Favorite Lil' Dive Bars: Jackson, MS

F. Jones Corner:

The party doesn't really start until midnight but trust us; it’s worth the wait. Seating is very limited, so make sure you get there and snag a spot. This is true down South music with a juke joint feel in the city. The blues musicians who play there are gritty, loud, and soulful. They stay open until 4 a.m., so if the clubs are closing and you don't want to go home yet, this is the place to be. Outside, they are usually smoking some hot dogs, burgers, or BBQ. It’s cheap and delicious, and usually just what you need at that time of the night.

The Apothecary:

This place is just cool. Cool in that speakeasy way. Cool in that you have to walk through the old soda shop to a door in the back to get to it kind of way. All their spirits are top shelf, and they're not selling you short on the booze. The bar is stocked with some really obscure ingredients, so it's a great place to be adventurous—don't go and stick to your regular Jack and Coke.

Martin’s:

This is an old-school joint with patrons who appear to have never left 50 years after having their first drink there. A true locals’ place where good stiff pours from the bartender is the norm. The delicious local fried catfish won’t disappoint you. Heads up: they do allow smoking.

Fenian’s Pub:

Everyone loves some good ‘ole Irish pub grub. Scottish eggs can be tricky, but these guys have got it figured out. Wash it down with a Guinness, or check out their great selection of scotch and Irish whiskeys. The atmosphere is exactly what you want from an Irish pub—all dark woods, stained glass, and a friendly local crowd. Go on Monday for some highly entertaining karaoke.

Fondren Public:

Huge, open plan with tons of seating; big, tall booths; a huge bar; and a gorgeous, covered patio area that's heated in the colder months. Inside, patrons can play table shuffleboard. Outdoors, cornhole or bocci ball await. FP has a great beer list, including plenty of local variety. There's also televisions throughout the bar, which makes it a great spot for having a cold one and catching the game.