Whether you’re on the lookout for a classic place to eat out with friends or trying something new, these are my top five tried and true restaurants for a chill night out. From American to Greek to Mexican, any of these restaurants are the perfect place to enjoy some good food in the Jackson-Metro Area. 

Number 5: Brent’s

Brent’s is a classic spot to go have a milkshake or burger in the Jackson area. While the menu is limited, Brent’s does everything they serve well. The restaurant is located in an old 1950’s drugstore, so you feel like you’ve been transported back in time when you walk in. The milkshakes are the best around, and there are many different flavors to choose from. While Brent’s is generally pretty good, you may have to be willing to wait a while for your food. However, it is worth it once you get it. 

Number 4: Sal and Mookie’s

 Coming in fourth is Sal and Mookies. Sal and Mookie’s is a classic New York pizza parlor in the District at Eastover. While the pizza and entrees themselves are about equal to other pizza places in Jackson, their outstanding appetizers and salads make it a standout. Specifically, the fried ravioli and mozzarella sticks are the best in town. Sal and Mookie’s also has ice cream which is a pretty good dessert for after your meal. Sal and Mookie’s is located right in the middle of the District, and has cool fountains and greenspace for kids to play on right outside the patio, making it very family friendly (fun fact: I’ve actually seen a couple get engaged there). It is a nice place to hang out and eat because of its pleasant environment. I especially enjoy going there in the summer because the outside dining is very nice, though it is good year round. 

Number 3: Basil’s 

 Basil’s ranks third on the list. Basil’s is a great place to grab a sandwich with friends or get takeout, and the sandwiches are reasonably priced. The sandwiches are vastly superior to other sandwich shops in Jackson, which is why it ranks third on this list. The food typically comes out quickly and exactly how you ordered it. Basil’s has three locations: Jackson, Ridgeland, and Flowood. While the menu is the same at all three, they are not created equally. I would recommend the Flowood location, as it has the best quality food and the newest facility. The Ridgeland and Jackson locations are still pretty good, but I would argue Flowood is the best just because it is new (and it is joint with Rooster’s which adds options for those not in the sandwich mood). The Flowood location is super convenient especially if you are a Prep student and would be a great spot for food before a game or during Senior Lunch.

Number 2: El Charro 

As a local favorite, El Charro is highly praised, and deservingly so. A popular stop before Prep football games, El Charro serves good Mexican food at a low price. The service is good and fast, and you will usually get your food within 30 minutes of sitting down. This makes El Charro a great stop for when you need a quick bite. Everything on the menu is pretty solid, but the Chicken P5 or cheese quesadilla is probably your best bet when first trying it out. The one aspect of El Charro that can be seen as a downside is the environment. While I personally don’t mind the hole-in-the-wall vibe, there have been some complaints about it over the years. But overall, El Charro makes up for it with their outstanding food. 

Number 1: Aplos 

Though all the restaurants on this list are good, first prize goes to Aplos. Relatively new to the Jackson area, Aplos has cultivated a large following of many loyal customers, including myself. Whether you’re dining in or getting takeout, the service is fantastic. The food is delicious and reasonably priced, considering the high quality. There is a wide variety on the menu, so it is easy to find something you will enjoy. It is also generally healthy, which is a positive. The two locations, Jackson and Ridgeland, are centrally located. The scenery at both locations is vibrant and chill, which makes for a great dining experience. I would highly recommend checking out Aplos if you have not already.