The 15 Unhealthiest Fish Dishes At 15 Popular Chain Restaurants

Fish is often seen as a healthy option, but some dishes at popular chain restaurants can be surprisingly unhealthy. These dishes are high in calories, saturated fat, sodium, and even trans fats. Here are 15 fish dishes from well-known chains that dietitians recommend you avoid:

1. Cheesecake Factory Shrimp Scampi

At first glance, shrimp might seem like a healthy choice. However, Cheesecake Factory’s Shrimp Scampi is anything but. Laden with butter and oil, this dish clocks in at 1,260 calories. It also contains a staggering 76 grams of fat, of which 37 grams are saturated. Sodium levels are also high at 2,340 milligrams, making it a salty indulgence. It’s accompanied by 105 grams of carbs, which is quite hefty for a single meal. For those watching their weight, this dish is best left for special occasions rather than a regular meal option.

2. Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Creamy sauces might be delicious, but they can also be diet disasters. Olive Garden’s Shrimp Alfredo is a prime example, with 1,470 calories and 93 grams of fat. The creamy Alfredo sauce contributes to the 55 grams of saturated fat, pushing it beyond healthy limits. Sodium content is not to be ignored either, standing at 1,620 milligrams. Also, with 96 grams of carbs, this dish can derail your diet. Enjoying this rich meal might feel rewarding, but it’s a splurge your waistline may not forgive easily.

3. Red Lobster Fish & Chips

When you think of comfort food, Fish & Chips often come to mind. Red Lobster’s version, however, is a calorie bomb, with 1,230 calories and 65 grams of fat. The dish is particularly high in sodium, hitting a shocking 2,910 milligrams. Carbs also play a significant role here, with 117 grams contributing to its heartiness. While the taste might be comforting, the nutritional stats are far from it. If you’re on a healthy eating track, this dish might be one to reconsider.

4. Outback Steakhouse Toowoomba Salmon with Aussie Fries

Outback Steakhouse offers a tempting Toowoomba Salmon paired with Aussie Fries. While salmon is typically healthy, the creamy sauce and fried sides in this dish add 1,130 calories. The fat content reaches 62 grams, with 23 grams being saturated. Sodium levels are elevated at 2,580 milligrams, making it a salty affair. The carbs total 71 grams, which adds to its caloric load. This dish exemplifies how even seemingly healthy ingredients can become unhealthy when prepared indulgently.

5. Captain D’s Giant Fish Sandwich

The Giant Fish Sandwich at Captain D’s lives up to its name in size and calorie count. The sandwich’s deep-fried preparation ensures a high-fat content, making it an indulgent meal. While specific numbers might vary, it is known for being calorically dense. Often a choice for those with hearty appetites, this sandwich incorporates rich flavors and textures. However, for those looking to make healthier choices, this might not be the best option due to its preparation style and portion size.

6. Chili’s Ultimate Cajun Pasta

Chili’s Ultimate Cajun Pasta serves up an enticing blend of fried shrimp and creamy pasta. While the flavors are robust and satisfying, the dish packs a calorific punch. Saturated fats are abundant due to the creamy sauce, making it less suitable for health-conscious diners. The combination of ingredients results in a dense meal that can easily tip the scales of any diet plan. The pasta’s richness is appealing, but it requires cautious consumption to avoid nutritional pitfalls.

7. Legal Sea Foods Tuna Burger

Tuna is often celebrated as a lean protein, yet Legal Sea Foods’ Tuna Burger tells a different story. The burger includes high-calorie toppings and sauces that significantly raise its fat and calorie content. While the dish’s flavors might be alluring, the added ingredients detract from the tuna’s natural health benefits. For those monitoring their diet, it’s essential to recognize that not all fish dishes are inherently healthy. The Tuna Burger exemplifies how preparation can alter nutritional value.

8. Red Lobster Admiral’s Feast

Fried seafood lovers often gravitate towards Red Lobster’s Admiral’s Feast. This platter delivers a mix of fried items, making it a high-calorie, high-fat choice. The dish’s sodium levels are also concerning, contributing to its unhealthy reputation. While the assortment of seafood might appeal to those seeking variety, the nutritional content suggests moderation should be practiced. For those aiming for a balanced diet, this feast might be best reserved for occasional indulgence rather than a staple meal.

9. Joe’s Crab Shack East Coast Platter

Joe’s Crab Shack offers the East Coast Platter for those craving a seafood variety. This dish includes multiple fried seafood items, resulting in high calorie and fat content. While the platter might satisfy cravings for something crispy and indulgent, the nutritional stats are less than favorable. Excessive calories can quickly add up, making it a meal best approached with caution. Those mindful of their intake may want to think twice before diving into this bountiful but calorific offering.

10. Applebee’s Fish and Chips

Applebee’s Fish and Chips have been criticized for their high calories and sodium content. Often compared to frozen fish sticks, this dish might not meet everyone’s expectations. While the taste might appeal to some, the nutritional content suggests caution. With a focus on indulgence rather than health, this meal can be enjoyed sparingly. Those seeking a healthier option might want to consider alternatives that offer more nutritional balance. This dish is a reminder that fried foods come with dietary considerations.

11. Cracker Barrel Fried Catfish

Fried Catfish at Cracker Barrel is a Southern staple, known for its crispy and satisfying texture. However, this dish’s appeal is countered by its high calorie and fat content due to the frying process. For diners seeking traditional flavors, it’s a tempting choice. Yet, health-conscious individuals should be mindful of portion sizes and preparation methods. While the catfish is flavorful, opting for grilled or baked versions could be a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

12. Long John Silver’s Big Catch Platter

Long John Silver’s Big Catch Platter is infamous for its unhealthy reputation. Previously criticized for containing 33 grams of trans fat and nearly 3,700 milligrams of sodium, this dish is a dietary cautionary tale. While the assortment might seem appealing, the nutritional content is decidedly not. It’s a meal that could derail any balanced diet, with its excessive fats and sodium levels. Moderation and awareness are key when considering such indulgent options in one’s meal planning.

13. TGI Fridays Fried Shrimp

TGI Fridays’ Fried Shrimp is a popular choice for those who enjoy crispy seafood. However, this dish is notorious for its high sodium levels, with some servings containing over 3,320 milligrams. The crispy texture and savory flavors are enticing, but come with dietary drawbacks. For those monitoring their sodium intake, this meal requires careful consideration. Enjoying it occasionally might be feasible, but regular consumption could impact one’s health negatively, particularly regarding blood pressure.

14. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Fried Shrimp

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. offers Fried Shrimp that is heavily breaded and fried to golden perfection. This dish is pleasing to the palate but comes with high calories and fat. The breading contributes significantly to its calorie count, making it a less ideal choice for health-conscious diners. While the taste might transport you to a seaside escape, the nutritional cost is worth considering. Opting for grilled alternatives could offer the same joy without the added dietary consequences.

15. Joe’s Crab Shack Pasta-laya

Joe’s Crab Shack Pasta-laya combines pasta with seafood in a rich and flavorful dish. The use of margarine made from partially hydrogenated oil contributes to its trans fat content, raising health concerns. While the dish’s spices and textures are inviting, the nutritional composition suggests caution. For diners who enjoy bold flavors, it’s tempting, but healthier alternatives are advisable. The trans fat content is particularly concerning, making this dish one to enjoy occasionally rather than regularly.