Looks can be deceiving, and if you need proof, you’ll find it in Mississippi. The Magnolia State is practically overflowing with incredible eateries that could technically be classified as “hole-in-the-walls.” And the following 10 restaurants are just that – humble in size or appearance, yet known for serving up some great food.
1. Dude’s Hot Biscuits
This local favorite has been in the business of biscuits for over 30 years! The mouthwatering biscuits, which are commonly referred to as the best in the state, have even earned the eatery Brookhaven Magazine’s 2017 Reader’s Choice Award for the city’s best breakfast. Visit Dude’s at 924 US-51, Brookhaven, MS 39601.
2. Ole Biloxi Fillin’ Station
Just as the name implies, this eatery started off as a gas station – the Standard Oil Station - when it first opened in the 1920s. Today, it’s known for its relaxed atmosphere and tasty fare, which includes blue plate specials, sandwiches, seafood, and burgers. Visit the Ole Biloxi Fillin’ Station at 692 Howard Ave., Biloxi, MS 39530.
3. South Main Market and Deli
This family-owned "specialty grocery store, meat market, and deli" offers a variety of fresh meat products, specialty spices, sauces, and seasonings. Lunch is available Monday through Saturday and includes a tasty selection of fresh salads, delicious sandwiches, and a daily special. Visit South Main Market and Deli at 1697 S. Main St., Greenville, MS 38701.
4. Lil Rays
This coastal restaurant has been serving its signature po’ boys for over 40 years now! Whether you go with the roast beef, which is topped with homemade gravy, or one piled high with fresh seafood, you can’t go wrong with a po’ boy at Lil Rays, especially since all they’re all served on French bread that’s delivered daily from New Orleans. Visit Lil Rays at 500 Courthouse Rd., Gulfport, MS 39507.
5. Ramon’s
A longtime favorite, Ramon’s was established in 1945. The fact that it’s remained in business all these years is even more impressive when you consider it’s located a bit off the beaten path in a residential neighborhood. Simple yet delicious, the menu includes pastas, salads, and lots of fried foods. Visit Ramon’s at 535 Oakhurst Ave., Clarksdale, MS 38614.
6. Hall of Fame Restaurant
With its obscure location and small size, it’d be easy to drive right past the tiny eatery, but you definitely don’t want to do that. And that’s because it serves up some of the best hamburgers in the state. Always handmade, the juicy burgers include fresh toppings, seasoned patties, and a variety of cheeses. The menu also includes chicken, BBQ, and sandwiches. But the burgers are by far the best seller, with the restaurant going through 160 pounds of hamburger meat each week! Visit Hall of Fame Restaurant at 54 Dover Rd., Bentonia, MS 39040.
7. Blue Canoe
As Tupelo’s "home for original live music," the atmosphere at this eatery can’t be beat. The menu isn’t so bad either. Look it over and you’ll find an array of "clever, hands on bar food," which includes an impressive selection of specialty sandwiches and burgers. Visit Blue Canoe at 2006 N Gloster St., Tupelo, MS 38804.
8. Beatty Street Grocery
In business since the 1940s, this iconic eatery, which is a stop on the Mississippi Culinary Trail, is known by locals for its tasty burgers and white bread BLTs. It can get pretty crowded at lunch time, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. Visit Beatty Street Grocery at 101 Beatty St., Jackson, MS 39201.
9. White Front Cafe
This unassuming white wood frame house just so happens to be a legendary hot tamale stop, known for its spicy beef-filled tamales that come wrapped in corn shucks. The White Front Café is located at 902 Main St., Rosedale, MS 38769.
10. Becky’s Burgers
Proving that good things do come in small packages, this tiny Magee eatery has gained a reputation for serving some of the best hamburgers in the entire state. In fact, people drive from miles around just for a taste of the mouthwatering burgers, which, according to customers, are "big, juicy, and fantastic." Visit Becky’s Burgers at 831 McLaurin Dr. NE, Magee, MS 39111.
So, ever visited any of these humble eateries? Have one to add? Tell us in the comments section!
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