Moving away from Mississippi means saying goodbye to the amazing food the state is known for…unless you’re John Grisham. The famed author left the Magnolia State some time ago. But that doesn’t mean he doesn’t get to indulge in his favorite dish, Mary Mahoney’s gumbo. The Gulf Coast restaurant actually mails gumbo – along with a few other goodies – to the author once a year. Take a look:

In business since the 1960s, Mary Mahoney’s is one of the Gulf Coast’s most popular restaurants.

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Throughout the years, it’s hosted an array of celebrity diners, including author John Grisham.

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It’s been quite some time since Grisham visited Mary Mahoney’s, but he still gets to indulge in its signature gumbo and that’s because…

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…the eatery sends it to him every Christmas, just as it has been doing for the past 20 years! The author normally calls to say “thanks,” but this year, he sent a heartfelt note.

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Along with the note, was a story, which recaps how Grisham discovered Mary Mahoney’s and its famous gumbo. But this isn’t the first time he’s written about the eatery. Mary Mahoney’s is mentioned in two of Grisham’s books - “The Runaway Jury” and “Partner.”

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But the famed gumbo isn’t all the Gulf Coast restaurant sends to Grisham. The tasty care package also includes other house specialties, like crawfish etouffee and oyster stew.

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Grisham isn’t the only one that loves the gumbo, though.

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Boasted as world famous, the gumbo has been sampled by “thousands of famous folks,” including Elvis, Usher, and Emeril.

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An iconic eatery with dishes that are just as legendary, Mary Mahoney’s is a culinary gem that you’ve got to visit!

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Mary Mahoney’s is open Monday – Saturday, from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. For more information, call (228) 374-0163. You can also visit the eatery’s website or Facebook page.

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Mary Mahoney’s/Facebook

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Ever visited Mary Mahoney’s? Did you try the gumbo? If so, what’d you think? Know of another legendary restaurant that’s a must-visit? Tell us in the comments section.

This isn’t the only place you can enjoy gumbo. Read about another here.

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Address: 110 Rue Magnolia, Biloxi, MS 39530, USA