Read My Review · Houston seafood
Captain Tom’s Houston Review: Oysters, Micheladas & Fried Catfish
Okay, y’all, oysters and a michelada at Captain Tom’s are a combination I can get behind. Thomas and I came in just after opening, and there was already a line out the door. We managed to get two seats, ordered some seafood, and kept adding to the meal. That gumbo? I was still thinking about taking some home by the end.
By Hong the Foodie · Based on my video published September 20, 2026. Food impressions and any prices below reflect that visit.
What I ordered—and what I thought
Oysters with Tabasco, lime and cocktail sauce
Thomas ordered two dozen oysters. Our first platter had 14, which felt generous, though that’s what we received on this visit—not a promise about every order. These were big, meaty, plump oysters with just the right amount of brininess for me. I loved that little ocean flavor without it being too strong or too salty.
I added Tabasco, fresh lime and a little cocktail sauce. That spicy, citrusy combination made me want to keep going back for another oyster. These were easily one of my favorite parts of the meal.
My Michelob Ultra michelada
I’m not much of a beer person, so Thomas suggested Michelob Ultra for mine. It surprised me! It was tangy, zesty, a little spicy and refreshing, with only a hint of beer. I especially liked the saltiness. I tried Thomas’s Pacifico version too, but the beer flavor was stronger and I preferred my own. I ended up ordering a second one with the same beer.
Seafood gumbo
Our cup of gumbo had shrimp, crab meat and rice. It arrived piping hot, and I loved how savory, thick and comforting it was. The seafood flavor and seasoning were so good that I wished we had ordered a bowl. Near the end of the meal, I was seriously considering a pint to go.
Whole fried catfish and fries
We originally wanted flounder, but it wasn’t available, so we ordered the whole fried catfish. I initially thought we had the double because the portion looked so big, then corrected myself in the video: it was the single.
I went straight for the tail first—the thin, light crunch was so good. The fish had a crisp coating and flaky meat, and I really liked how light the batter was. My small complaint was that it could use a little more salt and pepper. The thick fries needed salt too.
Fried shrimp
We saw someone else order fried shrimp and couldn’t resist adding a plate. I liked the flavor and thought it had more saltiness than the catfish. I’m picky about shrimp, though, and it tasted a little overcooked to me. If I could choose only one fried platter, I’d pick the catfish.
How much was it?
Our whole order came to $95. Here’s everything we got:
- 5 micheladas
- 1 cup of gumbo
- 2 dozen oysters
- 1 single whole fried catfish
- 6-piece fried shrimp
- 1 pint of gumbo to go
Total: $95
This was the total during our visit. Prices can change, so check the current menu before you go.
What would I order again?
The oysters, michelada and gumbo are my first picks. For a fried platter, I’d choose the catfish over the shrimp. And I’d be very tempted to make that gumbo a bowl next time.
Restaurant details
Restaurant: Captain Tom’s
Area: Houston
Food: Seafood, oysters, gumbo and fried fish
The atmosphere on my visit: Busy, loud and lively—even early in the day. The food came out quickly despite the crowd.
There are three locations. Use the map to choose your location and confirm its hours.
Watch my full visit
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