Top 10 Most Famous Restaurants in Mississippi (Currently Open)
When it comes to Southern cuisine, Mississippi sets the standard with a rich blend of flavor, hospitality, and culture. From the soulful blues of Clarksdale to the coastal charm of Biloxi, every meal in this state tells a story. Whether you’re craving old-fashioned catfish, smoky barbecue, or refined fine dining, Mississippi’s restaurant scene offers a little something for every palate.
Below, we’ll take a flavorful journey through the top 10 most famous restaurants in Mississippi (currently open) — each serving up unforgettable dishes that capture the heart of the Magnolia State.
The Crown – Delta Elegance in Indianola
Tucked away in the charming town of Indianola, The Crown has earned legendary status for its sophisticated take on Delta cuisine. This family-owned gem, located inside an art-filled bookstore, is beloved for its Southern hospitality and flavorful menu that celebrates regional ingredients.
Guests rave about their catfish Allison, shrimp and grits, and the signature lemon ice box pie. The Crown perfectly blends fine dining with Delta warmth, making it a must-stop for anyone exploring the Mississippi Blues Trail.
Mary Mahoney’s Old French House – Biloxi’s Timeless Treasure
No list of Mississippi restaurants is complete without mentioning Mary Mahoney’s Old French House in Biloxi. Established in 1964 and set in one of the oldest homes in America (built circa 1737), this iconic eatery embodies coastal charm and history.
Their seafood gumbo, broiled pompano, and stuffed shrimp are local legends. The restaurant’s candlelit ambiance and centuries-old oak tree in the courtyard create a dining experience steeped in Southern romance. It’s a favorite for special occasions and visiting dignitaries alike.
Doe’s Eat Place – Greenville’s Steakhouse with Soul
If you love bold flavors and hearty portions, Doe’s Eat Place in Greenville is the definition of legendary. Originally opened as a grocery store in the 1940s, this James Beard Award-winning restaurant is now a pilgrimage site for steak lovers nationwide.
The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious — but the food? Pure perfection. Their porterhouse steaks, tamales, and fried shrimp have earned rave reviews for decades. Even presidents and celebrities have made their way to Doe’s for a true taste of Mississippi heritage.
City Grocery – Oxford’s Culinary Gem
Overlooking Oxford’s picturesque Square, City Grocery is where Southern comfort meets modern creativity. Helmed by celebrity chef John Currence, a James Beard Award winner, this restaurant helped put Oxford on the map as a culinary destination.
Diners adore dishes like shrimp and grits with tasso ham gravy, fried catfish, and bourbon bread pudding. City Grocery’s menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that every visit feels fresh and inspired. Whether you’re a local or a visitor exploring Ole Miss country, this spot defines Mississippi fine dining.
Walker’s Drive-In – Jackson’s Culinary Landmark
In the heart of Jackson’s Fondren District, Walker’s Drive-In blends casual comfort with upscale Southern cuisine. Despite its humble name, this restaurant delivers refined dishes using local, sustainable ingredients.
Chef Derek Emerson, another James Beard nominee, has made Walker’s a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Try the pepper-crusted tuna, fried oyster salad, or filet with blue cheese butter. The retro ambiance and modern menu make it the perfect reflection of Jackson’s evolving food scene.
Weidmann’s – A Meridian Legend Since 1870
As Mississippi’s oldest restaurant, Weidmann’s in Meridian has been serving guests since 1870. Steeped in tradition, this historic restaurant retains its old-world charm while offering a modern menu that honors its roots.
Each table comes with a peanut butter crock, a signature Weidmann’s tradition since the Great Depression. Their blackened redfish, shrimp and grits, and bread pudding are timeless favorites. Dining here feels like stepping back in time, wrapped in the comforting embrace of Southern history.
Crescent City Grill – Hattiesburg’s Seafood Sensation
Crescent City Grill in Hattiesburg brings a touch of New Orleans flair to the heart of Mississippi. Founded by renowned chef Robert St. John, this restaurant has been a local favorite for over 30 years.
From charbroiled oysters to crawfish étouffée and blackened redfish, the menu bursts with Gulf Coast flavor. The laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for both family dinners and festive gatherings. Pair your meal with one of their craft cocktails or Southern-inspired desserts for a truly satisfying experience.
The Chimneys – Fine Dining with Coastal Views in Gulfport
For elegant dining along the Gulf Coast, The Chimneys in Gulfport stands out as a timeless favorite. Known for its romantic waterfront setting and upscale Southern cuisine, this restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, steaks, and classic Creole dishes.
Their redfish with lump crabmeat, shrimp remoulade, and bread pudding with rum sauce capture the best of Mississippi’s coastal culinary scene. The stunning views of the Gulf and impeccable service make The Chimneys a top choice for those seeking a refined experience by the sea.
The Blue Biscuit – Clarksdale’s Soulful Stop
In the birthplace of the blues, The Blue Biscuit delivers food with rhythm and heart. Located across from the legendary Ground Zero Blues Club, this Clarksdale eatery serves up some of the most authentic Southern comfort food around.
Expect dishes like fried green tomatoes, barbecue ribs, and catfish platters — all served with a side of live music and local charm. It’s a gathering place where travelers and locals come together over good food and great tunes, making it an essential stop on any Mississippi road trip.
Taylor Grocery – “Eat or We Both Starve” in Taylor
A short drive from Oxford sits the beloved Taylor Grocery, known for its slogan: “Eat or We Both Starve.” This no-frills establishment has been serving some of the best fried catfish in the South for generations.
Set in a rustic wooden building that feels frozen in time, Taylor Grocery offers a laid-back experience with unbeatable flavor. People come from miles around to enjoy catfish fillets, hush puppies, and homemade desserts. It’s Mississippi hospitality at its most genuine — simple, satisfying, and soulful.
Honorable Mentions: More Mississippi Favorites
While the top ten shine brightest, Mississippi’s culinary map is dotted with countless gems worth visiting. Here are a few more worth adding to your foodie itinerary:
The Manship Wood Fired Kitchen (Jackson) – Mediterranean-inspired Southern dishes with creative flair.
Old Country Store (Lorman) – Home-style buffet featuring fried chicken that’s become the stuff of legend.
Bozo’s Seafood Market (Pascagoula) – A Gulf Coast icon serving heaping platters of fresh-caught seafood.
The BottleTree Bakery (Oxford) – A charming breakfast and brunch stop famous for homemade pastries.
Bulldog Burger Company (Starkville) – The go-to spot for gourmet burgers and hand-cut fries near Mississippi State University.
The Heart and Soul of Mississippi Cuisine
What makes these restaurants so special isn’t just the food — it’s the people, the stories, and the tradition behind every meal. Mississippi’s dining culture celebrates both heritage and innovation, blending family recipes with bold, new flavors.
Whether you’re enjoying seafood on the coast, barbecue in the Delta, or fine dining in the capital, Mississippi offers a culinary experience that feels like home — warm, welcoming, and full of flavor.
Conclusion: Savor the Taste of the Magnolia State
The most famous restaurants in Mississippi are more than just places to eat — they’re living landmarks of Southern hospitality. From historic icons like Weidmann’s and Mary Mahoney’s to beloved local favorites like Taylor Grocery and Doe’s Eat Place, each embodies the authentic charm of the Magnolia State.
So next time you find yourself craving true Southern comfort, make a little room on your plate — and your calendar — for a trip through Mississippi’s unforgettable dining destinations. Because here, every meal tells a story worth savoring.