Hot Fish/Joshuas Gulfport Seafood

Arriving at Hot Fish/Joshuas Gulfport Seafood feels like stepping into a cherished neighborhood ritual—a modest spot where the air hums with the promise of comfort and familiar flavors. Nestled on a quiet stretch of Fruitvale Avenue, this little fast food seafood joint doesn’t fuss with fancy accents or sprawling seating. Instead, it invites you to savor the moment in its simplest, most unpretentious form: fresh, hot food made with care and served with a warm smile.

The pace here is unhurried yet purposeful, as orders come out crisp and golden, fresh from the fryer. The space is small, bustling quietly with folks waiting patiently or grabbing a quick bite to-go, all connected by an unspoken understanding that good seafood isn’t rushed. You might find yourself drawn into the casual rhythm of the place—the shuffle of paper wrappings, the occasional laughter as neighbors share their lunchtime stories, and the unmistakable aroma of seasoned catfish and prawns enticing your appetite.

The menu quietly celebrates simple, soulful offerings—a harmony of fried catfish, snapper, prawns, and oysters, each piece coated in a lightly seasoned batter that turns crispy at the edges while keeping the seafood tender and moist inside. Patrons appreciate the thoughtful touches, like the Louisiana-style hot sauce and tartar sauce that come alongside, elevating each bite without overwhelming it. Fries and potato salad add just the right balance, grounding the sea’s bounty in familiar comfort.

While seating is limited, the experience here isn’t about lingering but about a warm, direct connection to the food and the people behind it. It’s a spot where the chef's years of experience shine through the perfectly cooked fried dishes, earning it a place in local hearts as a genuine slice of Oakland’s diverse food culture. Whether you’re a longtime regular or stopping by on a whim, Hot Fish/Joshuas Gulfport Seafood offers a small but vivid window into the city’s down-to-earth culinary spirit.