If you’re looking for one of the best places to eat near Mountain View, Arkansas, you can’t go wrong with JoJo’s Catfish Wharf!
This popular riverside restaurant is known for its crispy fried catfish, friendly service, and a laid-back atmosphere that perfectly matches the charm of this Ozark Mountain town.
In our opinion, JoJo’s Catfish Wharf is a must-try spot.
JoJo’s Catfish Wharf in Mountain View, Arkansas
We were near Mountain View recently while visiting Blanchard Springs Caverns and decided to stop to have a late lunch JoJo’s Catfish Wharf.
It had been years since I had been there and now I’m wondering why it took me so long to come back!.
This place is a bit of a local legend. In fact it is on our list of Iconic Arkansas Restaurants. It sits right on the White River and is part of the long-time favorite fishing camp, Jack’s Fishing Resort.
This is exactly the kind of restaurant that makes you feel like you’ve found a hidden gem, even though everyone already knows about it.
Decor and View of JoJo’s Catfish Wharf
The first thing you’ll notice when you walk in is the view. The entire back wall is windows which face out onto the White River. We got a table right by the windows which was a perfect spot to eat and relax and watch the river flow by.
This restaurant is super casual and comfortable. There is definitely a warmth to the place and especially to the service. Everyone we met was friendly, smiling, and genuinely seemed to care that we enjoyed our visit.
Now, let’s talk about the food.
The Food! (Hushpuppies and More)
We ordered and right away were served a bowl of beans, a big basket of hushpuppies, and some pickled green tomatoes. All of this comes with your catfish dinner!
You will also get a baked potato or French fries and coleslaw with the rest of your food.
Believe me you won’t leave hungry.
The beans were smoky and soft and delicious and I swear I could have eaten several bowls of the tangy green tomatoes but, y’all…the hushpuppies…
They were, no kidding, the best hushpuppies that I have ever tasted. And I’ve eaten a lot of hushpuppies in my day.
They are small and savory and perfectly crispy on the outside but tender on the inside. They are fried without being at all greasy and have just the right amount of flavor.
Besides catfish they also serve shrimp dishes, hamburgers, chicken, and chicken fried steak.
But catfish is in the name so that’s what we had!
JoJo’s Catfish Wharf serves U.S. farm-raised catfish, fried up golden brown and crispy on the outside and perfectly cooked. I also loved the homemade tartar sauce.
One fun touch is their salad bar, which is set up in an actual canoe. I don’t know why, but that just made me happy.
And if you still have space in your stomach after that generous meal, the desserts are worth it.
We split a slice of peanut butter pie, and it was pure indulgence.
Obviously, we had a great meal here.
If you find yourself in Mountain View fishing on the White River, enjoying the music on the square, or even just passing through, I highly recommend a stop at Jo Jo’s.
It’s delicious, it’s friendly, and it’s pure Arkansas.
Thanks for stopping by!
