For residents of other states, eating out may mean having to forgo home cooked food. Luckily, that’s not the case here in Mississippi. The state is full of small, locally owned restaurants that serve food so good you’ll swear your grandma made it. So, the next time you’re looking for such a place, be sure check out one of these 10 "mom and pop" restaurants.

1. The Friendship House, Aberdeen

The Friendship House may be located in the middle of nowhere but that hasn’t stopped hungry patrons from all over the county from visiting the restaurant, which probably has something to do with the fact that The Friendship House’s catfish has been named among the best in the South. Made with a family recipe that has been passed down for years, the perfectly fried fish is guaranteed to please.

2. Roses BBQ and Catering, Hattiesburg

In Mississippi, we know that gas stations have some of the best food around, and Roses BBQ is just further confirmation of that notion. In business since 1982, the family owned eatery has earned a reputation for its extensive fare of mouthwatering barbecue and equally as amazing sides.

3. Binke’s Restaurant, Meridian

Referred to as "Soul Food Heaven," this Meridian favorite has been in business for years, serving up a buffet of southern favorites, like fried chicken and smothered pork chops. All made from scratch, the savory soul food is as authentic as you can get.

4. The Lunch Box, Clarksdale

Please note, The Lunch Box is no longer in business.

Located in Clarksdale, the Lunch Box serves up sandwiches, burgers, and daily specials that include southern favorites like fried chicken and catfish, turnip greens, and corn bread. On Friday nights, locals know it’s the place to go for steak, catfish, and shrimp.

5. Beatty Street Grocery, Jackson

A stop on the Mississippi Culinary Trail, dining at this Jackson eatery is a must. The place was originally opened as a grocery store by Mack Baldwin in 1940. By 1947, a kitchen was added and the rest is delicious history. Known for its amazing burgers and BLTs, Beatty Street Grocery often gets pretty crowded at lunch time, so be prepared to wait.

6. Bridge Street Grill, Enterprise

Looking for "good eating served up with southern hospitality?" Then you’ll definitely want to stop by this Enterprise gem. The family owned restaurant offers a variety of entrees that includes everything from burgers and steaks to southern classics. And while there, be sure to try the Bridge Street Grill’s specialty – hand battered fries.

7. 333 Restaurant, Grenada

This Grenada restaurant has only been open since 2005, but in that short time has been voted

best food for the money, best family restaurant, best seafood, best steak, and best hot plate lunch. As if that’s not enough to convince you, one look at the extensive menu should do the trick. From soul food to seafood, 333 Restaurant has a little bit of everything.

8. Dale’s Restaurant, Southaven

Between the family atmosphere, delicious food, and low prices, it’s easy to see why Dale’s has remained a Southaven favorite since opening in 1966. The amazing fare at Dale’s can be enjoyed seven days a week but if you’re planning to visit on a Sunday, keep in mind it’s a popular "after-church" dining spot, so getting there before noon is recommended.

9. Peggy’s, Philadelphia

Please note, Peggy’s is no longer in business.

Serving the community for decades, Peggy’s has come to be known for its homestyle cooking, which includes the restaurant’s famous fried chicken. Each day a spread of classics, like butter beans, greens, and cornbread are set out, allowing diners to help themselves. And in the true spirit of southern hospitality, bills are paid using the honor system. Simply leave your tip on the table and the payment for your meal in a basket on your way out.

10. Catfish Country, Hernando

While out-of-this-world catfish may be this Hernando restaurant’s specialty, customer reviews suggest the soul food is just as good. Even the appetizers and sides are impressive, especially the fried pickles, hush puppies, and twice baked potatoes.

Looking for more ways to satisfy those taste buds? Check out "These 15 Old Restaurants In Mississippi Have Stood The Test Of Time," for some more great eateries in the state.