Just like you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, you shouldn’t judge a restaurant from its outside appearance and these Mississippi restaurants are proof!

1. Cherokee Drive Inn, Jackson

This Jackson landmark has been in business for over 50 years. Known for local favorites like red beans and rice and catfish, daily lunch specials, and delicious burgers, this is one stop worth making.

2. Blow Fly Inn, Gulfport

Originally named "Hickory’s BBQ," this local favorite has been open since 1961. Featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives," the Blow Fly Inn offers everything from fried pickles to mouth-watering steaks.

3. Walker’s Drive-In, Jackson

Just because this restaurant doesn’t look like much doesn’t mean the food won’t impress! Known for providing an "upscale experience in a casual atmosphere," this Jackson restaurant’s menu won’t disappoint. From po’ boys to lobster, Walker’s Drive-In has quite the variety.

4. Memphis Barbecue Co., Horn Lake

With only three locations nationwide, the fact that Mississippi is home to this restaurant sure is lucky! Memphis BBQ Co. has won thousands of awards which include several world championships. Not in the mood for barbecue? No problem, as the diverse menu includes numerous other options – including the cheese fritter appetizer which has been featured on several national television shows.

5. Phillips Grocery, Oxford

Originally opened in Holly Springs as a saloon, the fate of Phillips Grocery changed once purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Phillips. Soon after opening, the couple developed a special secret hamburger recipe which remains a secret to this day. Named one of the top three hamburger places in the nation as well as the winner of numerous awards, Phillips Grocery will surely please.

6. Latham’s Hamburger Inn, New Albany

In business for decades, Latham’s Hamburger Inn has become a New Albany landmark. The menu may not include much but it does include a local favorite, the slugburger. From the vintage décor to pictures of first-time visitors on the walls, Latham’s provides a one-of-a-kind experience.

7. Frostop, Picayune

This local (and personal) favorite has been in business since 1951, and if you’ve tasted the food you know why. The roast beef po’ boys are awesome and the hamburgers are too good for words. The best part is, the prices can’t be beat.

8. Darwell's Café, Long Beach

Featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives," this gulf coast restaurant’s menu includes everything from peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to mouthwatering seafood dishes.

9. The Shed Barbeque and Blues Joint, Ocean Springs

If ever there were a restaurant that encompassed the definition of "dive," it’d be The Shed. The restaurant itself was actually constructed out of old junk and scraps, but don’t let the appearance fool you. From their secret shed rub to homemade barbecue sauce, this is barbecue you don’t want to miss.

10. Memphis Street Café (aka The Underground Café), Hernando

Tucked away in a basement, this is an easy one to miss but you’ll be glad you didn’t. Known for great service and made-from-scratch southern cuisine, it’s no surprise this restaurant has become one of Hernando’s most well-known establishments. If you decide to stop by, be sure to try the banana bread French toast as it comes highly recommended by Guy Fieri of "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives" as well as local favorite shrimp and grits.

What are your favorite Mississippi dive restaurants? Be sure to share in the comments section below!