Frequently Asked Questions

American farm-raised redtail catfish is raised domestically under regulated conditions, producing a milder, cleaner flavor than imported Vietnamese catfish. Jan's River Restaurant serves only U.S.-sourced catfish, so you always know exactly what's on your plate.

Jan's River Restaurant offers both fried and baked catfish to suit your preference. The fried catfish is prepared in 100% peanut oil, which produces a light, crisp crust without a heavy grease taste — a Southern standard that keeps customers coming back.

Peanut oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor profile, making it ideal for frying catfish and other seafood. It produces a cleaner, crisper result than many alternatives and doesn't impart an oily aftertaste — which is why it remains a go-to in Southern cooking.

Yes — fish entrées and salads at Jan's are recommended for guests looking for gluten-free choices. The fried shrimp salad is a best-seller, and servers can help you navigate the menu based on your dietary needs.

Jan's is open Tuesday through Saturday evenings. Tuesday through Thursday service begins at 5:00 PM, while Friday and Saturday doors open at 4:30 PM. The restaurant is closed Sunday and Monday.

Yes, Jan's River Restaurant offers carry-out for customers who prefer to enjoy their meal at home. You can call ahead to place a pickup order, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or when you'd rather skip the wait for a table.

Beyond catfish, Jan's serves fried shrimp by the dozen or half-dozen, fried oysters, frog legs, and fully loaded seafood platters. Every seafood dish is made with fresh ingredients and fried in 100% peanut oil for consistent Southern flavor.

Jan's offers a lineup of Southern starters including fried okra, fried pickle chips, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, fried shrimp, and fried oysters. All fried appetizers are prepared in 100% peanut oil, keeping the flavors consistent from the first bite to the last.

Absolutely — Jan's serves steaks, burgers, and cheeseburgers made to order, plus sandwiches and salads. Quarter-pound burgers can be customized with bacon, grilled onions, and classic toppings, and a kids' menu ensures younger diners are covered too.

Jan's River Restaurant has been serving Shreveport, LA since 1984 — over four decades of consistent Southern seafood. Loyal customers travel from Texas and Arkansas regularly, and many Shreveport families have dined here across multiple generations.