Steakhouse Capital of Mississippi

There are no traffic signs in Ridgeland that say: Stop for Steaks.

But it would still be a crime if you visited the city without digging in to sample and savor one of its most famous and well-loved delicacies.

Ridgeland has earned the title of the “Steakhouse Capital of Mississippi” for good reason. The city has not only the most steakhouses of any city in the state, but also the best, as the raves of national food critics testify. CNN, Business Insider and Men’s Journal have all branded Ridgeland steaks the best in the state, and even the nation.

Ready to map out your own mouthwatering visit and “steak” your claim? Consider these superb choices:

If generous serving sizes are your must-have, then Kathryn’s Steakhouse and Seafood Restaurant (6800 Old Canton Road, #108) is definitely a contender, since large portions and live music are their trademark. And while many will tell you that it’s impossible to top Kathryn’s unadorned filet medallions, in fact you may want to pair those juicy filets with savory toppings like crabmeat and hollandaise, or black peppercorn and bleu cheese, or sautéed mushrooms and feta cheese.

Critics at national organizations like MSN and Business Insider have also heaped high praise on the steaks at the high-style Ely’s Restaurant and Bar (115 West Jackson Street). Ely’s offers a bountiful menu of steak classics that include appetizing variations like the center-cut Filet Louisiane served with Creole barbeque butter and shrimp. And when available, the Dry-Aged New York Strip (aged up to 45 days) packs a phenomenal flavor impact. Dig in and drink in Ely’s luxe atmosphere; the establishment’s sleek modern interior features brushed steel tables and accents that make a meal at Ely’s a truly tasteful event.

With its log exterior, inviting front porch and friendly outgoing owner, Tico’s Steakhouse (1536 East County Line Road) has been a local favorite for over 30 years. An enthusiastic amateur golfer and lifelong restauranteur, founder Tico Hoffman makes his warm and welcoming establishment a great place to relax and savor an all-time great steak. Sports photos line the wall; you may find yourself setting a record for all-time dining enjoyment. Try one of Tico’s classics like the bone-in ribeye, or go for that tried-and-true duo of steak and lobster tail.

Think a perfect steak demands the perfect seasoning? So does Koestler Prime (1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 6001). In fact, after you savor one of the establishment’s sumptuous steaks, you’ll wish you could to take home a bottle of Koestler’s seasoning for your own steak creations. The good news? You can. The nearly half-dozen steak toppings will also have you thinking creatively, with choices like baby artichoke hearts, sautéed with garlic and spices and topped with cream sauce. Another delectably original steak topping: George Bank sea scallops broiled and topped with dill cream. For smaller parties of four or fewer, discrete alcoves adorned by fine art create a sumptuous atmosphere. Savor your steaks and your surroundings!

At MM Shapley’s (868 Center Street), the magic is in the savory reduction sauce, a house specialty since the two M’s—husband and wife Mark and Mary Shapley—began their culinary enterprise back in the 1980s. While the Shapleys left the business for a time to tend to their growing family, the pull of the restaurant was irresistible. Expect to be drawn back, too, for one of their beautifully tender steak delights. The Porterhouse starts at 32 ounces, perfect to share for two.

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