Hello, hello! Let’s start this article and get into the delicious heart of Madison, Mississippi. It’s a city that’s as sweet as the tea that fills the mason jars around town.
Seriously, Madison is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into one of those heartwarming movies with a close-knit community and a dash of that good ol’ Southern charm.
Now, let’s talk about food. Madison has been quietly simmering a food scene that’s a delightful blend of tradition and innovation.
From the time-tested Southern classics to modern fusions that make your taste buds do a double-take, it’s all here.
I made my way through Madison, ready to enjoy every bite. Each restaurant is a treasure trove of flavors and the variety? Incredible.
There’s a sense of pride and warmth in every plate served; it’s like the city’s way of welcoming you into their family.
So, join me as I guide you through the unassuming culinary paradise that is Madison, Mississippi.
We’re embarking on a journey that promises taste, tradition, and some delightful tales. Bon appétit, my friends! The best amongst the restaurants In Madison MS.
Table of Contents
Top Three Picks of The Best Restaurants In Madison MS
Restaurant | Top Pick | Our Rating |
Vasilios Greek Cuisine | Lemon-baked blackfish | 5/5 |
Strawberry Cafe | Chicken Cutlet | 4.5/5 |
Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ and Bar B Que Buffet | Southern fried chicken | 4.5/5 |
The 6 Best Restaurants In Madison MS
Vasilios Greek Cuisine
828 US-51, Madison, MS 39110, United States // +16018530028
Oh, folks, let me start by taking you on a trip to the Mediterranean; no passport needed! Right here in Madison, Mississippi, tucked away in a quaint corner, is Vasilios Greek Cuisine – the ultimate place to sate your Greek cravings.
You step into Vasilios, and it’s like a burst of sunshine; the space is cheerful and unpretentious. The aroma of herbs and spices wafts through the air, and you can hear the gentle sizzle from the kitchen.
I popped in for lunch, and from the get-go, Vasilios made a lasting impression. We started off with the hummus and pita bread appetizer, and folks; it was like a party in my mouth!
The pita bread was so fresh; it was practically singing. It was almost too hot to touch, but who could resist? And the hummus? Divine! It was rich and creamy – if I could write a love letter to an appetizer, this would be it.

For the main course, I opted for the lemon-baked blackfish. Let me tell you; it was a masterpiece! Flaky, moist, and infused with a citrusy tang that was just perfection.
My friend went for the shrimp and scallops dish in a spicy Greek white sauce over rice. The seafood was cooked to utter perfection, and the sauce had just the right amount of kick.
The cherry on top? The delightful Greek salad. Fresh greens with an oil and vinaigrette dressing that I would totally take a bath in if I could.
Not to forget the wait staff – these angels were super responsive, attentive, and seemed to know the menu inside out.
The ambiance, though simple, felt like home. The kind of comfort that wraps you up like a cozy blanket on a chilly day.
If Madison is the heart of Mississippi, Vasilios is the soul of the Mediterranean in the heart of Madison. It’s an unassuming treasure that will leave your taste buds doing a happy dance.
Sal & Mookie’s – Madison
111 Colony Crossing Way Suite 130, Madison, MS 39110, United States // +16014991300
Next up, I’ve got the inside scoop (pun totally intended) on a place that’s slinging not just mouthwatering eats but memories. I’m talking about none other than Sal & Mookie’s in Madison, Mississippi!
First off, the location is spot on. It’s snuggled up in a shopping center where you can make those home improvement dreams come true at Home Depot and even sneak in a cookie from Crumbl next door. But let’s talk about Sal & Mookie’s, shall we?
The place itself is a fun twist on the usual. There’s a nifty bar area that’s like the secret hideaway you always wished you had. And, oh, did I mention the ice cream bar? Yup, they’ve got that too!
So, lunchtime rolled around, and I found myself at Sal & Mookie’s. There was a little wait for the food, about 10-15 minutes, but friends; the patience pays off. I went for the Stromboli.
Now, I can’t quite recall if it was named “Meat Street” or “Market”, but what I can tell you is that it was pure magic.
It whisked me back to a trip I took to Philly, where I stumbled upon this authentic Italian diner. I remember a lovely short, heavy-set cook chatting away in Italian – I didn’t catch a word, but boy, did that Stromboli speak to my soul. The one at Sal & Mookie’s was a taste twin!
Now, I’ll be straight with you; it was a tad pricier – think $20 for the meal and sweet tea (which was the nectar of the gods, by the way).
But hey, for a meal that doubles as a time machine and a taste adventure? Take my money, Sal & Mookie’s.
In a nutshell, Sal & Mookie’s is dishing out food that’s consistently fabulous, service that’s top-notch, and an atmosphere that’s quirky and welcoming. It’s a must-visit amongst the restaurants in Madison MS, folks!
Strawberry Cafe
107 Depot Dr, Madison, MS 39110, United States // +16018563822
Strawberry Café is like a heartwarming novel you can’t put down; it’s set in an old train depot. Yes, you read that right, a train depot! It’s like stepping into a delightful little storybook with the coziness of an old house that whispers tales of yesteryears.
Now, onto the main act – the food. I swear the menu must have been curated by angels because it is divine!
Whether you’re in for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the spread has a Southern-inspired extravaganza waiting to be devoured. And the price tags don’t make you weep – win-win!
My taste buds were practically doing the cha-cha when I tried the Chicken Cutlet. Crispy as the fall leaves, it cozied up to sausage gravy and poached eggs like they were long-lost friends.
A match made in heaven, I tell you!
But hold your horses because there’s more. The pot roast in the Train Wreck – oh, be still my beating heart.
It was so tender it melted like butter on the tongue. And the biscuits they serve? You’d think they’ve been hand-delivered by Grandma herself.
The staff at Strawberry Café deserves a standing ovation. They’re the kind of folks you’d want to invite over for Thanksgiving. Quick, friendly, and with suggestions that were like golden tickets to Flavor Town.
And let’s not forget the cherry on top – or should I say, strawberry? This delightful haven offers table service, takeout, reservations, and, yes, they serve alcohol. The place is wheelchair accessible, has parking, and highchairs too. It’s like they thought of everything!
In summary, Strawberry Café is like a warm hug on a cold day, served up with lip-smackingly good food in a setting that’s oozing with charm. If you find yourself in Madison, MS, you’d best make a beeline for this gem. I mean, a train depot, people!
Burgers Blues Barbecue – Madison
2077 Main St, Madison, MS 39110, United States // +16017062060
For our next restaurant is a place that’s about to skyrocket to the top of your must-visit list. I’m talking about Burgers Blues Barbecue right here in lovely Madison, MS. And oh boy, does it hit all the right notes!
I walked in, and it was like stepping into a hug. The staff at BBB – let’s get cozy with the name – are like the welcoming committee of your dreams.
Greetings were flying left and right, and I half expected to be crowned honorary mayor of Burger Town.
Now let’s get down to business: the food. I ordered the comeback burger and let me tell you, the name is Prophecy because you WILL want to come back for more.
The burger patty was thicker than a good plot and so delicious that I could only conquer half of it.
But wait, there’s more: the onion rings. Not your average soggy mess, these golden halos were crispy, flavorful, and so addictive they should probably be regulated.
The wings? Oh, the wings! They were kissed by the smoke gods and were the stuff that culinary dreams are made of.
Barry Street and his crew are like the Avengers of the food world; they’ve assembled to save your taste buds.
Every dish that lands on your table is a carefully crafted experience. You can tell there’s pride and attention to detail woven into every bite.
BBB’s dining area is like your living room but better. And get this, sweet Blues tunes are dancing through the air, cradling you into the perfect vibe for a meal that’ll make your taste buds sing.
Whether you’re dining in, basking in the glory of their outdoor seating, or grabbing a bagful of joy to-go, Burgers Blues Barbecue is like that song that gets stuck in your head – in the best way.
So, if you’re in Madison or just passing through, make a pit stop at BBB. It’s not just a meal, it’s an encore-worthy performance in every bite.
Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ and Bar B Que Buffet
480 Magnolia St, Madison, MS 39110, United States // +16018564407
Oh, the tales I could tell of the Southern comfort food gem that is Mama Hamil’s Southern Cookin’ and Bar B Que Buffet, nestled in the heart of Madison, MS.
This local favorite has been dishing out soul-warming delights since the 1970s, and let me tell you, they’ve perfected the art.
Stepping into Mama Hamil’s is a bit like traveling back in time. The walls whisper stories of yore, adorned with old photographs, antiques, and a myriad of curiosities that invite your eyes to feast while you wait for the main event.
And let’s chat about that main event, shall we? The food at Mama Hamil’s is the kind of fare that triggers memories of family gatherings and Sunday dinners.
The menu is an ode to Southern cuisine, brimming with classics that are prepared from scratch and served fresh. It’s a lineup so extensive you’ll wish for a second or even a third stomach.
Oh, the Southern fried chicken! I swear it’s seasoned with a secret ingredient called “love”. The BBQ pork was a hearty, smoky delight, while the fish was flawlessly prepared.
And the array of vegetables? Simply divine. Each dish was like a culinary high-five, leaving a taste that keeps you coming back for more.
The dessert – oh, sweet heaven, the dessert! Cinnamon rolls that melt in your mouth, just the right finale to a symphony of flavors.
Now, it might seem daunting when you see the lines, but those queues move faster than a hummingbird’s wings. Everyone knows it’s worth the wait.
All the practicalities are sorted, too – they accept credit cards, offer private dining, high chairs, takeout, ample parking, and the establishment is wheelchair accessible.
So there you have it, fellow food lovers. Mama Hamil’s in Madison is more than just a restaurant; it’s a walk down memory lane, a tribute to Southern heritage, and a delightful dance for your taste buds.
Don’t just take my word for it; give it a whirl and experience the magic yourself.
Crab Boat Restaurant
1029 US-51 suite a, Madison, MS 39110, United States // +16017909787
It’s an absolute delight when you stumble upon a hidden gem, especially when that gem serves up some of the best seafood you’ve ever tasted.
That’s exactly what happened to me on a recent outing in Madison, MS. I took a chance on Crab Boat Restaurant, and let me tell you, it’s an adventure I’d gladly embark on again.
On a quiet Saturday night, despite my usual avoidance of fried foods, the menu enticed me into trying fried oysters, shrimp, and onion rings.
Folks, this was a deep-fried dream! Each bite was a masterclass in perfect frying – no excessive grease, just golden, crunchy goodness enveloping succulent seafood. I daresay these were the best I’ve ever had!
My friend, a lover of all things crustacean, went for the lobster and crab legs. Now, he’s a tough critic when it comes to seafood, but he declared them perfect.
They were steamed in a sauce that seeped into every nook and cranny, making each bite a flavorful delight.
But the show-stopper of the Crab Boat experience, I must say, was the service. The staff was as warm and welcoming as a Mississippi sunset.
Our server, though I regret I can’t recall his name, was a ray of sunshine. His attentiveness and friendly demeanor made our dining experience even more special.
A kind lady, who we suspected might be related to the owner, also checked on us a couple of times, ensuring our dining experience was nothing short of excellent.
This combination of great food and heartfelt service is what makes Crab Boat a treasure of Madison.
So, if you find yourself in the area, don’t hesitate to drop anchor at the Crab Boat Restaurant. It’s a culinary voyage you won’t regret. Trust me, Mississippi sure knows how to deliver when it comes to seafood.
Foodies Also Ask
What’s the dress code for restaurants in Madison MS?
Madison keeps it real and cozy. Most places have a casual vibe, so your comfy jeans and a nice top will do just fine.
If you’re visiting a fine dining restaurant, maybe step it up a notch – but nothing too extravagant; you’re here to feast!
Any local foodie events I should look out for in Madison?
Absolutely! Madison plays host to various food festivals and events throughout the year. Keep an eye out for the Annual Mississippi Food and Wine Festival and Madison’s Farmer’s Market for fresh produce and artisanal treats.
These events are a culinary carnival, and you don’t want to miss ‘em!
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Can I find international cuisine in Madison?
Oh, you betcha! While Southern cuisine reigns supreme, Madison is quite the melting pot. Vasilios Greek Cuisine will transport you straight to the Mediterranean with their gyros and spanakopita.
Craving Italian? Sal & Mookie’s is where it’s at. Madison’s food scene is like a passport for your palate.
Wrapping Up: The 6 Best Restaurants In Madison MS
Oh, what a culinary journey we’ve been on, my dear food enthusiasts! Madison, MS is not just a city; it’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds.
From the first bite of succulent barbecue to the last sip of sweet tea, Madison has proven to be a bonafide food paradise.
But what makes Madison’s dining scene truly special is not just the food; it’s the people behind it.
Every dish is served with a side of warm Southern hospitality, and every meal feels like you’re dining amongst friends.
The city’s charm seeps through the walls of its eateries and wraps you in a cozy embrace.
The range of options in Madison also means that there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re craving down-home Southern comfort, spicy international flavors, or the freshest of seafood, Madison’s got your back.
So, to all the culinary wanderers out there, make Madison, MS, your next food destination. Keep an open heart, a big appetite, and allow Madison to sweep you off your feet.
It’s more than a meal; it’s an experience that will linger in your memory (and taste buds) for years to come.
Visiting other destinations in Mississippi? Check out our other delicious guides:
- 10 Must-Try Restaurants In Oxford, Mississippi
- 5 Best Biloxi Restaurants
- 7 Must-Try Bay St. Louis Restaurants
- 7 Best Ocean Springs Restaurants
- 9 Best Pascagoula Restaurants
- 5 Best Natchez MS Restaurants
- The 7 Best Mexican Restaurants In Jackson MS
- 6 Best Jackson MS BBQ Restaurants
Igor Jovanovski is an aspiring digital nomad, travel blogger and graphic designer who really loves food. He also has a creative side, and he works as a freelance graphic designer in his spare time. He has traveled across Europe quite a few times since he was young and recently started his mission to visit every country in the world! Igor’s favorite thing about traveling is the way he gets to know new people, food, places and cultures.
This exciting experience helps him create his own stories and make memories that will last forever