Mississippi’s cultural diversity and agricultural heritage created the recipes for popular regional dishes
CLARKSDALE, MISSISSIPPI–JUNE 2026–Clarksdale, Mississippi, is at the heart of the state’s Delta region. It’s a region known for its music, its agricultural heritage and its culinary traditions. Southern soul food and Delta favorites, along with a few influences that may be a surprise, are on the menu throughout this destination. And all are welcome at its tables.
Clarksdale is located 70 miles south of Memphis, near the northwest border with Arkansas. This is where U.S. Highway 61 and U.S. Highway 49 intersect and is known by music lovers as the crossroads. But from this crossroads, there is more than music. There is a view of flat Delta earth that is home to catfish farms, to rice fields and row crops. Generations of cooks have passed down recipes and time-honored cooking techniques for the best of the Delta’s bounty that can be found in a variety of Clarksdale’s restaurants.
Traditional favorites here reflect a rich blend of African American, Southern, Native American and influences on local ingredients. The region’s fertile farmland, river systems and cultural heritage have shaped a distinctive food tradition. The cuisine tells stories of life in the Delta and the people who lived it. Today, from music festivals to diner counters, Clarksdale continues to celebrate the bounty of both food and traditions.
Catfish, coated in cornmeal and fried crispy, is one of the Delta’s most iconic foods. Today, catfish farming is a major industry here, complementing the generations-old tradition of fishing from the riverbank. At Josie’s (220 Yazoo Avenue, Clarksdale, Mississippi 38614), the catfish is served with an upscale twist and is a favorite. The menu here is filled with traditional favorites, reimagined.
Delta hot tamales are a regional favorite that traces back to the melding of the food traditions of Mexican and African American laborers with Delta natives. They are typically made with seasoned beef or pork, wrapped in corn husks, and simmered or steamed. Abe’s Bar-B-Q (616 North State Street, Clarksdale, Mississippi 38614; 662-624-9947) is famous for serving up legendary hot tamales as well as barbecue, another regional favorite. Hicks Famous Hot Tamales & More (305 South State Street, Clarksdale, Mississippi 38614; 662-624-9887) is famous for their flavorful hot tamales and slow-smoked barbecue. They are also known for selling out many days. So, while they are open for lunch and dinner, diners might want to plan to show up early.
Barbecue can be found on many menus here, slow-smoked and filled with flavor. Sauces vary and many are based on generations-old recipes. At Zee’s Barbeque (365 Issaquena Street, Clarksdale Mississippi 38614-7504; 662-902-5389), ribs, chicken and pulled pork are menu staples and favorites for regular customers and visitors, alike. Sides of fried okra and baked beans complete any meal.
Of course, any Clarksdale visit should include some outstanding flavor from unexpected places:
Hooker Grocer + Eatery (316 John Lee Hooker Lane, Clarksdale, Mississippi 38614; 662-624-7038) is an unassuming spot that serves unique and tasty interpretations of Southern specialties and other favorites.
Outside of town, Kenoy’s (4125 Friars Point Road, Clarksdale, Mississippi 38614; 662-624-9030) is a legendary burger joint which also has a famous fried pork chop sandwich.
Surprisingly, the food, on an ever-changing menu, is the star at the Great River Road Country Store (3915 Highway 1, Rena Lara, Mississippi 38720; 662-627-4837), a gas station and convenience store.
If you go
Clarksdale is home to a host of unique lodging options that will add to any Delta experience. Boutique downtown hotels, historic motels and rural farm shacks are all options here.
Of course, no trip to Clarksdale is complete without checking out the live music scene. Blues performances can be experienced here seven days a week.