The City With Soul: Discover Jackson’s Eclectic Culinary Scene
Jackson's dining scene is a treat, featuring everything from cozy mom-and-pop spots to James Beard Award-winning, chef-driven gems. You can dive into some seriously tasty southern cuisine here—think soul food, Cajun, Greek, and Italian, all with a fun twist.
What really makes this culinary scene pop is our talented chefs. The city's diverse population shines through in their delicious creations. Plus, Jackson's restaurant scene boasts a great mix of ownership and clientele, creating a friendly vibe that captures the essence of Southern hospitality.
Whether you’re craving competition barbecue, inventive cocktails, authentic French crepes, fresh Gulf seafood, or mouthwatering Wagyu beef, you’ll find plenty of awesome options waiting for you in Jackson.
FOOD FACTS
• Bully’s Soul Food Restaurant was named a James Beard American Classic.
• Hometown chef Hunter Evans has been named a James Beard semifinalist (2023) and finalist (2024), and Sambou’s African Kitchen was nominated for Best Restaurant South.
• Several Jackson chefs - including Chef Nick Wallace - have appeared on numerous Food Network competitions.
• Brent’s Drugs appeared in the film "The Help" along with other Fondren neighborhood businesses.
• Cathead Distillery is the first and oldest distillery in the state of Mississippi.
• Jackson is home to some unique southern fare, including Comeback Sauce, the pig ear sandwich, and tamales.
Culinary Connections: Nostalgia and Innovation in Hunter Evans’ Vision for Jackson’s Food Scene
Hunter Evans says he doesn’t remember a time when food wasn’t a focal point of his grandmother’s New Orleans home, for whom his restaurant, Elvie’s, is named. Evans and his business partner, Cody McCain, have also just bought, renovated, and re-opened a Downtown Jackson landmark, The Mayflower Cafe.
“It just feels like a city with so many opportunities, so much culture, so many artists that just support each other," Evans said. "Jackson is a food destination, but we are just beginning to tell that story.”
Chef Evans tells the story through creativity in the kitchen at Elvies and nostalgia at Mayflower. By collaborating and supporting others, he believes his team can create something brighter together than any of them could alone. He adds, “That's really helped us define who we are: working with farmers and vendors - from fishermen on the coast of Mississippi to distillers across the state - and to highlight what they do so that our guests get the best possible product.”
Raising a Glass to Mississippi’s First Legal Distillery, Cathead
Founded in 2010 by Austin Evans and Richard Patrick, Cathead Distillery is Mississippi’s first legal distillery, located in downtown Jackson. A 2020 James Beard semi-finalist for Outstanding Spirits Producer, Cathead is known for its eight award-winning spirits, including Cathead Vodka and Old Soul Bourbon, as well as its Cathead Sparkling canned cocktails.
The name “Cathead,” a term coined by blues musicians to honor respected artists, reflects the distillery’s deep ties to Mississippi’s cultural heritage. Cathead supports local artistry and live music through donations to nonprofits like the Music Maker Foundation and Yoknapatawpha Arts Council.
Beyond spirits, Cathead serves as a community hub with tastings, events, and live performances. Signature products like Cathead Vodka, distilled six times for a smooth finish, and Old Soul Bourbon, a blend of high-rye whiskeys, showcase its commitment to craftsmanship and tradition, embodying the spirit of Mississippi.