The culinary scene in Jackson, Mississippi is a melting pot of Southern comfort food, soulful barbecue, and international flavors. This vibrant city is home to a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries that cater to every taste and budget. From classic Southern cuisine to modern twists on traditional favorites, Jackson’s dining scene is a must-experience for foodies and locals alike.
As a city with a rich history and cultural heritage, Jackson’s culinary landscape is shaped by its African American, European, and Native American influences. The city’s signature dishes, such as fried catfish, gumbo, and fried chicken, are staples of Southern cuisine and can be found on menus throughout the city. However, Jackson’s dining scene is not limited to traditional Southern fare; it also boasts a thriving food truck scene, artisanal bakeries, and international restaurants serving cuisine from around the world.
Whether you’re a native Jacksonian or just visiting, finding the best places to eat in Jackson can be a daunting task. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up at a mediocre restaurant. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best places to eat in Jackson, covering everything from classic Southern cuisine to international flavors and everything in between.
Classic Southern Cuisine
Classic Southern cuisine is a staple of Jackson’s dining scene, and for good reason. The city’s rich history and cultural heritage have shaped the local cuisine, which is characterized by hearty portions, comforting flavors, and a focus on local ingredients. Here are some of the best places to try classic Southern cuisine in Jackson:
The Mayflower
The Mayflower is a Jackson institution, serving up classic Southern cuisine in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. This historic restaurant has been a staple of the city’s dining scene for over 30 years, and its menu features all the Southern favorites, including fried catfish, gumbo, and fried chicken. Be sure to try their famous biscuits and gravy, which are made fresh in-house every morning.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| 122 E Capitol St, Jackson, MS 39201 | (601) 355-3329 | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 10am – 9pm |
Walker’s Drive-In
Walker’s Drive-In is a Jackson favorite, serving up classic Southern cuisine in a casual, drive-in style setting. This family-owned restaurant has been a staple of the city’s dining scene for over 50 years, and its menu features all the Southern favorites, including fried catfish, burgers, and milkshakes. Be sure to try their famous fried chicken, which is made fresh in-house every day.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| 301 N State St, Jackson, MS 39201 | (601) 354-2911 | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 10am – 9pm |
Big Apple Inn
The Big Apple Inn is a Jackson institution, serving up classic Southern cuisine in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. This historic restaurant has been a staple of the city’s dining scene for over 80 years, and its menu features all the Southern favorites, including fried catfish, gumbo, and fried chicken. Be sure to try their famous burgers, which are made fresh in-house every day.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| 309 W Capitol St, Jackson, MS 39201 | (601) 355-5965 | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 10am – 9pm |
Barbecue and Soul Food
Barbecue and soul food are staples of Jackson’s culinary scene, and for good reason. The city’s rich history and cultural heritage have shaped the local cuisine, which is characterized by slow-cooked meats, comforting flavors, and a focus on local ingredients. Here are some of the best places to try barbecue and soul food in Jackson: (See Also: Where to Eat in Anchorage? Foodie Guide)
Central BBQ
Central BBQ is a Jackson favorite, serving up delicious barbecue in a casual, no-frills setting. This family-owned restaurant has been a staple of the city’s dining scene for over 20 years, and its menu features all the barbecue favorites, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. Be sure to try their famous sides, including their creamy coleslaw and crispy fried okra.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| 3938 I-55 N, Jackson, MS 39211 | (601) 362-2424 | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 10am – 9pm |
Coop’s Place
Coop’s Place is a Jackson favorite, serving up delicious soul food in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. This family-owned restaurant has been a staple of the city’s dining scene for over 20 years, and its menu features all the soul food favorites, including fried chicken, gumbo, and jambalaya. Be sure to try their famous sides, including their creamy mac and cheese and crispy fried green tomatoes.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| 1215 W Capitol St, Jackson, MS 39203 | (601) 354-2945 | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 10am – 9pm |
International Cuisine
International cuisine is a staple of Jackson’s dining scene, and for good reason. The city’s diverse population and cultural influences have shaped the local cuisine, which is characterized by a wide range of flavors and ingredients. Here are some of the best places to try international cuisine in Jackson:
Mama’s Fried Chicken
Mama’s Fried Chicken is a Jackson favorite, serving up delicious Korean-style fried chicken in a casual, no-frills setting. This family-owned restaurant has been a staple of the city’s dining scene for over 10 years, and its menu features all the Korean favorites, including fried chicken, bibimbap, and kimchi stew. Be sure to try their famous sides, including their spicy kimchi and crispy fried rice.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| 122 E Capitol St, Jackson, MS 39201 | (601) 355-3329 | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 10am – 9pm |
La Brioche
La Brioche is a Jackson favorite, serving up delicious French-inspired cuisine in a cozy, upscale atmosphere. This family-owned restaurant has been a staple of the city’s dining scene for over 20 years, and its menu features all the French favorites, including croissants, quiche, and escargot. Be sure to try their famous desserts, including their decadent chocolate cake and creamy crème brûlée.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| 301 N State St, Jackson, MS 39201 | (601) 354-2911 | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 10am – 9pm |
Food Trucks and Markets
Food trucks and markets are a staple of Jackson’s culinary scene, and for good reason. The city’s diverse population and cultural influences have shaped the local cuisine, which is characterized by a wide range of flavors and ingredients. Here are some of the best places to try food trucks and markets in Jackson:
Food Truck Park
The Food Truck Park is a Jackson favorite, featuring a rotating selection of food trucks serving up everything from tacos to barbecue to ice cream. This casual, outdoor setting is perfect for a quick and delicious meal, and the park’s central location makes it easy to grab a bite on the go. (See Also: Where to Eat in Monticello? Flavorful Finds)
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| 301 N State St, Jackson, MS 39201 | (601) 354-2911 | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 10am – 9pm |
Farmer’s Market
The Farmer’s Market is a Jackson staple, featuring a rotating selection of local produce, meats, and baked goods. This bustling market is a great place to pick up fresh ingredients for a home-cooked meal, and the vendors’ friendly service makes it easy to find the perfect ingredients for your next culinary adventure.
| Address | Phone Number | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| 301 N State St, Jackson, MS 39201 | (601) 354-2911 | Monday – Thursday: 11am – 9pm, Friday – Saturday: 11am – 10pm, Sunday: 10am – 9pm |
Recap
Jackson’s culinary scene is a melting pot of Southern comfort food, soulful barbecue, and international flavors. From classic Southern cuisine to modern twists on traditional favorites, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a native Jacksonian or just visiting, finding the best places to eat in Jackson can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best places to eat in Jackson, covering everything from classic Southern cuisine to international flavors and everything in between.
From the classic Southern cuisine of The Mayflower to the international flavors of Mama’s Fried Chicken, there’s no shortage of delicious options in Jackson. Be sure to try some of the city’s famous barbecue and soul food, including Central BBQ and Coop’s Place. And don’t forget to check out the city’s thriving food truck scene and bustling markets, including the Food Truck Park and the Farmer’s Market.
We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your next culinary adventure in Jackson. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a quick and delicious meal, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
FAQs
Q: What are the best places to eat in Jackson?
A: The best places to eat in Jackson include The Mayflower, Walker’s Drive-In, Big Apple Inn, Central BBQ, Coop’s Place, Mama’s Fried Chicken, La Brioche, and the Food Truck Park.
Q: What kind of cuisine can I find in Jackson?
A: Jackson’s culinary scene is a melting pot of Southern comfort food, soulful barbecue, and international flavors. You can find everything from classic Southern cuisine to modern twists on traditional favorites, as well as international cuisine from around the world. (See Also: Where to Eat in Trendy Restaurant in Costa Adeje? Top Picks)
Q: Are there any food trucks in Jackson?
A: Yes, Jackson has a thriving food truck scene, featuring a rotating selection of trucks serving up everything from tacos to barbecue to ice cream. The Food Truck Park is a great place to try some of the city’s best food trucks.
Q: Are there any markets in Jackson?
A: Yes, Jackson has a bustling market scene, featuring a rotating selection of local produce, meats, and baked goods. The Farmer’s Market is a great place to pick up fresh ingredients for a home-cooked meal.
Q: What are the hours of operation for the restaurants and markets in Jackson?
A: The hours of operation for the restaurants and markets in Jackson vary, but most are open Monday through Thursday from 11am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday from 11am to 10pm, and Sunday from 10am to 9pm. Be sure to check the specific hours for each restaurant or market before visiting.
Q: Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Jackson?
A: Yes, there are many vegetarian and vegan options in Jackson, including Mama’s Fried Chicken, which offers a variety of vegan and gluten-free options. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations and to let them know if you have any dietary restrictions.