Barbecue, catfish, fried chicken, and meat-and-three meals all are Dixie-standard highlights of a Mississippi road trip, but the Magnolia State has banner dishes you might not expect. Throughout the Delta, well-spiced tamales are a vital part of local culinary culture – sold as appetizers in sit-down restaurants and as snacks from street-corner vendors. Along the Gulf coast, expect not just good seafood, but dishes with a south Louisiana twist, especially some excellent po boys. Mississippi also is home to four-star steak dinners and the most elegant pompano — both served in funky back-room eateries that have lured generations.