Fatboy’s Seafood Kitchen is a quintessential Louisiana seafood shack located in the heart of the Manchac area in Ponchatoula. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and authentic bayou flavors, this local gem has earned a sterling reputation for serving some of the freshest fried seafood and heartiest po’ boys in Tangipahoa Parish. It offers a welcoming, family-friendly environment that focuses on fresh, never-frozen ingredients and traditional Cajun hospitality, making it a favorite stop for both locals and travelers seeking a genuine “hole-in-the-wall” dining experience.
Essential Information
Feature Details Address 30226 US-51, Ponchatoula, LA 70454, United States Phone +1 985-386-5823 Payment Options Cash Only (ATM available on-site) Google Maps View on Google Maps
Operating Hours
Day Hours Monday Closed Tuesday Closed Wednesday Closed Thursday Closed Friday 11:00 AM โ 6:00 PM Saturday 11:00 AM โ 6:00 PM Sunday 11:00 AM โ 6:00 PM
Service, Accessibility, and Amenities
Category Available Features Service Options Dine-in, Takeout Accessibility Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restroom, and seating Atmosphere Casual, cozy, family-oriented, authentic “swamp” charm Dining Style Counter service with food delivered to table Parking Free parking lot and street parking available Family Features Kids’ menu available, high chairs, tourist-friendly
Why Visit? Key Highlights
Signature Catfish: ย Frequently cited by patrons as the best in the region, featuring fresh, crispy breading and perfectly flaky centers.
Roast Beef Debris: ย Their homemade roast beef is slow-cooked to perfection, served with rich gravy that defines their specialty sandwiches.
The Swamp Burger: ย A unique local favorite that combines a thick beef patty with savory roast beef debris and gravy.
Fresh Butterfly Shrimp: ย Large, hand-prepared shrimp that are butterflied and fried until golden and light.
Homemade Gumbo: ย Authentic chicken and andouille gumbo that offers deep, rich flavors reminiscent of traditional home cooking.
Bayou Charm: ย A clean and well-maintained interior decorated with local photos, providing a warm, personal touch that large chains cannot replicate.
Fatboy’s Menu and Offerings
Appetizers and Sides
Each starter is prepared to order, providing a crispy opening to a seafood feast.
Item Name Item Name Cheese Sticks (6) French Fries Cheese Fries Coleslaw Garlic Fries Chili Cheese Fries Cheese Fries with Bacon and Jalapenos Fried Alligator (Seasonal)
Specialty Platters and Dinners
All dinner platters are served with a generous portion of French fries, coleslaw, and toast.
Item Name Description Small Seafood Platter A combination of catfish, shrimp, and oysters Large Seafood Platter An oversized portion of catfish, shrimp, and oysters Catfish Dinner Fresh local catfish, fried golden brown Shrimp Dinner Large butterflied fried shrimp Oyster Dinner Freshly shucked and fried oysters 1/2 and 1/2 Combo Choice of two: Catfish, Shrimp, or Oysters Hamburger Steak Hearty beef patty served with traditional sides Soft Shell Crab Fresh local crab (Available at Market Price) Swamp Fries A specialty side topped with roast beef, gravy, and cheese
Specialty Burgers
These signature creations are served dressed and include a side of French fries.
Item Name Description Fatboy’s Burger Topped with jalapeno, pepper jack, bacon, and crispy onions Swamp Burger A beef patty topped with roast beef, gravy, and cheese Manchac Burger A massive burger featuring shrimp, roast beef, gravy, and pepper jack Slaw Burger Served with fresh coleslaw and pickles Cheeseburger Traditional dressed burger with American cheese
Traditional Po’ Boys and Sandwiches
Served on authentic Louisiana French bread or bun, accompanied by French fries.
Item Name Item Name Catfish Po’ Boy Shrimper’s Po’ Boy (Shrimp and Roast Beef) Shrimp Po’ Boy Roast Beef with Gravy Po’ Boy Oyster Po’ Boy BBQ Beef Sandwich Soft Shell Crab Po’ Boy Sausage Sandwich French Fry Po’ Boy (with Gravy) Ham and Cheese Sandwich
Kids’ Menu
Portioned specifically for children under the age of 10.
Item Name Included Sides Kids’ Catfish Served with French Fries Kids’ Shrimp Served with French Fries
Desserts and Beverages
Finish the meal with a classic New Orleans style treat.
Item Name Details Original Beignets (3) Topped with powdered sugar Specialty Beignets Choice of Caramel or Chocolate drizzle Beverages Canned Soft Drinks, Bottled Water, and Beer