If Mississippi weren’t the Hospitality State, it would definitely be known as the State with the Best Food Ever. (Okay, maybe something a bit catchier, but you get the point.) Between the seafood, barbecue, comfort food, and local specialties such as hot tamales and slugburgers, residents have access to a variety of culinary creations that are nothing short of fantastic. Since Mississippi has so many amazing restaurants, selecting where to dine can be somewhat overwhelming, which is where this list comes in. From renowned restaurants to local favorites, here are 18 Mississippi restaurants you have to visit.

1. Bozo’s Grocery, Pascagoula

Tucked away in the back corner of this Pascagoula grocery store is a lunch counter that sells some of the best po’ boys around. And it’s not just the locals that think so – Bozo’s has been featured in several publications, including USA Today.

2. Gibbes Old Country Store, Learned

With the addition of long, family-style tables, this local general store transformed into one of Mississippi’s best restaurants, especially when it comes to steak.

3. Borroum’s Drug Store and Soda Fountain, Corinth

Having been in business since first opening in 1865, Borroum’s is Mississippi’s oldest operating drug store and soda fountain. But it’s not just the nostalgic atmosphere that draws customers to this eatery. Borroum’s is known for their slugburgers – a local specialty that must be tried at least once.

4. Country Diner, Foxworth

A buffet jam-packed with southern comfort food, dining at Foxworth’s Country Diner is a must. Aside from the authentic Mississippi cuisine, guests are treated to true southern hospitality as the cook, Ms. Candia, comes out to greet all of her guests.

5. The Old Country Store, Lorman

Housed in a building that is over 100 years old, a visit to Lorman’s Old Country Store is truly a unique experience. The still functioning general store includes a restaurant that has become famous for serving "the best fried chicken in the south," which is prepared by the singing cook, Mr. D.

6. Taylor Grocery and Restaurant, Taylor

Referred to by many simply as "that catfish place," Taylor Grocery has been serving up the deep-fried cuisine since the late 1970s. And at this local staple, the "south’s best catfish" is always joined by good music and sweet tea, which can be enjoyed on the front porch, of course.

7. Leatha’s Barbecue Inn, Hattiesburg

This barbecue joint has been attracting both foodies and celebrities since 1976, and for good reason. Not only has Leatha’s been the recipient of numerous awards but the nationally renowned restaurant has been featured on several television shows as well as the subject of the book, "If These Walls Could Talk."

8. Weidmann’s, Meridian

First opened in 1870, this renowned restaurant has earned national recognition for its mouth-watering cuisine, even attracting the attention of actress and Meridian-native Sela Ward, who in 2001, became an investor in the local favorite. The restaurant’s iconic image lives on thanks to informed servers who are more than happy to give customers a history lesson on Weidemann’s.

9. Mammy’s Cupboard, Natchez

Because you never know when you’ll have another chance to dine under the skirt of an almost 30’ tall woman, a visit to this unique Natchez landmark should be on everyone’s bucket list. Aside from daily hot plate specials like chicken and dumplings and beef pot pie, Mammy’s Cupboard is known for delicious pies, so be sure to save room for dessert.

10. Ajax Diner, Oxford

Even without a breakfast menu, Ajax is considered one of the top diners in the state. Boasting a menu filled with authentic Mississippi cuisine, the diner has won numerous awards, holds many local titles, and just so happens to be one of Eli Manning’s favorite eateries.

11. The Dinner Bell, McComb

Mentioned by our readers time and time again, the Dinner Bell has been a McComb tradition since opening in 1998. Offering everything from the "finest steaks" to the "best catfish in the south" to their famous chocolate cobbler, this is one restaurant even the pickiest of eaters can appreciate.

12. Phillips Grocery, Oxford and Holly Springs (pictured)

The original Holly Springs location of the local eatery first served as a saloon when opened in 1892. By 1919, a couple purchased the building and started serving burgers made from a top-secret recipe. Over the years, Phillips has opened a second location in Oxford and won numerous awards, even being named one of the top hamburger places in the nation.

13. Mary Mahoney’s, Biloxi

The beautiful home that houses this restaurant was constructed in 1737, making it one of the oldest homes in the country. By 1962, it was transformed into Mary Mahoney’s. In the years since its opening, this coastal gem has become known for its superb atmosphere and "elegant meals."

14. Darwell's Café, Long Beach

Featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives," the menu at this Gulf Coast eatery includes everything from peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to mouthwatering seafood dishes.

15. White Trolley Café, Corinth

Opened since the 1950s, White Trolley Café has garnered quite the following over the years and has even been mentioned by several of our readers. Among the home cooked classics that fill the menu, you’ll find the Corinth specialty, the slug burger, which is a must when visiting the local eatery.

16. Mayflower Café, Jackson

This historic restaurant has been serving Jackson since 1935, and features a unique fare that perfectly combines local cuisine and Greek seasonings. Aside from the great food, the Mayflower Café is known for being the creator of Comeback Sauce – a Mississippi condiment that, once you’ve tried, you can’t live without.

17. The Crystal Grill Restaurant, Greenwood

With a list of accolades that include being listed on Southern Living’s "Top Diners in the South," featured on the Food Network, and recognized by TBS for having the "best desserts," The Crystal Grill obviously knows good food. Although the restaurant has been serving local favorites like hot tamales and fried catfish for decades, it’s the homemade pies, especially the lemon icebox pie, that really steal the spotlight.

18. Doe’s Eat Place, Greenville

Originally opened in 1941 as a honky tonk, Doe’s Eat Place eventually transformed into a full-time restaurant. Aside from the hot tamales that made Doe’s famous, the menu also includes award-winning steaks and southern classics. And while there can only be one original, Doe’s Eat Place has expanded and now includes numerous locations in several different states.

Been to any of the restaurants listed above? What other local eateries would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments section below.