This Indiana Seafood Spot Is So Good, Locals Brag About It on Purpose

Indianapolis might be hundreds of miles from the nearest ocean, but that does not stop locals from enjoying some of the freshest seafood in the Midwest. Tucked away on Shadeland Avenue, Caplinger’s Fresh Catch has become the go-to destination for anyone craving quality fish, whether you want to buy it fresh or enjoy it cooked to perfection right there.

This family-run seafood market and cafe has earned a loyal following over the years, and it is the kind of place Indianapolis residents proudly recommend to out-of-town visitors. Walking through the doors feels like stepping into a coastal fish market, complete with the smell of fresh catch and the buzz of happy customers.

From crispy catfish to tender lobster rolls, Caplinger’s offers something special that keeps people coming back. Whether you are a seafood lover or just curious about what all the fuss is about, this spot delivers an experience worth making the trip for.

Here are seven reasons why Caplinger’s Fresh Catch should be on your must-visit list.

Family-Run Business with Heart and Soul

There is something truly special about walking into a place where the owners genuinely care about every customer who comes through the door. Caplinger’s Fresh Catch is not some corporate chain with a generic menu and disinterested staff.

This is a family operation, and you can feel that warmth the moment you step inside.

Molly Caplinger B., who personally responds to nearly every online review, shows the level of care this family puts into their business. She thanks customers by name, addresses concerns with kindness, and makes sure everyone feels valued.

That kind of personal touch is rare these days, and it creates a welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to return.

The staff members are trained to be patient and friendly, helping first-time visitors navigate the extensive menu without feeling rushed. Whether you are trying to decide between catfish and walleye or need advice on which sides pair best with your meal, the team is happy to guide you.

Many customers mention in reviews how pleasant and helpful the staff are, even during busy lunch rushes.

Family-run businesses often have a reputation for going the extra mile, and Caplinger’s lives up to that standard.

Incredibly Fresh Seafood Selection

One of the biggest challenges of living in a landlocked state is finding seafood that actually tastes fresh, not frozen and flavorless. Caplinger’s Fresh Catch solves that problem by offering an impressive selection of high-quality seafood that rivals what you would find on the coast.

The market side of the business is stocked with fresh fish by the pound, giving you the option to take it home and cook it yourself or have it prepared on-site.

Customers rave about the quality of the fish, with many saying it does not have that unpleasant fishy smell that often comes with lower-grade seafood. One reviewer specifically mentioned how their walleye fillets smelled completely fresh, which is a testament to how carefully Caplinger’s sources and handles their products.

Freshness is everything when it comes to seafood, and this place takes it seriously.

The variety available is also impressive. You can find everything from catfish, basa, and perch to more exotic options like alligator.

They even offer scallops, grouper, and frog legs for those who want to try something a little different. The selection changes based on availability, so there is always something new to explore.

Beyond just fish, Caplinger’s also sells prepared spreads like tuna salad and smoked tuna salad, which customers describe as some of the best they have ever tasted.

Mouthwatering Cooked-to-Order Meals

Not everyone has the time or skills to cook seafood at home, and that is where Caplinger’s really shines. The cafe side of the business offers cooked-to-order meals that are prepared fresh and served hot, making it a perfect spot for lunch or an early dinner.

You order at the counter, grab a fountain drink, and they bring your food right to your table.

The menu is extensive, with options ranging from fried catfish and grilled chicken to lobster rolls and oyster po-boys. One of the most popular items is the Caplinger Special Dinner, which includes two pieces of basa, two hush puppies, and your choice of two sides.

Customers love this meal because it offers generous portions at a reasonable price, and the fish can be cooked exactly how you like it, whether crispy or lightly fried.

The sides are just as impressive as the main dishes. Customers rave about the mac and cheese, collard greens, red beans and rice, baked beans, and fried okra.

Even the green beans, which can be hit or miss at many restaurants, are consistently praised for being flavorful and perfectly cooked. The hush puppies are another standout, with many people saying they are the best they have ever had.

Flavor That Brings Back Memories

Food has a unique way of transporting us back in time, and many customers say that eating at Caplinger’s brings back fond memories of childhood meals or coastal vacations. One reviewer mentioned that the catfish nuggets were so juicy, tender, and flavorful that they brought back good childhood memories.

Another customer from Maine said the food took them right back home, which is high praise coming from someone who grew up eating fresh seafood daily.

The clam chowder is another dish that customers describe as next-level, with one person saying it reminded them of old memories and was better than their own family recipe. That kind of emotional connection to food is rare, and it speaks to the quality and authenticity of what Caplinger’s serves.

Every bite is made with care, using recipes and techniques that honor traditional seafood preparation.

The seasoning and breading used on the fried items are perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of flavor without being overpowering. Some customers mention a slight saltiness or pepper kick, but most find it adds to the overall taste rather than detracting from it.

The crispy coating on the fish and shrimp is consistently praised, with people saying it stays crunchy even after traveling home with takeout.

Even the sauces and condiments are made in-house, with the tartar sauce getting special mentions in reviews.

Generous Portions That Satisfy

Nobody likes leaving a restaurant still feeling hungry, and that is definitely not a problem at Caplinger’s Fresh Catch. The portions here are generous, with many customers saying they have enough leftovers to enjoy a second meal at home.

One reviewer mentioned that they can eat the entire Caplinger Special Dinner when really hungry, but other times they share it with their spouse and each pick a side, and they are both satisfied.

The sides are served in large portions, not the tiny scoops you often get at other places. Whether you order mac and cheese, collard greens, or red beans and rice, you are getting a substantial serving that complements your main dish perfectly.

The baked beans and fried okra are also served in satisfying amounts, making sure you get your money’s worth with every order.

The fish portions are equally impressive. The Caplinger Special comes with two pieces of basa, which are large fillets that are fried or grilled to perfection.

Customers often comment on how much fish they get compared to other seafood restaurants in the area. The grouper dinner is another standout, with one reviewer calling the portion large and the fish awesome.

Even the sandwiches are packed with filling. The lobster roll is stuffed with fresh lobster meat, and the oyster po-boy is loaded with huge oysters that hang over the edges of the bun.

Convenient Location with Ample Parking

Finding a great restaurant is one thing, but getting there easily and finding parking is another challenge altogether. Caplinger’s Fresh Catch is conveniently located at 7460 Shadeland Avenue in Indianapolis, making it accessible from multiple parts of the city and surrounding areas like Fishers.

The location is easy to find, and there is ample parking available, so you do not have to circle the lot looking for a spot.

The building itself might not look fancy from the outside, and some customers mention being surprised by the casual appearance. However, once you step inside, you realize that this place is all about substance over style.

The interior is clean, well-maintained, and has a no-frills vibe that lets the food speak for itself. There is a casual dining area with tables where you can sit and enjoy your meal, or you can order takeout and enjoy it at home.

The hours of operation are also convenient for most people. Caplinger’s is open Monday through Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM, and closed on Sundays.

This gives you plenty of opportunities to stop by for lunch or an early dinner throughout the week. The extended hours on weekends are especially helpful for those who want to grab a meal after running errands or exploring the area.

The location is also close to other attractions and businesses, making it easy to combine a visit to Caplinger’s with other activities. Whether you are in the area for shopping, appointments, or just exploring Indianapolis, this spot is worth adding to your itinerary.

The staff is efficient, so even during busy times, the wait is not long, and you can get your food and be on your way quickly if needed.

A Menu That Offers Something for Everyone

One of the most common comments in customer reviews is how surprised people are by the sheer variety of options available at Caplinger’s. This is not a restaurant with a tiny menu where you feel limited in your choices.

The menu is extensive, offering everything from classic fried fish to more adventurous options like alligator and frog legs. Whether you are a seafood purist or someone who likes to try new things, there is something here for you.

For those who prefer traditional favorites, you can order catfish, walleye, perch, or basa prepared exactly how you like it. The fish can be fried crispy, lightly fried, grilled, or even blackened, giving you control over how your meal is prepared.

The shrimp is another popular option, with customers praising the breading and the freshness of the seafood.

If you are feeling adventurous, the menu includes items like oyster po-boys, lobster rolls, crab cakes, and grouper dinners. The crab cakes are described as some of the best around, and the lobster bisque soup gets rave reviews for its rich, creamy flavor.

The clam chowder is another standout, with customers saying it tastes better than they could have imagined.

For non-seafood eaters, Caplinger’s offers chicken and pork tenderloin options, so no one in your group has to feel left out.