You’ve Got to Try these 10 Restaurants in Mississippi

There’s nothing like a delicious meal, and if there’s one thing Mississippi is known for it’s good ole home cookin’. From some of the best burgers in the United States to secret family recipes, dining in Mississippi is much more impressive than many think.

1. Woody’s in Tupelo, MS

This Tupelo restaurant is the city’s only Certified Angus Steakhouse. In addition to charcoal grilled hand cut steaks, Woody’s also offers exotic game and fresh seafood. Voted one of the top steakhouses in the state by "Mississippi Business Journal," this is definitely one stop worth making. Oh, and did I mention they have karaoke?

2. The Shed Barbecue and Blues Joint in Ocean Springs, MS

Barbecue and Blues…does it get any better than that? The family owned business is literally constructed out of junk, but don’t let that fool you as The Shed’s delicious barbecue and secret rub have garnered the "joint" much recognition, even being featured on both "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives" and "Man vs. Food Nation."

3. Two Sister’s Kitchen in Jackson, MS

Please note, Two Sister’s Kitchen has permanently closed.

For authentic southern food, visiting Two Sister’s Kitchen is a must. Situated in the city’s capitol in an old two-story home, the restaurant may not appear to be much on the outside, but the inside tells a different story as the small restaurant is often packed with hungry customers. Between pleasing locals since 1989 and being featured on "Man vs. Food Nation," Two Sister’s Kitchen has made quite the name for itself.

4. Phillips Grocery in Holly Springs, MS

First it was a saloon, then a grocery store, and now its home to one of the country’s best burgers. Over the past couple of years, the restaurant has won numerous accolades including USA Today naming Phillips Grocery one of the "top three burger joints in the United States." And don’t even bother asking for the recipe, it’s been a secret since 1948.

5. Mayflower Café in Jackson, MS

In business since 1935, the Mayflower Café is by far the capitol city’s longest operating restaurant. The café’s fame can be equally accredited to its delicious seafood and homemade salad dressing (a.k.a Comeback Sauce). The Mayflower Café’s fame has only grown over the years, especially after being featured in 2011’s "The Help."

6. Latham’s Hamburger Inn in New Albany, MS

Not your normal burger joint, Latham’s claim to fame is the restaurant’s very own "doughburger." The secret recipe includes a blend of beef, spices, and dough which is deep fried and served on a dressed bun. The unofficial "best burger in Mississippi," Latham’s has been around for decades and has even been recognized on "Burgerland."

7. Keifer’s Restaurant in Jackson, MS

Serving downtown Jackson since 1980, Keifer’s has kept customers satisfied with an array of Greek favorites including hummus, gyros, and the restaurant’s famous feta dressing – so famous, in fact, that the dressing has its own fan page with followers all over the world. The restaurant’s specialty doesn’t end with the dressing – the pita used at Keifer’s is made solely for the restaurant by a bakery in Chicago and not available anywhere else.

8. The Hollywood Café in Robinsonville, MS

If you’re from Mississippi you’ve eaten a deep fried pickle, and if you’re not from Mississippi you NEED to eat a deep fried pickle. Why all this talk about deep fried pickles? Because The Hollywood Café just happens to be the home of the fried dill pickle. Aside from the pickles, the menu includes everything from burgers to frog legs. Only adding to the restaurants appeal is its rich history and authentic southern charm.

9. Burgers and Blues in Jackson, MS

Please note, Burgers and Blues has permanently closed.

Burgers and Blues, or BNB as it is locally known, is the perfect combination of family restaurant and lively nightspot. Aside from live music and great burgers, visitors have the chance to take part in the Whammy Challenge: three 1 lb. patties piled high and packed with all the trimmings, 1 lb. of French fries, and a root beer to wash it all down. Anyone who finishes in 30 minutes or less will get a BNB t-shirt, their meal for free, and their photo on the wall of fame – along with "Man vs. Food’s" Adam Richman.

10. The Old Country Store in Lorman, MS

Located near the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, The Old Country Store has been around since the late 19th century. And, as you’ve probably already guessed, was originally an old country store. Not much has changed at the restaurant over the years which you’ll quickly realize as you pull up and feel like you’ve been transported back to the 1920’s. People come from near and far for the all-you-can-eat buffet which includes local favorites and Mr. D’s Heavenly Fried Chicken – referred to as the best in the south.

From world-renowned restaurants to places only the locals know about, Mississippi dining is just as versatile as the state itself. What are some of your favorite local restaurants?