This Local Catfish Spot is Stirring Up Excitement

Photo byKawê RodriguesonUnsplash

If you’re on the hunt for an authentic Cajun experience in Austin, look no further than Shoal Creek Saloon. I recently had the pleasure of dining there, and it was an adventure for my taste buds that I simply had to share.

First Visit: Crawfish Boil Delight

I’m a sucker for a good crawfish boil, and Shoal Creek Saloon delivered in spades. Walking in, the rustic, cozy atmosphere immediately made me feel at home. The place was buzzing with energy, and the friendly staff made us feel like we were part of the family. We were fortunate enough to catch one of their famous crawfish boil days, and it was everything I had hoped for.

The crawfish were seasoned to perfection with just the right amount of Cajun spice, making each bite a delightful mix of heat and flavor. They were plump and juicy, with a freshness that only comes from expertly prepared seafood. Accompanying the crawfish were corn on the cob and potatoes, both soaking up the spices beautifully, adding to the overall mouthwatering experience.

Second Visit: Seafood Fry Basket and Duck Gumbo

The very next day, the memory of that crawfish boil had me coming back for more. This time, I decided to dive into their seafood fry basket and duck gumbo.

Seafood Fry Basket

The seafood fry basket was a generous serving of golden, crispy delights. It included catfish, shrimp, and oysters, all fried to perfection. The catfish was the star of the basket—crispy on the outside with a tender, flaky interior. The seasoning was just right, with a light dusting of Cajun spices that enhanced the natural flavors of the seafood without overpowering them. Each piece was cooked perfectly, retaining its juiciness and delivering that satisfying crunch with every bite. The shrimp and oysters were equally delightful, fresh and flavorful, with a coating that was neither too thick nor too greasy.

Duck Gumbo

Then came the duck gumbo—a rich, hearty dish that epitomizes comfort food. The gumbo was brimming with tender pieces of duck, cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The broth was a deep, flavorful concoction of spices, vegetables, and a hint of smokiness that only comes from a well-crafted roux. Every spoonful was a warming, satisfying experience, filled with layers of flavor that spoke of hours of slow cooking and attention to detail.

Overall Impressions

Shoal Creek Saloon has quickly become one of my favorite spots in Austin. The authenticity and quality of the food are unmatched, and the welcoming, lively atmosphere makes every visit special. The crawfish boil was a fantastic introduction, and the seafood fry basket and duck gumbo solidified my love for this place.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Austin and craving some delicious, authentic Cajun food, make your way to Shoal Creek Saloon. Whether it’s the perfectly seasoned crawfish, the crispy catfish, or the hearty duck gumbo, you’re in for a treat. Just be prepared—you might find yourself coming back for more, just like I did.