KENNEWICK, Wash. – 

Catfish Alley has been in the Tri-Cities since 2020. Owner, Deshae Bell, tells me he started this business venture after moving back to Washington state from New Orleans, Louisiana. 

“I wanted to bring something new to the Tri-Cities that emphasizes the diversity in the community” said DeShae Bell, Owner of Catfish Alley. 

Bell tells me that what he is the most well known for is his fried catfish. 

According to the African American Registry, “Soul Food” is a term for cuisine that was traditionally prepared and eaten by African-Americans in the southern United States. This form of cooking started during American Slavery as a means of survival after slaves were given “undesirable” or “leftover” meats to eat and only had vegetables they grew themselves. 

“It’s important for me to not only serve my community but educate them on the importance of understanding your roots and seeing what you can achieve in the future because of them” says Bell. 

INGREDIENTS:

– Fish of choice

– Degermed corn meal

– Oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Cut fish of choice filet into strips

Step 2: Dredge strips into cornmeal dry (helps stick to meat evenly)

Step 3: Fry in oil for about 7-8 min. until golden brown 

Step 4: Let cool and enjoy 

“It’s important to me as a business owner to show the youth in the community that anything is possible” says Bell. 

Catfish Alley is located at 212 W Kennewick Ave, Kennewick, WA 99336. 

Hours: 

Thurs.- Sat. from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Sun. from 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.