18 Must-Try Jackson Restaurants, MS | The Best Cafes, Bars and Restaurants In Jackson, MS

The Jackson restaurants, MS seriously impressed me. I already knew I loved Southern food and I assumed with Jackson being located not far from the Gulf there would be good seafood.

But it was the combination of the two that I loved so much- combining seafood with grits or homemade biscuits or other Southern fares. The only other place I’ve had anything similar was during my time at the World Food Championships at the restaurants in Orange Beach, Alabama.

But these Jackson restaurants aren’t just doing seafood and Southern comfort dishes- you can find everything from sushi to Indian food to world-class burgers and even throw your vote in on the debate over who has the best coffee in town.

Many of the best Jackson restaurants are located in the trendy/artsy area of town known as Fondren. I would like to thank Find It In Fondren for providing us with a personal tour of the area. (And also for letting us drag him along to not one but TWO lunches!) Their site is a great local resource- be sure to check it out when you’re planning your own visit.

Not in the mood to go out to eat tonight? Click here to have Grubhub deliver directly from the best restaurants in town to your doorstep.

Visiting other destinations in Mississippi? Check out our other delicious guides:

• 10 Must-Try Restaurants In Oxford, Mississippi
• 5 Best Biloxi Restaurants
• 7 Must-Try Bay St. Louis Restaurants
• 7 Best Ocean Springs Restaurants
• 9 Best Pascagoula Restaurants
• 5 Best Natchez MS Restaurants
• 15 Fun Things To Do In Jackson MS
• 5 Best Pass Christian Restaurants

While in Jackson don’t miss out on activities that will help immerse yourself with the city (hurry while they’re hot!):

• Grand Teton National Park: 4-Hour Wildlife Safari Adventure
• From Jackson: Yellowstone Day Tour Including Entrance Fee
• Jackson: Yellowstone Small-Group Tour with Picnic Lunch
• Jackson: Grand Teton National Park Half-Day Small-Bus Tour
• Jackson, Wyoming: Full-Day Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour
• Jackson: Snake River Class 2-3 Whitewater Rafting Adventure
• From Jackson: Jackson Hole Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight

18 Must-Try Jackson Restaurants

Barrelhouse

3009 North State St. // +1 769-216-3167

Barrelhouse was one of our first stops and in Jackson and it set the bar high.

Barrelhouse is the modern Southern take on the classic gastropub. Here you’ll find dishes such as tuna poke nachos (order these, trust me), confit chicken wings that have been cooked in duck fat, sushi burritos, an entire meatball menu, and even blue plate lunches.

Next time I hope to make it back to try their dinner menu which features a smoked duck breast, a pork chop stuffed with andouille cornbread stuffing, and shrimp and grits with pimento cheese.

Of course, being a gastropub, you know you’ll be able to find your favorite drink- or even discover a new favorite.

The Barrelhouse has an impressive collection of beers on draft and an even bigger menu of bottled beers. If you’re not in the mood for a beer you can choose a craft cocktail or pick a wine- which is sold by both the glass and bottle.

Be sure to stop in Monday-Friday from 3-6 to try their Social Hour menu, featuring specials on both food and drinks.

La Brioche

2906 North State St. // +1 601-988-2299

La Brioche is the perfect place to start your day with a cup of coffee to go alongside one of their huge homemade croissants, sweet treats, or a savory bacon cheese brioche, which is what I opted for.

This Jackson restaurant is run by two sisters originally from Argentina who started selling their baked goods at a farmers market. The response was so great that the duo now has multiple locations!

Crazy Cat Eat Up

1491 Canton Mart Rd. Suite 12 // +1 601-957-1441

Crazy Cat Eat up describes itself as “first and foremost, a good old southern restaurant”. After my recent visit, I have to say this description is spot on.

The menu features dishes such as Delta-style shrimp tamale fritters, cornmeal fried oysters, shrimp, and grits casserole, and a delicious tomato pie.

But, the one dish I suggest the most, and maybe the single best bite of food I had during my time in Jackson, was the Bis-Cat. What is this, you ask? A huge homemade biscuit filled with a fried catfish filet and topped with their house slaw.

Of all the Jackson restaurants we ate at (and there were many) this dish was stand-out delicious.

1908 Provisions

734 Fairview St. (Inside the Fairview Inn) // +1 601-948-3429 ext.305

1908 Provisions is not only one of the best from the Jackson restaurants, but it’s also housed inside one of the best hotels- the gorgeous and historic Fairview Inn. The restaurant menu is every bit as impressive as the hotel itself.

The farm-to-table restaurant offers menu items such as their signature sauteed redfish with grits and asparagus, Asian sliced duck, several cuts of premium steaks, and sea scallops served with a garlic grit cake and wilted spinach.

Be sure to start your meal with some of their fresh oysters- we loved them served roasted with bacon and leeks!

Please note: 1908 Provisions is only open for dinner and brunch and does not accept reservations on Saturdays for dinner. If there is a wait for a table you can grab a drink or even a small appetizer to hold you over in their gorgeous bar, the Library Lounge.

Parlor Market

115 West Capitol St. // +1 601-360-0090

As if it’s not impressive enough that this Italian eatery already makes their own pasta in-house every day- they also cure their own charcuterie!

Their menu boasts everything from classics such as Bolognese and spaghetti with meatballs to original dishes such as their short rib gnocchi, three-cheese lobster ravioli, or grilled octopus puttanesca.

Our favorite dish of the night was a duck confit with braised local greens and fried rosemary. Definitely order this if it’s on their rotating menu!

However, if you’re not in the mood for pasta (is that a thing that exists?) Parlor Market has a full menu of steaks, seafood, and even a burger.

If you’re really wanting to treat yourself, opt for the five-course tasting dinner with optional wine pairings and let the chef dictate your meal.

The Manship

1200 North State St. // +1 601-398-4562

The Manship describes itself as “rustic European cuisine with deep Southern roots” and I think their description nails it.

We visited for brunch on our last day, after being told repeatedly by locals it was one of the best places to eat in Jackson. With all that hype there’s always the fear the actual meal wouldn’t live up to expectations but fortunately, that wasn’t the case!

For brunch, you could choose from dishes with Mexican flair such as breakfast tacos or huevos rancheros.

Or, you could go for their sweets board, chicken and waffles, beef tenderloin with eggs, or my favorite- the roasted duck leg with smoked gouda grits.

Next time I hope to make it back to try their dinner menu- there’s a cowboy ribeye that’s calling my name.

The Manship also has a full bar that is also one of the most gorgeous in town. However, be aware that on Sundays you cannot buy alcohol before noon so if you like to enjoy a Bloody Mary or mimosa with your brunch maybe book your table for 12 or after.

Pig & Pint

3139 North State St. // +1 601-326-6070

If someone were just passing through with only time enough for one meal and asked me where to eat in Jackson- it would be the Pig & Pint.

This place wasn’t even on our itinerary but so many locals told us that it’s one of the best Jackson restaurants so we knew we had to make time for it.

The Pig & Pint is making high-end, fusion BBQ dishes- many of which are throwbacks to your favorite childhood dishes, done in a very grown-up way. Think pork belly corn dogs and fried bologna sandwiches and you’re on the right path, but I promise you you’ve never had them like this!

As good as these other dishes were, it was this dish that stole the show:

BBQ brisket pork rind nachos.

I had never had nachos with anything but tortilla chips before but whoever came up with using pork rinds should probably get an Oscar or maybe even the Nobel Peace Prize. Trust me- order these and don’t try to tackle them alone. You’ll need a friend or two to help you get through these.

Not only are they selling amazing BBQ, but they also have an impressive craft beer selection with interesting selections like a stout made with Mexican hot chocolate.

Walker’s Drive-In

3016 N State St. //  +1 601-982-2633

Walker’s features upscale menu items served in a casual atmosphere. Their menu makes use of seasonal local ingredients, high-end aged beef, and sustainable seafood to bring you dishes such as pumpkin seed crusted grouper and crab, parmesan, and artichoke crusted flounder.

Their surf and turf are made of veal and lobster and the sweetbreads appetizer is plated with wild mushrooms and a creamy Madeira wine sauce.

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, check out their salad menu which contains a half dozen salads, all of which sound delicious!

Char

4500 Interstate 55 North Frontage Rd. // +1 601-956-9562

While we were checking around Highland Village, which is a very nice retail mall that can be located in Jackson, we made a pit stop at Char to have our second brunch of the day (no judgment!)

In addition to a large number of retail stores, this shopping area is home to several of Jackson’s most well regarded dining establishments.

Try Char’s no-filler crab cakes, their award-winning gumbo, or look for the pecan-crusted chicken tenders on Saturdays. All of these dishes can be found at Char’s.

Since Char is a steakhouse, when I go back there I want to get either one of their steaks (the New York strip seemed like it would be the most delicious) or one of their seafood dishes, like the grilled redfish or the scallops that have been pan-seared.

Make sure you have space for a serving of their award-winning pecan caramel butter crunch, which is served with French vanilla ice cream and a cinnamon-braised Granny Smith apple sauce. Whatever you do, don’t forget to spare some room for this delectable dessert.

Estelle Wine Bar & Bistro

407 South Congress St. // +1 769-235-8400

Estelle is a contemporary wine bar and bistro where you can find dishes such as smoked catfish deviled eggs, duck sausage, pizzas, a butcher stack burger, and even a prime ribeye!

Estelle is a wine bar, so the extensive list of wines available by the glass as well as by the bottle is exactly what one would anticipate from such a venue.

After a long day at the office, you and your coworkers should head to Estelle to catch up, order a charcuterie board, and share a bottle of wine.

Rooster’s

2906 N State St #104 // +1 601-982-2001

We were told by a number of residents that Rooster’s serves (arguably) the best burger in the entire city.

Your choice of a white, wheat, or jalapeno cheddar bun that is baked fresh every day is the first thing that goes into a burger from Rooster’s. (If I were ordering, I would go for the jalapeno cheddar!)

Next, you’ll select whether you want a beef or chicken burger, and then decide on the toppings, which could include anything from a traditional bacon cheeseburger or chicken swiss to a nacho burger.

Look for any dish that comes with their well-known Creole tomato gravy, such as their smothered chicken and grits, if you aren’t in the mood for a burger. One example of such a dish is the gumbo.

Sakura Bana

 4800 I-55 // +1 601-982-3035

The consensus among the Jackson community members is that Sakura Bana is the best restaurant in the city for sushi. In addition to other Asian cuisine staples like teriyaki and tempura, Sakura Bana provides patrons with a selection of sushi rolls and sashimi as well.

Make it a point to come in for lunch and sample one of their bento lunch boxes when you do so. You have the option of selecting from a variety of different combinations, and each box features either soup or salad in addition to rice and costs approximately $9.

Bully’s

3118 Livingston Rd. // +1 601-362-0484

In a city where it is not difficult to obtain mouthwatering soul food, Bully’s has gone to the top as a favorite among locals, so it should not come as a surprise that they have been in business for more than three decades.

At Bully’s, you may anticipate to discover traditional dishes prepared in a straightforward manner, such as Southern-style fried catfish, oxtails drenched in gravy, barbecue ribs, and chitterlings.

Check out their daily specials, which change often and may include items like as meatloaf and red beans & rice.

Green Ghost

2820 N State St. // +1 601-487-6082

Green Ghost takes great pride in serving traditional Mexican cuisine that is prepared using recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation. The slow-cooked sauces that have become their trademark feature prominently in a good number of the company’s recipes.

You have your choice of six different kinds of tortas (also known as sandwiches), including pastor and roasted pork. Or, go for your choice of tacos, burritos, fajitas, enchiladas, or a taco salad. We were advised to try the carne asada fries, which come topped with steak, queso, and guacamole, and they came highly recommended to us.

Make sure you still have room for something sweet from the menu, which features traditional Mexican desserts like churros, tres leches cake, and sopapillas.

Lou’s Full-Serv

904B E Fortification St. //  +1 601-487-6359

Crawfish fondue, oysters from the Gulf of Mexico that have been fried to a crisp, crab cakes made with chile butter, and salmon dip. Have I been able to get your attention thus far? And that’s just the menu for the appetizers!

Although Lou’s Full-Serv may be best known for its steaks, the restaurant’s chef’s board, burgers, and desserts have all garnered incredibly positive feedback.

When I finally get the opportunity to go in, I will not hesitate to order the skillet-crisped cast iron chicken with root vegetables or the slow-cooked short rib “hasherole” with pan sauce. Both of these dishes are cooked in a cast iron skillet.

Basil’s Fondren

2914 N State St. // +1 601-982-2100

Paninis made on homemade focaccia bread that is baked fresh on the premises every day are the restaurant’s specialty. As we walked through Fondren, it was excruciating to be forced to endure the aroma of freshly baked bread.

The chocolate chip cookies and the vegetarian paninis are two of the most popular items among the locals. Keep an eye out for one-of-a-kind creations like the Elvis panini, which features peanut butter, bananas, and roasted peanuts, as well as the pimento cheese BLT, which comes with fresh basil.

Basil’s offers a comprehensive salad menu in addition to their sandwich selection in case you aren’t in the mood for a sandwich.

Babalu Tapas & Taco

622 Duling Ave. // +1 601-366-5757

You guys are aware that I only occasionally include chain restaurants in my posts; however, given that this particular chain got its start in Fondren, I figured it would be appropriate to include it.

Ingenious tacos and tapas with a Southern influence are the restaurant Babalu’s specialty. On the taco menu, you’ll find options like roasted chicken with lime aioli sauce, grilled Gulf shrimp with a locally famous comeback sauce, and crispy pork belly tacos with a citrus BBQ sauce.

On the tapas menu, you’ll find items such as queso grits, crab cakes cooked in a skillet, shrimp cooked in a skillet, and Mexican street corn. If you aren’t in the mood for tacos or tapas, they also have a menu with other options such as soups, salads, sandwiches, and burgers. When you go there, don’t leave without trying their guacamole, which has won numerous awards.

Spice Avenue

4711 Hwy 55 N. // +1 601-982-0890

Spice Avenue was repeatedly recommended to us as the location in town that offered the most delicious and authentic Indian cuisine.

The butter chicken and lamb curry are so good that everyone in the neighborhood raves about them. You can also find all of your favorite Indian dishes here, in addition to a few that you might not have tried before, such as curry made with fish or goat. In addition to that, we offer the complete tandoori menu.

Spice Avenue is the best option for vegetarians looking for a meal in Jackson because it offers 14 vegetarian options on its menu and is willing to make special accommodations for dietary restrictions. Visit them during the middle of the day for their lunch buffet, or come back later for their à la carte dinner menu.

Jackson restaurants that serve the best coffee?

I am not a coffee drinker, but I have asked a number of locals and it seems that there is a bit of a (friendly?) debate in Jackson about who sells the best cup of the bitter brew. I have asked this question because I am not a coffee drinker.

I’ll be sure to include both of these well-known establishments in the hopes that you’ll let me know which of the two is your top pick if you have the opportunity to sample both of them.

Sneaky Beans

2914 N State St. // +1 601-487-6349

You can relax with a good book or get some work done on your laptop at Sneaky Beans, a popular hangout in the neighborhood that is housed in an old house that has been renovated. If you’ve had your fill of coffee for the day, they also have a fantastic selection of beers and sodas for you to choose from if you’re looking for something else to quench your thirst.

If you want to try something different from what you normally order, you should look into the dirty chai or the monkey mocha.

Cups

Multiple Locations

The company likes to highlight the fact that the coffee beans used in Cups are sourced from all over the world and roasted in Mississippi.

They have eleven locations spread out across the state at the moment and place a strong emphasis on being involved in the local community. One of the ways in which they accomplish this goal is by showcasing the work of regional artists without charging a commission, in addition to supporting community organizations and gatherings in the area.

In addition to its involvement in the local community, Cups offers an impressive coffee menu that includes updated takes on traditional espresso drinks as well as its own creations. There are other beverages, such as hot chocolate, smoothies, sodas, and teas, available for those in your group who do not drink coffee.

Okay, since you’ve already made plans for dinner, where would you like to go for drinks afterward? Or perhaps you are looking for a place to meet friends for a drink after work or before dinner and you want to find the perfect spot.

Best Bars in Jackson, MS

Library Lounge

734 Fairview St. (Inside the Fairview Inn) // +1 601-948-3429

The Library Lounge can be found on the second floor of the Fairview Inn. It is a warm and inviting space, perfect for socializing with friends over a glass of wine or cocktail. Even a local told me that they were content with the Library Lounge remaining a “locals in the know spot,” so they weren’t sure if I should write about it.

In this establishment, you will find both handcrafted cocktails and classic versions of your go-to drinks. In addition, the lounge provides a comprehensive lunch menu, and in the evening, guests can order small plates of food to complement their alcoholic beverages.

4th Avenue

209 S Lamar St. // +1 601-259-5825

The newest place in Jackson to “see and be seen” is located on 4th Avenue. This place is perfect for going out with a group of friends since it combines elements of a nightclub and a restaurant.

Begin the evening with something from the restaurant’s menu—I could recommend the cheese plate or the chicken and waffles—and then place an order for beverages before getting on the dance floor with your buddies to see the night out.

Be on the lookout for daily meal and drink discounts from 4-7 p.m., and on the weekends, you will absolutely need to have a reservation; we observed individuals being turned away at the door who did not have one.

The Apothecary

655 Duling Ave. // +1 601-366-3427

Jackson has its very own speakeasy, and it’s tucked away in the back of Brent’s Drugs. They serve drinks that have won awards, too. If you explain some of the taste profiles that you like most to the server, they will be pleased to recommend a drink to you that incorporates those flavors.

You may also discover a food selection with small plates to complement your beverages; the hummus with handmade bread was a favorite of ours from the food menu.

Frank Jones Corner

303 N Farish St. // +1 601-983-1148

Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night, from midnight to four in the morning, Frank Jones’ Corner features live music. On Friday and Saturday nights, neighborhood regulars will wrap up their nights out at the smoky jazz club.

In addition to food and drink options such as burgers, chicken biscuits, and even a catfish basket, hand-mixed cocktails and shots are also available.

Which of these Jackson restaurants, MS do you most want to try? Let me know in the comments section!

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Disclaimer: I would like to thank Visit Jackson for hosting me for some of the meals mentioned above. All opinions remain my own, as always. I was able to try most of the restaurants listed above but any that I did not get to try personally are recommendations from local foodie friends.

FAQs

What food is Jackson Mississippi famous for?

The city of Jackson, which serves as the state capital of Mississippi, is known as a city of traditions. It is home to restaurants that have been in operation for many generations and that specialize in seafood, steak, and traditional Southern cuisine.

Why is Jackson MS famous?

Jackson is the state capital of Mississippi as well as the most populous city in the state. Its location at the intersection of Interstates 20 and 55 makes it an ideal transportation hub. The city of Jackson is home to a number of outstanding museums that shed light on a diverse selection of subjects, such as art, history, civil rights, African-American culture, and natural sciences.

What is Jackson’s favorite food?

In addition to that, he was a huge fan of Japanese sushi, Mexican food, especially cheese quesadillas, pizza, fish, popcorn, and frosted flakes with milk. The vegetarian and health-conscious side of him: Michael Jackson’s diet consisted of greens and beans, and he enjoyed vegetarian lasagne, steamed broccoli, fresh fruits, and tofu with chili sauce. His meals also included no animal products.

What was Michael Jackson’s favorite restaurant?

Picture of China Garden in Manama. There are rumors that Michael Jackson enjoyed dining at China Garden while he lived in Bahrain. China Garden is located in Manama.

What is the number one attraction in Mississippi?

Top Attractions in Mississippi

• A national park commemorating the battle of Vicksburg. 3,120. Battlefields • Parks.
• U.S.S. Cairo Museum. 1,515. …
• Longwood. 1,611. Landmarks, Landmarks, Points of Interest, and Historic Sites. …
• Casino known as the Horseshoe. 12,112. Casinos. …
• Beau Rivage Casino. 2,453. …
• The Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum is located there. 1,633. …
• Natchez Trace Parkway.
• Beauvoir. 1,210.