After a long day exploring the lush trails of Crystal Springs, even paradise needs a proper meal. The good news? This charming Mississippi town serves up more than just natural beauty. While any roadside diner might fill your stomach, true satisfaction requires finding the right spot. Here are the 20 best restaurants near Crystal Springs where every bite feels like a reward.
Cravin Cajun Hopewell, MS
$ | (601) 540-4064 | WEBSITE
Cravin Cajun Hopewell is a hidden gem but unpretentious, and one of the best local spots near Crystal Springs. They have consistently satisfying seafood, (perfectly cooked) crab legs that crack easily, and tons of authentic Cajun dishes to keep you and your family’s minds off of the fact that you’re not actually in Louisiana. The shrimp boil, crawfish, and gumbo are always delicious, with friendly people and a welcoming, kid-friendly atmosphere that makes every visit feel like a great experience.
It’s the kind of place where the shrimp and tamales are highly praised, and you leave already planning your next trip back.
Los Parilleros
$ | (601) 894-2601 | WEBSITE
Though the Hazlehurst location doesn’t have quite the magic of a big-city taqueria, Los Parilleros still serves the kind of authentic Mexican food that hits the spot after a long day. The festive atmosphere and friendly staff make it a welcoming spot for any occasion.
Arturo’s Mexican Grill
$ | (601) 892-2157 | WEBSITE
From the outside, Arturo’s Mexican Grill looks a lot like the countless other Mexican restaurants that dot the streets near Crystal Springs. But once inside, you’ll realize it’s better than the rest – the lunch chicken fajitas and fajita chimichanga are solid, the welcoming atmosphere is great for casual meals, and its location means it’s only a short drive from wherever you’re coming from in the area.
Canton Garden
$ | (601) 894-1166 | WEBSITE
We don’t typically recommend Crystal Springs for authentic Chinese cuisine, but when we do, we steer people toward Canton Garden. This family-friendly restaurant offers solid food and a welcoming, accommodating atmosphere that feels refreshingly removed from the generic chain-restaurant experience found elsewhere in the area.
Restaurante Guatemalteca
Restaurante Guatemalteca is a Crystal Springs gem and one of the few remaining authentic spots in the area that hasn’t been swallowed up by chain restaurants. Located right next to Baskin & Robbin’s, walking into this dual-space eatery is like walking through a culinary portal – on the other side are wallet-friendly prices, a friendly owner, and outstanding dishes like birria tacos and hibachi shrimp (obviously).
Sonic Drive-In
$ | (601) 892-5957 | WEBSITE
Best known as that place you grabbed a late-night burger after the movies, this popular drive-in spot hums along steadily during weekday lunch hours. The food is satisfying, there’s friendly staff on hand, and those car stalls are perfect for enjoying your meal (and your midday break) in.
Brando’s Restaurant
$ | (601) 894-9007 | WEBSITE
For some unknown reason, Crystal Springs has more than its fair share of Southern comfort spots, and Brando’s Restaurant is one of the best. In operation for years, this place can definitely get crowded, but ultimately you don’t mind because the warm atmosphere is fun and welcoming, the fried chicken will cure your weary soul, and everyone’s celebrating family occasions around the buffet.
Los Parrilleros Mexican Grille
$ | (601) 308-5277 | WEBSITE
Los Parrilleros Mexican Grille isn’t the best Mexican food you’ll ever eat. It is, however, as good as you’ll find in the immediate Crystal Springs area, and after a day of exploring the local sights with visiting friends, that’s good enough. The space is also more enjoyable than you’d think, with warm lighting that creates a cozy atmosphere, though the music can get a bit loud at times. The service is consistently friendly and attentive, making up for the occasional hit-or-miss dish.
While most of the menu delivers tasty options, I’d skip the steak based on a disappointing experience with that particular item. For a reliable meal with solid service in a pleasant setting, Los Parrilleros gets the job done.
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
$ | (601) 892-3500 | WEBSITE
Operating for years now, this quick-service spot in Crystal Springs has become something of a fried chicken staple in the area. Though it technically falls under a national chain banner, this location definitely feels like its own place and that’s a positive. Which is to say, the food is consistently hot and delicious, and the atmosphere is mostly made up of regulars who appreciate the turnaround in service.
Family Fish House
$ | (601) 894-5536 | WEBSITE
You’ve spent most of your Saturday running errands, dealing with crowds you’d rather avoid. You need comfort food – real comfort food. Head to Family Fish House, the cozy spot in Crystal Springs with perfect catfish filets, sides that hit just right, and an atmosphere far more welcoming than your average fish joint. The three-piece dinner runs about $18, served in a warm, wood-paneled dining room where the staff treats you like family.
Whether you’re craving those sweet turnip greens or just need those hot hush puppies, the down-home vibe and awesome food will have you planning your next visit before you’ve finished your cole slaw.
Creole Foods (Famous Fried Chicken)
$ | (601) 647-1717 | WEBSITE
Creole Foods is the must-visit fried chicken spot in Crystal Springs. They have a standout 2pc dinner spicy with a thigh and a leg and the kind of friendly, welcoming atmosphere you want after a long drive from the surrounding counties. The fried chicken’s crunch, juiciness, and perfect balance of spiciness might only be one dish, but with so many good options like baked chicken, neck bones, Chicken Spaghetti, Meatloaf, and cobbler, you won’t find a better soul food meal in the area.
Chopsticks Chinese Restaurant
$ | (601) 892-5888 | WEBSITE
Since 2005, Chopsticks Chinese Restaurant has been one of the better Chinese spots in Crystal Springs, but the real move is to head over for takeout, place a big order, and go to town on some orange chicken, shrimp fried rice, and all the cheese wontons you can eat for under $30.
Waffle House
$ | (601) 894-4910 | WEBSITE
You’re tired of the endless highway monotony and need to feel like a real trucker for a few hours. Head to Waffle House. This roadside diner at the Crystal Springs exit is definitely a scene, and that’s exactly why you’re here. And also that food – which has something to do with the low cost of breakfast here.
Pappas Pizza Pi
$ | (601) 308-5310 | WEBSITE
Happy Hour: 5-7pm, Mon-Wed. 4pm-6pm, Thu-Sat. $5-$6 select draft beers and $8-$9 specialty cocktails, $9 house sangria, $7 per glass house red or white wine. Pizza and wing specials.
J B’s BBQ
$ | (601) 894-5393 | WEBSITE
J B’s BBQ sits in a modest strip mall that you might easily drive right past, but when it comes to authentic Southern barbecue, we make the detour. The meats are tender, the sweet tea is perfectly brewed, and the barbecue sauce has just the right tang. Also, the catfish plate is a local favorite.
Bumpers Drive-In of America
$ | (601) 894-9931 | WEBSITE
The Hazlehurst original opened in Crystal Springs in 2025 and brought with it outstanding service, delicious strawberry milkshakes, and a space where you can feel truly nostalgic for all the trappings of old-fashioned days. As far as the milkshakes go, our favorite is the classic strawberry, but you can’t really go wrong with any of them – particularly when they’re all just $3.50 during the afternoon special.
SAM’S CAFE
$ | (601) 308-9048 | WEBSITE
Not the chain diner (though a chain diner with catfish this good would be a real find). SAM’S CAFE is a Southern-ish spot that also happens to have one of the best catfish combos in Crystal Springs. And though a meal here can feel like a solid, honest deal, their fantastic two- or four-piece options are a great way to tailor the feast to your appetite. The crust on that catfish is a thing of beauty—crisp, golden, and utterly satisfying, especially when paired with those flavorful fries.
The drinks are ice-cold, the owner is awesome, and whether you’re dining in at one of their simple, no-fuss tables or grabbing it to go, it’s just a good, straightforward place to grab a bite.
Brando’s Steakhouse and Buffet
$ | (601) 308-5144 | WEBSITE
Brando’s Steakhouse and Buffet is one of those places near Crystal Springs you always forget about, until you go there and realize it should be in your regular rotation. The buffet is good, and the space is great for big families who can’t decide what to eat.
Brummi’s Yummies
$ | (601) 894-2253 | WEBSITE
Crystal Springs can be kind of quiet place, but Brummi’s Yummies is a less-quiet option. This (you guessed it) bakery spot has exceptional treats, plus a charming space that serves as a great respite while afternoon errands wind down outside.
Stark’s Family Restaurant
$ | (601) 894-1520 | WEBSITE
If you’re wondering where that reliable homestyle spot near Crystal Springs you’ve been to went, the answer is it’s still there – it just has some quirks. Formally a consistent favorite, the place is now called Stark’s Family Restaurant, but not to worry, the restaurant itself basically hasn’t changed otherwise. It still has that welcoming family charm to soothe your soul after another long day.