10 Mississippi Seafood Buffets Worth The Drive For Endless Plates And Southern Comfort
Mississippi’s Gulf Coast and river towns have earned a reputation for serving some of the best seafood buffets in the South.
You’ll find heaping platters of fried catfish, shrimp, oysters, and all the fixings that make Southern cooking so beloved.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these buffets offer a chance to eat until you’re satisfied without breaking the bank.
I’ve rounded up the top spots where you can enjoy endless plates of delicious seafood and true Southern hospitality.
1. The Dinner Bell
Family-style dining takes on a whole new meaning when you sit down at this legendary restaurant.
Located at 229 5th Ave, McComb, MS 39648, this place has been serving communal meals for decades.
You’ll pass bowls and platters around the table, sharing fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, and other Southern staples with fellow diners.
It feels like Sunday dinner at your grandmother’s house, except you don’t have to do the dishes.
The buffet-style service means you can try a little bit of everything without feeling guilty.
Portions are generous, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
I recommend arriving hungry because you’ll want to sample every dish that comes your way.
2. Seafood Junction
Small-town charm meets serious seafood at this beloved buffet spot.
You’ll find it at 101 Front St, Algoma, MS 38820, tucked away in a community that knows good food.
The all-you-can-eat spread features golden fried catfish, plump shrimp, and sides that complement every bite.
People drive from neighboring counties just to fill their plates here.
The restaurant’s reputation has grown over the years, earning high marks from locals and travelers alike.
Each dish is prepared fresh, and the staff keeps the buffet line well-stocked throughout service.
I suggest trying the catfish first it’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, exactly how it should be.
3. Mack’s On the River
Eating with a view of the water makes every meal taste better.
This riverside restaurant sits at 855 River Rd, Hattiesburg, MS 39401, where you can watch the current flow by while you dine.
The all-you-can-eat fish buffet is the main attraction, featuring golden fried catfish, creamy cheese soup, and tangy lemon pie for dessert.
Locals have made this place a favorite for weekend meals and special occasions.
The setting alone is worth the trip, but the food keeps people coming back.
You’ll appreciate the variety on the buffet line, from seafood to classic Southern comfort foods.
I always save room for the lemon pie it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
4. Catfish Cabin
Crispy catfish reigns supreme at this buffet-style eatery that specializes in Southern cooking.
Located at 122 T M Jones Hwy, Boyle, MS 38730, this spot has earned a loyal following over the years.
The buffet invites you to pile your plate high with fried catfish, creamy coleslaw, hush puppies, and other regional favorites.
Everything tastes homemade, from the cornbread to the sweet tea.
The casual atmosphere makes it a great place for families and groups of friends.
You won’t find fancy presentations here, just honest food done right.
I recommend going on a Friday or Saturday when the buffet is fully stocked and the crowd brings extra energy to the dining room.
5. Darwell’s Cafe
Down-home cooking reaches new heights at this no-frills cafe that focuses on flavor over fancy presentation.
The buffet features fried catfish, shrimp, and a rotating selection of Southern vegetables and sides.
You’ll appreciate the honest approach to food—nothing pretentious, just good eating.
The prices are reasonable, making it accessible for families and budget-conscious diners.
Regulars know to arrive early for the best selection, especially on busy weekends.
The staff treats everyone like family, creating a welcoming environment that keeps people coming back.
I recommend the fried shrimp, which is perfectly seasoned and not greasy.
Save room for the banana pudding if it’s available on the dessert table.
6. White Pillars Restaurant & Lounge
Elegant dining meets all-you-can-eat seafood at this establishment that offers a more upscale buffet experience.
The menu includes Gulf shrimp, crab legs, and oysters alongside traditional Southern sides.
You’ll find the atmosphere more refined than most buffet restaurants, with tablecloths and attentive service.
It’s a great choice for special occasions when you want good food without the formality of ordering from a menu.
The seafood is prepared with care, showing respect for the ingredients.
You can taste the quality in every bite, from the perfectly seasoned fish to the buttery crab legs.
I suggest starting with the oysters if you’re a fan they’re always fresh and properly prepared.
7. Taylor Grocery
History and catfish go hand in hand at this converted country store that’s been serving hungry diners for generations.
The all-you-can-eat catfish is the star of the show, served hot and crispy with classic sides.
The rustic setting adds character to the meal, with old signs and memorabilia decorating the walls.
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a simpler era of Southern dining.
The restaurant’s reputation has spread beyond Mississippi, attracting visitors from across the country.
Despite the fame, the food and service remain consistently excellent.
I always order extra hush puppies because they disappear fast from my plate.
The atmosphere is casual and fun, perfect for a relaxed meal with friends.
8. The Crawdad Hole
Crawfish season brings out the best at this restaurant that specializes in Louisiana-style seafood with a Mississippi twist.
The buffet features boiled crawfish, shrimp, and all the spicy sides that make Cajun cooking so addictive.
You’ll need plenty of napkins and a tolerance for heat, but the flavors are worth it.
The casual atmosphere encourages you to dig in with your hands and enjoy the messy fun of a proper seafood boil.
Beer flows freely, and the crowd is always in good spirits.
It’s the kind of place where strangers become friends over shared tables and shared love of good food.
I suggest wearing clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty eating here is a hands-on experience.
9. Half Shell Oyster House
Oyster lovers find paradise at this restaurant that puts bivalves front and center on the buffet line.
The selection includes raw, chargrilled, and fried oysters, giving you multiple ways to enjoy this Gulf Coast delicacy.
You’ll also find plenty of other seafood options for those who prefer shrimp, fish, or crab.
The restaurant takes pride in sourcing quality oysters and preparing them properly.
You can taste the ocean in every bite of the raw oysters, served with classic accompaniments.
The chargrilled version adds a smoky flavor that transforms the experience.
I always try all three preparations to appreciate the versatility of this underrated shellfish.
The po’boys are also excellent if you want something handheld between buffet trips.
10. Aunt Jenny’s Catfish Restaurant
Old-fashioned Southern hospitality defines the experience at this family-run establishment.
The buffet showcases fried catfish prepared according to recipes passed down through generations.
You’ll taste the tradition in every crispy, golden piece that comes out of the kitchen.
The sides are equally impressive, from creamy mac and cheese to perfectly seasoned green beans.
Everything tastes homemade because it is no shortcuts or frozen ingredients here.
The dining room has a homey feel that makes you comfortable from the moment you walk in.
I appreciate the attention to detail in every aspect of the meal, from the fresh-brewed tea to the warm cornbread.
It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Southern food has such a devoted following.
