14 Italian Restaurants In Mississippi That Have Perfected The Art Of Spaghetti And Meatballs
Finding a plate of spaghetti and meatballs that tastes like it came straight from an Italian grandmother’s kitchen isn’t always easy. Mississippi might surprise you with its incredible Italian dining scene, where family recipes and fresh ingredients come together beautifully.
From the Gulf Coast to the Delta, talented chefs have been perfecting this classic comfort dish for decades. I’ve gathered the best spots across the state where you can enjoy authentic flavors and warm hospitality that’ll keep you coming back for more.
1. Parlor Market – Jackson
When you step into this downtown Jackson gem, you’ll immediately notice the sophisticated atmosphere paired with down-home Southern charm. The chefs here take traditional Italian recipes and add their own creative twist, making each bite memorable. Their spaghetti features house-made pasta that’s cooked to perfection every single time.
What sets their meatballs apart is the blend of beef and pork, seasoned with herbs grown in local gardens. The sauce simmers for hours, developing rich layers of flavor that coat each strand of pasta beautifully. You’ll taste the difference that fresh, quality ingredients make in every forkful.
I love how they serve generous portions without overwhelming your plate. The presentation is restaurant-quality, but the portions are family-style, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
2. Amerigo – Multiple Locations
How does a restaurant become a Mississippi institution? By serving consistently delicious food that families return to year after year. Amerigo has locations across the state, each maintaining the same high standards that made them famous. Their meatballs are legendary among locals who’ve been eating them since childhood.
The secret lies in their tomato sauce, which balances sweetness and acidity perfectly. Each meatball is tender and flavorful, never dry or bland. They don’t skimp on portion sizes either, giving you plenty of food for your money.
I appreciate that they’ve kept their menu classics unchanged while adding seasonal specials. The atmosphere is casual enough for weeknight dinners but nice enough for special occasions too.
3. Shapley’s – Ridgeland
It’s not every day you find a restaurant that feels like eating at your best friend’s house. Shapley’s brings that comfortable, welcoming vibe to every meal they serve. The owners treat guests like family, remembering your name and your favorite dishes after just a few visits.
Their approach to spaghetti and meatballs is refreshingly straightforward. They use simple, quality ingredients and let the natural flavors shine through. The meatballs are substantial, each one packed with Italian seasonings that don’t overpower the meat.
What I find impressive is their consistency. Whether you visit on a Tuesday afternoon or Saturday evening, the quality never wavers. The pasta is always al dente, and the sauce always tastes freshly made.
4. Bravo! Italian Restaurant & Bar – Jackson
Walking into Bravo feels like taking a mini vacation to Italy without leaving Mississippi. The ambiance transports you with Italian music, warm lighting, and the incredible aroma of garlic and tomatoes. This chain location maintains surprisingly high standards that rival independent restaurants.
Their spaghetti and meatballs come in a portion size that’s almost intimidating. The meatballs are enormous, tender, and seasoned with a perfect blend of Italian herbs. They don’t hold back on the marinara sauce, which clings to every strand of pasta beautifully.
I recommend saving room for dessert because their tiramisu is worth it. The service is attentive without being intrusive, making your dining experience smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
5. Sal & Mookie’s New York Pizza & Ice Cream Joint – Jackson
Did you know that some of the best Italian food comes from the most unexpected places? This quirky spot combines New York-style Italian classics with Southern hospitality in the most delightful way. The retro diner atmosphere makes every visit feel like a celebration.
Their spaghetti and meatballs honor traditional recipes while adding just enough personality to make them memorable. The meatballs have a slightly crispy exterior that gives way to juicy, flavorful meat inside. The pasta is always cooked just right, never mushy or undercooked.
What makes this place special is the fun factor. Kids love the ice cream counter, while adults appreciate the full bar and creative cocktails. You can enjoy a classic Italian meal and finish with homemade gelato all under one roof.
6. Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano – Flowood
If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience without the stuffiness, Biaggi’s delivers perfectly. The open kitchen lets you watch chefs prepare your meal, adding entertainment to your dining experience. Their attention to detail shows in every aspect, from the bread service to the final bite.
The spaghetti here features imported Italian pasta that has the perfect texture and bite. Their meatballs are made fresh daily using a family recipe that’s been passed down through generations. The marinara sauce tastes bright and fresh, made with San Marzano tomatoes.
I always appreciate their extensive wine list that pairs beautifully with pasta dishes. The servers are knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations based on your preferences.
7. Nandy’s Candy – Oxford
Though the name suggests sweets, this Oxford favorite serves incredible savory dishes that’ll surprise you. The combination of candy shop and Italian cafe creates a unique atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. Students and families alike flock here for comfort food that reminds them of home.
Their spaghetti and meatballs recipe comes from the owner’s grandmother, who immigrated from Italy decades ago. Each meatball is hand-rolled daily, ensuring consistent quality and size. The sauce has that slow-cooked depth of flavor that only comes from patience and care.
What I love most is the portion-to-price ratio. You get a huge serving that’s perfect for sharing or taking home leftovers. The casual environment makes it ideal for a quick lunch between classes or a relaxed dinner.
8. Vestige – Starkville
Are you ready to experience Italian cuisine with a modern Mississippi twist? Vestige combines farm-to-table principles with classic Italian techniques, creating dishes that honor tradition while embracing innovation. The restaurant sources ingredients from local farmers, ensuring peak freshness in every dish.
Their take on spaghetti and meatballs features grass-fed beef from nearby ranches and heirloom tomatoes when in season. The pasta is made in-house daily, giving it a texture that dried pasta simply can’t match. Each component shines individually while working together harmoniously.
I find their seasonal approach refreshing in a world of standardized menus. The chefs aren’t afraid to experiment while keeping the soul of the dish intact. The intimate dining room creates a special atmosphere perfect for date nights.
9. Romie’s Grocery – Clarksdale
Hidden in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, this historic spot has been feeding hungry folks since 1946. What started as a simple grocery store evolved into a beloved restaurant that’s become a Delta institution. The building itself tells stories of generations who’ve gathered here over good food.
Their spaghetti and meatballs recipe hasn’t changed in decades, and loyal customers wouldn’t have it any other way. The meatballs are generous, the sauce is tangy, and the pasta is always cooked just right. You’ll taste the history and tradition in every bite.
I recommend visiting on a weekend when locals and travelers mix together, creating a lively atmosphere. The prices remain remarkably reasonable, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy quality Italian food.
10. Nino’s Italian Restaurant – Gulfport
When Gulf Coast residents crave authentic Italian food, they head straight to Nino’s. This family-owned establishment has weathered hurricanes and changing times while maintaining their commitment to quality. The owners greet guests personally, making everyone feel like part of their extended family.
The meatballs here are substantial and packed with flavor from a secret blend of spices. They serve them over perfectly cooked spaghetti with a sauce that’s been simmering since early morning. The portions are generous enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
What sets Nino’s apart is their consistency over the years. Regular customers can count on the same great taste visit after visit. The casual, comfortable atmosphere makes it perfect for family dinners or casual dates.
11. Enzo’s Italian Restaurant – Hattiesburg
It’s amazing how a restaurant can make you feel like you’ve been invited to an Italian family dinner. Enzo’s creates that warm, welcoming environment where strangers become friends over shared plates of delicious food. The walls are decorated with photos of Italy, adding to the authentic atmosphere.
Their approach to spaghetti and meatballs is traditional and unapologetic. The meatballs are made from a combination of meats that creates the perfect texture and flavor. The marinara sauce has just the right amount of garlic without overwhelming the other ingredients.
I appreciate that they offer different portion sizes, so you can order according to your appetite. The staff treats everyone like family, checking in without being overbearing. It’s become my go-to spot whenever I’m craving comfort food.
12. Char Restaurant – Jackson
How do you elevate a humble dish like spaghetti and meatballs into something extraordinary? Char accomplishes this by treating every ingredient with respect and using techniques that bring out maximum flavor. This upscale steakhouse proves that Italian classics belong in fine dining establishments.
Their version features hand-rolled meatballs made with premium beef and pork, seasoned with imported Italian herbs. The pasta is cooked to order, ensuring perfect texture every time. The sauce is rich and complex, with layers of flavor that develop on your palate.
Though it’s pricier than casual spots, the quality justifies the cost. The elegant atmosphere makes it ideal for special occasions when you want to impress someone. I recommend pairing it with one of their excellent Italian wines.
13. Mama Hamil’s Restaurant – Tupelo
There’s something special about a restaurant that’s been serving the same community for generations. Mama Hamil’s has become a Tupelo landmark where locals bring their children and grandchildren for meals they remember from their own childhood. The recipes have remained unchanged because they were perfect from the start.
Their spaghetti and meatballs embody Southern hospitality through Italian cuisine. The meatballs are tender and flavorful, never dry or bland. The sauce has a slight sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly. Every plate comes with warm, buttery garlic bread.
I love the nostalgic atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it possible to feed the whole family without breaking the bank.
14. Julep Restaurant – Greenwood
If someone told you that one of Mississippi’s best Italian dishes comes from the Delta, would you believe them? Julep surprises visitors with its sophisticated menu that blends Southern ingredients with Italian techniques. The chef’s creativity shines through in every dish, including their take on classic spaghetti and meatballs.
They use locally sourced beef for the meatballs, giving them a distinctive flavor that reflects the region. The pasta is made fresh daily in their kitchen, and you can taste the difference. The sauce incorporates Delta-grown tomatoes during summer months, creating a unique regional twist.
What I find remarkable is how they honor tradition while adding their own signature touches. The presentation is beautiful without being pretentious. It’s worth the drive to Greenwood just to experience their innovative approach to Italian classics.
