Comfort food is, well, comforting. Cooking comfort food? That’s a different story. Luckily, Mississippi is full of restaurants that serve country cookin’ just like grandma used to make — and one of them can be found in Laurel. Dubbed The Pearl Diner, the charming eatery has quickly garnered a reputation for its tasty, home-cooked southern fare. Take a look:

A charming town in Jones County, Laurel has gained popularity in recent years thanks to HGTV’s hit show, Home Town.

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The show also helped one of the town’s best eateries, The Pearl Diner, gain some much-deserved recognition, after the diner’s owner, Mrs. Pearl, appeared on Home Town.

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The diner opened in 2017 and has quickly grown into a favorite of both locals and tourists. These days, a crowd (and a short wait) is likely, but don’t let that discourage you — the food at Pearl’s is worth waiting for.

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It’s a laid-back type of place, so orders are placed at the counter.

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In true southern fashion, the diner serves up classic blue plate lunches that consist of one meat, your choice of two or three sides, and cornbread.

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Though the meat choices vary from day to day, fried chicken is a staple — and according to customers, a must-try.

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The sides are just as delicious. And while there aren’t a ton of sides, Pearl’s serves all the right ones.

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Mac and cheese, greens, and black-eyed peas are just a few of the classics served at the diner.

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But great home-cooked food isn’t all Pearl’s is known for. Past patrons consistently rave about the employees, especially Mrs. Pearl’s, true southern hospitality.

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Ready to see (or taste?) what all the fuss is about?

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The Pearl Diner is located at 330 N Magnolia St., Laurel, MS 39440. For more information, call (601) 682-0945. You can also visit the diner’s Facebook page. So, ever been to Pearl’s? If so, did try the fried chicken? Tell us in the comments section.

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Pearl’s Diner/Facebook

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This isn’t the only diner that belongs on your bucket list. Click here to read about another.

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