The Mississippi Sound is home to almost any kind of seafood that you can imagine—shrimp, crabs, fish, and so much more. With ready access to that fresh catch and a heavy culinary influence from New Orleans, restaurants in Mississippi are creating some of the best seafood you'll find anywhere. These are our picks for the 8 best seafood restaurants in the state!
Mary Mahoney's is the most well-known seafood restaurant that Mississippi has to offer, and for good reason. The setting is one-of-a-kind, as the building was originally built in 1737. It's the perfect place to celebrate special occasions, and the staff is happy to accommodate. In addition to their Southern-style seafood, their gumbo is world-famous and can be ordered and shipped anywhere.
If you're looking for fresh oysters, most locals along the Coast will point you to Half Shell. The Half Shell is both upscale and laid-back, and it's great for a date night, special occasion, or just to treat yourself to a great meal. In addition to oysters almost any way you can imagine, you'll find delicious pastas, salads, and more, all in a charming and friendly atmosphere.
The best seafood in the state doesn't all have to come from the Coast. Drago's original location is in New Orleans, but in 2014 they opened a new spot in Jackson. The restaurant is known for their Charbroiled oysters, fresh Maine lobsters, and Blackened Catfish, and they've amassed big-name fans like Deuce McAllister with their delicious food and excellent service.
The White Cap is located in Central Gulfport. The vibe here is laid-back and local, the place to go for an authentic One Coast experience. The White Cap offers deck seating and ocean views, but if you sit inside, you can watch your being shucked right at the oyster bar. Their charbroiled oysters rival any other restaurant in the state, their portions are generous, and the staff is always friendly.
Despite having "Under the Oaks" right in the name, most first-time guests to Anthony's are taken by the charming setting on the bayou. The building sits low beside the water, with ancient Live Oaks creating a romantic canopy over the restaurant. Inside, white tablecloths and bayou views continue the romantic atmosphere. Customers rave about the Crab Cakes Pontchartrain!
One of the best things about seafood is the universal appeal. It's perfect to elevate in a fancy restaurant, but it can also be served in a causal, family-friendly establishment like Taranto's. Enjoy po’boys, crab cakes, salads, and more. Be sure to check out their lunch specials, and don't forget to stop by during crawfish season for great prices!
McElroy's is tucked into the Biloxi harbor, just on the other side of where the shrimp boats sell their daily catch during the season, so of course it's the perfect place to get great fresh seafood. They're one of our favorite breakfast stops too [Link: https://bestthingsms.com/breakfast-spots/], but their shrimp and grits are great any time of day or night, and you can't beat their lunch specials.
Rusty's is Vicksburg's entry into the seafood scene in Mississippi, and they've been busy impressing their customers. People come from near and far to try the crab cakes, stuffed grouper, and scallops, but it's really the service that is gaining attention for the restaurant. The owner's passion for what he does is apparent, and he often takes the time to talk to his customers personally.