Top of the River menu and prices give you a clear picture of what to expect from this riverside restaurant, from fried catfish to hushpuppies. If you are planning a visit or just curious about what they serve, this guide breaks down every item. You will find details on their famous seafood platters, sides, and drinks. The goal is to help you decide what to order before you even step inside.
Located along the Coosa River in Alabama, Top of the River is a local legend. People drive for miles to get their catfish fix. The menu is straightforward but packed with flavor. Prices are reasonable for the generous portions. Let us dive into the full breakdown.
Top Of The River Menu And Prices
This section covers the main categories of the menu. You will see everything from appetizers to desserts. Prices may change slightly, so always check with the restaurant for the latest. But this guide gives you a solid baseline.
Appetizers And Starters
Start your meal with something light. The appetizers are perfect for sharing or for a solo snack while you wait.
- Fried Okra – $5.99. Crispy and seasoned well. A southern classic.
- Hushpuppies (6 pieces) – $3.99. Golden brown, slightly sweet. They come with your meal too.
- Onion Rings – $6.49. Thick cut and battered. Served with ranch.
- Shrimp Cocktail – $8.99. Chilled shrimp with cocktail sauce. Fresh and tangy.
- Fried Pickles – $5.49. Dill slices in a light batter. Great with spicy mayo.
Most appetizers are under $10. They are filling but leave room for the main event. If you are hungry, skip the apps and go straight for the platters.
Catfish Platters
This is the star of the show. Catfish is the reason most people come here. You have several options based on how much you want to eat.
- Small Catfish Platter – $12.99. Two fillets, fries, coleslaw, and hushpuppies.
- Regular Catfish Platter – $15.99. Three fillets, fries, coleslaw, and hushpuppies.
- Large Catfish Platter – $18.99. Four fillets, fries, coleslaw, and hushpuppies.
- Catfish Dinner (Family Style) – $24.99 per person. All-you-can-eat catfish, sides, and dessert. Minimum two people.
The catfish is always fried to a golden crisp. The flesh is flaky and moist. You can also request grilled catfish for a lighter option. Grilled platters are about $2 more.
Seafood Platters
Not everyone wants catfish. The menu offers a variety of other seafood options. These platters are hearty and come with the same sides.
- Fried Shrimp Platter – $16.99. About 12 large shrimp. Served with fries and coleslaw.
- Grilled Shrimp Platter – $17.99. Marinated and grilled. A healthier choice.
- Fried Oyster Platter – $18.99. Fresh oysters, lightly breaded. A treat for oyster lovers.
- Seafood Combo Platter – $21.99. Catfish, shrimp, and oysters. The best of all worlds.
- Whole Catfish – $14.99. A whole fried catfish, head and tail on. Very traditional.
Portions are large. The seafood combo is a popular pick for first-timers. You get to sample three different items.
Po’ Boys And Sandwiches
If you want something handheld, the po’ boys are a solid choice. They come on a toasted hoagie roll with lettuce, tomato, and pickles.
- Catfish Po’ Boy – $10.99. One fillet on a roll. Comes with fries.
- Shrimp Po’ Boy – $11.99. Fried shrimp piled high. Very messy but worth it.
- Oyster Po’ Boy – $12.99. Fried oysters on a roll. A classic New Orleans style.
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich – $9.99. For non-seafood eaters. Comes with lettuce and tomato.
- Hamburger – $8.99. Simple but good. Served with fries.
The po’ boys are filling. You can add cheese for an extra $0.50. The catfish po’ boy is the most popular sandwich.
Side Items
Sides are included with most platters. But you can order them separately if you want extras.
- French Fries – $3.49. Crispy and salted.
- Coleslaw – $2.99. Creamy and tangy. A good palate cleanser.
- Baked Beans – $3.29. Sweet and smoky.
- Green Beans – $3.29. Cooked with bacon. Very savory.
- Mac and Cheese – $3.99. Cheesy and comforting.
- Corn on the Cob – $2.99. Buttered and seasoned.
You can swap sides for a small upcharge. The mac and cheese is a fan favorite. It is creamy and not too runny.
Drinks And Beverages
Stay hydrated with a range of drinks. The restaurant has a full bar too.
- Soft Drinks – $2.49. Coke, Sprite, Dr Pepper, and more. Free refills.
- Sweet Tea – $2.49. Southern style. Very sweet.
- Unsweet Tea – $2.49. For those watching sugar.
- Lemonade – $2.99. Fresh squeezed. Tart and refreshing.
- Beer (Domestic) – $3.99. Budweiser, Coors, Miller.
- Beer (Import) – $4.99. Corona, Heineken.
- Wine – $5.99 per glass. Red or white. Limited selection.
- Cocktails – $6.99 to $8.99. Margaritas, daiquiris, and more.
The sweet tea is a must-try. It is strong and sugary. If you prefer alcohol, the margarita pairs well with fried fish.
Desserts
Save room for something sweet. Desserts are homemade and change seasonally.
- Banana Pudding – $4.99. Layers of pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers.
- Peach Cobbler – $5.49. Warm and served with ice cream.
- Chocolate Cake – $5.99. Rich and fudgy. A large slice.
- Key Lime Pie – $5.49. Tart and creamy. A light finish.
The banana pudding is the most popular dessert. It is creamy and not too sweet. The peach cobbler is a close second.
Kids Menu
If you bring children, they have a separate menu. Portions are smaller and prices are lower.
- Kids Catfish – $7.99. One fillet with fries.
- Kids Shrimp – $8.99. Five shrimp with fries.
- Kids Chicken Tenders – $6.99. Three tenders with fries.
- Kids Hamburger – $6.49. Small burger with fries.
- Kids Mac and Cheese – $5.99. A bowl of mac and cheese.
Kids meals come with a small drink and a cookie. The chicken tenders are a safe bet for picky eaters.
Daily Specials
Top of the River runs daily specials. These are not always on the printed menu. Ask your server.
- Monday – Catfish special: Small platter for $10.99.
- Tuesday – Shrimp special: Fried shrimp platter for $14.99.
- Wednesday – Oyster special: Oyster platter for $16.99.
- Thursday – Po’ boy special: Any po’ boy for $8.99.
- Friday – Seafood combo special: Combo platter for $18.99.
- Saturday – Family style all-you-can-eat for $22.99 per person.
- Sunday – Closed.
The Monday catfish special is a great deal. You save $2 compared to the regular price. Saturday all-you-can-eat is popular but can get busy.
Prices And Value
Overall, the prices are fair for the quality and quantity. A typical meal for one person with a drink and dessert will run about $20 to $25. For two people, expect $40 to $50. The family style option is the best value if you are hungry.
Portions are generous. The regular catfish platter is enough for most people. The large platter is for serious appetites. Leftovers are common, so bring a container.
Tax is not included in the prices listed. Tip your server well. Service is usually fast and friendly.
How To Order
You can order in person or take out. The restaurant does not offer delivery directly. But third-party services may be available.
- In person – Walk in, get a seat, and order from the menu. Wait times can be long on weekends.
- Takeout – Call ahead to place your order. Pick up at the counter. No extra charge.
- Online ordering – Check their website or Facebook page. Some days they have online ordering.
Takeout is a good option if you want to eat by the river. There are picnic tables outside. You can enjoy your meal with a view.
Tips For First-Timers
If you have never been, here are a few pointers.
- Go early on weekends. The line can be long by noon.
- Cash is accepted but cards are preferred. They take Visa and Mastercard.
- Ask for extra tartar sauce. They give you one small cup per platter.
- Try the hushpuppies. They are some of the best in the state.
- Save room for banana pudding. It is worth the extra calories.
The atmosphere is casual. You can wear shorts and a t-shirt. The view of the river is relaxing. It is a great spot for a family dinner or a date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are common questions people ask about the menu and prices.
What is the most popular item on the Top of the River menu?
The regular catfish platter is the most ordered item. It comes with three fillets, fries, coleslaw, and hushpuppies. People love the crispy batter and flaky fish.
Does Top of the River have a lunch menu?
They do not have a separate lunch menu. But the regular menu is available all day. Portions are the same size. Some daily specials are only available during lunch hours.
Are there vegetarian options on the Top of the River menu?
Vegetarian options are limited. You can order sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, or baked beans. There is no vegetarian main dish. The grilled chicken sandwich is the closest option for non-seafood eaters.
How much does the all-you-can-eat catfish cost?
The all-you-can-eat family style catfish is $24.99 per person. It includes catfish, sides, and dessert. Minimum two people. This is available every day except Sunday.
Does Top of the River offer gluten-free options?
They do not have a dedicated gluten-free menu. Most items are breaded and fried. Grilled shrimp or catfish may be gluten-free if you ask. But cross-contamination is possible. Call ahead to discuss your needs.
Final Thoughts
Top of the River menu and prices are straightforward and affordable. You get generous portions of fresh seafood in a relaxed setting. The catfish is the highlight, but the shrimp and oysters are also excellent. Prices are reasonable for the quality. Whether you dine in or take out, you will leave full and satisfied.
Plan your visit around the daily specials for the best deals. Bring cash if you want to tip in cash. And do not forget to enjoy the river view. It is part of the experience.
If you are ever in Alabama near the Coosa River, stop by. You will understand why this place has been a local favorite for decades. The food is simple, honest, and delicious. That is all you need from a riverside restaurant.