Welcome, fellow foodies, to the rich, mouth-watering culinary landscape of Natchez, Mississippi – a gastronomic treasure trove hidden in plain sight.
Set on the rolling banks of the Mississippi River, Natchez, with its antebellum charm and Southern hospitality, encapsulates a cornucopia of culinary delights, truly showcasing the art of southern comfort cooking. From soul-reviving bayou flavors to heavenly sweet treats baked to perfection, every dish in Natchez carries a tale of tradition, a pinch of history, and a whole lot of love.
As we pull up a chair, loosen our dining belts, and venture into the vibrant food scene of this historic city, you will be introduced to locally adored, hidden gem restaurants, innovative fusion eateries, and rustic, farm-to-table dining experiences that cause a riot of flavors in your mouth. Natchez embraces a palate-pleasing diversity of gustatory experiences that goes gloriously beyond the stereotypical notion of ‘Southern fried’.
In this evocative food tour, we will embark on a multisensory exploration and savor the hearty Casseroles, succulent Barbecues, fluffy Biscuits dripping in gravy, sugary Pecan pies, and much, much more. The gastronomy of Natchez is an epic symphony composed of many notes – savoury, sweet, spicy and tangy, all playing their part in harmony.
So, hold onto your cutlery, folks; you’re in for a flavorful ride. Welcome to Natchez, the hidden culinary gem of the South!
Most Popular Restaurants in Natchez
As a foodie’s paradise, Natchez, Mississippi, offers a delicious mix of culinary establishments that capture the deep-rooted Southern traditions and gastronomic innovation. Below is a handpicked list of the most popular restaurants that you must visit when you’re in town.
Roux 61 located at 453 U.S. 61, Natchez, MS 39120 is a must-visit. Known for its seafood, steak, and other Southern classics, this eatery is a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike. The menu showcases dishes inspired by Mississippi’s heritage like their catfish Atchafalaya, cooked to perfection, and delicious char-grilled oysters.
When it comes to pizza and Italian fare, Pizza Pub at 111 Clifton Ave, Natchez, MS 39120 stands out. The divine smell of baking pizza greets you from the moment you walk in. Their wood-fired pizzas, topped with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and mouthwatering pasta dishes have a loyal fanbase.
For a hearty breakfast or a quick lunch, don’t miss out on Natchez Coffee Company situated at 509 Franklin St, Natchez, MS 39120. This café serves a variety of coffees, baked goodies, sandwiches, and salads that are as comforting as they’re appetizing. Their chicken salad sandwich is a crowd favorite, and their fresh-baked pastries are to die for.
A trip to Natchez is incomplete without experiencing fine dining at Restaurant 1818 inside Monmouth Historic Inn at 36 Melrose Ave, Natchez, MS 39120. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu filled with Southern cuisine. The fried green tomatoes and the shrimp and grits come highly recommended. Not to mention, the historic mansion setting adds a touch of elegance to your dining experience.
If you crave for some spicy and flavorful Mexican food, head over to Fat Mama’s Tamales at 303 S Canal St, Natchez, MS 39120. This laid-back, colorful joint offers the best tamales in town, an assortment of spicy chili, and the infamous margaritas. The ‘Knock-You-Naked’ margarita, paired with a plate of hot tamales, promises to offer an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
No matter your preference, dining in Natchez, Mississippi, is sure to offer an array of flavors and experiences that will leave you yearning for more.
Most Unique Restaurants in Natchez
Let’s embark on a culinary journey through Natchez, Mississippi, beginning with the Restaurant 1818. Located in the heart of Natchez at 401 High St, Natchez, MS 39120, inside the historic Monmouth Historic Inn. Dining at Restaurant 1818 is truly a unique experience as it allows you to dine amongst period antiques and artwork in the main house’s original dining room. The menu is a Southern delight, filled with delicious classics made from locally sourced, farm-fresh ingredients. The Crispy Duck Confit and Grilled Angus Ribeye are must-tries.
Next on the list is the renowned Roux 61. Situated at 453 Highway 61 S, Natchez, MS 39120, Roux 61 serves as a tribute to the Great River Road, Highway 61. They specialize in seafood and steaks, dished up with a southern flair. The atmosphere is electric, with its upbeat blues music complementing the vibrant culinary delights. The catfish and shrimp are local favorites. Their signature dish, however, is their bread pudding. It is served with a bourbon sauce that will surely have your taste buds dancing.
Further down the road at 36 Melrose Montebello Parkway, Natchez, MS 39120, you’ll find the Castle Restaurant and Pub. Housed in a historic 18th-century mansion, Dunleith Historic Inn, this restaurant offers an experience that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, each menu offering an array of American classics like the Seafood Beignets, Shrimp and Grits, and the Castle Burger.
Unassumingly situated in a local gas station at 533 Highway 61 N, Natchez, MS 39120, you’ll discover Mama’s Kitchen. Known among locals as a hidden gem, Mama’s Kitchen brings comfort food to an entirely new level. From their mouthwatering fried chicken to their made-from-scratch biscuits, each dish served is a testament to Southern cooking at its finest.
A visit to Natchez wouldn’t be complete without a stop at The Camp. Tucked away at 21 Silver St, Natchez, MS 39120, dining at The Camp offers a spectacular view of the Mississippi River. Known for their laid-back atmosphere and tasty, casual fare, The Camp is a favorite among both visitors and locals. The menu offers a mix of burgers, sandwiches, salads, and seafood. Their signature dish, the Campfire Nachos, is a must-try!
Best Casual Restaurants in Natchez
Natchez, Mississippi is a city that’s rich in history, charm, and culinary delights. One can’t help but be enchanted by the captivating southern charm that infuses every corner of this city, including its casual dining scene. Let’s take a look at some of the best casual restaurants that this charming city has to offer.
Roux 61 located at 453 U.S Highway 61 Natchez, MS 39120, is one such eatery that embodies the soul of the Mississippi River. This seafood and steak joint serves generous portions of southern favorites, including their infamous shrimp and grits – a delightful pairing of succulent shrimp and creamy, buttery grits that’s simply a celebration of Southern tradition on a plate. The relaxed, rustic ambiance only serves to enhance the overall dining experience, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
For those who want to savor mouth-watering Italian cuisine, Papa John’s Pizza found at 290 John R Junkin Dr, Natchez, MS 39120 is a must-visit. While the name is familiar, this location offers a distinct dining experience. Their pizzas, generously topped with a selection of fresh ingredients, have a perfectly crispy crust that’s been perfected over years. The homely atmosphere and unpretentious service make it a perfect spot for a casual dinner.
Situated in 26 Hwy 61 N, Natchez, MS 39120, McGee’s Landing is a hidden gem on the banks of the Mississippi River. Known for its authenticity and fun atmosphere, McGee’s offers a range of Southern delicacies, with their po’boys and gumbo being particularly popular. The restaurant’s fantastic view of the river and the surrounding area adds a distinct charm to the dining experience here.
Mammas Kitchen located in 421 Hwy 61 N, Natchez, MS 39120, promises a unique and delicious dining experience. The restaurant is famous for its country-style cuisine, featuring dishes that are filled with character and flavor. From their melt-in-your-mouth pot roast to their hearty country fried steak, every dish at Mamma’s Kitchen is a loving rendition of southern comfort food.
Last but not the least, located at 7 Sgt Prentiss Dr, Natchez, MS 39120, Fatty’s Pizza, is the perfect spot for pizza lovers seeking a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. With its hand-tossed pizzas, fresh ingredients, and a variety of bold flavors, it has elevated the classic pizza experience to a whole new level. Whether you’re dining in or taking away, their pizzas are a clear winner on any casual dining list.
These eateries provide the perfect blend of comfort and delightful culinary experiences, making them the top casual restaurants in Natchez, Mississippi. Each visit promises not just a meal, but a journey into the heart and soul of the Deep South’s culinary traditions.
Best Family Restaurants in Natchez
If you’re looking for a great family dining experience in Natchez, Mississippi, you’re in for a treat. This charming southern town boasts an array of fantastic restaurants that offer a variety of cuisine options in a family-friendly setting.
First on the list is Roux 61. Located at 453 Highway 61 N, Natchez, MS 39120, this is a must-visit for authentic Southern cuisine. Their menu is filled with incredible dishes like shrimp and grits, crawfish étouffée, and blackened redfish. They even have a dedicated kid’s menu, making it a perfect choice for families with young ones.
Next up is Cotton Alley Cafe, situated at 208 Main Street, Natchez, MS 39120. It’s a cozy spot known for its Southern-inspired dishes, creative cocktails, and homemade desserts. The children will love their signature burgers and fries, while adults can enjoy a sophisticated menu featuring dishes like duck confit and pecan-crusted chicken.
For pizza lovers, the Pizza Café is a dream come true. Located at 408 Martin Luther King Jr St, Natchez, MS 39120, this family-friendly pizzeria is famous for its made-to-order pizzas with a variety of toppings to choose from. Make sure to try their popular ‘Magnolia Bluff’ pizza topped with shrimp, crawfish, and andouille sausage.
If you’re in the mood for barbeque, visit Pig Out Inn Barbeque at 116 S Canal St, Natchez, MS 39120. Known for their hickory-smoked meats and homemade sauces, they offer mouthwatering ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. Their relaxed, casual environment makes for a perfect family meal out.
Last but not least is Under The Hill Saloon at 25 Silver St, Natchez, MS 39120. Despite its name, it’s a family-friendly pub that offers a unique dining experience with its riverside views. They have a vast menu to cater for everyone, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and signature dishes like catfish po’ boys. A great place to wind down after a day of exploring Natchez.
With these brilliant restaurants at your disposal, Natchez is surely a haven for food lovers. All of them provide excellent customer service and an ambiance that adds to the entire dining experience. Enjoy your family dining adventure in Natchez!
Best Takeout Food in Natchez
If you’re in the mood for some outstanding takeout food in Natchez, Mississippi, then look no further than Roux 61 at 453 US 61. This place offers an impressive menu packed with seafood, steaks, and southern classics that are bound to make your taste buds tingle with delight.
Known for its award-winning shrimp and grits, Roux 61 does not disappoint. The shrimp are grilled to perfection, and the grits are creamy and full of flavor. You will also love their decadent crab cakes served with a tangy remoulade sauce. If you’re a steak fan, their ribeye is a must-try. Cooked just the way you like it, the steak is beautifully seasoned and comes with a choice of two sides.
Another noteworthy option for takeout in Natchez is Biscuits & Blues located at 315 Main St. This spot is a haven for comfort food lovers. As its name suggests, biscuits are a specialty here. Get ready to enjoy some of the fluffiest biscuits you’ve ever tasted, perfect as a side with any meal or on their own with a dollop of butter and fresh jam.
Don’t forget to try their mouthwatering fried catfish and hush puppies. The catfish is crispy on the outside, moist and flaky on the inside, and the hush puppies are delightfully crunchy. For a hearty meal, go for their smoked chicken – it’s moist, flavorful and served with a tangy barbecue sauce. Finish off your meal with a slice of their homemade pecan pie, and you’ll be in food heaven!
However, if you’re craving mouthwatering Mexican cuisine, then you must try Fat Mama’s Tamales located at 303 S Canal St. Famous for their homemade tamales, Fat Mama’s offers a variety of flavors to choose from, including their spicy chicken or tender pork tamales. These are all wrapped in a corn husk and served with their signature chili sauce.
Another favorite from Fat Mama’s is their chili cheese nachos. These are loaded with their homemade chili, melted cheese, and topped with fresh jalapeños. Wash it all down with their “Knock-You-Naked” margarita, available for takeout. It’s not only delicious but also quite potent, so handle with care!
Regardless of your food preferences, Natchez, Mississippi has a slew of takeout options that promise not only to satisfy your cravings but also introduce you to the rich, diverse culinary traditions of the South.
What Foods is Natchez Known For?
Natchez, Mississippi, a small city nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River, is a trove of culinary delights, full of rich history and unique flavors. The city is renowned for its Southern cuisine and soul food. However, the jewel in the crown has to be the famous “Natchez-style” hot tamales.
Hot tamales are a type of Mexican street food, but the Natchez version has been deeply entrenched in its local culture with a flavor that is uniquely its own. These are typically smaller, spicier, and wetter than the traditional Mexican tamales. The Natchez version is generally made up of seasoned pork meat, simmered until tender and then shredded, with a spicy cornmeal casing, and simmered in a spicy broth. It’s a labor of love, often taking an entire day to create these bite-sized goodies.
For the best hot tamales in town, you must visit Fat Mama’s Tamales. Fat Mama’s Tamales, located at 303 S Canal St, Natchez, MS 39120, is legendary in this region. Their ‘Knock-You-Naked’ margarita is the perfect accompaniment to their hot tamales, promising a culinary experience that your taste buds won’t forget anytime soon.
Another iconic food that hails from Natchez is the Mississippi Mud Pie. This sinfully delicious dessert consists of a crumbly chocolate cookie crust, a dense layer of decadent chocolate cake, a fudge sauce, and a topping of whipped cream. The result is an explosion of chocolaty goodness that’s rich, creamy, and utterly addictive.
The best place to sample this indulgent dessert is at The Camp Restaurant. Located at 21 Silver St, Natchez, MS 39120, The Camp offers its diners a taste of genuine Southern hospitality. Their Mississippi Mud Pie, served with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a dusting of icing sugar, is an absolute must-try and the perfect ending to your Southern feast.
Last but not least, don’t miss out on the deliciously satisfying Natchez-specific po’boy. A traditional sandwich from Louisiana, it finds its own genre in Natchez, where it is given a Southern twist. The Natchez po’boy stands tall and proud with its soft, crusty bread filled with fried shrimp, catfish, or roast beef and all the trimmings.
A top choice for enjoying a Natchez po’boy is Under-the-Hill Saloon located at 25 Silver St, Natchez, MS 39120. This historic riverfront saloon serves the most delectable po’boys in town in an atmospheric setting that will transport you back in time. The freshly made sandwiches, served with a cold beer, are a must-try for any foodie visiting Natchez.
Indeed, Natchez, Mississippi, with its unique culinary heritage and creative food culture, offers its visitors a diverse and delicious array of foods to relish.
Eating Your Way Around Natchez: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Our first stop is the world-famous Restaurant 1818 located at Monmouth Historic Inn, 1358 John A Quitman Blvd, Natchez, MS 39120. Packed into a pre-Civil War mansion, this restaurant offers Southern charm and elegance at its finest with a menu filled with classic and innovative Southern cuisine.
Next, we head to King’s Tavern at 619 Jefferson St, Natchez, MS 39120. One of the oldest standing buildings in the Mississippi Territory and Natchez, King’s Tavern crafts wood-fired flatbreads and handcrafted cocktails in a laid-back yet historic environment. Don’t forget to try their renowned rum, made at their very own distillery.
For a unique breakfast or brunch experience, Steampunk Coffee Roasters at 114 High St, Natchez, MS 39120 is a delight. With its hipster vibe and artisan coffee, it’s a great place to kick-start your day. The avocado toast is a crowd-pleaser.
Our lunch stop is Biscuits & Blues at 315 Main St, Natchez, MS 39120. Just as its name suggests, you can enjoy fluffy biscuits with a side of smooth blues music. They serve traditional home-cooked Southern fare, perfect for a lunch break.
We then move on to Camp Restaurant located at 21 Silver St, Natchez, MS 39120, right on the banks of the Mississippi River. With an outdoor seating area providing stunning views of the sunset over the river, it’s the perfect spot to chill with a choice of locally brewed beers or craft cocktails and their popular pimento cheese dip.
Finally, for an unforgettable upscale dining experience, we visit The Castle Restaurant at Dunleith Historic Inn, 84 Homochitto St, Natchez, MS 39120. This award-winning restaurant is known for its fresh, local ingredients and warm hospitality in a stunning historic setting. The Castle’s signature Beef Wellington is a must-try.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are the best restaurants to visit in Natchez, Mississippi?
A1: Natchez has a lot of great dining options. If you’re looking for something local and traditional, The Camp, The Pilot House, and Cotton Alley Cafe are must-visits. For fine dining, you won’t want to miss King’s Tavern and Restaurant, and Dunleith Historic Inn. If you’re looking for something more casual, Fat Mama’s Tamales and The Rib Cage are great options.
Q2: Where can I find the best seafood in Natchez?
A2: Roux 61 Seafood & Grill is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its delicious seafood offerings. The Magnolia Grill also has an excellent selection of seafood dishes, with a beautiful view of the Mississippi River.
Q3: What are the best places for breakfast or brunch in Natchez?
A3: For a hearty breakfast or brunch, you cannot miss Natchez Coffee Co. or The Natchez Pearl Cafe! Both offer a range of traditional breakfast items along with special dishes. If you’re looking for something quick and casual, Steampunk Coffee Roasters or The Donut Shop offer great options.
Q4: Are there vegan or vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Natchez?
A4: While traditional southern cuisine can be meat-centric, there are still options for vegans and vegetarians in Natchez. Places like Natchez Coffee Co., Steampunk Coffee Roasters, and Planet Thailand have vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes on their menus. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to check on available options.
Q5: Where can I find the best BBQ in Natchez?
A5: For the best BBQ, you should definitely visit The Pig Out Inn Barbeque or The Camp. They are famous for their smoked meats and sides that define southern BBQ.
Q6: Are there any Italian restaurants in Natchez?
A6: Yes, there are a few Italian restaurants in Natchez. Nonna Restaurant offers a contemporary take on Italian cuisine, while Pearl Street Pasta is revered for its classic Italian dishes. If you’re in the mood for pizza, The Camp has a wood-fired oven that serves up excellent pies.
Q7: What restaurants in Natchez offer outdoor seating?
A7: The Camp, The Pilot House, and Magnolia Grill have beautiful outdoor seating areas. The outdoor seating at The Camp and Magnolia Grill also offers a fantastic view of the Mississippi River.
Q8: What are some good places for dessert in Natchez?
A8: For a sweet finish to your meal, you must visit Darby’s Famous Fudge, which offers a huge range of delicious homemade fudge. Natchez Coffee Co. also offers a variety of sweet pastries and desserts. The Donut Shop is a local favorite for their donuts and pastries.
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