People partying at Mississippi music venue, Hal & Mal's.

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Mississippi Music Venues That Hit Every Note and Every Bite

By: TLP's Partners

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Come for the food, stay for the tunes. Hal & Mal’s and Blue Canoe aren’t just restaurants, they’re Mississippi’s living jukeboxes. These soulful eateries dish out Gulf Coast goodness with a spicy kick, a groovy atmosphere, and a side of Southern charm. With menus as bold as their music, these musical gems hit every note, and every taste bud, just right.

Hal & Mal’s

Jackson

Since 1984, Hal & Mal’s has been Jackson’s one-stop-shop for delicious eats, incredible music, and a lively atmosphere that gives you a prime slice of Americana. Located in an old freight depot, Hal & Mal’s fuses the funky vibe with foot-tapping tunes almost every day of the month. From local blues to jazz, rock, and country, plus the occasional touring act or stand-up comedy set, there’s never a dull moment here. In 2024, owners Mary Sanders and Damien Cavicchi expanded the experience with The Walk-In, a brand-new bar and restaurant tucked inside the venue’s former walk-in cooler. The music isn’t the only thing worth savoring at Hal & Mal’s. The venue’s shareable menu is packed with Mississippi favorites. Dig into rich, flavorful gumbo, classic red beans and rice, Delta-style tamales, and fresh Gulf seafood, all while soaking in the sounds of Mississippi’s legendary music scene.

Backstage Pass

Fast Facts on Hal & Mal’s

Blues and rock royalty have graced the Hal & Mal’s stage, including B.B King, Willie Dixon, Ike Turner, and Albert King.
The venue was originally a freight depot for the Gulf, Mobile & Ohio Railroad.
Cofounder Malcolm White chronicled the venue’s storied past in his book, The Artful Evolution of Hal & Mal’s.

Blue Canoe

Tupelo

In Tupelo, the birthplace of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll, you’ll find a different kind of legend—Blue Canoe, a laid-back, funky bar and music venue where great tunes and bold flavors take center stage. Known for its eclectic vibe, original live music, and award-winning food, this beloved local spot pairs 35 craft beers on tap with a menu that goes far beyond your typical bar fare. From duck quesadillas to crispy avocado wedges and the five-time award-winning blueberry donut bread pudding, Blue Canoe guarantees you won’t leave hungry. Its packed music calendar features everything from Mississippi-born talent to nationally touring acts, making it a one-of-a-kind destination for music lovers. At Blue Canoe, there’s no dress code and no pretense, just good music, good food, and good company.

Backstage Pass

Fast Facts on Blue Canoe

Blue Canoe proudly embraces its nickname as the “Five-Star Dive Bar.”
Legendary artists like Alabama Shakes and Gary Clark Jr. have rocked the stage.
The now-famous blueberry donut bread pudding was named the Best Dessert in Mississippi by Mississippi Magazine.

Plan your Mississippi music adventure at VisitMississippi.org.