If you’re from the South, then you likely grew up frequenting the local meat-and-three. Even the smallest towns have at least one of these throwback joints serving up classic Southern mains and an array of hearty sides to satisfy the locals’ comfort food cravings. This regional staple thrives on classic family recipes passed down from generation to generation, keeping the soul of the South alive feast after feast. In some places, though, the traditions we know and love have been reimagined for the 21st century with surprising success. New or old, these are our seven handpicked favorites.
Blue & White Restaurant
Tunica, Mississippi
blueandwhiterestaurant.com
A century has passed since this historic restaurant opened its doors, but it’s not slowing down anytime soon. The unique colors that cover this old filling station have been a beacon to regulars and travelers alike for decades, drawing them into one of the cozy booths for a down-home meal just like your grandmother used to make.
King’s Kitchen
Charlotte, North Carolina
kingskitchen.org
Classic Southern hospitality meets delicious offerings at King’s Kitchen, where all the restaurant’s profits are donated to local organizations that feed and educate the area’s underprivileged. Whichever plate of Chef Jim Noble’s signature “new local Southern cuisine” you choose, you’re helping improve the lives of countless people. That’s the power of meat-and-threes.
Johnny’s Restaurant
Homewood, Alabama
johnnyshomewood.com
Locals flock to this Homewood, Alabama, staple six days a week to sample Chef Tim Hontzas’s beautiful blend of modern flavors and traditional style. Serving up tried-and-true Southern specials with only the freshest locally grown produce, Johnny’s is an homage to the original restaurant opened by Tim’s grandfather in Jackson, Mississippi, back in 1954.
Since 1959, the H&H has been synonymous with Macon, Georgia, and the city’s diverse history—and there’s no better place for delectable soul food. This iconic spot is packed with story after story tying one of the original founders, Mama Louise Hudson, to the legendary Allman Brothers Band and many other Southern rockers in the Peach State.
Barbara Jean’s Restaurant & Bar
Locations in Georgia and Florida
barbarajeans.com
When the business of every day gets to be too much, escape to one of Barbara Jean’s two locations for classic sides paired with deliciously fresh seafood entrées. For 20 years, its fresh, home- style cooking and cozy beachside atmosphere have attracted visitors and locals alike—and you’ll understand why after just one bite of its signature Crab Cakes.
Mama Reta’s Kitchen
Lake Charles, Louisiana
facebook.com/mamaretaskitchen
This family-owned restaurant serves some of the best down-home food this side of the bayou. With a menu boasting delicious Southern fare, Mama Reta’s is the place to go for your comfort food fix. We’re partial to the rustic chicken and sausage gumbo, but you can’t go wrong with any of the specials.
Ramsey’s Diner
Locations in Lexington, Kentucky
ramseysdiners.com
You can always count on this small Kentucky chain of diners to bring a taste of the Blue Grass State to the table. With all the country-style entrées and fresh veggie sides daily, Ramsey’s offers countless combinations at a price that makes us want to go back for seconds.
