10 Best Restaurants in Mississippi

Mississippi, the Magnolia State, is a culinary gem where Southern hospitality meets diverse flavors. From the soulful blues of the Mississippi Delta to the vibrant Gulf Coast, Mississippi restaurants offer a rich tapestry of dishes that reflect the state’s history and culture. Whether you’re seeking famous restaurants in Mississippi like Doe’s Eat Place, exploring MS restaurants for a casual bite, or booking upscale dining via OpenTable Jackson MS or OpenTable Oxford MS, this guide to the 10 best restaurants in Mississippi will satisfy your cravings. We’ll cover Mississippi famous restaurants, food places in Mississippi, Mississippi food places, and iconic Mississippi diners, while highlighting what to eat in Mississippi, food in Mississippi, and even the Phillip M’s fine dining menu for an elevated experience. For travelers pairing dining with culture, we’ll touch on unique stops like a Christian book store in Corinth MS.

Whether you’re looking for restaurants near Mississippi landmarks or planning a foodie road trip, this guide to MS dining and famous restaurants will inspire your next adventure.

Why Mississippi is a Foodie’s Paradise

Mississippi’s culinary scene is a celebration of Southern traditions, Creole influences, and Gulf Coast seafood. Food in Mississippi ranges from smoky Delta barbecue to fresh oysters, with famous Mississippi restaurants like City Grocery and White Pillars earning national acclaim. The state’s MS dining culture is rooted in community, with family-owned Mississippi diners and upscale eateries alike offering dishes that tell stories of resilience and heritage.
Summer is the perfect time to explore Mississippi restaurants, with festivals like the Biloxi Seafood Festival and the Mississippi Delta Tamale Trail showcasing local flavors. Pair your meals with visits to historic sites, beaches, or even a Christian book store in Corinth MS for a cultural detour.

Whether you’re using OpenTable Jackson MS or OpenTable Oxford MS to reserve a table or seeking restaurants near Mississippi attractions like the Natchez Trace Parkway, this guide highlights the top places to visit in Mississippi for food lovers.

1. Saltine (Jackson): Seafood and Southern Flair

Jackson, the state capital, is a culinary hub and one of the famous cities in Mississippi. Saltine, located in the trendy Fondren District, is a standout Mississippi restaurant known for its seafood-focused menu and lively atmosphere.

Why Dine at Saltine?

• Signature Dishes: Gulf oysters on the half shell, shrimp po’boys, and comeback sauce—a tangy staple of what to eat in Mississippi.
• Ambiance: Modern yet cozy, with a raw bar and outdoor patio.
• Price Range: $20–$40 per person.
• OpenTable Jackson MS: Book via OpenTable for priority seating, especially during summer festivals.

Pairing with Attractions

Saltine is steps from the Mississippi Museum of Art and Eudora Welty House, making it ideal for restaurants near Mississippi cultural landmarks. After dining, explore the Fondren District’s boutiques or LeFleur’s Bluff State Park for a scenic walk.

Summer Tip

Jackson’s summer farmers’ markets supply fresh ingredients for Mississippi food places like Saltine. Try the crab claws for a true taste of food in Mississippi.

2. City Grocery (Oxford): Upscale Southern Elegance

Oxford, home to the University of Mississippi, is a literary haven and a top place to visit in Mississippi. City Grocery, a James Beard Award-winning famous Mississippi restaurant, is the crown jewel of Oxford’s MS dining scene, offering a Phillip M’s fine dining menu-style experience (interpreted as upscale dining).

Why Dine at City Grocery?

• Signature Dishes: Shrimp and grits, grilled quail, and Mississippi mud pie—classics of what to eat in Mississippi.
• Ambiance: Elegant yet approachable, with balcony seating overlooking The Square.
• Price Range: $30–$50 per person.
• OpenTable Oxford MS: Reservations are a must, especially during Ole Miss game weekends.

Pairing with Attractions

Pair dinner with a visit to Rowan Oak, William Faulkner’s home, or Square Books, a legendary bookstore akin to a Christian book store in Corinth MS for its cultural significance. The Square’s vibrant nightlife complements Mississippi food places like City Grocery.

Summer Tip

Oxford’s summer Thacker Mountain Radio Show pairs live music with dining at famous restaurants in Mississippi. Book early via OpenTable Oxford MS for peak season.

3. The Carriage House at Stanton Hall (Natchez): Historic Southern Buffet

Natchez, perched on the Mississippi River, is a historic gem and one of the famous cities in Mississippi. The Carriage House, located at Stanton Hall, is a famous restaurant in Mississippi known for its Sunday buffet and Southern classics.

Why Dine at The Carriage House?

• Signature Dishes: Fried chicken, gumbo, and pecan pie—quintessential food in Mississippi.
• Ambiance: Historic setting with antebellum charm, perfect for history buffs.
• Price Range: $15–$25 per person.
• Reservations: Recommended for Sunday brunch, a local tradition.

Pairing with Attractions

After dining, tour Stanton Hall or Longwood, iconic antebellum mansions. The Natchez Bluff Trail, a restaurant near Mississippi riverfronts, is perfect for a post-meal stroll. Stay at the Natchez Grand Hotel for easy access to Mississippi restaurants.

Summer Tip

Visit during the Natchez Food and Wine Festival in early summer for a taste of MS dining. The Carriage House’s buffet is a highlight of what to eat in Mississippi.

4. Rusty’s Riverfront Grill (Vicksburg): Riverfront Seafood and Soul

Vicksburg, a key place to visit in Mississippi for its Civil War history, boasts restaurants near Mississippi River landmarks like the Vicksburg National Military Park. Rusty’s Riverfront Grill is a beloved Mississippi restaurant for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere.

Why Dine at Rusty’s Riverfront Grill?

• Signature Dishes: Grilled shrimp po’boys, crawfish étouffée, and fried catfish—musts for what to eat in Mississippi.
• Ambiance: Casual with river views, ideal for relaxed dining.
• Price Range: $15–$30 per person.
• Reservations: Suggested for peak hours.

Pairing with Attractions

Visit the USS Cairo at the Military Park, then grab a Coke float at the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum before dining at Rusty’s. Stay at the Anchuca Historic Mansion for a historic vibe.

Summer Tip

Vicksburg’s Riverfest in June pairs music with food in Mississippi. Try Delta hot tamales, a local specialty, at nearby Mississippi food places.

5. White Pillars (Biloxi): Gulf Coast Fine Dining

Biloxi, a coastal gem, is one of the famous cities in Mississippi and a top vacation place in Mississippi for its beaches and famous Mississippi restaurants. White Pillars, a James Beard-nominated MS restaurant, offers an upscale experience akin to a Phillip M’s fine dining menu.

Why Dine at White Pillars?

• Signature Dishes: Gulf shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and seared scallops—showcases of food in Mississippi.
• Ambiance: Elegant with a modern Southern aesthetic.
• Price Range: $30–$50 per person.
• OpenTable: Book via OpenTable for priority seating.

Pairing with Attractions

Explore the Biloxi Lighthouse or take a ferry to Ship Island, then dine at restaurants near Mississippi beaches. Stay at the Beau Rivage Resort for luxury.

Summer Tip

The Biloxi Seafood Festival in September (late summer) highlights Mississippi food places. White Pillars’ oysters are a must for what to eat in Mississippi.

6. Doe’s Eat Place (Greenville): Delta Legend

Greenville, in the Mississippi Delta, is home to the original Doe’s Eat Place, a famous restaurant in Mississippi since 1941. This Mississippi restaurant is a pilgrimage site for foodies seeking authentic Delta flavors.

Why Dine at Doe’s Eat Place?

• Signature Dishes: Charbroiled steaks, Delta hot tamales, and hand-cut fries—icons of what to eat in Mississippi.
• Ambiance: Rustic, family-run, with a no-frills vibe.
• Price Range: $25–$50 per person.
• Reservations: Essential due to limited seating.

Pairing with Attractions

Visit the Winterville Mounds or Greenville’s riverfront, then dine at Doe’s. Stay at The Alluvian Hotel in nearby Greenwood for luxury.

Summer Tip

The Delta’s summer festivals, like the Mississippi Delta Blues Festival, pair perfectly with food in Mississippi. Doe’s tamales are a must-try.

7. Ajax Diner (Oxford): Soulful Southern Comfort

Back in Oxford, Ajax Diner is a Mississippi diner and a beloved famous Mississippi restaurant for its soul food and casual vibe. It’s a must-visit for MS dining enthusiasts.

Why Dine at Ajax Diner?

• Signature Dishes: Fried catfish, sweet potato casserole, and cornbread—classic food in Mississippi.
• Ambiance: Laid-back with a jukebox and checkered tablecloths.
• Price Range: $10–$20 per person.
• Reservations: Walk-ins welcome, but call ahead for groups.

Pairing with Attractions

Pair with a visit to the University of Mississippi Museum or The Square’s farmers’ market. For a cultural stop, Square Books is Oxford’s equivalent of a Christian book store in Corinth MS. Stay at The Chancellor’s House for elegance.

Summer Tip

Oxford’s summer farmers’ market supplies Ajax’s fresh ingredients. Try the banana pudding for a sweet finish.

8. Half Shell Oyster House (Biloxi): Coastal Classics

Biloxi’s Half Shell Oyster House is a famous restaurant in Mississippi known for its raw bar and Gulf Coast seafood, making it a top Mississippi food place.

Why Dine at Half Shell Oyster House?

• Signature Dishes: Chargrilled oysters, crab claws, and seafood gumbo—musts for what to eat in Mississippi.
• Ambiance: Coastal chic with a lively bar.
• Price Range: $20–$40 per person.
• OpenTable: Book for peak hours.

Pairing with Attractions

Visit the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, then dine. Stay at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino for a fun vibe.

Summer Tip

Summer brings fresh Gulf catches to Mississippi restaurants. Half Shell’s oyster happy hour is a steal.

9. Borroum’s Drug Store (Corinth): Historic Diner Delight

Corinth, a Civil War site, offers unique stops like the Christian book store in Corinth MS (LifeWay Christian Store) and Borroum’s Drug Store, a historic Mississippi diner since 1865.

Why Dine at Borroum’s Drug Store?

• Signature Dishes: Slugburgers, sandwiches, and homemade ice cream—a nod to food in Mississippi.
• Ambiance: Retro soda fountain with vintage charm.
• Price Range: $8–$15 per person.
• Reservations: Not required.

Pairing with Attractions

Visit the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center, then browse the Christian book store in Corinth MS. Stay at the Holiday Inn Express.

Summer Tip

Corinth’s summer festivals pair well with Mississippi food places like Borroum’s. Try the slugburger, a local specialty.

10. The King’s Inn (Greenville): Delta Comfort

Greenville’s The King’s Inn is a riverfront Mississippi restaurant offering Southern comfort food, rounding out our list of famous restaurants in Mississippi.

Why Dine at The King’s Inn?

• Signature Dishes: Fried catfish, BBQ ribs, and collard greens—quintessential what to eat in Mississippi.
• Ambiance: Cozy with river views.
• Price Range: $15–$30 per person.
• Reservations: Suggested for weekends.

Pairing with Attractions

Explore Greenville’s riverfront or the B.B. King Museum in nearby Indianola. Stay at The Alluvian Hotel for a luxurious base.

Summer Tip

The Delta’s summer heat calls for sweet tea with your meal at Mississippi food places.

Mississippi’s 10 best restaurants offer a culinary journey through the heart of the South, from Jackson’s vibrant Saltine to Greenville’s legendary Doe’s Eat Place. Whether you’re dining at famous Mississippi restaurants, booking via OpenTable Jackson MS or OpenTable Oxford MS, or exploring restaurants near Mississippi landmarks, the Magnolia State delivers unforgettable MS dining. Savor food in Mississippi at Mississippi diners like Borroum’s, upscale spots like White Pillars, or quirky stops near a Christian book store in Corinth MS. Plan your trip to discover what to eat in Mississippi and why Mississippi famous restaurants make the state a foodie’s paradise!