Dining in Clarksdale – a truly unique experience!
There’s nothing better than finding those hole-in-the-wall restaurants while visiting a new town. You know the ones – the mom and pop, family-owned, been there forever joints. From the outside looking in, they may not be best looking, but once you step inside, you feel right at home. Clarksdale has several places that fit this description, and we’re here to tell you all about them.
Ramon’s
Ramon’s has been a Clarksdale staple for over 50 years! This family owned, American-Italian spot has a menu filled with a variety of delicious choices. The favorite dish here has to be their fried shrimp. Don’t forget to ask for a house salad – it is to die for! Of course, you can’t go wrong with their spaghetti and meat balls. All of that should definitely begin with a plate of fried onion rings!
Resthaven
What if we told you there was a restaurant you could see Middle Eastern cuisine on the same table as black eyed peas and collard greens? Resthaven is that place! Resthaven started as a grocery store in the 60s, run by Lebanese immigrants, Louise and Chafik Chamoun. Eventually, they had to move in more tables and chairs for the growing number of folks wanting to try Louise’s kibbie sandwiches Chafik often had for lunch! Kibbie is definitely the star of the show, but Resthaven’s menu is far more than traditional Lebanese cuisine. Opening at 6 a.m., guests can have a wonderful traditional American breakfast, and daily plate lunch specials like red beans & rice, pork chops, fried catfish, and more! A must have is a slice of the homemade coconut or chocolate pie – piled HIGH with meringue.
The Ranchero
The “Ranch,” as it is often called by local folks, started back in 1959. Back then, it catered mostly to teenagers. Over the years, The Ranch grew up with those kids and became the family restaurant we know and love today. Just driving past this local favorite will make your mouth water – you can smell that smoker with your windows up! The specialty here is what comes off that smoker – ribs that fall off the bone and BBQ! That’s not all you’ll find, though: steaks, burgers, pastas, and even fish dishes are all crowd pleasers here!
Clarksdale is chock-full of amazing and unique places to eat, so we’ve only just scratched the surface with these three. We’ll be sharing more of our “local favorites” in the weeks to come. Until then, plan to check out one of these Clarksdale staples next time you’re in town. You’re guaranteed to have a fantastic meal and meet some pretty special people when you do.
If you need help deciding where to dine in Clarksdale, or just planning your trip in general, feel free to contact us. We’d love to help!
