Some Mississippi restaurants serve up a hearty helping of history along with great food – and that’s exactly the case with 303 Jefferson. Often referred to as “Clinton’s best kept secret,” the one-of-a-kind eatery is housed in a former stable that dates back to the 1870s. Visit today and you won’t find any horses or livestock, but you will find plenty of clues regarding the building’s age. Take a look:
This is 303 Jefferson. It’s located in Old Town Clinton, which is fitting since the building that houses the restaurant has been around since the late 1870s.
303 Jefferson/Google
The restaurant is situated on a cobble stone-like street, only adding to its delightfully historic vibe.
James Keyes/Google
And if the centuries-old structure and brick street aren’t enough to convince you of the building’s age, the historic marker out front should definitely do the trick.
303 Jefferson/Facebook
It looks like we can thank Captain William Lewis, a Civil War hero, for 303 Jefferson. He constructed the building back in the 1870s and used it as a livery stable (a stable where people pay to board horses).
303jefferson.com Used for more than boarding horses, the livery stable was a popular place for men to get together and talk about news, politics, horses, and trade.
Brothers, Ed and Fred Ratliff, purchased the stable in 1921 and transformed it into a buggy and bicycle shop.
303jefferson.com The brothers also sold fuel at their shop – and it’s a good thing because in 1925, Charles Lindbergh walked to the shop to buy fuel after landing his plane in a nearby field, just south of town.
The building went on to serve as a hardware store for several decades before being transformed into what it is today – a “down-home restaurant serving Southern food and sweet tea.”
John Travis/Google
Sure to please, the extensive menu is filled with Southern classics – and that’s in addition daily hot plate lunch specials.
303 Jefferson/Facebook
The menu even includes steaks, burgers, and…
303 Jefferson/Facebook
…desserts that are worth breaking your diet for.
303 Jefferson/Facebook
Visit 303 Jefferson Tuesdays – Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
303 Jefferson/Facebook
303 Jefferson is located at 303 Jefferson St., Clinton, MS 39056. For more information, call (601) 924-1303. You can also visit the eatery’s website or Facebook page.
303 Jefferson/Google
James Keyes/Google
303 Jefferson/Facebook
303jefferson.com
Used for more than boarding horses, the livery stable was a popular place for men to get together and talk about news, politics, horses, and trade.
The brothers also sold fuel at their shop – and it’s a good thing because in 1925, Charles Lindbergh walked to the shop to buy fuel after landing his plane in a nearby field, just south of town.
John Travis/Google
So, ever been to this historic eatery? Have another favorite dining spot from yesteryear? Tell us in the comments section.
This isn’t the only Mississippi restaurant loaded with history. Read about another here.
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