Growing up in Nepal, my understanding of Southern cuisine was admittedly one-dimensional—I imagined fried chicken and not much else. But after years of exploring food scenes across the U.S., from Southern California to New England to the Mississippi Pine Belt, I can confidently say that Hattiesburg has been one of my most delightful culinary surprises. With Hattiesburg Restaurant Week taking place from October 5 to 11, I want to celebrate the local gems that make our city's food scene truly special.
Let me start with a personal favorite: The Mahogany Bar, affectionately known as "The Hog," tucked inside Crescent City Grill. Owner RSJ operates several establishments around town, but the Hog holds a special place in my heart. Their website calls it "one of Hattiesburg's best-kept secrets," and they're not wrong. The daily happy hour from 2 to 7 p.m. offers fantastic drinks and food at prices that actually work for college students. You can order from Crescent City's menu while enjoying The Hog's extensive cocktail selection. The ambiance transforms with every season; this year's Mardi Gras and St. Patrick's Day decorations created such an immersive, festive atmosphere that every visit felt like a celebration. It's the kind of place that reminds you dining out is about more than just eating—it's about the experience and community.
But the Hog is just the beginning. West Hattiesburg hides another treasure: Sky Sushi. Tucked away from the main drag, this spot serves impressively fresh and creative sushi at prices that won't break the bank. Their lunch deals are especially incredible—their two- or three-roll combo with soup or salad is fantastic. Coming from someone who's eaten sushi across the country, I can confidently say Sky Sushi is the best sushi I’ve ever had at this price point.
Then there's GrateFull Soul, where I discovered what authentic Southern soul food really means. Every plate tastes like home cooking—the kind of meal that brings people together around the table. I especially love their fried Mississippi catfish, collards, and black-eyed peas. Experiencing this cornerstone of Southern cuisine firsthand has challenged every assumption I brought with me from Nepal.
For Chinese takeout, Best Wok is my go-to spot. Is it authentic? Not exactly. But their Singapore Mei Fun is absolutely delicious, and that's what matters most to me. Good food doesn't always need to be traditional; it just needs to be made with care.
Here's a surprise that blew my mind: Mini Supermarket has a small restaurant inside the store serving Hispanic cuisine, and their tacos are phenomenal. I'm talking better than tacos I've had in Southern California, and I don't say that lightly. The market also carries Latin American and Mexican ingredients and seasonings you won't find at regular grocery stores, making it a hub for Hattiesburg's diverse community.
For seafood, Triangle Seafood and Crabhouse both deliver that Gulf Coast experience without the drive to the beach. Triangle Seafood's no-frills approach means your money goes toward quality, while Crabhouse offers that festive, roll-up-your-sleeves seafood boil experience that makes any meal feel like a celebration.
What strikes me most about Hattiesburg's food scene is not just the quality—it's the affordability and accessibility. These aren't pretentious, overpriced establishments. They're real places run by real people who care about their community. As an international student, I've found that food is the universal language that brings us together, breaking down cultural barriers one meal at a time.
This Restaurant Week, I encourage everyone to venture beyond your usual spots. Try something new! Support the local businesses that make Hattiesburg more than just a college town. Whether you're from Nepal, Texas, or down the road in Petal, there's always something here that will surprise and delight you.
Hattiesburg's culinary scene has taught me that the best discoveries often come from the places you least expect. All you have to do is show up and enjoy.