Thinking about adding fried catfish to my menu ...

On the plus side,catfish is the one item in our area that many add, with bbq.Gives you that one item that isn't a category killer for your main idea.Of course fries help with open plate dinners.

The restaurant guys will have to check in about the different inspection aggravations of having fryers.

Given you already operate a restaurant, you have a daily head count of meals served. Will the new operation increase business? Start by estimating how many customers would order catfish. As Tom pointed out, a fryer would also provide the means of adding French Fries, and perhaps onion rings, fried okra ( arefrom Louisianna )and whatever else you might deem sales worthy. The end game is to come up with a general idea of how much revenue the investment of a hood system will generate. In addition to the cost of the fryer(s) and hood (which may require a "make-up" air system, depending on local/state code) you'll need a fire suppression system.

Then there is the cost of fryolater oil. I pay $34 for a 35 lb container of trans fat free Canola oil...which will fill one 35 lb fryer. Depending in volume and use, you'll need to strain the oil once, if not twice a day...and replace the oil every 3-5 days, Then there's the cost of having the used oil removed...and the space needed to store a grease barrel. Some outfits were paying a few bucks for used oil back when gas was $4 @ gal.

Adding catfish to your menu sounds like a good if not great idea...broadens your appeal to a wider customer base. Let me know if I can be of further assistance.

For folks that won't know MaxQue,he is a CIA trained chef,with over 30 yrs of successful food service and restaurant experience.

Chris was gracious enough to be a pro consultant for us,years ago, and it is great to have his input.

Insurance may be a deal breaker for the liability of employee injury. Maintenace of a vent is also an ongoing and required event, just like the grease trap, it must be cleaned. With all that said, poboys would be good for bbq, catfish, shrimp, & mudbugs, just add fries. I'll be there to sample and consult when you open. :-P

Mack

Jeez Tom, you got me blushin

Pitcher, did you get my PM?