Discover the inviting charm of Brandon, Mississippi, just east of Jackson. Known for its historic and vibrant downtown and emerging culinary scene, Brandon is a top-ranked place to live and dine. Join me on a flavorful journey as I showcase the best restaurants in Brandon, offering a variety of tasty dishes sure to satisfy your cravings.
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1. The Cleaners by Pizza Shack
If you’re looking for the top dining experience in Brandon, look no further than The Cleaners by Pizza Shack! This two-story retro-feel gem is bound to delight your taste buds with its mouthwatering pizzas, hearty gyros, crispy salads, and juicy wings.
Indulge in the Athenos pizza, a flavorful mix of gyro meat, feta cheese, onions, black olives, mozzarella, and artichoke hearts. For something really special, try the Diamond Pizza with bacon, Canadian bacon, and andouille sausage topped with a savory BBQ swirl.
Take advantage of irresistible daily specials like two lunch specials for just $10 between 11 AM and 2 PM on weekdays, and kids eat free on Tuesdays. Take advantage of the first iPourIt self-serve beer wall in the state, adding a delightful twist to your visit.
2. Newk’s Eatery
Newk’s Eatery is a cherished local restaurant known for its casual ambiance and diverse menu. Enjoy fresh salads, artisan pizzas, kettle-batch soups, and specialty toasted sandwiches without sacrificing quality.
Enhance your meal with complimentary condiments and breadsticks from Newk’s Round Table. Try Newk’s Q, a standout sandwich with chicken, bacon, white BBQ sauce, and Swiss cheese. Other favorites include the Toasted Adult Grilled Cheese, Green Goddess Salad, and Southern Chicken Salad with grapes and pecans.
Join Newk’s rewards program for exclusive perks, making your visit even more rewarding. Pick up some grab-and-go items to have on hand later.
3. Burgers, Blues, Barbecue
Experience the culinary delights of Burgers, Blues, Barbecue (B3) in Downtown Brandon, MS. This family-friendly restaurant serves the finest burgers in the area. It offers a diverse menu and both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Enjoy a variety of menu items, including smash burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, and nachos. Don’t miss the Blue Plate Specials available weekly for just $12.50.
The Dirty Bird is a terrific dish featuring your choice of fried or grilled chicken, ham, pepper jack cheese, bacon, and a white BBQ sauce. The Nashville hot chicken tenders are a must-try for those who appreciate a spicy kick.
B3’s pulled pork or smoked chicken plates come with two sides: mac and cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, and a roll or cornbread muffin. The hand-cut fries are exceptional and perfectly complement any meal.
Try the other B3 locations in Flowood and Madison.
4. El Potrillo Mexican Restaurant
El Potrillo has rapidly established itself as one of Brandon’s favorite dining destinations. It offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for families. Begin your meal with their renowned cheese dip, arguably the best around.
For menu recommendations, the bean and guacamole dips are additional great starters. Favorites include the chimichanga fajita and the Chori Pollo, which has zesty chorizo and is complemented by rice and beans for main courses.
Enjoy smaller portions and discounted menu items from Monday to Saturday during lunchtime, 11 AM to 3 PM. Please note that El Potrillo is closed on Sundays.
5. McAlister’s Deli
When discussing top dining spots in Brandon, Mississippi, McAlister’s Deli stands out with its delectable menu and renowned sweet tea. Their offerings include a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads, as well as giant spuds loaded with your favorite toppings.
Start with sharable appetizers like the Nacho Basket with Rotel cheese dip or the Chili Cheese Dip. McAlister’s signature “Choose Two” option allows you to tailor your meal to your preferences.
For sandwich lovers, the BLT Avocado and Spicy Southwest Chicken are highly recommended, and they pair well with the seasonal Pecanberry Salad or a comforting cup of chili. Vegetarians will also find plenty of satisfying choices.
Indulge in a sweet ending with a Brookie or a classic chocolate chip cookie. And lastly, take advantage of the Tea Pass, which offers daily tea for thirty days at a very reasonable price, enhancing your dining experience.
6. Lost Pizza Company
Lost Pizza Company is a standout pizza joint in Brandon. Its pop-art decor and fun vibe pair well with its attention to freshness—daily-made dough and sauces, preservative-free aged cheese, and fresh-sliced produce.
Begin your meal with appetizers like garlic bread sticks or fried ravioli, which go well with the savory garlic ranch. Among Lost Pizza’s signature creations, we recommend:
- Hector’s Taco Pie: A flavorful combination of beef, onions, salsa, fresh lettuce, and tomatoes.
- The Hot Chick: A spicy ranch-based pizza with grilled chicken, onions, and wing sauce.
- The Kujo: A meat lover’s delight with black olives and mushrooms.
The menu also features regional favorites that capture Mississippi’s culinary heritage. For an authentic Southern experience, don’t miss the Delta Hot Tamales with crackers and hot sauce.
My favorite Lost Pizza item is the Chicken Spaghetti, a Mississippi staple. It is generously portioned for two meals and the best in the state.
7. Shaggy’s on the Rez
Shaggy’s on the Rez is a top seafood restaurant offering a vibrant, island-style atmosphere with stunning views of the Ross Barnett Reservoir. The menu is a culinary delight, featuring diverse options from fresh salads and flatbreads to hearty sandwiches, juicy burgers, tantalizing tacos, and pasta dishes.
What truly distinguishes Shaggy’s is its exceptionally fresh seafood platters. Begin with standout appetizers like Beach Balls—fried mashed potatoes with cheese and bacon—or Seafood Fries, beer-battered and smothered in lobster cheese sauce with blackened shrimp.
A little insider tip for shrimp fans: don’t miss out on Shaggy’s peel-and-eat Royal Reds, expertly paired with their homemade cocktail sauce. They are life-changing.
Other Shaggy’s locations include Biloxi, Pass Harbor, Gulfport, and Pensacola.
8. Bonfire Grill
Next on our list of best restaurants in Brandon is Bonfire Grill, an excellent place to eat Japanese and Thai food at affordable prices. They have everything from hibachi dinners to sushi rolls, Thai noodles, to fried rice.
There are tables inside for dining in, but most of Bonfire Grill’s business is carried out (to go).
9. Brandon Donuts and Full Breakfast
Discover a lesser-known gem at Brandon Donuts, in a Shell gas station, where expectations are pleasantly exceeded. This spot is popular for breakfast, offering delicious made-to-order sandwiches and plates that are both tasty and affordable.
The kolaches are excellent, featuring combinations like boudin and jalapeño sausage and cheese. Beyond breakfast, Brandon Donuts offers a tempting variety of sandwiches, including the classic BLT, Philly cheesesteak, and California turkey club, as well as burritos, burgers, and Po’boys.
True to its name, the donut selection impresses with numerous flavors, all approved by my granddaughter. Brandon Donuts opens at 4:30 AM for early risers, providing the perfect start to your day.
Whether you’re a local or new to Brandon, Brandon Donuts is a must-visit for a satisfying meal or snack.
10. Spillway Diner
On Old Fannin Road, Spillway Diner may be slightly off the main path for those familiar with Downtown Brandon, but it is well worth the visit.
Begin your day with breakfast options like fluffy omelets, golden pancakes, crispy waffles, and hearty stuffed hash browns. A personal favorite is the ham and cheese omelet accompanied by perfectly cooked hash browns and a warm biscuit, with an optional side of savory tomato gravy for just an extra dollar.
Spillway Diner offers a lunch menu with juicy burgers, crispy chicken tenders, satisfying chili, and fried chicken. Their Fried Bologna Sandwich is an intriguing choice, served with mustard and cheese.
11. Pancho’s Cantina & Grill
In the heart of Downtown Brandon, Pancho’s Cantina & Grill has quickly become a favorite among local food enthusiasts. This newer establishment is positioned conveniently across from Burgers, Brews, Barbecue and offers vibrant flavors and a festive setting.
Their chicken fajita nachos are noteworthy, complemented by a tasty cheese dip, crispy chips, and fresh salsa. The menu features Mexican classics like quesadillas, burritos, chimichangas, and vegetarian options to please every palate.
Pancho’s also offers a full bar with a diverse cocktail selection, including the Mexican Mule, Paloma, Hurricane, and Pineapple Margarita. Their value-driven promotions include Taco Tuesday discounts and daily specials under $10 from Monday through Thursday.
This restaurant is the sister to Los Amigos Mexican Grill in nearby Pelahatchie.
12. Thai Bistro
In Crossgates Village Shopping Center, Thai Bistro is delighting patrons with its aromatic and satisfying Thai cuisine. The menu offers a variety of options, including curries (red, green, Panang, or pineapple), fried rice, noodles, stir fry, and chef specials like orange or teriyaki chicken.
Lunches include fried rice and can be complemented by starters such as edamame, Asian pot stickers, or chicken wings. The Pad Thai lunch portion, a highlight at Thai Bistro, is rich in flavor and ample enough for two meals. They even come with a soup and egg roll.
Pair your meal with a refreshing Thai tea.
13. Genna Benna’s
Situated in the historic Wierhouse on Brandon’s vibrant square, Genna Benna’s is one of Brandon, MS’s finest dining establishments. It is perfect for date night or a special celebration.
Start with their signature Crawfish Empanadas, enhanced by a drizzle of queso and a spicy ranch sauce for an added kick. For pasta enthusiasts, Genna Benna’s presents two exceptional dishes: the Seafood Pasta (shrimp, tender lobster, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes) and Baked Chicken Parm, with a creamy Alfredo twist on a classic.
For a non-pasta option, consider the BBQ Shrimp and Grits or the Stockyards Angus Ribeye, which pair well with sides like brown butter mashed potatoes, green beans, or potato salad. Lunchtime guests can take advantage of weekday blue plate specials for just $11.
Extend your visit at Speakeasy (The Gallows) next door, a charming speakeasy-style venue perfect for enjoying specialty cocktails. They also have a handful of apps, like fried mushrooms, cheese curds, and wings.
14. Boo’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
Boo’s Smokehouse BBQ, on Highway 471, is a newer dining spot in Brandon, praised for its tasty BBQ and homemade sides. With a 20-year history in Gluckstadt, occupying the former family farm where the founder’s grandfather once smoked meats for the community, it has been a great addition to Brandon’s dining options.
Boo’s features local favorites such as Delta fried catfish, ribs, chicken & dumplings, and red beans & rice, complemented by side dishes like black-eyed peas, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, and turnip greens.
They also offer a selection of cold beer and wine.
15. Sunset Grill
Sunset Grill at Sunset Marina RV Park on the Rez offers exceptional sunsets and excellent food and drinks. With indoor and outdoor seating, you can savor elevated bar and comfort food, including po-boys, burgers, steaks, tacos, and pasta dishes, in a relaxing atmosphere.
The fried mushrooms are a standout favorite. For dessert, don’t miss the locally made Cotton Blues NY cheesecake.
Be sure to check their socials for live music nights. They are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Bonus: An Array of Sweet Shops
Explore some delightful sweet spots in Brandon, MS. Visit Mocha Mugs coffee drive-thru and Southern Sweetness at the Courtyard on Town Square for the finest pastries, cookies, and desserts in the Jackson metro area. For an extra treat, don’t miss the bakery’s holiday offerings.
For ice cream enthusiasts, Flying Dolly’s in Downtown Brandon offers a variety of sweet treats, from ice cream nachos and New Orleans-style Snoballs to classic malts and shakes.
Bop’s Frozen Custard is another beloved ice cream spot known for its sundaes, concretes, and shakes, all customizable to your preference. The Peanut Butter Mountain sundae is a game-changer.
Fun Fact: Custard, an old-fashioned treat, is crafted with all-natural ingredients and no preservatives. Served at 26 degrees, it offers a genuine taste experience without numbing your taste buds.
Best Restaurants In Brandon
Brandon doesn’t have a dedicated Italian restaurant or sports bar, so if you’re looking for one, you may want to check out Oxford, Jackson, or Ridgeland. Some of our favorite restaurants are in these neighboring towns!