Jackson Free Press

Best Breakfast; Best Place for Dessert; Best Plate Lunch: Primos Cafe 2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600 primoscafe.com

Primos Cafe offers a variety of breakfast plates Monday through Saturday beginning at 6:30 a.m., including the early-bird platter, pancakes with your choice of sausage or bacon, a breakfast sandwich or wrap. If you want a healthier breakfast, Primos serves oatmeal, English muffins or granola with yogurt. You can top it all off with a cup or bowl of fresh fruit. Of course, on your way out, don't forget to pick up an afternoon treat for yourself or for everyone in the office. The bakery case is always stocked with chocolate chip, oatmeal and sugar cookies as well as lemon squares, pecan tarts and petit fours. If you need a cake for a special occasion, Primos can take care of that too. Caramel, red velvet and Italian cream are just a few that are available. Don't forget to stop back by for lunch for the plate specials.--Adriane Louie

Best Place for Dessert Second: Amerigo Italian Restaurant (6592 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-977-0563) / Third: Sal and Mookie's New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919) / Good Showing: Bop's Frozen Custard (Multiple Locations, bopsfrozencustard.com); Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900); Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55, Suite 142, 601-956-9562)

Best Breakfast Second: Another Broken Egg (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 1009, Ridgeland, 601-790-9170) / Third: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900) / Good Showing: Beagle Bagel Cafe (Multiple Locations, thebeaglebagelcafe.net); Brent's Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427); Corner Bakery (108 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-9797; 149 Grandview Blvd., Madison, 601-607-7377)

Best Plate Lunch Second: McDade's Market (Multiple Locations, mcdadesmarkets. com) / Third: Trace Grill (574 Highway 51 N., Suite F, Ridgeland, 601-853-1014) / Good Showing: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388), Cosmopolitan Cafe (2947 Old Canton Road, 601-983-4450); Georgia Blue (111 Colony Crossing Way, Madison, 601-898-3330)

Best Bakery, Best Place to Buy Cakes: Campbell's Bakery 3013 N. State St., 601-362-4628, campbellsbakery.ms

Campbell's Bakery is one of oldest bakeries in the Jackson area. Driving through Fondren, I am always tempted to stop and buy something decadent to satisfy that 3 p.m. craving for something sweet. This is definitely the place to find an abundant assortment of goodies, including its famous iced-tea cake cookies, which are favorites among Jacksonians. Also find a variety of cheesecakes, cake pops, cookies, brownies and petit-fours. At Halloween, the bakery's finger-shaped lady-finger cookies are a big hit, too. Whether you are at lunch on a Wednesday or out running errands on a Saturday morning, stop by to pick up a delightful treat.--Adriane Louie

Best Bakery Second: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900) / Third: Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600) / Good Showing: Beagle Bagel Cafe (Multiple Locations, thebeaglebagelcafe.net); Corner Bakery (108 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-9797; 149 Grandview Blvd., Madison, 601-607-7377); Great Harvest Bread Company (5006 Parkway Drive, 601-956-4406; 500 Highway 51, Ridgeland, 601-856-3313)

Best Place to Buy Cakes Second: Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601- 898-3600) / Third: That Special Touch (2769 Old Brandon Road, Pearl, 601-932-5223) / Good Showing: Crazy Cat Bakers (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 173, 601-362-7448); Dream Cakes (1006 Top St., Suite D, Flowood, 601- 992-2708); Fat Cake Guy (5352 Lakeland Drive, Suite 2000, Flowood, 601-992-9623)

Best Burger; Best French Fries: Burgers & Blues 1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038, burgersblues.com

The perfect burger has to strike a balance between all kinds of elements: juicy but not undercooked, thick but not too meaty, topped with veggies and condiments but not drowning in distracting flavors. But when the right elements come together, it's magic.

Burgers & Blues is still one of Jackson's youngest burger joints, but it has claimed the title of "best" for the third year in a row, thanks to signature servings like "The Sonic Boom" and "The County Line."

The menu boasts an extensive list of toppings, from the standard lettuce, tomato and onion, all the way to grilled pineapple, pimento cheese and peanut butter sauce. Burgers & Blues has also gained national attention, appearing on the Travel Channel's "Man vs. Food" for its Whammy burger eating challenge.

This year, JFP readers also recognized Steven and Jen Sahler's restaurant for its fresh-cut home fries. French-fry connoisseurs can enjoy these never-frozen sides smothered in chili and cheese or country-style gravy and cheese.

The fact that you can also listen to live music every week or catch a highly anticipated game on TV is just, er, ketchup on the burger.--Kathleen M. Mitchell

Best Burger Second: Mugshots Grill & Bar (4245 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-932-4031) / Third: Stamps Superburger (1801 Dalton St., 601-352-4555) / Good Showing: Cool Al's (4654 McWillie Drive, 601-713-3020); Five Guys Burgers and Fries (122 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-1995; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 2001, Ridgeland, 601-605-1115); Majestic Burger (1067 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-707-0093)

Best French Fries Second: Cool Al's (4654 McWillie Drive, 601-713-3020) / Third: Mugshots Grill & Bar (4245 Lakeland Drive, 601-932-4031) / Good Showing: Five Guys Burgers and Fries (122 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-1995; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 2001, Ridgeland, 601-605-1115); Rooster's (2906 N. State St., 601-982-2001); Stamps Superburger (1801 Dalton St., 601-352-4555)

Best Barbecue; Best Place for Ribs: E & L Barbecue 1111 Bailey Ave., 601-355-5035

Voted repeatedly as Jackson's best finger-lickin' good place for ribs, E & L Barbecue has also been voted the best place for barbecue this year. Its sweet, smoky sauce is so mighty darn good that some people even put their fries in the stuff; I added it to my beans and loved it.

E & L Barbecue serves you a lot for your money, even if it is in a Styrofoam box. Most orders are take-out, but ­whatever your choice, E & L's meat is always tender and delicious. And if you like smoked turkey legs, this is your place to be. The potato salad is tasty, too.--Susan Hogan

Best Barbecue Second: Hickory Pit (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-956-7079) / Third: Sonny's Real Pit Bar-B-Q (2603 Highway 80 W., 601-355-7434; 1374 W. Government St., Brandon, 601-825-7675) / Good Showing: Chimneyville Smokehouse (970 High St., 601-354-4665); Haute Pig (1856 Main St., Madison, 601-853-8538); State Street Barbeque (960 N. State St., 601-961-3433)

Best Place for Ribs Second: Sonny's Real Pit Bar-B-Q (2603 Highway 80 W., 601-355-7434; 1374 W. Government St., Brandon, 601- 825-7675) / Third: Hickory Pit (1491 Canton Mart Road, 601-956-7079) / Good Showing: Chimneyville Smokehouse (970 High St., 601-354-4665); Haute Pig (1856 Main St., Madison, 601-853-8538); State Street Barbeque (960 N. State St., 601-961-3433)

Best Ethnic Restaurant; Best Mediterranean/Middle Eastern: Aladdin Mediterranean Grill 730 Lakeland Drive 601-366-6033, aladdininjackson.com

Upon entering Aladdin in Fondren, you are greeted by the warm, cozy decor of amber-hued walls, dim lighting and the aroma of well-seasoned meat sizzling on the grill. The restaurant's location near a crossroad serves as a metaphor for owner Yoseph Ali's country of origin--Ethiopia. It takes no more than a cursory look at a historical spice trade map to see that Ethiopia was en route to Greece and the Mediterranean in the west, Persia and India in the south and east.

Ali, who does all of the cooking at Aladdin, doesn't hail from the region, but he speaks Arabic and is well-versed in the Mediterranean recipes. His brother Ibrahim confirmed Ali's knowledge of Mid Eastern Cooking. "Yoseph learned all the recipes we use from a Mid-Eastern chef that used to work here," Ibrahim says. "He taught him everything."

The most popular dish at Aladdin is the grilled lamb chops served on a bed of saffron basmati rice. Follow them up with Aladdin's Ethiopian baklava, a delicious layered pastry of filo dough, crushed nuts and honey. Its light and crisp with just the right amount of sweet to not overpower--a perfect, low-guilt dessert--and excellent with mint tea or Turkish coffee.--Genevieve Legacy

Best Ethnic Restaurant Second: Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-0890) / Third: Abeba Ethiopian Restaurant (3716 Interstate 55 N., 601-713-1500) / Good Showing: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757); Saigon (2640 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-420-4848); Thai House (1405 Old Square Road, 601-982-9991)

Best Mediterranean/ Middle Eastern Second: Mediterranean Fish and Grill (6550 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-0082) / Third: Petra Cafe (2741 Old Canton Road, 601-366-0161) / Good Showing: Abeba Ethiopian Restaurant (3716 Interstate 55 N., 601-713-1500); Keifer's (710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825); Mezza (1896 Main St., Madison, 601-853-0876) Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-0890)

Best Kids Menu; Best Place for Ice Cream: Sal & Mookie's New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint 565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919, salandmookies.com

It's Saturday afternoon, and you are looking for the perfect place to take the kids to eat as well as a great place to relax with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Well, Sal & Mookie's is just the place for you. It provides a great family atmosphere that is full of fun. The ice cream menu has sweet treats to suit your taste buds whether you are in the mood for a classic root-beer float or an ice-cream soda. The choices are endless and sure to please. The kids also have an long menu to choose from, including chicken tenders, pizza, pasta and paninis. At Sal & Mookie's, you are sure to find something tasty that suits the desires of everyone in the family.--Adriane Louie

Best Kids Menu Second: McAlister's Deli (Multiple Locations, mcalistersdeli.com) / Third (tie): Newk's Express Cafe (Multiple Locations, newks.com); Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600) / Good Showing: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900); Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038)

Best Place for Ice Cream Second: Bop's Frozen Custard (Multiple Locations, bopsfrozencustard.com) / Third: Cold Stone Creamery (1888 Main St., Suite B, Madison, 601-853-7400) / Good Showing: Berry Berry Good Yogurt (545 Parkway, Flowood, 601-992-2786; 111 Colony Crossing, Suite 490, Madison, 601-898-8286; 1060 Highway 51, Suite A-1, Madison, 769-300-0195); Brent's Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427); Sweet Tree Yogurt (772 Lake Harbour Drive, Suite 5, Ridgeland, 601-707-5491)

Best Place for Healthy Food; Best Vegetarian Options: High Noon Cafe 2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1602, ext. 3

High Noon Cafe offers all the items you expect at a vegetarian outpost: salads, veggie burgers, beans and rice and soups. But there are also more than a few surprises for the adventurous vegan- and veggie-curious. Try the Portobello Caesar salad, create-your-own quesadillas, roasted veggie sandwich or the popular "Harmony Bowl" of marinated tofu and steamed vegetables over brown rice with a warmed peanut sauce--it's perfect with High Noon's ginger lemonade. Dessert offerings, such as lemon pound cake and blueberry almond cake, are made with organic ingredients.

High Noon chef Troy Woodson's description of the Good Burger--black eyed peas sauteed with onions, thyme, marjoram, Worcestershire sauce and ketchup with panko bread crumbs--puts a new spin on a southern classic and proves that High Noon goes beyond expectations.

"We're a brain-child of Rainbow--the only food co-op in Jackson that caters to vegetarians. There are a lot of like-minded people in this area," Woodson says about High Noon's popularity. High Noon's menu, however, offers enough variety and creativity to serve a much broader scope of restaurant and food lovers.--Genevieve Legacy

Best Place for Healthy Food Second: Bruno's Adobo (127 S. Roach St., Suite 1200, 601-944-9501) / Third: Rainbow Natural Grocery Cooperative (2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1602) / Good Showing: Aladdin Mediterranean Grill (730 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-6033); Jason's Deli (1067 E. County Line Road, 601-206-9191); Newk's Express Cafe (Multiple Locations, newks.com)

Best Vegetarian Options Second: Aladdin Mediterranean Grill (730 Lakeland Drive 601-366-6033) / Third: Bruno's Adobo (127 S. Roach St., Suite 1200, 601-944-9501) / Good Showing: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111); Rainbow Natural Grocery Cooperative (2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1602); Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-0890); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

Best Lunch Buffet; Best Soul Food: Mama Hamil's Southern Cookin' 480 Magnolia St., Madison, 601-856-4407, hamils.com

For many southerners, there's nothing quite as comforting as their mama's home-cooked meals. They're just good for the heart and soul. The next best thing may be the food from the buffet at Mama Hamil's Southern Cookin' in Madison. With an ever-overflowing parking lot, Mama Hamil's has been a magnet for southern cooking and soul food aficionados since 1977. After taking over in 1994, owner Bob Hamil became the fourth generation of southern cooks to carry the Hamil torch. The larger building, opened in 2007, allows more room for everyone to enjoy a buffet with the finest home-style meats: fried chicken, chicken and dumplings, barbecue ribs, and meat loaf. Whether you're looking to eat your fill from an all-you-can-eat country buffet or feeling homesick for your mother's cooking, taking a trip to Mama Hamil's will please your appetite, taste buds and soul.--Andrew Dunaway

Best Lunch Buffet Second: Two Sisters Kitchen (707 N. Congress St., 601-353-1180) / Third: Ichiban (359 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-8879) / Good Showing: Country Fisherman (3110 Highway 80, 601-944-9933); Spice Avenue (4711 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-0890); Thai House (1405 Old Square Road, 601-982-9991)

Best Soul Food Second: Two Sisters Kitchen (707 N. Congress St., 601-353-1180) / Third: Peaches (327 N. Farish St., 601-354-9267) / Good Showing: Bully's Restaurant (3118 Livingston Road, 601-362-0484); Collins Dream Kitchen (1439 Terry Road, 601-353-3845); Gloria's Kitchen (2855 Bailey Ave., Suite A, 601-362-0009)

Best Meal Under $10; Best Sandwich Place: Newk's Express Cafe Multiple Locations, newks.com

Newk's is sure to accommodate many crowds with locations in almost every part of the tri-county area. It is an easy place to stop at on your way home for a quick and tasty meal that won't weigh you down. Choose from a variety of freshly tossed salads, oven-baked sandwiches, pizzas and homemade desserts. If you don't have time to wait, you can grab a meal from the "grab and go" station. Planning an office meeting or party? Newk's also has a catering menu. Check its website for daily homemade soup options--the loaded potato is my favorite.--Adriane Louie

Best Meal under $10 Second: Basil's (904 E. Fortification St., Suite B, 601-352-2002; 2906 N. State St., 601-982-2100) / Third: Brent's Drugs (655 Duling Ave., 601-366-3427) / Good Showing: Cherokee Inn (1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388); Keifer's (710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976); Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, Flowood, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600)

Best Sandwich Place Second: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900) / Third: Basil's (904 E. Fortification St., Suite B, 601-352-2002; 2906 N. State St., 601-982-2100) / Good Showing: Beagle Bagel Cafe (Multiple Locations, thebeaglebagelcafe.net); Jason's Deli (1067 E. County Line Road, 601-206-9191); McAlister's Deli (Multiple Locations, mcalistersdeli.com)

Best Chinese Restaurant: Mr. Chen's Authentic Chinese Cooking 5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865

One of the most important factors in great food is freshness. That's a quality that is never in question from the moment you walk into Mr. Chen's Authentic Chinese Cooking. The restaurant is attached to a Chinese grocery in which those who can only read English may have trouble figuring out what much of the food is on the shelves. The market includes a fish section, where everything from lobster to squid and eels either swim in tanks or sit freshly killed on ice. That freshness rolls over to the restaurant, where seafood and Chinese food lovers will find some the city's best eats.--Jacob Fuller

Second: Ichiban Sushi and Chinese Buffet (153 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-0097) / Third: King Buffet (6380 Ridgewood Court Drive, Suite I, 601-956-6700) / Good Showing: Best Wok Chinese Restaurant (225 Meadowbrook Road, 601-368-9555); China Belle (1855 Lakeland Drive, Suite E10, 601-368-9588); Ding How Asian Bistro (6955 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-1717); Five Happiness Chinese Restaurant (2931 McDowell Road Extension, 601-371-8765)

Best Brunch: Julep Restaurant and Bar 4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411 juleprestaurant.com

Julep Restaurant and Bar is made for whiling away a weekend morning with great friends and endless mimosas. The brunch menu at Julep includes dishes that are both sweet and savory. Menu items include New Orleans-style beignets, Julep quiche and the Julep breakfast sandwich. If that doesn't whet your appetite, maybe the shrimp and grits or the banana French toast will. Brunch is served weekends 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Don't forget to try the award-winning fried chicken, which is fried and tossed in a honey rosemary glaze. It was selected as one of the top 10 in the nation by USA Today.--Adriane Louie

Second: Nick's Restaurant (3000 Old Canton Road, 601-981-8017) / Third: Another Broken Egg (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 1009, Ridgeland, 601-790-9170) / Good Showing: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55, Suite 142, 601-956-9562); Que Sera Sera (2801 N. State St., 601-981-2520); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

Best Beer Selection: The Bulldog 6111 Ridgewood Road, 601-978-3502, bulldog-jackson.draftfreak.com

Three months after she became The Bulldog's general manager in April 2012, Valerie Alexander's job become a lot more complicated--in July a new state law let Mississippi liquor stores and bars sell beer with higher alcohol content. Alexander knew right away that the pub would get Louisiana-based Abita's higher gravity stuff, including Andygator, a helles bock, and Jockamo, an IPA. Recently, The Bulldog added Coors Batch 19, which the brewery touts as a pre-Prohibition lager, she said. The Bulldog also overhauled its beer menu to include more information about the beer's origins, alcohol-by-volume content and International Bittering Units, a measurement of a beer's bitterness.

From time to time, Alexander also determines which beers on the Bulldog's 62 taps aren't selling well so she can bring in new beers, on average once or twice per week. "We keep them constantly rotating. There's always something new on tap," she said.--R.L. Nave

Second: McDade's Market (Multiple Locations, mcdadesmarkets.com) / Third: Martin's Lounge (214 S. State St., 601-354-9712) / Good showing: Buffalo Wild Wings (808 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-856-0789); Hal & Mal's (200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888); Sal & Mookie's New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919)

Best Asian: Pan-Asia 720 Harbor Pointe Crossing, Ridgeland, 601-956-2958, pan-asia.com

When it comes to Asian food, I'm a big fan. I enjoy the combination of sweet, spicy and savory coming together in perfect harmony. I can't think of a better place to try dishes from areas like Thailand, China, Vietnam, Mongolia and India than at reigning champ Pan-Asia. On its delightful menu, you'll find edamame, Vietnamese spring rolls, sizzling Tandoori salad, Mongolian beef and lamb and green curry. You can enjoy an assortment of maki rolls, nigiri, sashimi and bento boxes for the kids. To wash it down, take advantage of one of its all-day drink specials: Beer Monday (half-priced select beers), Sake Tuesday (half-priced sake), Wine Down Wednesday (half-priced bottles of wine) and Martini Thursday (half-priced signature martinis).--ShaWanda Jacome

Second (tie): Thai House (1405 Old Square Road, 601-982-9991); Mr. Chen's Authentic Chinese Cooking (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865) / Third: Ichiban (359 Ridgeway, Flowood, 601-919-8879) / Good Showing: Bonsai Japanese Steak House (1925 Lakeland Drive, 601-981-0606); Nagoya Japanese Restaurant (6351 Interstate 55 N., Suite 131, 601-977-8881; 111 Colony Crossing, Suite 380, Madison, 601-856-5678); Sakura Bana (4800 Interstate 55 N., Suite 11, 601-982-3035)

Best Doughnuts: Scurlock's Donut Shop and Eatery 125 S. Congress St., Suite 106, 601-326-8520, scurlockdonuts.com

Situated across from City Hall and with doughnuts cooked fresh every day, Mark Scurlock provides denizens of downtown with that extra morning boost and sugar rush. No matter which style is your favorite, Scurlock is sure to please with his selection of doughnut holes, bear claws, fritters and Danishes, not to mention the usual variety of glazed, jelly-filled and chocolate-covered classics. Open early at 7 a.m. Monday through Saturday, let Mark Scurlock jump-start your day with a perfectly puffed pastry or with any one of his traditional breakfast dishes, such as grits, eggs or sausage.--Andrew Dunaway

Second: Donut Palace (Multiple Locations, 601-919-8601) / Third: Shipley's Do-Nuts (103 Highway 80 E., Clinton, 601-925-0020) / Good Showing: Monroe's (6310 Medgar Evers Blvd., 601-981-3208); Pillow Donuts (1679 Old Fannin Road, Suite D, Flowood, 601-992-6040; 707 Beau Pre Drive, Ridgeland, 601-790-9697); Sweet Sensations (5036 Parkway Drive, 769-233-7409)

Best Ethnic or Specialty Grocer: Rainbow Natural Grocery Cooperative 2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1602, rainbowcoop.org

Opened in 1980, Rainbow Natural Grocery Cooperative is a long-standing Best of Jackson award winner. At the entrance to the grocery near the customer-service desk hang framed certificates of recognition. Assistant store manager Leigh Anne Lawson, who has worked there for six years, says the store has about 50 people on staff to serve its 6,000 members. Despite this, Lawson says that Rainbow has "the best, most knowledgeable staff. If you have a question about something, and we don't know the answer, we'll be glad to look it up and help you find it." Rainbow is dedicated to promoting well-being by providing inexpensive products and functions as a healthy, progressive hub in Fondren.--Genevieve Legacy

Second: Mr. Chen's Oriental Supermarket (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865) / Third: Aladdin Grocery (740 Lakeland Drive, 601-366-2102) / Good Showing: High Noon Cafe (2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1602, ext. 3); Fresh Market (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-856-2866); Patel Brothers (1999 Highway 80, Suite 15, 601-353-6611)

Best Greek Restaurant: Keifer's 710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825, keifers.net; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976, keifersdowntown.com

I've personally talked to people from both Los Angeles and New York City who bring up Keifer's when the topic turns to Jackson restaurants. I don't know what it is about Keifer's that makes folks all the way from the heart of Belhaven to Hollywood and the Big Apple remember its pita mozz, gyros, cottage fries and feta sauce, but whatever it is (OK, maybe it's that feta sauce), I doubt Keifer's has plans to change. It's the perfect place to pull together a big table of friends, order a couple pitchers of beer and while away an afternoon.

Now with a larger porch area, but the same inside decor and menu items, the Belhaven Keifer's is bigger and better than ever, easily capturing the Best Greek category for at least the fifth year in a row.--Kathleen M. Mitchell

Second: Kristos (971 Madison Ave., Madison, 601-605-2266) / Third: Wraps (1220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 420, 601-366-2006) / Good Showing: Bill's Greek Tavern (4760 McWillie Drive, 601-982-9295); Krilakis - Casual Greek Dining (207 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-790-9463); Vasilios Greek Cuisine (828 Highway 51, Madison, 601-853-0028)

Best Hangover Food: Cherokee Inn 1410 Old Square Road, 601-362-6388

Whether it's the cheeseburgers or the famous gravy fries topped with its legendary, homemade brown gravy, coming in first place (again) for Best Hangover Food in Jackson is the Cherokee Inn. Owner Blake McMillan is forever grateful. "We appreciate all our customers, voters and supporters," he says. Tucked away on Old Square Road, Cherokee Inn has been in business since the 1940s. McMillan says he is "just trying to make sure we don't change any of the things our customers love about us." --Darnell Jackson

Second: Keifer's (710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976) / Third: Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038) / Good Showing: Que Sera Sera (2801 N. State St., 601-9812520); Five Guys Burgers & Fries (122 Market St., Flowood, 601-919-1995; 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 2001, Ridgeland, 601-605-1115); Pizza Shack (925 E. Fortification St., 601-352-2001;5045 Parkway Drive, 601-957-1975)

Best Fried Chicken: Two Sisters Kitchen 707 N. Congress St., 601-353-1180

Forget about apple pie. Forget hamburgers. There is no food more uniquely American than southern fried chicken. And nowhere in Jackson--or perhaps in the whole South--does fried chicken better than Two Sisters Kitchen. Stepping into Two Sisters at lunchtime is like stepping out of a snowstorm into a hearth-warmed cottage. Literally. During the daily lunch rush, the line can extend out the door. But once you get through the line and secure a table, it'll be well worth the wait. While Two Sisters' chicken is legendary, the buffet also offers a range of southern-style cuisine depending on the day including chicken and dumplings, greens, cornbread dressing, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, spaghetti, cornbread, biscuits, and desserts such as chocolate cake, bread and banana pudding, and apple crisp.--R.L. Nave

Second: Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411) / Third: Mama Hamil's Southern Cookin' (480 Magnolia St., Madison, 601-856-4407) / Good Showing: Fannin Mart (5419 Highway 25, Flowood, 601-992-0411); Primos Cafe (2323 Lakeland Drive, 601-936-3398; 515 Lake Harbor Drive, Ridgeland, 601-898-3600); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

Best Gumbo: Que Sera Sera 2801 N. State St., 601-981-2520, queserams.com

Que Sera Sera, Jackson's Cajun American restaurant, serves authentic 'Nawlins-style gumbo, but it's just one of its many specialties. In addition to satisfying seafood entrees, Que Sera, Sera has long been recognized for its prize-winning Cajun red beans and rice. Duggan's Seafood Gumbo, now a five-time Best of Jackson winner, is made from scratch with a dark roux and special seasonings with plenty of Andouille sausage, oysters and shrimp served over a bowl of rice with crackers. I paid an extra $.25 for French bread, and it was worth it. Fondren's favorite gumbo-to-geaux is available by the quart with advance orders.--Susan Hogan

Second: Hal & Mal's (200 S. Commerce St., 601-948-0888) / Third: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562) / Good Showing: Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900); Fat Tuesday's (6923 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-2971); Sal & Phil's (6600 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-1188)

Most Innovative Menu: Parlor Market 115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090, parlormarket.com

With the revitalization of downtown, a new style of fine dining came to Jackson when the late Craig Noone opened Parlor Market a few years ago. Its impressive seasonal southern cuisine has attracted diners throughout the state with its fresh seafood dishes, tender steaks cooked to perfection and amazing wild game. No wonder Parlor Market, Mississippi's multi-award-winning restaurant, captured Jackson's Most Innovative Menu award again this year. It definitely kicks up the term "upscale" a notch. This unique restaurant, located in a century-old building in downtown Jackson on Capitol Street, uses locally grown products and serves seasonal entrees throughout the year. Check out the Parlor Market's website for a list of food purveyors updated frequently.--Susan Hogan

Second: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757) / Third: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Good Showing: Bruno's Adobo (127 S. Roach St., Suite 1200, 601-944-9501); Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411); Walker's Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633)

Best Italian: Amerigo Italian Restaurant 6592 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-977-0563, amerigo.net

Founded in 1987, Amerigo has long been Jackson-area residents' choice for the best that Italian cuisine has to offer. Whether you're looking for an evening with friends or a romantic dinner for two, Amerigo fits the bill. With a menu reading like a list of Italy's greatest hits, it's a challenge knowing where to begin. From the nationally recognized cheese-fritter appetizer to the ever-tempting crawfish pasta and crowd-pleasing chicken marsala, there truly is something for every palate. Stop by on Sundays for brunch with an Italian twist with crab-cake benedict and parmesan polenta, a breakfast panini and, of course, an espresso.--Andrew Dunaway

Second: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant & Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111) / Third: Cerami's Italian Restaurant (5417 Lakeland Drive, 601-919-2829) / Good Showing: Biaggi's Ristorante Italiano (970 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, 601-354-6600); Fratesi's Italian Foods (910 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-956-2929); Rossini Cucina Italiana (207 W. Jackson St., Suite A, Ridgeland, 601-856-9696)

Best Mexican/Latin: La Cazuela Mexican Grill 1401 E. Fortification St., 601-353-3014, garciarestaurants.net/cazuela.htm

Since 2001, the Garcia family has served some of Jackson's best Mexican and Latin food at the popular La Cazuela Mexican Grill. For lunch, dinner, and happy hour, customers enjoy feasting on a great selection of authentic south-of-the-border food served with unlimited chips and salsa. Whether eating indoors or on the patio at La Cazuela, families, couples and singles enjoy the cuisine surrounded by Mexican decor. Try the surf-and-turf Mexican style or the vegetarian options. Of course, La Caz has seen many a 21st birthday as well­--enjoy two-for-one margarita specials Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. until closing.--Susan Hogan

Second: El Potrillo Mexican Restaurant (123 Grand View Blvd., Suite H, Madison, 601-605-9320; 100 Laurel Park Drive, Flowood, 601-939-9900; 1390 W. Government St., Suite D, Brandon, 601-591-1314) / Third: Papitos Mexican Grill (111 Colony Crossing, Suite 400, Madison, 601-605-0275) / Good Showing: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757); Margaritas Mexican Restaurant (1625 E. County Line Road, 601-957-7672; 737 Clinton Parkway, 601-924-0005); Sombra Mexican Kitchen (140 Township Ave., Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601-707-7950)

Best Outdoor Dining: Babalu Tacos and Tapas 622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757, babalums.com

It's not easy to break new culinary ground with forays into cuisines not as well known in Jackson. Thus, it was a leap of faith when co-owners Bill Latham and Al Roberts brought a tapas-esque eatery to the city with Babalu in late 2010. In the short time since, it has become one of Jackson's favorite restaurants with dishes such as beef empanadas, tortas and carnitas. Pair flavorful plates with excellent outdoor seating in the heart of Fondren, and you have a winning combination. Even though dining indoors brings the retro sight of "I Love Lucy" episodes playing on the wall, there's nothing quite like enjoying a Babarita and freshly made guacamole in the fresh air. It's no wonder that the line for Babalu is often out the door.--Andrew Dunaway

Second: Que Sera Sera (2801 N. State St., 601-981-2520) / Third: Keifer's (710 Poplar Blvd., 601-355-6825; 120 N. Congress St., 601-353-4976) / Good Showing: Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland); Kristos - Casual Greek Dining (971 Madison Ave., Madison, 601-605-2266); Walker's Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633)

Best Japanese/Sushi: Nagoya Japanese Restaurant 6351 Interstate 55 N., Suite 131, 601-977-8881; 111 Colony Crossing, Suite 380, Madison, 601-856-5678, nagoya-ms.com

Nagoya Japanese Restaurant manager Christina Chen says her staff's experience and the freshness of the food makes the restaurant such a popular location. "We also try to accommodate people of all tastes. We can make sushi for anyone," Chen says. "We have several rolls that are cooked that other sushi establishments may not offer."

Nagoya also offers several Asian sauces with its dishes that are exclusive to the restaurant. The menu has weekly specials that differentiate it as well. Along with the sushi, both of Nagoya's locations feature several hibachi grills with talented chefs to cook and perform in front of guests.--Greg Pigott

Second: Sakura Bana (4800 Interstate 55 N., 601-982-3035) / Third: Little Tokyo (876 Avery Blvd., Ridgeland, 601-991-3800) / Good Showing: Bonsai Japanese Steak House (1925 Lakeland Drive, 601-981-0606); Ichiban (359 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-8879); Wasabi Sushi and Bar (100 E. Capitol St., Suite 105, 601-948-8808)

Best New Restaurant: Bruno's Adobo 127 S. Roach St., Suite 1200, 601-944-9501

Bruno's Adobo, situated on the first floor of the downtown Standard Life building, is a fresh respite from greasy soul food and stale fast-food chains. Bright and airy with fresh flowers on every table, the restaurant provides downtown residents and business-people innovative lunch specials with high-quality ingredients such as jerk pork, shrimp tacos, beef curry and bahn mi sandwiches made with crusty bread from a Vietnamese bakery on the Gulf Coast. Adding the soup of the day to your ticket for a few cents extra is a must, though the daily staple of black-bean soup is delicious and nearly as filling as the meals. For those who like a more languorous lunch, Adobo offers lunch-goers homemade desserts as well as bottled domestic beers.--Molly Lehmuller

Second: Anjou Restaurant (361 Township Ave., Ridgeland, 601-707-0587) / Third: The Islander (220 E. Northside Drive, Suite 100, 601-366-5441) / Good Showing: Jaco's Tacos (318 S. State St., 601-961-7001); Signa's Grille (680 Highway 51 N., Suite E, Ridgeland, 601-853-0266); Sombra Mexican Kitchen (140 Township Ave., Suite 100, Ridgeland, 601-707-7950)

Best Pizza: Pizza Shack 925 E. Fortification, 601-352-2001; 5045 Parkway Drive, 601-957-1975, thepizzashackjackson.com

Pizza Shack, which has been in business since 2005, is popular because of its specialty pizzas with fresh ingredients. It's not your run-of-the-mill pizza place. Pizza Shack has an eclectic selection of pizzas such as the chicken curry delight, double cheeseburger, the Greek and the Cajun Joe. While pizzas are its signature item, the menu includes much more, including a variety of freshly tossed salads, deli sandwiches and wings. You can even enjoy a slice of New York Style cheesecake or Tiramisu for dessert. I definitely recommend the Pizza Shack for your next date night or family night out.--Adriane Louie

Second: Sal & Mookie's New York Pizza and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919) / Third: Soulshine Pizza Factory (5352 Highway 25, Suite 1100, Flowood, 601-919-2000; 1111 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite I, Ridgeland, 601-856-8646) / Good Showing: Hungry Howie's Pizza (7157 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-898-5008; 1060 Spillway Circle, Brandon, 601-706-0418), Mazzio's Italian Eatery (Multiple Locations, mazzios.com); Mellow Mushroom (275 Dogwood Blvd., Flowood, 601-992-7499)

Best Place to Eat When Someone Else Pays: Walker's Drive-In 3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633 walkersdrivein.com

A chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and nowhere is that more true than with food. Poor ingredients mean poor results; unfortunately, quality ingredients and skills come with a hefty price tag. But for that occasion when someone else is picking up the tab, steer your party toward Walker's Drive-In. At this Fondren icon, chef Derek Emerson has been working his magic in the kitchen for years, but his quality dishes like the "three little pigs"--a trio of pork chops, crispy pork skins and pork belly confit --come at a price. While a look at the menu may come with a small dose of sticker shock, the first bite will have you saving your pennies for your next meal at Walker's.--Andrew Dunaway

Second: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562) / Third: Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090) / Good Showing: Nick's Restaurant (3000 Old Canton Road, Suite 105, 601-981-8017); Shapley's Restaurant (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-3753); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

Best Restaurant: Table 100 100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202, tableonehundred.com

Table 100 features lunch and dinner menus with excellent entrees. Enjoy fine dining in a causal Euro-American bistro in a turn-of-the century New Orleans culinary atmosphere where diners can enjoy prime rib roast, Table 100 signature eggs benedict, and much more during the Sunday Jazz Brunch beginning at 10:30 a.m., or simply unwind with cocktails at the piano bar. You'll get an upscale dining experience with Table 100's menu, which includes seafood, lamb, chicken and steak. For vegans, the seasoned vegetable plate with your choice of four vegetables hits the spot.--Susan Hogan

Second: Walker's Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633) / Third: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111) / Good Showing: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757); Julep Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 105, 601-362-1411); Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090)

Best Steak: Shapley's Restaurant 868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-3753 shapleysrestaurant.com

One of the best ways to reward yourself in Jackson is a dinner at Shapley's Restaurant. Shapley's offers superbly cooked beefsteaks for every size appetite--from a petite 6-ounce filet maison to a plate-shattering 40-ounce porterhouse. If you're truly looking to indulge and reward yourself, marinated crab claws, escargot and seared foie gras populate the appetizer section while cream spinach au gratin and gruyere-and-chive scalloped potatoes frame your steak. It's little wonder that Shapley's has been rewarding Jacksonians since 1985. --Andrew Dunaway

Second: Tico's Steakhouse (1536 E. County Line Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-1030) / Third: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562) / Good Showing: Ely's Restaurant & Bar (115 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, 601-605-6359); Kathryn's Steakhouse (6800 Old Canton Road, Suite 108, Ridgeland, 601-956-2803); Ruth's Chris Steakhouse (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 1000, Ridgeland, 601-853-2734); Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202)

Best Place to Get Coffee: Cups: An Espresso Cafe Multiple Locations, cupsespressocafe.com

Cups offers a unique menu and an eclectic atmosphere that keeps customers coming in for more. "The Capitol" is an original Cups menu item and consists of caramel, steamed milk and brewed coffee topped with whipped cream and caramel. My favorite is "The Turtle," which includes caramel and Ghirardelli dark chocolate combined with brewed coffee and steamed milk and topped with whipped cream, caramel and chocolate drizzle. Cups not only serves coffee and espressos; it also offers a variety of tea, hot chocolate and fruit smoothies.--Adriane Louie

Second: Sneaky Beans (2914 N. State St., 601-487-6349) / Third: Seattle Drip (Multiple Locations, seattledrip.com) / Good Showing: Beagle Bagel Cafe (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 145, 769-251-1892); 100 Mannsdale Park Drive, Suite II, Madison, 601-856-4377; 898 Avery Blvd., 601-956-1773, Ridgeland); Broad Street Baking Company (4465 Interstate 55 N., Suite 101, 601-362-2900), Koinonia Coffee House (136 S. Adams St., 601-960-3008)

Best Seafood: Sal & Phil's 6600 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-957-1188

There is no wonder Jackson says Sal & Phil's has the best seafood. It has been serving fresh Gulf shrimp, Mississippi farm raised catfish, royal red shrimp, Dungeness crabs and fresh Gambino bread from New Orleans for more than 25 years. The Cajun-boiled crawfish is now in season--just snap off the head, suck the juice from the crawfish head, peel the tail and feast. Craving a variety of seafood? Start with Sal & Phil's popular gumbo, crawfish etouffee or oysters on the half shell, followed with a po-boy or a seafood platter. Have it your way in a friendly atmosphere where everything tastes good and fresh and is affordably priced.--Susan Hogan

Second: The Mayflower (123 W. Capitol St., 601-355-4122) / Third: AJ's Seafood Grille (223 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-919-1900) / Good Showing: Bonefish Grill (201 Colony Way, Madison, 601-607-3334); Crab's Seafood Shack (6954 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-956-5040); Walker's Drive-In (3016 N. State St., 601-982-2633)

Best Take-Out: OEC Japanese Express Multiple Locations, oecflowood.com

If you've read the past four issues of the Best of Jackson, you shouldn't be shocked to find that this year's Best Take-Out is OEC Japanese Express. The Japanese restaurant has secured its spot on our best list, and by the looks of it, it doesn't plan on giving it up anytime soon. The combination of fried rice topped with meat and veggies of your choice bursting out of the side of Styrofoam to-go boxes is enough to make any Jackson-area resident's mouth water. With locations in pretty much every part of the Jackson metro area, OEC is responding to the ever-increasing demand for inexpensive food that just tastes good. It would be hard-pressed to find any business (restaurants included) or home in Jackson that doesn't have a pink sauce-stained OEC menu in its "everything drawer."--Ross Cabell

Second: Newk's Express Cafe (Multiple Locations, newks.com) / Second: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 244, 601-982-8111) / Good Showing: Best Wok Chinese Restaurant (225 Meadowbrook Road, 601-368-9555); Mr. Chen's Authentic Chinese Cooking (5465 Interstate 55 N., 601-978-1865); Tokyo Express (900 E. County Line Road, Suite 150A, Ridgeland, 601-899-8838; 5050 Interstate 55 N., Suite D, 601-957-1558)

Best Taqueria: Taqueria La Guadalupe 6537 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-206-7776, taguadalupe.com

At Ridgeland's Taqueria La Guadalupe, one can always get a wide variety of tacos. Start with a corn or flour tortilla filled with steak, beef brisket, pork loin, chicken, fish, spicy sausage or a combination, and top it with your choice of lettuce, onion, tomatoes, cilantro, cheese and avocado slices with lime and awesome salsa on the side. Satisfy your quest for fresh, inexpensive Mexican tamales, tortas, fajitas and burritos with a Columbian tweak surrounded by Columbian decor. Even vegetarians can find goodies on the menu. This quaint eatery opens at 10 a.m. daily, and nothing on the menu is more than $10.--Susan Hogan

Second: Babalu Tacos and Tapas (622 Duling Ave., Suite 106, 601-366-5757) / Third: Jaco's Tacos (318 S. State St., 601-961-7001) / Good Showing: Carniceria Valdez (6530 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-899-6992); La Cazuela (1401 E. Fortification St., 601-353-3014); La Morena (6610 Old Canton Road, Ridgeland, 601-899-8821)

Best Wine List/Selection: BRAVO! Italian Restaurant and Bar 4500 Interstate 55, Suite 244, 601-982-8111, bravobuzz.com

Wine enhances any meal, so a good selection that pairs well with food and conversation is important. Perennially recognized in Wine Spectator Awards, BRAVO!'s wine list boasts both impressive bottles for splurging and value wines by the glass. Sommelier Mitchell Earry keeps the list updated and fresh as the seasons and menu change and ensures that bartenders and waitstaff can make solid recommendations. He wants customers to enjoy learning about wine, so he blogs about wine on the restaurant's website with tips on choosing bottles. Additionally, as part of BRAVO's wine program, he orchestrates regular wine tastings on Sunday afternoons, each with a different theme.--Julie Skipper

Second: Table 100 (100 Ridge Way, Flowood, 601-420-4202) / Third: Kats Wine and Spirits (921 E. Fortification St., 601-983-5287) / Good Showing: Char Restaurant (4500 Interstate 55 N., Suite 142, 601-956-9562); Parlor Market (115 W. Capitol St., 601-360-0090); Shapley's Restaurant (868 Centre St., Ridgeland, 601-957-3753)

Best Veggie Burger: Cool Al's 4654 McWillie Drive, 601-713-3020, coolals.net

If you're starting the year off right eating healthy, don't be a stranger to Cool Al's. It has the best well-known veggie options in town with outstanding choices for a veggie burger including the Jamaican Veggie burger, pineapple veggie delight and the West African veggie burger all topped with fresh vegetables and fruit. These burgers come with black-eyed peas, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions and pineapples. You can also try a delicious traditional veggie burger. Everything is seasoned with its own blend of spices, creating unique food with tons of flavor.--Elyane Alexander

Second: High Noon Cafe (2807 Old Canton Road, 601-366-1513) / Third: Majestic Burger (4943 Old Canton Road, 601-899-8822; 1067 Highland Colony, Parkway, Suite B, Ridgeland, 601-707-0093) / Good Showing: Bruno's Adobo (127 Roach St., Suite 1200, 601-944-9501); Burgers & Blues (1060 E. County Line Road, Suite 22, Ridgeland, 601-899-0038); Stamps Superburger (1801 Dalton St. 601-352-4555)

Best Wings: Wingstop Multiple Locations, wingstop.com

There are some things in life that are meant to be together--fish and chips, peanut butter and jelly--but there few combinations more sublime than well-fried chicken wings and flavorful sauces. Fortunately, Jackson is brimming with options, but one has risen above the rest: Wingstop. With multiple locations the Jackson area and across the Magnolia State, one is never far from perfectly fried, traditional chicken wings, and one of Wingstop's 10 satisfying sauces (atomic, Cajun, original hot, mild, hickory-smoked BBQ, garlic parmesan, Hawaiian, teriyaki, lemon pepper and the new Louisiana rub). Of course, Wingstop offers more than expertly fried chicken wings. With a full menu, a bevy of draft beers and enough televisions to cover every game, you'll be hard-pressed to leave.--Andrew Dunaway

Second: Buffalo Wild Wings (808 Lake Harbour Drive, Ridgeland, 601-856-0789) / Third: Wing Station (5038 Parkway Drive, 888-769-9464) / Good Showing: American Deli (3645 Highway 80 W., 601-355-2448); Pizza Shack (925 E. Fortification St., 601-352-2001; 5045 Parkway Drive, 601-957-1975); Sal & Mookie's New York and Ice Cream Joint (565 Taylor St., 601-368-1919)