I wish I knew how many trips I've taken on I-59 through Mississippi. It would rank in the hundreds, I'm sure. My absolute favorite restaurant to stop for a quick bite is http://www.pennsrestaurant.com/home. If you enjoy perfectly fried catfish and hushpuppies and find yourself anywhere near Meridian, stay and enjoy a meal and then come back here and thank me!
The staff always gives a warm greeting to guests and answers any questions you may have about the menu items. Not only is catfish on the menu, but there's also a wide variety of choices including shrimp, oysters, po'boys, vegetable plates, etc. Oh, don't forget the gumbo!
I've never seen staff standing around with their cell phones in their hands. The staff here are continually cleaning windows, doors, tables. They have been trained well to keep busy and make this establishment a welcoming environment. That goes a long way with me to ensure that I'll keep coming back!
Today we both had the combo plate with fried shrimp and catfish with sides of hushpuppies, slaw, and fries. The breading is light and well seasoned. It's evident that the oil is regularly changed because there's none of that heavy, oily taste that is sometimes present. Tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, honey mustard, and ketchup are available at a self-serve station.
Now on to the coleslaw and hush puppies. The slaw is mayo based and includes carrots and relish. It passed Sweet Harold's coleslaw test with flying colors. The hushpuppies were large and perfectly fried. I dislike heavy "packy" hushpuppies. These are light and almost airy. I give them 5 stars! I'm picky about my hushpuppies!
Next time you're driving through Meridian, do yourself a huge favor and stop at Penn's. Tell them Fleur de Lolly sent you!
They have good food. We have one here in Jackson.
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