Mississippi is full of restaurants that have stood the test of time. And that means many residents have a favorite dining spot they’ve been visiting for decades. Read on for 10 iconic eateries Mississippians grew up eating.
1. Frostop (305 US-11, Picayune)
This small town favorite has been in business since 1951, and if you’ve ever had the pleasure of tasting the food you know why. The po’boys are awesome, the burgers are too good for words, and the old-fashioned floats make for the perfect ending to any meal. And the best part? The prices can’t be beat — nothing on the menu is over $10!
2. Phillip’s Drive In (330 S Magnolia St., Laurel)
Though this eatery didn’t officially become P.D.I. until the 1960s, it began serving Laurel back in 1947 when it opened as a Dairy Queen. Over the years, not much has changed at the drive in. It’s still a local favorite and still serving up its made-to-order burgers and specialty sandwiches.
3. Velvet Cream (2290 Highway 51 S, Hernando)
This drive-in, which was originally named "Dippity Doo," has been in business since 1947. At that time, walk-up fast food restaurants were extremely popular, especially among teenagers — and Velvet Cream was no exception. Just as popular as it was all those years ago, the eatery is still serving up its incredible desserts, which include everything from ice cream cones and shakes to one-of-a-kind creations.
4. The Malt Shop (4 Homochitto Street, Natchez)
A list of classic Mississippi eateries wouldn’t be complete without The Malt Shop, which has been serving the area since the 1960s. The Natchez gem features a menu of classics, among which, you’ll find curly fries, burgers, and plenty of shakes and malts that are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
5. Peasoup's Lott-a-Freeze (809 Hyw 82 West, Indianola)
Opened since 1968, this "dairy bar meets Delta diner" has it all — hearty helpings of local favorites, such as fried catfish and po’ boys, along with traditional sweets, like malts, ice cream cones, and sundaes.
6. Shipley Do-Nuts (locations throughout the state)
Shipley Do-Nuts was first opened in 1936 as a small, family business. Today, it includes nearly 200 locations in 6 states. Even though it’s grown tremendously over the years, the donut shop has maintained it hometown vibe and continues to be a tradition for many families.
7. The Dinner Bell (229 5th Ave., McComb)
In business for nearly a century (and a popular "after church" spot for nearly just as long), the Dinner Bell offers an all-you-can-eat experience with a twist. The eatery serves up a classic southern fare via a large lazy Susan in the center of the table.
8. Coleman’s Bar-B-Q (312 E Main St., Senatobia)
This longtime favorite has been serving up its mouthwatering barbecue for decades. One of the biggest praises customers give the eatery is the fact that the food tastes just as good as it did when Coleman’s first opened all those years ago.
9. Lusco’s (722 Carrollton Ave., Greenwood)
Generations of Delta residents have dined at this family-owned restaurant since it opened back in 1933. Truly unique, Lusco’s is housed in a former speakeasy, and because of that, each table is enclosed in a curtained-off cubicle. Over the years, the menu has grown to include a tasty variety of steaks, seafood, and southern favorites.
10. Ramon’s (535 Oakhurst Ave., Clarksdale)
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 and lots of fried foods.
So, do you remember dining at these restaurants while growing up? What other eateries would you add? Tell us in the comments section!
If you enjoyed this, be sure to check out "Head To This Authentically Retro Mississippi Restaurant For A Trip Back In Time."
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