Six Things To Eat And Drink In Mississippi That Will Change Your Life

Forbes

19-06-2025

This state may be off the beaten track, but trust me if you show up you will be culinarily rewarded. I have had impressive BBQ in a number of states, but what you will find in Mississippi will knock your socks off. Fried chicken: yes I have enjoyed it in other places, but it was transformational here. And collards are not so simple to make right: the secret is apple cider vinegar but don't tell anyone.
It is the classic Southern fare that endures down in this state. I would like to say it is a bit healthier than it was: but I can't. However, it is darn good.
Fried chicken, even when the Koreans do it so well, has never been my thing. Less so a doughy biscuit or heavy gravy. But let me tell you the simple dish at Connie's in Tupelo—the birthplace of Elvis Presley—will change your mind. It is one tiny piece of perfectly fried chicken, on a bun, enjoyed in a simple diner atmosphere but that moist meat enveloped in the crunch is something you will never forget. Oddly, Connie's also makes some great blueberry donuts.
You really don't need to eat it and nor will your stomach love you but it is amazing to know that such a thing exists and to gaze upon it. We ordered it, but did not finish it, at Hal & Mal's. I only thought only enormous quantities of beer came in such big sizes.
Pint & Pig really hit the high notes. This Jackson, Mississippi 'cue joint has it all going on with everything from pulled pork to amazing sausages.
Cathead is a distillery based in Jackson it is also the state's first legal distillery. This distiller has a range of great spirits, ranging from honeysuckle vodka to gin and Bourbon. It also features live music and is run by a group of inspired women.
Cathead makes unique spirits in Jackson, MS.
Andrew Welch
Slushies on offer at the Queen's Reward.
Liza B. Zimmerman
You don't hear much about it outside of Scandinavia, but distillate made from honey is very much alive at the Queen's Reward in Tupelo, Mississippi. These drinks run on the sweeter side but are amazing in summer when mixed into swirls of different slushies which can be had by the pitcher and even to go. Past flavors have included Peach, Snow Cream and Strawberry Lemonade.
This proud agricultural school is turning out meats and mustards like it is nobody's business. They are all available in the campus gift shop. I wish I had seen products like these for sale in famous Ag schools in California (won't name names). But this school offers some great local meats and cheese.
One thing that remains a mystery is chicken on a stick. For me in doesn't rate up there with the other contenders, however it is a Mississippi obsession.
In Oxford, Mississippi. This unimpressive gas station across from the lovely The Oliver Hotel is a famous source of 'Chicken on a Stick.' Despite its appearance it is said to be a favorite of University of Mississippi students.