Susan Gaffney
President, Dynamic Events, Pass Christian, Miss.
What are three great dining experiences you would recommend for groups meeting on the Mississippi Gulf Coast?
- Jazzeppi’s: I’d recommend Jazzeppi’s in Biloxi for its ambience, service and food. It’s down by the lighthouse, maybe three to four blocks off the beach. I sent a group of Nissan executives there. It’s an Italian martini bar that’s known for its seafood. They also have a veal dish with angel hair pasta with cream sauce and artichoke hearts that’s just great! It’s right next to the railroad tracks, but when you go inside, it’s very elegant.
- The Chimneys Restaurant: I also like The Chimneys Restaurant in Gulfport for its ambience, views of the Gulf of Mexico, service and food. They are also good for seafood. This was a 100-year-old home that was demolished by Katrina, and they rebuilt it. Now every seat has a view of the Gulf of Mexico. I do that more for lunch because that’s when you can actually see the Gulf.
- Mary Mahoney’s Old French House: Finally, there’s Mary Mahoney’s Old French House in Biloxi for its history—built in 1737—food and proximity to convention hotels. It’s within walking distance—right across Highway 90—from the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, and groups definitely can walk when the weather’s nice. It’s got seafood and a lot of local flavor. It’s one of those places everyone who’s a tourist has heard about.