LaReeca Rucker

Last week, I stumbled upon a one-of-a-kind Mississippi dining experience, and it inspired me to start something new: a video blog series called “Mississippi Style On the Road.” Whenever I’m out exploring the state and come across something special — whether it’s food, culture, or just good old-fashioned charm — I’ll try to capture it and share it with you. (Check out the first video above!)

Now, let me confess something. At least once a week, I find myself at Cracker Barrel. Like most Southerners, I’ve grown fond of the familiar old-country-store aesthetic, complete with rocking chairs, checkerboards, and shelves of candy sticks and vintage signs.

But recently, I had the pleasure of visiting two real old country store restaurants in Mississippi — and let me tell you, they make Cracker Barrel look like the new kid on the block.

Stop #1: Gibbes Old Country Store in Learned

The moment you step inside Gibbes, you feel like you’ve entered a living museum. This rustic wooden shack is brimming with antiques, shelves of preserved goods, and a century-old cash register still in use. There’s even a black dog in the back who seems to be part of the staff — calm, collected, and always open to a quick head scratch.

We had to wait a while to be seated, but once the food arrived, it was well worth it. I ordered the steak, and honestly, I don’t need fancy culinary language to describe it — it was simply amazing. Tender, flavorful, and unforgettable. If you’re someone who loves nostalgic places that feel like they’ve stood still in time, Gibbes is a must-visit.

Stop #2: Taylor Grocery in Taylor (Just Outside Oxford)

The following weekend, I checked another iconic spot off my Mississippi bucket list: Taylor Grocery. This one had been on my radar for a while, and it didn’t disappoint.

We went on a Saturday night, so the place was packed. Guests lounged on the front porch, waiting patiently for their name to be called. After about an hour, we made it inside. The atmosphere was warm, rustic, and buzzing with local energy. A live band played in the corner, a bull’s head watched from the wall, and Mississippi license plates and memorabilia covered every surface.

I ordered steak and fries and topped it off with a peach cobbler that was sweet, buttery, and absolutely worth the splurge. And in a fun twist of small-town coincidence, I ran into my colleague Billy Watkins, who happened to be there with his wife. He gave the catfish two enthusiastic thumbs up.

The Verdict?

Both restaurants offered more than just a good meal — they delivered a full Southern experience. It’s heartwarming to see these old general stores brought back to life, not just preserved as relics, but buzzing with stories, music, and community.

If you’re craving comfort food and old-school charm, take a road trip to Gibbes in Learned or Taylor Grocery in Taylor. Just be ready for a wait — because places this special don’t stay secret for long.

Have a favorite old country store restaurant in the South? Email me at the link above.

 

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