Mississippi doesn’t just cook—it feeds the soul. Across the Magnolia State, you’ll find humble cafeterias dishing out comfort the old-fashioned way: one meat, three sides, and a slice of pie if you’re smart. These aren’t fancy spots. They’re the kind of places where the iced tea is sweet, the gravy is thick, and the cooks call you “baby.”
So grab a tray, find your spot in line, and get ready to taste Mississippi’s warmest tradition—one delicious bite at a time.
Bully’s Restaurant — Jackson
Bully’s Restaurant in Jackson has been a soul-food anchor since 1982. It’s run by Tyrone “Bully” and family, serving dishes like smothered oxtails and macaroni and cheese. The James Beard Foundation named it an America’s Classic in 2016.
The kitchen starts before sunrise, simmering flavors that reflect local history. Service is counter-style, fast, with limited seating. Lines form at lunch for generous portions and old-school hospitality.
Visitors enjoy smothered oxtails and rice-and-gravy, relishing the neighborhood’s embrace. The warm, unpretentious vibe makes everyone feel welcome, keeping this spot a favorite for decades.
Ajax Diner — Oxford
Right on Oxford’s courthouse square, Ajax Diner has been serving Mississippi favorites since 1997. It’s a gathering place for students, professors, and locals who crave chicken and dumplings, fried catfish, and more.
The playful menu includes cheese grits and cornbread, all prepared from scratch. Lines form for the homey portions and friendly staff.
Ajax is a must-visit where campus energy meets down-home cooking. Its bright-yellow building is a familiar sight for anyone wanting a satisfying plate of comfort food.
The Dinner Bell — McComb
The Dinner Bell in McComb offers food that tastes like home. With cafeteria-style service, it’s a go-to for fried chicken, country-fried steak, and sides like mashed potatoes.
The dining room’s charm complements the lunchtime rush. The staff fills plates quickly, packing orders for families and road-trippers.
Prices are modest, and the portions are family-style. Whether a local or a traveler, this spot promises a hearty meal that won’t disappoint.
Old Country Store / Mr. D’s Fried Chicken — Lorman
In Lorman, the Old Country Store is a pilgrimage stop for all-you-can-eat Southern spreads. Known for Mr. D’s fried chicken, it’s a favorite just off the Natchez Trace.
The buffet features catfish, dressing, greens, and seasonal vegetables. The old-store setting and singing-owner add a unique charm.
Lines swell on weekends, with signature items often selling out. Early arrival is best for those chasing genuine Mississippi comfort.
Aunt B’s Soul Food Restaurant — Tupelo
Aunt B’s Soul Food in Tupelo is a neighborhood favorite for classics like fried catfish and pork chops. The focus is on home recipes with daily plate specials.
The dining room offers a warm, no-fuss atmosphere. Locals praise the crisp catfish and seasoned greens, with many calling ahead for to-go orders.
Aunt B’s feels like a family kitchen open to the public, and it’s a staple in Tupelo’s food scene.
Maxine’s Old Country Kitchen — Jackson / Flowood area
Maxine’s Old Country Kitchen draws locals and visitors with soul-food plate lunches. Owner Maxine Dixon serves up recipes like fried chicken and meatloaf.
Lunchtime crowds include workers and families seeking generous portions. The space feels like a home kitchen turned restaurant.
Regulars recommend day-of specials, and ordering early is wise for weekend gatherings. The warm atmosphere and homemade flavors are unmistakable.
George’s Museum Cafe — Jackson (LeFleur East / Ag & Forestry Museum)
Located at the Mississippi Agriculture & Forestry Museum, George’s Museum Cafe offers a meat-and-three buffet. It’s popular with visitors, school groups, and local workers.
The setup includes country-fried steak and a rotating array of sides. Affordable pricing makes it a perfect midday stop.
Generous portions showcase regional comfort cooking. The cafe is a go-to spot for families combining a museum visit with a hearty meal.
Walnut Hills — Vicksburg
Walnut Hills in Olde Town Vicksburg serves Southern comfort in a historic house. Known for fried chicken and meatloaf, it offers a menu built on house recipes.
Porch seating and period charm keep the dining room busy. Signature items like pecan pie often sell out.
Balancing tourist appeal with neighborhood loyalty, Walnut Hills invites early arrivals or call-ahead options for larger parties.
The Trace Grill — Ridgeland (Highway 51 area)
The Trace Grill in Ridgeland is central to Mississippi’s blue-plate lunch scene. Specials include meats like hamburger steak and fried catfish, paired with classic sides.
The family-run vibe and quick service make it a regular pick for everyone from office workers to retirees. Multiple locations ensure consistent quality.
Lunchtime lines form where communities expect hearty plates, reflecting traditional Southern home cooking.
The Midtowner — Hattiesburg
The Midtowner in Hattiesburg serves Meat & Three lunches alongside all-day breakfast. The menu features pot pie, chopped steak, and more, with sides like skillet corn.
Students and locals form the daytime crowd, favoring quick counter orders. The rotating blue-plate specials keep regulars coming.
The Midtowner’s presence in the community is strong, offering meals that cater to diverse tastes and schedules.