2 Best Restaurants in Hattiesburg, Mississippi

For nearly three decades, the Purple Parrot Cafe has feathered her fine dining nest in Hattiesburg, attracting foodies from as far away as New Orleans, who migrate north to sample the weekly five-course chef's tasting menu. No wonder, when you consider that the Purple Parrot is owned by author, syndicated newspaper columnist, television personality, and veteran restaurateur Robert St. John, who was named Mississippi's top chef for three consecutive years. Oenophiles will appreciate the sommelier's carefully curated wine pairings, which have earned the restaurant multiple Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence. Don't let the "Purple Parrot" name fool you. This restaurant is about as far from Margaritaville as you can get.

Fresh produce from local farmers turns into a party on a plate after it passes through the kitchen at Cotton Blues, where everything on the menu is made from scratch every day. With a generous nod to grandma's kitchen, the Southern creole menu is a carnivore's delight, although vegetarians do get at least one entrée option daily. Try the Deep South eggrolls, made from Gulf shrimp, rabbit tenderloin, and cabbage dragged through a mustard dipping sauce. Dinner specials are available every night except Friday and Saturday, and there's live music on the patio Thursday through Saturday nights.