Any business that can last decades must be doing something right. This theory definitely holds true when it comes to Mississippi’s restaurants. Some of the oldest eateries in the state happen to serve some of the best food. Offering mouthwatering cuisine with a side of history and dash of nostalgia, here are 12 of Mississippi’s longest-standing restaurants.
1. Taylor Grocery, Taylor
Known simply as "the catfish place," the building that houses Taylor Grocery dates back to the 1800s and originally served as a general store. Over the years the small town restaurant has garnered quite the reputation, attracting diners from near and far. From the fare, which includes local favorites like catfish and hushpuppies, to the cozy front porch to the endless glasses of sweet tea, it doesn’t get much better than Taylor Grocery. Visit Taylor Grocery at 4 CR-338 in Taylor.
2. Bozo’s Grocery, Pascagoula
Ask any local where to get a good po’ boy on the Gulf Coast and they’ll undoubtedly mention Bozo’s Seafood Market and Deli, which probably has something to do with the fact that Bozo’s has been serving the area the freshest seafood, shrimp, and crawfish for over 60 years. More than a local favorite, Bozo’s has been featured in several publications, including USA Today. Visit Bozo’s at 2012 Ingalls Avenue in Pascagoula.
3. Old Country Store, Lorman
As the name implies, this restaurant is also an old country store, which was first opened in 1875. Today, the still-functioning general store and restaurant is known for serving "the best fried chicken in the world" along with a buffet overflowing with southern favorites. Although remote, the Old Country Store is located just off the Natchez Trace Parkway, making a visit the perfect addition to any trip along the famous parkway. The Old Country Store is located at 18801 Highway 61 in Lorman.
4. Ramon’s Clarksdale
In business since 1945, Ramon’s is a local favorite, known for its mouthwatering Italian fare and seafood dishes. Aside from the amazing food, visitors to Ramon’s can also look forward to extremely generous portions and very reasonable prices. The eatery tends to get pretty crowded on weekends, so a wait is a possibility but definitely worth it. Be sure to visit an ATM before you head to Ramon’s because the restaurant only takes cash. Ramon’s is located at 535 Oakhurst Avenue in Clarksdale.
5. Bill’s Hamburgers, Amory
Just as the sign says, Bill’s has been in the business of burgers since 1929, and after all these years, the eatery is still serving up its signature burgers, shoestring fries, and old-fashioned bottled Coca Cola. Made with 100% fresh, never frozen, beef, the burgers at Bill’s come two ways: "with" or "without." Order yours "with" and it’ll be dressed with mustard and onions; "without" means you’ll get just meat and bread. You won’t find lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles at Bill’s, but according to customers, you won’t miss them. Visit Bill’s at 310 Main Street S. in Amory.
6. Edd’s Drive In, Pascagoula
The building that houses this Pascagoula favorite was first opened as a Dairy Queen in 1950. By 1953, it was transformed into Edd’s Drive-In and ever since then it’s been serving the same delicious fare of hot dogs, hamburgers, chili dogs, and milkshakes. Winner of Pascagoula’s "Best Burger" award, Edd’s is the place to go for a great meal and a dose of nostalgia. Edd’s is located at 3834 Market Street in Pascagoula.
7. Weidmann’s, Meridian
Weidmann’s first opened in 1870 and has been at its present location since 1923, with its popularity only increasing throughout the years. Visit the historic eatery today and you’ll find an impressive variety of southern cuisine along with a truly unique atmosphere, which includes walls covered in photos of famous diners, servers that are well-educated on the restaurant’s past so they can inform interested customers, and long-held traditions, such as serving peanut butter and crackers, a custom carried over from WWII since butter was scarce. Visit Weidemann’s at 210 22nd Avenue in Meridian.
8. Borroum’s Drug Store and Soda Fountain, Corinth
In business since 1865, Borroum’s is the state’s oldest operating drug store and is still serving its specialty (and local favorite), the slugburger along with soda fountain classics, like root beer floats and milkshakes. For great food and a true dose of nostalgia, this Corinth classic definitely delivers. Borroum’s is located at 604 E. Waldron Street in Corinth.
9. The Dinner Bell, McComb
In business for nearly a century, the Dinner Bell is now one of the state’s most popular restaurants. Southern classics, like fried chicken, rice and gravy, chicken and dumplings, and corn bread, are served family-style on large lazy Susans in the middle of round tables, making for one of the most unique dining experiences imaginable. Visit the Dinner Bell at 229 5th Avenue in McComb.
10. The Blue and White Restaurant, Tunica
Now a Tunica landmark, the Blue and White Restaurant has been serving up authentic southern cooking since 1924. Look over the menu and you’ll find everything from steaks and burgers to local favorites, like country fried steak and fried green tomatoes. The Blue and White also offers southern-style breakfasts, complete with homemade biscuits and donuts. Visit The Blue and White Restaurant at 1355 Highway 61 in Tunica.
11. The Crystal Grill, Greenwood
Even though this Greenwood landmark is now a 250-seat restaurant, you’ll feel right at home after taking a seat in one of the many small dining rooms and looking over the menu filled with home cooked dishes. And since dessert is included in the price of your meal, you may as well try some. You can’t go wrong with the Crystal Grill’s coconut and chocolate pie, which are piled "mile high" with meringue. Visit The Crystal Grill at 423 Carrollton Avenue in Greenwood.
12. News Restaurant, Meridian
When News first opened in 1942, it was a service station with a café that sold only hamburgers. Today, the Meridian favorite offers much more of a variety, which includes everything from po’ boys and seafood to pasta dishes and quesadillas. Visit News Restaurant at 5020 Poplar Drive in Meridian.
On or off this list, what’s your favorite restaurant in Mississippi that has stood the test of time?
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