The Southern United States is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and flavors, making it a food lover’s paradise. From the spicy kick of Cajun and Creole cooking to the sweet charm of Southern comfort food, the South has something for every palate. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, finding the best places to eat in the South can be a daunting task. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the South, highlighting the must-try restaurants, hidden gems, and iconic eateries that will make your taste buds dance.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
The South is famous for its breakfast and brunch options, and for good reason. Fluffy biscuits, crispy grits, and sweet tea are just a few of the staples that make mornings in the South a culinary delight. Here are some of the best breakfast and brunch spots in the South:
Atlanta, Georgia
- The Flying Biscuit Cafe: A cozy spot serving up Southern comfort food with a twist, including their famous biscuits and gravy.
- The Original Pancake House: A beloved institution serving up fluffy pancakes, waffles, and omelets.
New Orleans, Louisiana
- Cafe du Monde: A world-famous cafe serving up beignets and coffee 24/7.
- Willie Mae’s Scotch House: A James Beard Award-winning restaurant serving up Southern comfort food with a Creole twist.
Charleston, South Carolina
- Five Loaves Cafe: A charming spot serving up creative breakfast dishes, including their famous breakfast tacos.
- The Daily: A popular spot serving up farm-to-table breakfast and brunch options.
Lunch and Dinner Spots
The South is also famous for its lunch and dinner options, from juicy burgers to spicy barbecue and everything in between. Here are some of the best lunch and dinner spots in the South:
Memphis, Tennessee
- Corky’s BBQ: A Memphis institution serving up slow-cooked barbecue and Southern sides.
- Central BBQ: Another Memphis favorite serving up tender ribs and crispy fried chicken.
Nashville, Tennessee
- Hattie B’s Hot Chicken: A popular spot serving up spicy hot chicken and Southern sides.
- Edley’s Bar-B-Que: A beloved barbecue joint serving up tender meats and creative sides.
New Orleans, Louisiana
- Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: A legendary spot serving up Creole cuisine, including their famous gumbo and jambalaya.
- Commander’s Palace: A fine dining institution serving up haute Creole cuisine.
Seafood and Coastal Eats
The South has a long coastline, and with it comes an abundance of fresh seafood. From oysters to shrimp, and from fish to crab, the South has something for every seafood lover. Here are some of the best seafood and coastal eats in the South: (See Also: Where to Eat in Liverpool Street? Best Local Spots)
Gulf Shores, Alabama
- The Hangout: A beachfront restaurant serving up fresh seafood and beachy vibes.
- The Gulf: A popular spot serving up creative seafood dishes and stunning views.
Charleston, South Carolina
- Fish Camp: A seafood lover’s paradise serving up fresh catches and creative dishes.
- The Ordinary: A seafood hall and oyster bar serving up fresh seafood and craft cocktails.
Southern Comfort Food
The South is famous for its comfort food, from fried chicken to mac and cheese, and from collard greens to cornbread. Here are some of the best Southern comfort food spots in the South:
Atlanta, Georgia
- The Busy Bee Cafe: A beloved institution serving up classic Southern comfort food.
- The Varsity: A fast-food institution serving up burgers, hot dogs, and fries.
New Orleans, Louisiana
- Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: A legendary spot serving up Creole cuisine, including their famous gumbo and jambalaya.
- Willie Mae’s Scotch House: A James Beard Award-winning restaurant serving up Southern comfort food with a Creole twist.
Recap and Recommendations
From breakfast to dinner, and from seafood to comfort food, the South has something for every palate. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these recommendations will give you a taste of the South’s culinary delights. Be sure to try some of the iconic eateries, hidden gems, and local favorites that make the South such a food lover’s paradise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best place to eat in the South?
A: The best place to eat in the South is a matter of personal preference, but some of the most iconic eateries include Dooky Chase’s Restaurant in New Orleans, Willie Mae’s Scotch House in New Orleans, and The Busy Bee Cafe in Atlanta.
Q: What is the most popular type of cuisine in the South?
A: The most popular type of cuisine in the South is Southern comfort food, which includes dishes like fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens. (See Also: Where to Eat in Sun Valley? Culinary Delights)
Q: What are some must-try dishes in the South?
A: Some must-try dishes in the South include gumbo, jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and fried green tomatoes.
Q: What are some of the best seafood spots in the South?
A: Some of the best seafood spots in the South include The Hangout in Gulf Shores, Alabama, The Gulf in Gulf Shores, Alabama, and Fish Camp in Charleston, South Carolina.
Q: What are some of the best barbecue joints in the South?
A: Some of the best barbecue joints in the South include Corky’s BBQ in Memphis, Tennessee, Central BBQ in Memphis, Tennessee, and Edley’s Bar-B-Que in Nashville, Tennessee.