Mississippi Food Tour: 6 Culinary Trails Worth the Drive!

Mississippi’s culinary scene is as rich and diverse as its history, with delicious dishes that tell the story of the land, its people, and its deep-rooted traditions. From Delta-style tamales to legendary seafood straight from the Gulf, these Mississippi food trails invite adventurous eaters to immerse themselves in local flavors. Pack your appetite — it’s time to hit the trail.

Mississippi Delta Hot Tamale Trail

The Mississippi Delta Tamale Trail is a spicy, soulful journey through one of the region’s most beloved food traditions. In contrast to their Mexican counterparts, Delta-style tamales are smaller, simmered instead of steamed, and packed with bold, peppery flavor — proof that Mississippi has made this dish its own. Whether you like yours mild or fiery hot, doused in chili or eaten straight from the husk, one thing’s for sure: no two tamales (or tamale-makers) are the same.

You’ll be spoiled for choice on this tasty trail, but here are a few highlights you don’t want to miss:

Founded in 1941, Doe’s Eat Place in Greenville is an icon, famous for its no-frills charm and legendary tamales. While you’re in town, check out Delta mainstay Hot Tamale Heaven.
Hick’s Tamales & BBQ Shop in Clarksdale adds a smoky twist to the mix.
Stop by Vicksburg to sample the famously tasty menu at the original Solly’s Hot Tamales.
Don’t sleep on the small towns! A thirty minute drive from Clarksdale will take you to tiny Sledge, home of Ervin’s Hot Tamales. Over in Rosedale, White Front Café (also known as Joe’s Hot Tamale Place) keeps tradition alive with its flavor-packed tamales.

A plate of tamales on a checkered tablecloth, surrounded by hot sauce bottles, salt and pepper shakers, a basket of crackers, and a refreshing bottle of Coca-Cola. — The history behind the Delta tamale is a little murky. One legend claims the delicacy was introduced by Hispanic agricultural laborers. Another says tamales were brought back from the Mexican-American War, while yet a third posits that Native Americans were making them all along. The scrumptious tamales pictured here are available at Airport Grocery in Cleveland. Image: Visit Cleveland

The Slugburger Trail

The Slugburger Trail is a deep-fried dive into one of Mississippi’s most unique culinary traditions. We know what the name suggests, but don’t worry! Despite its name, there are no actual slugs involved — just a crispy, savory patty made from a blend of beef, soy meal, and secret seasonings, all fried to golden perfection and served on a bun with mustard, pickles, and onions. Born out of the Great Depression as an affordable way to stretch meat supplies, slugburgers have since become a regional icon.

You’ll find these delightful spots on this special trail:

In Corinth, the aptly-named Slugburger Cafe is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Dating back to 1843, historic Borroum’s Drug Store serves slugburgers alongside classic soda fountain treats.
White Trolley Café is a beloved local diner with a long history, offering a traditional slugburger experience.
Latham’s Hamburger Inn in New Albany is an old-fashioned shotgun-style diner, complete with a 1928 griddle.

Outdoor night concert with a crowd under string lights. People gather around tables and a stage with musicians, enjoying the vibrant Mississippi vibe. Red umbrellas and vendor tents add charm as the aroma of culinary delights fills the air, enhancing the festive atmosphere. — If you really want to explore the slugburger legend, visit Corinth’s annual Slugburger Festival, where food, music, and quirky contests celebrate this beloved Mississippi staple. Image: Visit Corinth

Two slugburgers with onion and pickle, paired with crinkle-cut fries in a paper-lined basket. — One bite, and you’ll understand why the humble slugburger has stood the test of time! Image: Facebook

Mississippi Hills Farm to Fork Foodie Trail

The Mississippi Hills Farm to Fork Foodie Trail is a fresh, flavor-packed journey celebrating the best of local farms, artisan producers, and chef-driven eateries. Winding through the rolling hills of northern Mississippi, this trail spotlights restaurants that turn homegrown ingredients into unforgettable meals. Whether it’s just-picked berries, pasture-raised beef, or handmade cheeses, every stop on this trail offers a true taste of Mississippi — one that’s bursting with freshness and always served with a side of hospitality.

There are over 30 stops along this trail! It’s hard to pick favorites, but here are a few:

Agrotourism spots include the delightful Wise Family Farms and Valley Road Honey Farm in Pontotoc.
There’s more than just food on this trail! Check out Queen’s Reward Meadery in Tupelo, The Bus Stop Flowers and Gifts in Houston, and the MS Peanut Supply and Equipment Co. in Aberdeen.
If coffee is what you crave, you’ll find the perfect cup of joe at High Point Roasters in New Albany and Blue Truck Coffee in Macon.
From street food to fine dining, the trail features a variety of local cuisines prepared by country cooks, skilled chefs, and artisanal producers. Check out restaurants like The Gemstone Bar & Grill in Amory, Commodore Bob’s in Starkville, and Daisy’s on the Square in New Albany.

A burger with cucumbers, onions, and sauce on a seeded bun sits on a sheet of brown paper, evoking the delicious discoveries found along Mississippi's Culinary Trails. In the background, two plastic containers await their turn. — You want burgers? Neon Pig in Tupelo has burgers — and much more! Their Smash Burger is to die for, their seafood is always fresh, and the veggies are spot-on. And if you’d like to take ingredients home, you’ll find tasty treats and an old-school butcher’s counter in this laid-back, come-on-in diner. Image: Facebook

Bundles of long green beans are stacked on a table covered with a checkered cloth, evoking the culinary trails of Mississippi. Nearby sit plastic containers filled with snapped beans and bags of mixed produce. — In addition to restaurants, you’ll find stops along the way to find your own seasonal, local ingredients. The Starkville Community Market is the perfect place to find garden-fresh greens! Other farmers markets include Tishomingo County Farmers Market and West Point Farmers Market. Image: Facebook

Tupelo Cocktail Trail

The Tupelo Cocktail Trail shakes up the classic Southern night out with a self-guided sip-and-stroll experience through some of the city’s best bars and restaurants. From craft cocktails infused with Mississippi flavors to tried-and-true classics poured to perfection, this trail is a toast to Tupelo’s lively and creative mixology scene.

Kick things off at Jobos, where fresh ingredients and inventive twists make every drink an experience.
Downunder offers international pub grub with a unique flair alongside handcrafted cocktails.
For a fun Mexican twist, don’t miss Loco Taco Downtown.
Amsterdam Deli is a relaxed, casual sandwich shop with creative, delicious cocktails.
Tupelo’s premier destination for delicious Italian and Cajun cuisine, Nautical Whimsy crafts outstanding drinks.

A cocktail with ice, garnished with a lemon slice and mint leaves, sits invitingly on a marble countertop, reminiscent of refreshing trails along the Mississippi. — Whether you prefer something smooth and smoky or light and refreshing, each stop on the trail serves up signature cocktails that capture the spirit of Tupelo, one delicious sip at a time. This yummy concoction is the Tupelo Honey from Park Heights. Image: Facebook

A cocktail in a coupe glass with a sugared rim and lemon twist garnish sits on a wooden surface next to a halved lemon, reminiscent of Southern charm along the culinary trails of Mississippi. — This scrumptious libation is the creation of The Grill at Fairpark. Image: Facebook

Hatties[BURGER] Trail

The Hatties[BURGER] Trail is a mouthwatering adventure through Hattiesburg, where burger joints range from classic diners to gourmet hotspots, all serving up their own spin on America’s favorite sandwich. From no-frills, old-school patties to towering creations piled high with toppings, this trail delivers big on flavor.

The stops on this trail number over 40, so here’s just a sampling:

What goes better with a burger than a locally brewed beer? You’ll find both at Colludium Brewing Company and Southern Prohibition Brewery!
Downtown, Hattiesburgers and Blues serves up gourmet burgers, craft beers, and live music in a casual atmosphere. For a retro diner vibe, Coney Island Café has been slinging burgers since 1923, proving that simple and delicious never goes out of style.
Located in Midtown, local legend Mugshots Grill & Bar is known for its half-pound masterpieces. Next, swing by Ed’s Burger Joint, where the patties are juicy, the toppings are wild, and the milkshakes are just as unforgettable.
Visit Blackwater Restaurant for mouthwatering, savory burgers. Sports fans, do not miss Sidelines Sports Cafe to catch the latest game – or play a few of your own – as you enjoy your food!

Five burgers lined up on a checkered table in a dimly lit Mississippi restaurant, where neon signs glow and a guitar graces the wall. — No matter where you visit, one thing’s certain: Hattiesburg takes its burgers seriously, and this trail is the ultimate way to taste them all. Image: Hatties[BURGER] Trail

Close-up of a burger with cheese on a toasted bun, resting on a white plate. — Keg & Barrel has two locations on the Hatties[BURGER] Trail. With creations like this “Cheese Louise” – with fried pimento cheese balls, burger patty, grilled brioche, bacon, and pepper jelly – we can understand why! Image: Facebook

Mississippi Seafood Trail

The Mississippi Seafood Trail is a coastal culinary adventure where the Gulf’s freshest catches take center stage. From casual waterfront shacks to upscale dining spots, this trail highlights the state’s deep-rooted seafood traditions with dishes that are as fresh as the ocean breeze.

We saved the longest for last! This amazing trail features the best of the best from over 90 restaurants. Here are just a few:

In the coastal region, legendary Mary Mahoney’s in Biloxi is a must-try. You’ll also find mouthwatering bites at Hook Gulf Coast Cuisine in Pass Christian and Mosaic in Ocean Springs.
In the southern region, satisfy your seafood cravings at Restaurant 1818, Magnolia Grille in Natchez, or Patio 44 in Hattiesburg.
Central Mississippi boasts CAET Seafood | Oysterette in Ridgeland, Walker’s Drive-In in Jackson, and 10 South Rooftop Bar & Grill in Vicksburg.
Looking for something closer to Memphis? Check out City Grocery in Oxford, Giardina’s in Greenwood, and Restaurant Tyler in Starkville.

Two hands reach for oysters on a platter of crushed ice, surrounded by lemon wedges and dipping sauces. — Get your oysters on the half-shell (and plenty of other culinary delights) at Snackbar in Oxford. Image: Facebook

Grilled fish with lemon wedges, grilled onions, and fried onion rings on a white plate by the Mississippi waters, offers a delightful stop along your Culinary Trails journey. — Whether it’s buttery broiled lobster, crispy fried fish, or a steaming bowl of gumbo, every bite along the trail proves why Mississippi is a seafood lover’s paradise. This delectable platter is from Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Gulfport. Image: Facebook

Happy trails! This article was made possible by Visit Mississippi.

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About the Author
Gaye Swan

As a professional writer of over 20 years, Gaye is an avid traveler and enjoys highlighting food, culture, and attractions around the South. While Gaye is passionate about her home city of Memphis, she's still a Mississippi girl at heart — born and raised in Meridian, MS.

6 Mississippi Culinary Trails for Your Next Road Trip