The master chefs at Bonsai know how to put on a good show and set a fine feast. Bring a group and grab a big table, then let these hibachi artists work their magic on steak, chicken, shrimp and vegetable selections. The teriyaki chicken might be the most popular choice for light diners, but a nice sushi menu provides some other light options. Several variations of saki head up an acceptable wine list, and full bar service is available. Reservations are recommended for groups of four or more to prevent your party from having to be split among tables.

Jerusalem Café is located in the trendy Fondren district in downtown Jackson. Their menu offers Mediterranean style cuisine with staples such as falafel, hummus, lentil soup, stuffed grape leaves and the like. They also serve baklava for dessert (a must have). They have an assortment of beer and a limited selection of wine. The thing that distinguishes Jerusalem Café from other area Mediterranean cafés is the fact that they also have a hooka bar. There are an assortment of flavors to choose from such as mint, apple and melon. Please note that the hooka bar closes at 9p.

Rooster's is a casual, down home burger joint in the historic Fondren area of Jackson. The burgers are juicy, tender and cooked to order. They have a variety of burgers such as cheese and mushroom- swiss (to name a few). While dining there, one must order a plate of their homemade fries (made from real potatoes) and onion rings. They are crispy and not greasy. There are other items on the menu such as chicken fried steak, chicken fingers, chicken sandwiches and a variety of salads. You will not be disappointed with the quality of food and low price's at Rooster's.

With various locations across the United States-Shoney's Restaurant has a unique offering in the historical city of Jackson also. Sink your teeth into the spicy catfish strips and the cajun blackened mahi mahi for they are really yummy. However, keep some place for the sinful hot fudge cake whipped with cream and a cherry. Shoney's prides itself for being one of the beloved restaurants of Jackson.

Want to dive into the great American snack? Then a stop at Wendy's is definitely a good bet. Considered by many way as better than normal fast food, this chain based in Ohio is one of the top hamburger joints in America. This particular outlet is more inviting with carpeted floors and tiffany styled lamps. Besides the regular hamburgers which by the way is the their trump card, you can also get chicken salads, sandwiches baked chips and baked potatoes. French fries have an ultra thick chocolate frosty to go with. With so much on the menu and quick service, a fast food joint can't get better than Wendy's.

Martin's, a Mississippi original since 1953, offers perhaps the largest selection of beers (both domestic and imports) wine, and spirits in the state. It also boasts an affordable lunch buffet featuring classic Southern cuisine such as red beans, rice, and shrimp creole. Their dinner menu has enough appetizers, entrees, and sides to please any palate. There is also a short order menu. During late nights, Martin's offers live music, karaoke, and open mike. Hospitality reigns here, with the friendliest bar staff in all of Jackson, an attentive and courteous wait staff, and a local crowd from all walks of life. -Cindy Leggett

This old brick two-story in the shadow of the Capitol heats up after dark. George Street is a mild-mannered pub and eatery during the day, popular with the lunch crowd from the government buildings nearby. The menu offers a full fare of sandwiches, burgers and a few more extravagant dishes. Later hours draw the college crowd. After the kitchen closes at 9p, the music cranks up, and the bar scene is in full effect. Upstairs, local bands take the stage and keep the party going late into the night. A cover charge is occasionally required.

It is a bit hard to say whether this is a bar or a restaurant, but you will get plenty of food and drink here. Lively and always fun, the wait staff is engaging and quick to laugh. The entire menu is praiseworthy, but if you are not a fan of anchovies, let your waiter know early. Whatever may happen to strike your fancy, be sure to try the Ouzo (or something else from the full bar) and save just a little bit of room for the baklava, perhaps the richest and stickiest confection ever designed.

When you are ready to roll up your sleeves for some down-home, stick-to-your-ribs Southern grub, this is the place to go. Just ask any of the locals who line the sidewalk as early as 6:30a in hopes of getting a good booth. A favorite among local residents, this casual place is located right downtown and serves up such classics as gravy-smothered breaded veal cutlets and biscuits as big as your fist. Beer is served for the after-work and dinner crowd, and like most places in Jackson, the Lamar is closed on all major holidays (and even some minor ones).

Located on the west side of town within the lobby of the Coliseum Hotel, this fun place is known to many locals as the site of the "Happiest Hour in Town." The restaurant offers a fine selection of Mexican specialties and appetizers, with special seating available for meetings or private parties. Most come for the drinks-especially the frozen margaritas-including a good number of area residents who know a good time when they see one. Catering service and an economical kids' menu are also provided.