There are a lot of great restaurants in Mississippi but only a handful can be described as legendary – and the Big Apple Inn is definitely one of them. One of the oldest restaurants in Jackson, it has a history that’s as flavorful as its food. Now nationally recognized, Big Apple Inn is an iconic Jackson landmark and an absolute must-visit. Take a look:
Located on Farish Street in Jackson, Big Apple Inn has been in business since 1952.
Nolen G./Yelp
Ran by the same family for four generations, the eatery was started by Juan “Big John” Mora, an immigrant from Mexico City.
Rick L./Yelp
In need of a job, he began selling tamales on the corner of Farish and Hamilton Streets.
David R.,Yelp
Mora was eventually able to purchase a storefront, which he named Big Apple Inn.
Nolen G./Yelp
Described as a “hole in the wall” by the owner, Big Apple Inn quickly grew into a local favorite.
SouthernFoodways/YouTube
Visit today, and you’ll find a simple menu, which includes the restaurant’s signature tamales as well as a few sandwich options.
Ken T./Yelp
Initially, it was the tamales that Big Apple Inn was known for; however, that changed when the eatery began serving a pig ear sandwich.
Ken T./Yelp
The unique creation is made by placing a pig’s ear on a bun and slathering it with spicy mustard, slaw, and hot sauce.
Chinese Yankee/TripAdvisor
Not only a local favorite, the one-of-a-kind delicacy has caught the attention of several celebrities, including BB King, “Bizarre Foods” host Andrew Zimmern, and President Obama.
Matthew B./Yelp
Other popular sandwich options include bologna and smoked sausage.
Derek D./Yelp
Even better, no matter which you choose, it’ll only cost you $1.50!
Big Apple Inn/Facebook
Aside from its famous sandwich, Big Apple Inn has another claim to fame - Civil Rights activist Medgar Evers used to hold meetings in the eatery’s dining area.
Chinese Yankee/TripAdvisor The restaurant was also a favorite of legendary blues singer Sonny Boy Williamson, who once lived in an apartment directly above the restaurant.
Learn more about the history of this iconic restaurant in the video below.
Nolen G./Yelp
Rick L./Yelp
David R.,Yelp
SouthernFoodways/YouTube
Ken T./Yelp
Chinese Yankee/TripAdvisor
Matthew B./Yelp
Derek D./Yelp
Big Apple Inn/Facebook
The restaurant was also a favorite of legendary blues singer Sonny Boy Williamson, who once lived in an apartment directly above the restaurant.
Visit Big Apple Inn at 509 North Farish Street in Jackson Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 am until 9:00 pm and on Saturday from 8:00 am until 9:00 pm. For more information, head to the restaurant’s Facebook page.
Have you ever dined at Big Apple Inn? Think you’d enjoy the pig ear sandwich? Share your thoughts in the comments section!
Looking for another must-visit eatery? Check out “The Most Whimsical Restaurant In Mississippi Belongs On Your Bucket List.“
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