Boonies BBQ and Catfish – Authentic Southern BBQ & Fresh Catfish in Pearl River, LA
Boonies BBQ and Catfish in Pearl River, LA, is a hidden gem for Southern comfort food lovers. Known for its smoky, flavorful BBQ, the menu shines with pulled pork, brisket, and ribs, alongside standout catfish dishes. Their unique sauces, especially the jalapeño honey BBQ and tangy pickle sauce, elevate each bite. Sides like crispy fried pickles, creamy mac and cheese with pork rind “piggy dust,” and fresh pickled greens add depth and balance. The friendly, welcoming staff and casual vibe make it an inviting spot. Boonies delivers authentic, satisfying meals that linger long after the last bite—definitely worth the detour.
Boonies BBQ and Catfish at a glance
- Address 64441 LA-3081, Pearl River, LA 70452, United States
- Phone +1 228-216-5278
- Restaurant type Restaurant .
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Boonies BBQ and Catfish: Reviews & Ratings
We came across Boonies while passing through on our way back to Alabama, and it was some of the best food we ate on our two week trip. Boonies is not far off of I-59, but it is a couple miles out of the way so just be prepared for that. Everything we ordered was fantastic: the pulled pork, brisket sandwich, brisket tacos, boudain balls, okra, fries, Meme’s tater salad was SO good - all of it was very tasty and the smoked sausage was so full of flavor! The collard greens were a rich highlight, as well. The staff were all nice and welcoming, even put down water and a “pup cup” for our dog! We found this place by accident, but we will definitely be back! The jalapeño honey bbq sauce was so good, we bought some to bring home.
Seating is outside, bar inside is smoking. They’re working to screen in the dining area, they do have the fly swatting spinners to deter bugs. Try to pay cash, as the menu indicates a 5% discount. Beers reasonably priced outside of happy hour, but sold out of the bar in the main building. Service was friendly and informative. The three sauces they bring out were excellent. My favorite was the pickle one. Fried pickles seemed to be in a cornmeal type batter. They were done very well. The stuffed jalapeños were the best tasting I’ve had, a bit soft, but it’s because of how they cook them. So much flavor, and different than others, which is always interesting. The smokehouse smash burger was done very well, though one of us isn’t into onions, so those were omitted. Pick two plate was brisket and turkey. The turkey was perfect, however the brisket wasn’t the best I’ve had. They haven’t been open more than a couple months so I’ll extend some grace as they find a groove with business trends. Maybe I’ll do the ribs next time. They were out of burnt ends, so possibly a hint on the brisket there. Sides were potato salad, Brussels, and Mac & cheese. Potato salad was a classic, Brussels sprouts were so good and cooked perfectly. The Mac & cheese was great, their piggy dust seems to be pork rinds smashed down. The pickled greens were SO good, fresh, crunchy, and flavorful. Definitely coming back to try the rest of the menu.
We just moved to Pearl River and after a long day of yard work and unpacking, decided to try out this place. We were definitely not disappointed and my wife and I decided this is our new go to place for food and drinks! I had the smokehouse smash burger which was excellent and my wife had the fried shrimp basket that judging from the fact she finished it (she never finishes her food), I'd say she loved hers as well. Can't wait to try the rest of the menu! Nice chill place with very friendly staff. Give them a try!
Great night tonight at Boonies. My girl and I both got the smokehouse smash burger and I got to tell you what... "THAT'S A DAMN GOOD BURGER ". Makayla was our server and did an awesome job at suggesting and pointing out things. Thank you Boonies. Our meal was freaking awesome!
Mother's Day lunch at Boonies was nothing short of amazing! We started with fried pickles and smoked cracklings. I will probably have to get the cracklings every time I'm there!! Two in our group had catfish, I had ribs and brisket, sides of potatoe salad, Mac n cheese, fried okra and the brussel sprouts with hot honey dressing!! I honestly don't know what my favorite is now!!! Do yourself a favor and go have ribs, cracklings, brussel sprouts, fried pickles....a little bit of everything!!
Been multiple times & will go multiple more! Absolutely 1 of the best spots in the parish. Excellent overall experience each time & lucky for us you can sit inside as well! Very diverse & unique menu. Super friendly staff! Try everything!
Outdoor area was nice and breezy. The sweet girl I ordered with was so friendly and helpful. Good portion for the money.
Fantastic place to eat. Wonderful food and service. We had ribs and the brisket sandwich they were incredible.
Location
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Boonies BBQ and Catfish64441 LA-3081, Pearl River, LA 70452, United States Hotline: +1 228-216-5278
Nestled just a few miles off I-59 in Pearl River, Louisiana, Boonies BBQ and Catfish offers a true Southern comfort food experience that lingers long after the last bite. This unassuming spot has quickly earned praise for its smoky, flavorful barbecue and fresh Gulf Coast catfish, drawing in locals and travelers alike with its welcoming charm and authentic tastes.
The heart of Boonies is its smoked meats—pulled pork tender enough to fall apart, brisket rich in smoky depth, and a smoked sausage bursting with bold, savory notes. Each bite tells a story of careful wood-smoking and seasoning traditions that celebrate Louisiana’s barbecue heritage. The brisket tacos and boudain balls add exciting twists that showcase the kitchen’s creative flair, while the ribs arrive perfectly tender, glazed with a luscious jalapeño honey BBQ sauce that dances on the tongue with a balance of heat and sweetness.
Beyond the meats, the sides play a crucial role in the Boonies experience. The collard greens are velvety and rich, offering a deep Southern flavor that complements the smoky mains. The classic potato salad and creamy mac and cheese, dusted with piggy dust (crushed pork rinds), bring comfort and texture. Brussels sprouts dressed in hot honey and the crispy fried okra deliver a perfect mix of sweetness and crunch, while fried pickles and stuffed jalapeños showcase inventive takes on Southern staples.
What sets Boonies apart is not just the food but the warmth of its service and atmosphere. The staff’s friendly, knowledgeable approach makes every visit feel like a neighborhood gathering. Small touches, like thoughtful “pup cups” for furry friends, highlight the genuine care found here. Whether you’re craving a smash burger done just right or a fried shrimp basket that leaves you wanting more, Boonies balances simplicity with deeply satisfying flavors.
For those seeking an authentic slice of Pearl River’s culinary soul, Boonies BBQ and Catfish delivers with passion and precision. It’s a place where smoky aromas, rich textures, and vibrant side dishes come together to create a memorable meal. One visit is enough to turn curious travelers into loyal regulars, eager to return for the next round of smoky perfection.
Business Information
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- Assistive hearing loop
- Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Kerbside pickup
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Delivery
- Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards