I Hit The Backroads Of Mississippi To Try 9 Meat-And-Three Spots (And 6 Were Absolute Comfort Food Hits)
Mississippi’s backroads hide some of the best comfort food you’ll ever taste, and I made it my mission to hunt down the state’s most authentic meat-and-three restaurants.
For those unfamiliar, a meat-and-three is a Southern tradition where you pick one protein and three side dishes—simple, hearty, and absolutely delicious.
I visited nine spots across Mississippi, and while some were just okay, six of them knocked my socks off with flavors that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Here’s the rundown of every single stop on my delicious journey through the Magnolia State’s soul food scene.
1. Bully’s Soul Food Restaurant
Walking into Bully’s feels like stepping into your grandmother’s kitchen on Sunday afternoon.
The aroma of slow-cooked meats fills every corner, and you know immediately you’re in for something special.
Their collard greens are legendary—cooked low and slow until they’re tender enough to melt on your tongue.
The mac and cheese is pure velvet, creamy without being heavy, with just the right amount of cheese pull.
Every bite reminded me why Jackson is considered a soul food capital.
Address: 3118 Livingston Rd, Jackson, MS 39213
2. Mama Hamil’s
Buffet-style dining gets a bad reputation sometimes, but Mama Hamil’s proves that when done right, it’s absolutely magnificent.
The selection is overwhelming in the best possible way—rows of steaming trays filled with perfectly seasoned meats and vegetables that look like they came straight from a home kitchen.
You can pile your plate high without judgment here.
The mashed potatoes are whipped to perfection, and the fried chicken has that crispy golden crust everyone dreams about.
Address: 480 Magnolia St, Madison, MS 39110
3. Bettina’s Soulfood Kitchen
Bettina’s has been feeding Jackson residents for years, and one visit explains exactly why folks keep coming back.
The portions are generous without being wasteful, and every dish tastes like someone’s mama actually made it with love.
Their green beans are cooked Southern-style with just enough seasoning to make them interesting.
The cornbread comes out warm and crumbly, perfect for soaking up pot liquor.
This spot proves that sometimes the simplest preparations create the most memorable meals.
Address: 503 S Gallatin St, Jackson, MS 39203
4. Sugar’s Place
Sugar’s Place earned its beloved status through consistency and flavor that never disappoints.
The atmosphere is no-frills and unpretentious—just good people serving great food.
Their yams are candied to perfection, sweet but not cloying, with a buttery glaze that catches the light.
The fried catfish is crispy on the outside and flaky inside, exactly how it should be.
Every regular customer seems to know each other, creating a community vibe that makes strangers feel like family immediately.
Address: 168 W Griffith St, Jackson, MS 39201
5. Rosie Mae’s
Rosie Mae’s doesn’t mess around when it comes to portion sizes—you’ll definitely get your money’s worth here.
The plates come loaded with food that tastes like it was prepared by someone who genuinely cares about feeding people well. Their black-eyed peas have the perfect texture, never mushy, with savory undertones that complement everything else.
The smothered pork chops are fork-tender and swimming in rich gravy. Bring your appetite because leaving here hungry is practically impossible.
Address: 4304 Welota Dr, Jackson, MS 39209
6. Aunt B’s Soul Food Restaurant
Tupelo’s Aunt B’s has mastered the art of fried chicken so well that people drive from neighboring towns just for a taste.
The crust is seasoned perfectly with spices that create layers of flavor without overwhelming your palate.
Their greens are cooked down beautifully, maintaining just enough texture while being tender enough to enjoy.
The macaroni is baked until the top gets slightly crispy while staying creamy underneath.
This place understands that soul food is about balance and love.
Address: 2750 S Green St, Tupelo, MS 38801
7. Fred’s Soul Food Restaurant
Fred’s serves breakfast and lunch, giving you double the opportunity to experience their incredible cooking.
Morning visits reveal fluffy biscuits that practically float off the plate, while lunchtime brings out the full meat-and-three experience.
Their lima beans are cooked until buttery soft, seasoned with just enough savory goodness.
The smothered chicken is fall-apart tender with gravy that deserves its own standing ovation.
Whether you visit for breakfast or lunch, satisfaction is absolutely guaranteed here.
Address: 930 Palmyra St, Jackson, MS 39203
8. Pearls Southern Kitchen
Ridgeland’s Pearls Southern Kitchen brings a slightly more polished approach to traditional comfort food without losing authenticity.
The presentation is prettier than most meat-and-three spots, but the flavors remain deeply rooted in Southern tradition.
Their squash casserole is creamy and rich, baked until golden on top.
The meatloaf comes glazed with a tangy-sweet sauce that perfectly complements the savory beef.
This spot proves you can elevate comfort food while keeping it comforting.
Address: 6955 Old Canton Rd Suite M, Ridgeland, MS 39157
9. Thelma’s Kitchen
Yazoo City might not be on everyone’s radar, but Thelma’s Kitchen is absolutely worth the detour.
This diner serves food that tastes exactly like what you’d find at a church potluck—honest, flavorful, and made with care.
Their butter beans are cooked perfectly tender, swimming in a savory broth.
The fried okra is crispy without being greasy, seasoned just right.
Small-town charm meets big-time flavor at this unassuming spot that locals treasure.
Address: 1017 S Industrial Pkwy, Yazoo City, MS 39194