite how much I love this place, Memphis fries better catfish. read more

If you are on I-35 at Winstar or passing through Marietta, Oklahoma, you should stop by McGehee's and enjoy some fresh, farm raised catfish! It is off the beaten path for sure, but there are signs to guide you to the location. We have been coming here for over a dozen years during our frequent trips to Oklahoma and it is a family favorite. We always get the all you can eat catfish, which is served family style with fries, coleslaw, hush puppies and green tomato relish. The fish is always fresh, not too greasy, and cooked properly. The service is warm and friendly as well. Be sure to bring your appetite and wear loose clothing!! read more

I haven't been to McGehee's in a couple of years but it's always the best place in the United States for a good fish good service and seven down-home good cooking I love Maggie's and I go every chance I can very very very much worth going out of the way for the best catfish I've ever had read more

Not as good as it was in the beginning. Run down old bldg...prices high, catfish not good, has the dark strip in it. Tastes like it came right out of the river read more

4 catfish dinners and water for 4 seniors. Also a cherry pie for each. Left tip of 15%. $119.00. I didn't expect that. This is too expensive. I bragged about this place and was embarrassed when the bill came. I won't go back. read more

Drove up from the metro area on a Saturday. We were the only ones there at first, a few others came in while we were eating. We had checked out the menu on their website before driving down. It's a good thing, because we weren't provided menu's when we seated ourselves. The waitress asked if we were having the catfish, having reviewed the menu online we decided we'd all have the all you could eat catfish. My daughter ordered a burger. The food was ok, nothing special compared to our favorite local catfish place, "Libby's". The green tomatoes were really the best part of the meal. We had two fried pies, again, nothing special compared to Arbuckle's fried pies. The check on the other hand was $71.90! Just to recap, one senior, one adult, one child all you can eat and a child's hamburger. We all had drinks and two fried pies. Over all disappointed at the cost to quality of both food and service. This place once had a booming reputation, it's sad to see an Oklahoma favorite on the decline. read more

I wanted a reason to say I visited OK. I searched for places that weren't too far from Ft. Worth, TX. So happy to find this legendary restaurant. Don't expect a fancy setting. Catfish was fresh, hot, crispy, and very satisfying. Service was great. I may never make it back here, but it's a place I'll always remember and recommend to anyone nearing the area! read more

Rode there with about 25 others. We called ahead with a head count and they and they opened up 30 earlier for us. Food was good, quick Family style service. Its a back roads hole in the wall type of place with history, just they way I like. If your looking for bling bling this is not for you. read more

This little place was off the beaten path, which I love. It is a sweet little country drive to get there and you can look out over the red river as you dine. The service and the food were both excellent. Would love to come back if I am back in this neck of the woods! read more

Best catfish, hush puppies, and pie in the state. This was my first time and I can barely get out of my seat. Beyond delicious

All the people who give this blessed restaurant bad reviews are honestly haters. Sometime I drive two hours just to eat here and nothing else. It is the perfect down home, sweet little catfish restaurant. The food is great. The fries and fish and hush puppies are great together. I love them. It's like the holy trinity of fried fish. I would eat here everyday of my life if I could, but then I would probably die young. You know, fried foods. Anyways, you receive a scenic view of the Red River while you eat, what else could you ask for? Important fact: The food is unlimited. Yes, that means free refills on your food. Who doesn't love to stuff their face and feel like they ate more than an adult camel should in their whole lifetime?? I love it man. Good food that just keeps coming out. read more

When you tell people around north Texas that you like catfish, the first question is, "Have you ever been to McGehee's?" . It is the oldest and best around. We went a few years ago, and it was remarkable. Great views of the Red River Valley and some of the best catfish ever. read more

What a fun find! We were looking for a dinner spot along our way to OKC and gave McGeehey's a shot. The staff was wonderful and friendly; the service we received was great. The fish was cooked perfectly - the breading was light and well seasoned. The hushpuppies were absolutely delicious. Everything came out hot and fresh! The catfish dinner is all you can eat, but we stuck to one serving - they are not stingy with their portions! I was skeptical of the green tomato relish, but it was sweet and tangy - a wonderfully fresh complement to a fried dinner. I guess we will have to start inventing reasons to drive through Oklahoma more often - we will definitely be back! read more

Fantastic food & great atmosphere! Keep following the signs on this dirt road journey because it does lead to perfectly fried, locally caught CATFISH. One of Oklahoma's gems... this place makes the Longhorns cross the Red River. read more

Over the years this place has been know as the go to place for fried catfish. You can forget what you've heard. We went out of our way this weekend on the way to El Reno by about 5 miles to eat some terrific catfish not. The catfish was cut thin and way over cooked. No effort was made in preparing the tarter sauce. Simply a mix of mayo and sweet relish. I enjoyed the fresh cut French fries more than anything. For you pilots that take the time to fly in next time try flying to Corpus Christi and ordering a pound of fried shrimp or a pound of fried drum at La Ribera . So fresh and just $14 a pound. Their tarter sauce is to die for. read more

This place was great! We went there on the way back from my daughters' campout. Along with great catfish, there's a really cool view of the Red River so you can sit on the patio with huge windows and look across at Texas from Oklahoma. read more

The food is kinda mediocre. Nothing really great here other than the view. The decor is straight out of the 70's- dark and dreary. The fish is good, but nothing like it was it the past. It's a shame the owners don't update things and hire someone other then family to work there, cause they obviously hate being there. read more

Would have been a good experience if it wasn't so expensive. We would go often if the prices were reasonable. I don't recommend it to my friends, only because I'm afraid they will be unhappy when they get their bill. Other than the price it has good catfish, but so does Toby Keith's and Chicken Express. read more

We used to fly to McGehee's just for somewhere to go and obviously for the awesome catfish. I was very disappointed to find out that they no longer farm their own catfish. That is amazing to me, as it was certainly one of their biggest draws. Well, that and being able to fly in! Honestly, I don't know how a restaurant that is only open for dinner four nights a week can afford to still be in business! But it was back in the early 90s when we used to fly in there and my husband and I drove there once (from Dallas) after the purchase of a new SUV back in early 2000's and it was just as good as we always remembered. Perhaps it is time for another visit, since it has definitely been a while, but I've always highly recommend McGeHee's. Even with catfish that is locally outsourced, I can't imagine that it's not still fabulous. If you're driving, the drive is absolutely beautiful and the food is your yummy reward! read more

I have been going to McGehee's for MANY years now and I drive from Piedmont OK. as often as I can...I love this place...best catfish ANYWHERE !!! read more

McGehee's is fantastic! If you like catfish or know someone who does, it truly is a very good piece of fish. This is not five-star dining establishment in the white-table cloth sense. However, in terms of service, food preparation, and overall experience it's fantastic. It's always nice to have a little scenery to go a long with your meal and the restaurant doesn't disappoint. It overlooks the Red River Valley which, for out-of-town guests, is a real "kill two birds with one stone" destination in terms of visual appeal and sustenance. A word of advice and the only negative I could mention: During the spring, summer, and fall months, please do take caution when walking the property around the restaurant. I was simply trying to take a picture of the Red River post-meal and was stung numerous times by European wasps (about three times the size of American wasps). While I don't believe this is the restaurants fault, an abundance of caution should be taken if yourself or a loved-one is allergic to stings. Clearly, even with the stinging, it didn't deter me from enjoying McGehee's! read more

Best catfish ever! Served family style with creamy cole slaw, tomato relish, homemade hush puppies and real french fries! The fried fish is AYCE. They also have grilled fish but not AYCE. Pinto beans would have been a nice addition had they been offered. Save room for the fried pie! They are cooked when ordered and are delicious! Can't wait for our next visit and worth the drive from DFW! read more

Well worth going off the beaten track to find this catfish gem. Huge portions, everything home made. We ordered both the fried "all you can eat" catfish plate and the grilled catfish. They had different flavors but each was delicious in it's own way. The last few miles of the drive are on a small country road, so if you're not comfortable with that, go during daylight. read more