When it comes to discovering the culture and history of northeastern Mississippi, there's no better way to do it than by visiting the local museums. But what if you're looking for something more than just a cultural experience? What if you want to enjoy a delicious meal while you explore the area's past? Well, you're in luck! Northeastern Mississippi is home to some of the best museum restaurants in the country. From Danny Meyer's award-winning restaurant at the Whitney Museum of American Art to the cafeteria-style eatery at the Smithsonian's American Indian Museum, there are plenty of options for those looking for a unique dining experience. One of the most popular museum restaurants in northeastern Mississippi is Walker's Drive In, located near the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science.
This eatery has been serving up classic Southern dishes since the 1950s and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. From fried chicken and catfish to burgers and fries, Walker's Drive In has something for everyone. Another great option for museum-goers is Halcyon, located inside the Mint Museum Uptown. This restaurant features a stunning stone fountain, chandelier of branches, and tables made from cross sections of giant trees.
The menu includes rustic dishes such as homemade sausages, braised bison, and fried oysters. For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, there's Tony Mantuano's restaurant at the Art Institute of Chicago. This award-winning restaurant offers à la carte dishes with clean flavors such as hamachi marinated with green apple sauce and sorrel, black sea bass poached with olive oil, and chicken glazed with foie gras. The restaurant also features an extensive wine and cocktail list and visually stunning desserts from pastry chef Jiho Kim.
Finally, there's the cafeteria-style restaurant at the Smithsonian's American Indian Museum. This eatery specializes in Native American cuisine from various locations in the Western Hemisphere. From traditional dishes such as fry bread tacos to modern creations like pumpkin old fashioneds, this restaurant has something for everyone.