A Day-to-Night Guide to Dining in Tupelo

From skillet cookies to fried chicken sandwiches and a number of gems in between, Tupelo is a foodie’s paradise.

Sure, the South is known for its food scene. It’s kind of our thing. Barbecue, fried chicken, cornbread, biscuits – there are plenty of classics to be found all around these parts. But that’s just the start of what makes our town a foodie’s paradise. See, we don’t settle for the tried and tested.

We believe in turning tradition on its head, thinking outside the box, and doing things differently, like, the best chicken sandwich you’ll ever have from a gas station or that game-changing blueberry donut that comes from a fried chicken restaurant.

We’ve got a big appetite for a small town, with more than 200 restaurants ready to serve up some Southern charm. Here’s just a sample of eateries to check out, whether it’s morning, noon, or night!

BREAKFAST

It’s not called the most important meal of the day for nothing! Before you embark on your Natchez Trace adventures or explore a transformational trail, fuel up on biscuits, coffee, and more at these classic Tupelo stops.

Strange Brew Coffeehouse

There’s nothing strange about the coffee at Strange Brew, except, how badly you’ll want a second cup. Serving Mississippi-roasted coffee and homemade baked goods, this community hub offers a variety of delicious creative espresso drinks and unique pastries to perk up any sleepy traveler. Just ask the folks at Mississippi Magazine, who voted it as the best coffeehouse in the state in 2018.

Fairpark Grill

If you’re serious about brunch, make a pit stop at Fairpark Grill. Ranging from chicken and waffles to crab cake benedict, the menu is as varied as it is tasty! And, did we mention that they have the biggest Bloody Mary bar in town?

Note: Brunch available at Fairpark Grill on Saturdays and Sundays only.

Connie’s blueberry donuts are certainly something you’re going to want to write home about. Or text – you know what we mean.

Connie's Fried Chicken

At Connie’s, don’t let the name fool you. Sure, you’re bound to get some top-notch fried chicken at this iconic Tupelo establishment. But it’s the blueberry donuts that’ll keep you coming back. Seriously, you can’t leave Tupelo without trying one (or three – who’s counting anyway?).

Connie’s blueberry donuts are certainly something you’re going to want to write home about. Or text – you know what we mean.

Lunch

Phew! If all that exploring has left you feeling hungry, make your way to one of our many lunch spots! Here are some favorites.

CAFE 212

Right on Main Street, Cafe 212 serves up excellent sandwiches (including the Blue Suede Grill sandwich, which includes Elvis-approved ingredients, banana, peanut butter, and honey, grilled on wheatberry bread). This local favorite is also known for its colorful atmosphere, thanks to the artwork by locals decorating the walls.

KING CHICKEN FILLIN’ STATION

You can’t visit Tupelo without tasting the fried chicken from this gas station-turned chicken joint, King Chicken Fillin’ Station. It’s award-winning good, with two fried chicken accolades from Food Network and Mississippi Magazine in 2019 (and let us tell you, there’s stiff competition). See for yourself what the fuss is about.

You can’t miss a visit to Queen’s Reward Meadery – Mississippi’s first and only meadery.

QUEEN’S REWARD MEADERY

You didn’t think we’d forget happy hour, did you? And the happiest of hours you’ll have at Queen’s Reward Meadery – Mississippi’s first and only Meadery (a.k.a honey wine, a.k.a deliciousness in a glass). You’ll find it on McCullough Boulevard, where you can see the mead being made, enjoy a drink in the tasting room, or pick up a bottle for your nearest and dearest (and maybe a couple for yourself, too!)

DINNER (AND DESSERT!)

NAUTICAL WHIMSEY ITALIAN BISTRO & WINE BAR

During the warmer months, Nautical Whimsey is all about al fresco dining. But that’s just the start of why you should pay a visit. Come along for some classic Italian fare and a top-notch wine menu to match. Cheers!

Homemade popsicles are the name of the game at PoPsy, but folks can also pick up açaí bowls and smoothie bowls.

Pictured: @popsypopsicles
Credit: Kate Chesnut, Lost Coast Photography

Trust us, there’s plenty more where that came from! Check out our other dining options, and remember to tag your favorite food moments with #TupeloFoodie.

Related Content: