What Sides and Add-Ons Can You Order at Captain D’s?

What Side Items Are Available at Captain D’s?

Captain D’s offers over a dozen side options, ranging from fried items like fries and okra to lighter ones like steamed broccoli or side salad. These sides are available with almost every combo meal, family pack, and kids’ meal. Some are crispy, some are creamy, and a few are chosen just for their low calorie count. Based on what I’ve seen while ordering, people often focus on sides just as much as the main dish — especially when ordering for groups or kids.

Mozzarella Sticks

$5.49 

Cal: 380

Jalapeno Poppers

$5.49 

Cal: 510

5 Piece Butterfly Shrimp

$1.99 

Cal: 250

10 Piece Butterfly Shrimp

$6.59

Cal: 500

15 Piece Butterfly Shrimp

$8.99

Cal: 750

1 Piece Batter Dipped Fish

$2.79 

Cal: 230

2 Piece Batter Dipped Fish

$5.29

Cal: 460

Chicken Tender Add-On

$3.89

Cal: 380

6 Hush Puppies

$3.29

Cal: 480

12 Hush Puppies

$5.99

Cal: 960

Add 2 Crab Shells

$4.99

Cal: 360

What Are the Most Ordered Sides?

The most frequently ordered sides include fries, coleslaw, hush puppies, and mac & cheese. Fries are usually picked with fish or sandwich combos, while coleslaw is often added to balance out fried textures. Hush puppies are seen in nearly every fish-based family meal. Mac & cheese is popular in both kids’ meals and adult combos, especially when someone wants something rich and filling. Broccoli and green beans are often requested by those trying to cut fat or avoid fried foods.

Which Sides Are Fried vs Baked or Steamed?

Fries, okra, hush puppies, and jalapeño poppers are deep fried. They arrive hot and crisp, especially when eaten fresh in-store. Baked potatoes and loaded baked potatoes are oven-cooked. Steamed sides include broccoli and corn. Green beans are simmered with seasoning but not fried or baked. The mac & cheese is cooked stovetop style and served warm with a soft texture. The side salad is raw and chilled, served without dressing unless requested.

Are Side Portions the Same for All Meals?

Side sizes differ depending on what meal you order. In individual combos, sides are single-serve portions. In family meals, sides come in larger containers meant for sharing. Kids’ meals get a smaller scoop of the same side, like half a serving of fries or mac & cheese. When I’ve ordered in-store, I’ve noticed the portion is bigger when you choose your side à la carte instead of as part of a combo. You can also pay a small upcharge to double your sides in certain combo formats.

How Do Sides Taste and Feel in Texture?

The sides at Captain D’s are not just fillers — they can shape the whole meal experience. Some are crunchy and salty, others are creamy or mildly seasoned. I’ve ordered nearly every combo they offer, and each side has a distinct texture that either balances or enhances the main item it’s served with. Whether someone wants something crispy to go with fried fish or something soft to go with grilled tilapia, there’s a side that fits.

Is the Coleslaw Creamy or Vinegary?

Captain D’s coleslaw is creamy, not vinegary. It has a mayonnaise base with a bit of sugar and mild seasoning. The cabbage is finely shredded and stays crunchy even after mixing. It’s smooth but not watery, and it cools down heavier meals like fried shrimp or battered fish. When I tried it with spicy items, the creaminess helped soften the heat without being bland.

Are the Hush Puppies Sweet or Savory?

Hush puppies at Captain D’s lean slightly sweet but are still mainly savory. They have a golden brown crust with a soft, warm center. There’s a hint of onion and cornmeal flavor inside. When I bit into one during a seafood feast order, it was crisp on the outside but fluffy enough to break apart with a fork. They’re usually eaten without sauce but pair well with tartar if someone likes a creamy dip.

What’s the Crunch Level on Fries and Okra?

The fries are medium-cut and fried until golden. They’re crisp on the edges and soft in the center. I’ve had them freshly made, and they held their crunch for a decent time. The okra is sliced, breaded, and fried — it’s crunchier than fries and tends to stay crispy even when paired with saucy items. Both sides are salted lightly and served hot, especially when ordered on-location.

Which Sides Are Soft and Easy to Chew?

Mac & cheese, green beans, and broccoli are the softest sides. The mac & cheese is creamy, mildly cheesy, and has elbow pasta that doesn’t require much chewing. Green beans are seasoned but tender, and broccoli is steamed just enough to keep it soft without being mushy. These sides work well for kids, seniors, or anyone avoiding crunchy food due to dental concerns. I’ve seen parents swap fries for mac & cheese in kids’ meals often for this reason.

Which Sides Are Considered Healthier Choices?

At Captain D’s, not all sides are fried or heavy. A few sides are picked often by people who want lighter meals, lower calories, or fewer fats. I’ve personally switched to broccoli and green beans when ordering grilled fish to keep my meal balanced. These healthier options don’t sacrifice flavor and help reduce the greasy feel of fried mains.

Does Broccoli Come Steamed or Buttered?

Broccoli at Captain D’s is steamed. It doesn’t come soaked in butter by default. The texture stays firm but soft enough to eat easily. There’s no extra seasoning beyond a light salt sprinkle. I’ve found it to be a good balance next to spicy or grilled items because it keeps the plate lighter and cleaner.

Is the Side Salad Fresh or Pre-Made?

The side salad is fresh and made in-house, not pre-packaged. It includes iceberg lettuce, shredded carrots, and grape tomatoes. It doesn’t come dressed — customers get to pick from dressings like ranch or fat-free Italian on the side. I’ve seen it used as a side for both kids’ meals and adult combos when someone wants to cut carbs.

What Low-Calorie Sides Are Best for Adults?

Broccoli, green beans, and the side salad are the best low-calorie sides. All three are under 100 calories per serving. They also have low sodium and no breading. I often order grilled white fish with a salad and broccoli to keep my meal around 400 to 500 calories total. These choices are ideal for office lunches or anyone avoiding fried food.

Can You Get Gluten-Free or Vegetarian Sides?

Some sides at Captain D’s are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, but not all. People with dietary needs often need to ask or check online before ordering. Based on my own order history and what staff confirmed, there are a few safe picks if someone avoids gluten or animal products.

Which Sides Are Free from Wheat and Soy?

Steamed broccoli, corn (if available), and the side salad without croutons are all free from wheat and soy. These aren’t breaded or cooked with soy-based ingredients. Hush puppies, fries, and okra are not safe due to their breading or oil sharing. For anyone with wheat allergies, it’s better to stick with steamed vegetables.

Are There Any Dairy-Free Options?

Yes, several sides are dairy-free. Broccoli, green beans, and plain salad come without dairy. Mac & cheese and mozzarella sticks contain cheese, so they’re not suitable. I once asked the manager to double-check the ingredients, and they confirmed no butter is added to veggies unless requested.

Can Vegetarians Order a Full Meal with Only Sides?

Yes, it’s possible to build a full vegetarian meal using sides. A plate with seasoned rice, side salad, broccoli, and corn (if offered) makes a filling meat-free combo. Some regulars skip fish entirely and just stack up 3 or 4 plant-based sides. It’s not labeled as a veggie meal on the menu, but it can be made easily by combining options.

How Big Are Captain D’s Side Portions?

Captain D’s offers sides in single or family-sized portions depending on your meal type. When I order combos, the side comes in a small black container that fits about one scoop. But when you go for family meals, the containers are noticeably larger and built to be shared.

The side sizes don’t change if you swap—broccoli or green beans still come in the same small bowl unless you’re ordering for a group.

Do Family Meals Come with Larger Side Sizes?

Yes, family meals include large, shareable sides. Instead of small single cups, they’re served in bigger trays. These hold about 2 to 3 times more than individual sides. When I picked up a 10-piece fish family meal, the fries filled half the tray, and the coleslaw was more than enough for four people.

What’s the Weight or Volume of a Single Side?

A regular side weighs around 4 to 6 ounces depending on the item. Fries, mac & cheese, and coleslaw all fall within this range. Vegetables like broccoli or green beans are lighter by volume but still fill the cup. These are portioned to match one adult serving, not large enough to share unless you order two.

Can You Order Extra Sides Without a Meal?

Yes, you can. Captain D’s lets you order any side item separately. I often grab just a mac & cheese or hush puppies as a snack when I’m not hungry for a full combo. You don’t have to get a combo or entrée to add extra sides — just ask at the counter or select them from the app.

What Add-On Items Can You Order?

Beyond the standard meal, you can always customize your tray with extra proteins, sauces, or even a slice of dessert. Add-ons are popular when you want just a bit more food without committing to a full extra combo.

Can You Add Extra Chicken Tenders or Shrimp?

Yes, both can be added on. You can order a few chicken tenders or butterfly shrimp by the piece. On my last visit, I added two shrimp to my fish meal for under $2. These are listed clearly in the menu as extras, and they’re cooked fresh like the rest of the combo.

Are Sauces Like Tartar or D’s Dippin’ Free?

The first serving is free. After that, extra sauces might cost a small amount—usually around 25 to 50 cents depending on location. Tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, D’s Dippin’, and ranch are all available. I always ask for D’s Dippin’ with shrimp because it gives a slight tangy-sweet kick.

Is It Worth Adding a Breadstick or Dessert?

If you enjoy soft, warm carbs with a salty outer layer, then yes—get the breadstick. I add it to grilled meals to balance the lightness. Desserts like Funnel Cake Stix or cheesecake can be added too, and they usually cost less when bundled with a meal. It’s a solid add-on if you want something sweet after.

What Are the Calories and Nutritional Values of Sides?

Side items at Captain D’s range widely in calories, fat, and sodium depending on how they’re made. I’ve ordered both fried and steamed options, and the nutritional differences are easy to notice. If you’re watching your intake, a smart choice is steamed broccoli or the side salad without dressing.

Which Sides Are Highest in Calories?

The highest calorie sides include macaroni and cheese (170 calories per serving), loaded baked potato (400 calories), and fries (330 calories). These are also the heaviest in carbs and fat. Hush puppies can also sneak in more calories than expected—about 80 per piece.

What Sides Have the Most Sodium or Fat?

Mac & cheese and seasoned fries top the list for sodium, both averaging over 400mg per serving. Loaded baked potatoes have higher fat due to toppings like cheese and butter. If sodium is a concern, avoid fried or cheese-covered sides and stick to plain vegetables.

Which Add-Ons Add Protein to Your Meal?

Chicken tenders, shrimp skewers, and even clam strips give an extra protein boost. A shrimp skewer can add 12g of protein with only 100 calories. These are useful when your main meal is lighter or when skipping dessert.

Can You Customize or Swap Sides in a Combo?

Yes, you can swap sides in any combo meal. I’ve done this often—replacing fries with green beans or corn. It’s one of the easiest ways to reduce grease and make the meal more balanced.

Is There an Extra Charge for Side Swaps?

Most swaps are free if you choose from the regular side list. However, premium items like loaded baked potatoes or extra cheese sides might add a small charge. Ask at the counter or check the price difference in the app before confirming.

Are You Allowed to Pick Two of the Same Side?

Yes, you are. When I’m ordering for someone picky, I often double up on fries or hush puppies. It’s allowed in-store and through online ordering. You just need to select the same side twice when prompted.

Can You Request Sauce or Dressing on the Side?

Definitely. Sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or tartar can be served separately. I always ask for salad dressing on the side to control how much I use. It helps avoid sogginess, especially when taking the meal to go.

What Are the Best Sides for Kids vs Adults?

Some sides are just easier for kids to handle, while others suit adults looking for variety or lighter options. I’ve watched families order from the kids’ menu, and the pattern is clear—kids stick to soft, familiar sides.

Which Sides Do Kids Eat Most Often?

Fries and mac & cheese are the top picks. Both are soft, easy to chew, and familiar. Kids rarely go for coleslaw or green beans unless they’ve had them before. When I ordered with a family last week, three kids all picked fries without hesitation.

What Are Softer Options for Toddlers?

Mashed potatoes (if available), mac & cheese, and broccoli are softer and easier for toddlers to eat. Coleslaw might be too crunchy or tangy for younger children. Soft hush puppies can work too if broken into smaller pieces.

Which Sides Pair Best with Fried or Grilled Meals?

Grilled meals go best with corn, broccoli, or rice. These balance the light flavor and don’t overwhelm the dish. Fried meals match better with fries or hush puppies. I often pair fish combos with mac & cheese when I want a heavier, comforting meal.

Are Sides and Add-Ons Included in Promotions?

Some side items at Captain D’s are included in bundle pricing, while others can be added during promotions. I’ve used the app and in-store deals many times, and sides often sneak into discounted combos or rewards offers if you time it right.

Are Sides Discounted in Combo Deals?

Yes. Most combo meals automatically include two sides, and this is where you save the most. Instead of paying for fries or mac & cheese separately, combos let you get them without extra charge. I’ve found that even loaded sides can be swapped in during some promotions.

Can You Use Captain D’s Rewards to Get Free Sides?

Absolutely. I’ve redeemed my Captain D’s rewards for a free side more than once—usually fries or coleslaw. It depends on your available points, but the app makes it easy to check. Just apply the reward at checkout, and it deducts the price automatically.

Are Any Sides Part of the $4.99 Meal Offers?

Yes, but only standard sides like fries or green beans. The $4.99 deals usually include a main item, one side, and a drink. I once tried adding mac & cheese, but there was a small extra charge. If you want to stay within that $4.99 range, go with fries or slaw.

What Should First-Time Customers Try?

When I brought a friend to Captain D’s for the first time, picking the right side made a big difference. Some options are heavier, some are light, but it helps to know what fits your meal and mood before ordering.

Best Side for First-Time Visitors?

Fries are the safest starting point. They’re crispy, salty, and go well with anything—fish, shrimp, or chicken. I usually recommend them to anyone new. Hush puppies are another good one, especially if you like a bit of crunch with your combo.

Lightest Option for Health-Conscious Diners?

Steamed broccoli is the top choice if you’re watching calories. It’s soft, has no added oils, and fills up the plate without weighing you down. When I’m trying to eat clean, I swap fries for broccoli and skip the breadstick too.

What Add-On Feels Most Worth the Price?

Shrimp skewers. They add real protein and taste grilled, not greasy. For just a bit more, they turn any meal into something bigger without making it too heavy. I always add them to grilled combos when I need a little extra.