If you’re cruising down the highways and byways of West Tennessee, the name “Selmer” might pop up on your GPS. You might know it as the county seat of McNairy County, or perhaps you recall a historical marker mentioning its Civil War past. But what you might not realize is that Selmer holds a delicious secret: a thriving food scene that offers everything from classic Southern comfort to surprisingly diverse culinary experiences. Forget the fast-food chains; in Selmer, you’ll find family-owned restaurants and local favorites that serve up food with a heaping side of Southern hospitality. This article will guide you through some of the best places to eat in Selmer, from smoky barbeque joints to down-home country cooking spots, offering a true taste of McNairy County. If you are looking for good food in Selmer, TN, look no further.
Southern Comfort and Smoky Barbecue
No trip to Tennessee is complete without diving headfirst into the world of Southern comfort food and, of course, barbecue. And in Selmer, the local establishments take these culinary traditions seriously.
The Pit Stop BBQ
Take, for instance, The Pit Stop BBQ. Nestled just a stone’s throw from the main square, The Pit Stop offers an authentic barbecue experience in a no-frills, friendly atmosphere. The aroma of hickory smoke hangs heavy in the air, promising tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, succulent pulled pork, and juicy smoked chicken. The walls are adorned with local memorabilia and photos of past BBQ competitions, giving you a sense of the restaurant’s long-standing commitment to barbecue excellence.
“We take pride in our slow-smoking process,” explains the owner, a lifelong Selmer resident. “It’s all about using the right wood, the right rub, and letting the meat cook low and slow until it’s perfect.” And perfect it is. The Pit Stop’s pulled pork is legendary, served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce that complements the smoky flavor of the meat. The ribs are meaty and tender, with a beautiful bark that seals in the juices. For those who like a little kick, try the spicy barbecue sauce, which adds a pleasant heat without overpowering the flavor. Sides include classic Southern staples like creamy coleslaw, smoky baked beans, and crispy hushpuppies.
As one local put it, “If you want real barbecue in Selmer, The Pit Stop is the only place to go. It’s the real deal.” Prices are reasonable, making it a great option for families and budget-conscious travelers. When you are looking for that taste of food in Selmer, TN, The Pit Stop is a classic.
The Country Kitchen
For a taste of home-style Southern cooking, look no further than The Country Kitchen. This cozy restaurant, located just off the highway, is a favorite among locals for its hearty portions, friendly service, and delicious, made-from-scratch dishes. The Country Kitchen exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with gingham tablecloths, friendly waitresses, and the comforting aroma of fried chicken and freshly baked pies.
The menu is a celebration of Southern cuisine, featuring classic dishes like country-fried steak smothered in creamy gravy, crispy fried chicken, slow-cooked collard greens, creamy macaroni and cheese, and sweet cornbread. The portions are generous, ensuring you won’t leave hungry. The fried chicken is a must-try, perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden brown. The country-fried steak is tender and flavorful, and the gravy is rich and creamy. The collard greens are cooked with ham hocks for a smoky, savory flavor. But the real star of the show is the homemade desserts. From pecan pie to chocolate chess pie to banana pudding, The Country Kitchen’s desserts are the perfect way to end a satisfying meal. The prices are very affordable, and the atmosphere is perfect for a casual family dinner. Many people consider The Country Kitchen to be the best food in Selmer, TN for Southern comfort.
Casual Dining and Family Favorites
Beyond barbecue and Southern comfort, Selmer also offers a variety of casual dining options that are perfect for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner, or a family gathering.
Selmer Diner
Selmer Diner is a classic American diner that serves up all your favorite comfort food dishes in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Located on the main street, Selmer Diner is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The diner is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the menu features a wide variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts.
The burgers are a standout, made with fresh, never-frozen beef and topped with your choice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. The sandwiches are also a popular choice, especially the club sandwich and the patty melt. For breakfast, try the pancakes, waffles, or omelets. And for dessert, be sure to try the homemade pies or milkshakes.
“Selmer Diner is the best place in town for a quick and delicious meal,” says one local resident. “The food is always good, the service is friendly, and the prices are reasonable.” Selmer Diner is a great option for families, couples, and anyone looking for a classic American diner experience. When you are searching for tasty food in Selmer, TN, consider the diner.
Pizza Palace
Pizza Palace, a local favorite, offers a wide variety of pizzas, pastas, and other Italian dishes. Located on the outskirts of town, Pizza Palace is a popular spot for families, groups, and anyone looking for a delicious and affordable meal. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with plenty of seating and a large screen TV for watching sports.
The pizza is the star of the show, with a wide variety of toppings and crust options to choose from. The pasta dishes are also popular, especially the spaghetti with meatballs and the lasagna. For appetizers, try the garlic knots or the mozzarella sticks. And for dessert, be sure to try the cannoli or the tiramisu. Pizza Palace also offers a selection of beer and wine.
“Pizza Palace is the best pizza in Selmer,” says one local resident. “The pizza is always fresh and delicious, and the service is friendly and efficient.” Pizza Palace is a great option for a casual dinner with family or friends. Look no further than Pizza Palace when seeking great food in Selmer, TN.
Local Hidden Gems and Unique Finds
Selmer’s culinary scene isn’t limited to traditional Southern fare and casual dining. The town also boasts a few hidden gems and unique finds that are worth exploring.
The Taco Spot
Tucked away in a small shopping center, The Taco Spot is a vibrant food truck offering authentic Mexican street food. Don’t let the humble appearance fool you; this place serves up some of the most delicious tacos in West Tennessee. The menu features a variety of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and other Mexican specialties, all made with fresh ingredients and authentic recipes.
The tacos are the star of the show, filled with your choice of carne asada, carnitas, pollo asado, or al pastor. The meat is tender, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The tortillas are warm and soft, and the toppings are fresh and vibrant. Be sure to try the salsa verde, which adds a pleasant kick to the tacos. The Taco Spot also offers a variety of Mexican sodas and aguas frescas.
“The Taco Spot is the best Mexican food in Selmer,” says one local resident. “The tacos are authentic and delicious, and the prices are very reasonable.” The Taco Spot is a great option for a quick and affordable lunch or dinner. You are in luck if you are in the mood for Mexican food in Selmer, TN.
The Craft Corner and Deli
For a truly unique experience, visit The Craft Corner and Deli. This charming shop combines a craft store with a deli, offering a unique and delightful experience. Browse the handcrafted items while you wait for your sandwich, or enjoy a cup of coffee while you browse the crafts.
The deli offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The sandwiches are particularly noteworthy, made with your choice of bread, meat, cheese, and toppings. The salads are fresh and crisp, and the soups are hearty and flavorful. The Craft Corner and Deli also offers a selection of craft beers and wines.
“The Craft Corner and Deli is a hidden gem in Selmer,” says one local resident. “The sandwiches are delicious, the crafts are unique, and the atmosphere is charming.” The Craft Corner and Deli is a great option for a unique and enjoyable lunch or snack. Be sure to stop by The Craft Corner and Deli for a memorable food in Selmer, TN experience.
A Culinary Conclusion: Selmer’s Flavorful Farewell
Selmer, TN, may be a small town, but it’s a town with a big heart and an even bigger appetite. From the smoky barbecue at The Pit Stop to the home-style Southern cooking at The Country Kitchen, from the classic American fare at Selmer Diner to the delicious pizza at Pizza Palace, Selmer offers a diverse and satisfying culinary experience. And with hidden gems like The Taco Spot and The Craft Corner and Deli, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. So, the next time you’re passing through Selmer, TN, be sure to stop and experience the delicious Southern hospitality and mouthwatering food that this charming town has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you for it! Don’t overlook this little town when thinking about great food in Selmer, TN.
