The Timeless Mississippi Restaurant Everyone Needs To Visit At Least Once
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published May 04, 2017
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
Withstanding the test of time, Borroum’s Drug Store and Soda Fountain in Corinth has been in business for over 150 years. The Corinth landmark opened its doors just as the Civil War was coming to an end. Throughout its years in operation, a lot has changed; however, Borroum’s has endured. Still owned and operated by the same family, the Borroum’s legacy continues to live on, resulting in one of Mississippi’s most timeless restaurants. Take a look:
Included in the listing of "Historic Places To See In Mississippi," Borroum’s Drug Store and Soda Fountain was established in 1865, making it the oldest drug store in continuous operation in the state.
It was opened by Dr. A.J. Borroum, an army surgeon who had just been released from the military.
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After leaving the army, Dr. Borroum planned to return home to Oxford. On his way, he stopped in Corinth and ran into an old friend who convinced him to stay.
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Not long after opening its doors, Borroum’s became the center of town.
Residents would meet at the drug store and discuss everything from daily life to politics.
The drug store was a common place to gather on election nights - so much so that political candidates often made it a point to stop by the store. It was also the site of many weddings. At the time, it was easier to get married in Mississippi than in many surrounding states, so it was common for justices of the peace to use the back of the store to perform ceremonies.
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More like a general store, the shelves were filled with all sorts of merchandise, like perfumes, incense, drugs, herbs, tobacco, coffee, and more.
It was the place to shop in Corinth, especially since Dr. Borroum accepted any kind of payment, including vegetables, eggs, and chickens. According to the store's records, no account was ever closed due to non-payment.
Though not much of the building's exterior has changed throughout the years, the interior has received a few updates.
Borroum's still offers the same services it did when the doors first opened over a hundred years ago, such as charge accounts without service charges, free delivery, and free gift wrapping.
Today, a portion of the drug store serves as a museum and is filled with photos, Native American artifacts, and Civil War relics.
Among the varied collection, you’ll also find original dispensing bottles, pharmaceutical scales with amethyst balances, medicines, and other antique items from the drug store’s early days.
The original soda fountain is still in place and still the centerpiece of Borroum's.
Pull up a stool at the soda fountain, and enjoy everything from
"real" malted milks and ice cream sodas to cherry phosphates and "genuine" old-fashioned cokes.
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Aside from delicious desserts, Borroum's is known for serving one of the best slug burgers in the state.
The local favorite, which is a burger patty made from a mixture of beef and another type of breading extender that is deep fried instead grilled like traditional burgers, will only cost you $1.75.
Salads, burgers, and sandwiches, which include everything from grilled cheese to pimento cheese, are also part of the fare at Borroum's.
Borroum's also includes a pharmacy, tobacconist shop, and candy shop, which is filled with everything from fine chocolates to salt water taffy.
Having been around for over 150 years, Borroum’s Drug Store and Soda Fountain offers a unique glimpse into the past. Visit Borroum’s at 604 Waldron Street in Corinth and find out for yourself just how special it is. The grill at Borroum’s is open Monday through Friday from 11 am – 3 pm and on Saturday from 11 am – 2:30 pm. The soda fountain is open Monday through Friday from 11 am – 5 pm and on Saturday from 11 am – 3 pm.
Have you ever dined at Borroum’s? Tell us about your experience in the comments section.
