Whataburger makes excellent burgers and chicken strips. They also have french fries that are capable of going head to head with the legendary fries from McDonald, and solid onion rings. In my opinion, they’re one of the best all-around fast-food chains in the country, so it shouldn’t be surprising they also make a good fish sandwich.
The “Whatacatch” is an Alaskan Pollack filet served inside a plain white toasted bun, with a bit of shredded lettuce and tartar sauce. The fish filet is not very thick but extra-long, sticking out both sides of the bun. You’ll get a bite of pure fish on either end before meeting the bread. The coating is thin, but still manages to provide a decent crunch, and the tasty cornmeal base is a very nice accent to the flavor of the fish.
fast_food_whataburger_whatacatch_fish_sandwich
The fish tastes very good. It’s light and flaky, with a hint of lemon. No ‘fishy’ aftertaste, and very comparable to the sandwich from Jack in the Box reviewed not too long ago. Unlike Jack’s similar item which goes heavy on the lettuce (using whole leaves), the Whatacatch goes extremely light on the green veggie, using only a few tiny shredded pieces. Finally, a spoonful of rich and creamy tartar sauce to top things off.
It’s rather odd-looking, having the filet so mismatched in size to the bun. Despite the length, there’s a section of empty bread that’s left at the end with nothing in between, because the fish is not wide enough to fill it up. On one hand, it’s too long. On the other, it’s not wide enough. The result is that a couple of bites are all fish, and a couple is mostly bun. It would be better if they cut the filets in different shapes, so everything fits together properly, getting equal parts fish, bread, and toppings with each bite.
fast_food_whataburger_whatacatch_fish_sandwich
However, I believe there’s a logical reason for it. They have a fish “combo” meal, that includes two of the same filets and french fries. The fish looks more natural in this shape when it’s served naked without a bun. So I think it’s just a matter of not wanting to make two different products. The fish was meant to be presented and eaten on its own, but they can toss a single piece between a bun and call it a sandwich.
The Whatacatch from Whataburger is tasty and satisfying. Fish lovers will not be disappointed. Those people who swear by ‘fresh’ fish probably won’t be impressed, and it’s unlikely to cause anyone who already has a favorite fish sandwich to make a switch. But it’s still above average for fast food, and it’s made from quality ingredients. I’d like to see more lettuce, and wish the fish filet better matched the bun, however, these complaints are not enough to keep it from earning a good review score.
