20 Best Restaurants in Jackson, TN
This article was written by local contributor Louis Diaz & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Ever since I moved to Jackson, Tennessee, I've been on a mission to taste all the culinary delights this charming city has to offer.
And let me tell you, it's been a scrumptious journey so far!
From classic Southern comfort food to international flavors, Jackson has a thriving food scene that can satisfy any craving.
In this article, I'll share my top picks for the must-visit dining destinations in town, all tried and tested by yours truly.
So, loosen your belts and get ready to embark on a delicious adventure with me as we explore the best restaurants in Jackson, Tennesee.
One Five Bar and Grill
I had the chance to visit One Five Bar and Grill recently, and it exceeded my expectations!
The moment I stepped in, I was greeted with warm smiles and friendly service from the employees.
The regulars were really welcoming too, which made me feel right at home.
The food was simply amazing, and the prices were reasonable.
I tried their famous Ribeye Philly, which was fantastic, and those crispy fries - perfect!
I also got to taste the in-house lemonade made with honey, not cheap sugar, which was truly delightful.
One unique aspect I discovered while I was, there was the "Wall of Fame."
The story behind One Five Bar is truly touching and heartbreaking, and it was an honor for me to support their establishment.
The cozy ambiance, mouthwatering food, and lovely music playing in the background made my visit memorable.
I even took some of their fire wings to enjoy for supper at home.
KC Finn's
I've been living in this town for quite a while now, and I finally decided to give KC Finn's a try, and I'm so glad I did!
This hamburger restaurant has quickly become my favorite spot when I'm craving a delicious, made-to-order burger.
I remember the first time I went there, I ordered a double cheeseburger and fries and was pleasantly surprised at the amazing taste and quality, especially for the daily special price of less than $9.00!
Another time, I tried their steak nachos, and they were absolutely amazing - so generously loaded with cheese and flavorful steak.
I knew right away that I would definitely be coming back for more.
My partner, who isn't a big fan of fast food, absolutely loves their burgers and onion rings too.
He rarely finishes his burgers at other places, but at KC Finn's, he finished his meal before I did!
What I also appreciate about this place is their speed and efficiency in getting the food to you, even when it's busy.
They offer online and call-in orders, which makes it super convenient for me when I'm on the go.
Takos Borukas
One local restaurant that always stands out to me is Takos Borukas.
As someone who loves Mexican cuisine, this place has become my local spot to satisfy my cravings.
I've dined here with my family multiple times, and each time, they've managed to impress us.
One instance that comes to mind is when we fed seven people for less than 50 bucks!
The Mexican food is outstanding, but what really caught me off guard was the cheeseburgers they offered - they were out of this world!
I've also had the opportunity to try their takeout service, and they never disappoint.
The food is always fresh and packed neatly, showing how considerate and professional they are with their customers.
Although they only serve beer and not liquor, it doesn't detract from the delightful dining experience.
Another great thing about Takos Borukas is its convenient location on Vann Drive.
It's easily accessible and always ready to serve customers.
Given its popularity, the wait times can sometimes increase as the place fills up.
But trust me, it's worth the wait!
Jamaican & African Cuisine
One of the best things about living in Jackson, Tennessee, is having the opportunity to dine at Jamaican & African Cuisine.
This Jamaican restaurant has become my absolute favorite whenever I crave some authentic and delicious Caribbean flavors.
The moment you walk in, the mouthwatering aroma of their dishes welcomes you, and the presentation of the food is just as appealing.
My most recent visit was no exception.
I ordered the fish with two sides and added the vegetables with shrimp.
As always, the food was absolutely scrumptious, and the customer service was exceptional.
The restaurant features a buffet-style setup, which allows you to see all the delicious options available.
They have plenty of seating for families, though parking can be a bit tight.
Red Dog Saloon Bar & Grill
Red Dog Saloon Bar & Grill has always been my go-to spot for a fun night out with friends or a laid-back evening by myself.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for a night of playing pool and enjoying some tunes on the music box.
But let's talk about the main reason I keep coming back: the food!
I'm telling you, they serve the best damn burger I've ever had.
I also love their taco salad—it's loaded with flavor, and the portion size is more than satisfying.
And don't even get me started on their tacos and onion rings, which are to die for.
Recently, I tried their patty melt with onion rings and the nacho supreme, and let me tell you, it was beyond delicious.
Rock'n Dough
Whenever I crave some delicious pizza and refreshing beers, I always head to Rock'n Dough Pizza & Brewery.
The atmosphere is always lively, and their service is top-notch.
I appreciate how quickly they can accommodate and serve customers, even when the place is packed.
My all-time favorite at Rock'n Dough is their cauliflower crust pizza.
Recently, I tried their Hawaiian pizza with chicken instead of ham, and I must say it was a solid 10/10.
Their pizza slices are enormous, perfect for satisfying my hunger.
In addition to their mouthwatering pizzas, they also offer a variety of drinks which makes the dining experience even more enjoyable.
Picasso Bistro & Pizzeria
Just the other night, I found myself craving some delicious pizza and decided to head over to Picasso Bistro & Pizzeria.
This is one of my favorite spots to grab a wood-fired pizza, enjoy a craft beer, and take in the local artwork.
One of the things I love most about this place is the comfy atmosphere and outdoor patio seating.
I struggled to choose from their extensive menu but finally decided to try the Sicilian Club sandwich.
It was absolutely delicious, served on fresh bread that complemented the flavors perfectly.
My significant other opted for the crab cakes, which were equally tasty, followed by a 10" pepperoni pizza and a grilled chicken wrap.
Although it was a cold evening and we sat near the door, feeling a bit chilly, the warm atmosphere and outstanding customer service made up for it.
I've already been there three times this week alone and can't wait to go back for more.
Paul Latham's Meat & Bar-B-Que
Whenever I'm in the mood for some delicious barbecue, I head over to Paul Latham's Meat & Bar-B-Que.
The smoky smell that greets me as I walk in never fails to make my mouth water.
I love their pulled chicken with slaw and hot barbecue sauce, which is more like a liquid than a traditional thick sauce, but it's so flavorful that consistency doesn't matter.
I also appreciate the option to eat in or take out, and the country-style biscuits with various toppings are just the cherry on top.
I've tried their breakfasts, and they're good, but I've yet to sample their lunch options, which I plan on doing soon.
One of the things I love about Paul Latham's is their butcher area, where I can pick up meats to cook at home.
The cafeteria-style 'plate lunch' service offers great value, with large portions and a variety of meat and vegetable options.
Plus, it's always a pleasure to see familiar faces like law enforcement, utility crews, and business associates in the large seating area.
Pighouse BBQ
Oh, the joys of living near Pighouse BBQ!
I've been frequenting this barbecue restaurant ever since a friend introduced me to it, and I've been hooked ever since.
In just the past week alone, I've eaten there twice - that's how much I love it.
I'm originally from Memphis, so I know good barbecue when I taste it.
And trust me, I can't help but stop by Pighouse BBQ to grab some of the best pork I've ever had in my life.
My personal recommendation - get it spicy!
The quality of their food and service is simply unmatched.
Baja Sur Restaurant
I absolutely love visiting Baja Sur Restaurant in my neighborhood.
Every time I go there, I'm always impressed by the exceptional service and delicious food.
What I really appreciate about this Mexican restaurant is that they cook the food in small batches, ensuring that it doesn't get old and remains fresh.
Their refried beans are definitely something you have to try!
One of my favorite experiences at Baja Sur is their amazing buffet, which offers an excellent selection of meat and vegetable dishes.
Their cactus (nopales) dish is unbelievably good - actually, it's one of my main reasons for visiting them.
To top it all off, my little one is always excited about the fresh fruit they have available.
Sakura Japanese Restaurant
Just the other night, I decided to grab a quick bite to eat at Sakura Japanese Restaurant.
This spacious eatery is known for its extensive menu, featuring sushi, tempura, and teriyaki dishes.
Though the place may feel a bit dated, it has a certain cozy charm to it.
It might not be the ideal spot for a romantic date, but it's perfect for a casual dinner with friends or family.
The absence of music allows for easy conversation while enjoying the delicious food.
I ordered my favorite, the "Phoenix" house rolls, along with some Philadelphia rolls and a seaweed salad with cucumber.
As always, everything was absolutely delicious.
The flavors were balanced, and it never felt like I was eating "rice with mayo" rolls, which can often be the case with some sushi restaurants.
The quality of the food is what keeps me coming back.
The raw fish and seaweed are always fresh, which is vital for a great sushi experience.
Tulum Fresh Mexican Grill
Tulum Fresh Mexican Grill is undoubtedly one of the best Mexican restaurants I've ever tried.
I've only been there once, but I can still remember the fantastic flavors of the burrito I had and how much my friend enjoyed their quesadilla.
The complimentary chips they serve are delightful, and the salsas from the salsa bar make an excellent pairing.
You can check out their website here for more information.
Otherwise, the food is absolutely amazing, and I love how they offer options for vegans that do not compromise on flavor or substance.
The outdoor seating is a nice touch, and their fish tacos deserve a special mention for being the best in Jackson!
Bourbon & Barley
Oh, what a fantastic time I had at Bourbon & Barley!
It's an American restaurant that has become one of my favorite spots to dine in town.
The moment I walked in, I was impressed with how quickly we were seated and how fast the food arrived at our table.
The Deviled Eggs with bacon jam was a delightful appetizer that I couldn't get enough of.
For my main course, I decided to go with the Lobster and Crab Linguine, which was served with two pieces of the most delectable bread.
Although the Bloody Mary was a bit spicier than I would have preferred, it didn't deter me from ordering another one.
The standout dishes for the rest of my group were the Spinach Dip, Lobster Mac & Cheese, and their signature pizzas.
Dixie Castle
Dixie Castle has always been one of my favorite places when I'm craving some good American food.
You can find their Facebook page here.
This family-run diner has such a cozy atmosphere, which makes it perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.
Their Thursday lunch plates are what keep me coming back.
It's a full meal at an unbeatable price.
Their pork chops are absolutely incredible, and their steaks are still delicious.
I have to mention their specials, too – I once had a 10 oz. ribeye, baked potato, salad, and Texas toast for just $15.99!
It was delightful.
Oh, and how could I forget the huge basket of Captain's Wafers and butter they served on the side?
It was such a treat.
Lastly, I cannot leave without having their banana pudding.
It's the perfect sweet ending to a fantastic meal.
Just a heads up, if you're planning to go, do call ahead, even if it's a lunch plate to-go, as sometimes the wait can be quite long.
Redbone's Grill & Bar
One of my favorite spots in town for a lively night out with friends and familyis Redbone's Grill & Bar.
This Cajun restaurant offers Louisiana-inspired cooking and live music, which makes it a perfect place to unwind after a long week.
The oysters and French fries are always a hit.
The prices may be a bit on the higher side, but it's definitely worth it for the overall experience.
One of the things I absolutely love about Redbone's is the live music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.
It's always a great time listening to the tunes while enjoying their Crawfish and Corn bisque or even just some crispy mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce.
My nephew also enjoys coming along and digging into their delicious chicken planks while grooving to the music.
So, if you're looking for a fun night out with great food, entertainment, and a colorful patio, Redbone's Grill & Bar is the place to be.
Jiang Jun
Just last week, I visited Jiang Jun once again, and it never disappoints!
This easygoing Asian eatery has become my constant favorite for Chinese and Japanese fare, such as sushi, fried rice dishes, and so much more.
The inviting atmosphere with traditional Asian music and decor always transports me to a different place, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
If I had to pick a favorite dish, I would say it's the best fried rice in town!
But honestly, everything I've tried here has been delicious.
Their chef’s special menu always offers something new and exciting to try, and the portions are generous enough to share or save for later.
One of the highlights of my last visit was their giant shrimp, which was cooked to perfection.
It's a little pricey but definitely worth trying if you're looking for something special.
On top of that, their sushi rolls are always fresh and full of flavor.
My favorites are the Ming Ming and Bamboo rolls.
Green Frog Coffee & Grill
I absolutely love Green Frog Coffee & Grill's welcoming atmosphere and the cozy vibe the place exudes.
I've been to Green Frog Coffee & Grill for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and I've never been disappointed.
Their menu offers a wide variety of options, and I'd highly recommend trying their strawberry yogurt parfait and Timmy's Taco Soup.
They're my personal favorites!
Another great feature of this restaurant is their spacious fireplace room, which you can reserve for larger groups.
It's perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
And if you're on the go, don't forget to grab a coffee to go – it's just as excellent as their food.
Los Portales
I remember the first time I visited Los Portales, and I instantly fell in love with their delightful Mexican cuisine.
The food portions are generous, and the flavors always explode in my mouth.
One thing I must point out is how family-friendly Los Portales is.
Their quick service and welcoming atmosphere make it an excellent choice for gatherings with loved ones.
I've never had any issues with finding a parking spot, and their restrooms are always clean.
The detailed artwork and charming decor of the restaurant also add to its cozy, authentic Mexican ambiance.
Bonwood Cafe
I've always been intrigued by the Bonwood Cafe.
I'd heard great things about this local family restaurant, so I decided to give it a shot.
From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a treat.
I checked out their Facebook page, and it was full of glowing reviews from other satisfied customers.
I love that they serve breakfast and dinner options all day long, so I can always satisfy my cravings.
On my first visit, I ordered a BLT and a loaded baked potato, and my partner got a cheeseburger with crinkle-cut fries.
One of the best things about Bonwood Cafe is the warm, welcoming atmosphere.
It's a mix of locals and newcomers, and every time I go, I see familiar faces and make new friends.
I've been back several times since my first visit, and I can confidently say that their food is consistently amazing.
I even tried their salad once, which was incredibly fresh and loaded with lettuce.
Coyote Blues Jackson
Just last week, I went to Coyote Blues in Jackson, TN, and I can't stop raving about the experience.
The Mexican restaurant offers a unique twist by combining classic Mexican flavors with Cajun elements.
I tried their seafood enchiladas, and they were to die for!
The atmosphere at Coyote Blues was vibrant and fun, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or family.
I also appreciated their extensive menu, which offers a variety of dishes to suit different tastes.
Final Thoughts
My taste buds have been on quite the journey through Jackson's diverse culinary scene.
From the mouthwatering BBQ at Paul Latham's Meat & Bar-B-Que to the fresh and flavorful sushi at Sakura Japanese Restaurant, there's truly something for everyone.
TN has won my heart – and my stomach – over with its amazing selection of restaurants.
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