Finding Community: Belhaven Town Center

Whether you're a local Jacksonian or a newcomer to the City With Soul, one of the best hotspots to visit in town is the evolving Belhaven Town Center (BTC).

Rooted in "the creation of social capital through place making," BTC hopes to bring people out of their homes and into shared spaces to create a more profound sense of community and camaraderie.

Belhaven Town Center
Credit: Drew Dempsey/Tell Agency

Located in one of the capital city's most storied neighborhoods and prominent historic districts, Belhaven Town Center takes the best from its creative origins and offers everything from craft beer to burgers to Mississippi-made ice cream. Check out the running list of spots below, and follow BTC's social media to stay on top of future openings.

Elvies Beef Tartare
Beef Tartare at Elvie's
Credit: Cody McCain

Elvie's

The brainchild of Executive Chef Hunter Evans and Cody McCain, the award-winning Elvie's is where delicate and rich French fare meets Southern mainstays. Highlighting local farmers is especially important on the all-day menu, where one can find everything from breakfast and espressos to afternoon bites to a whole dining experience.

Good Bar

The latest offshoot of Elvie's, Good Bar, is curated by the restaurant's Beverage Director, Brandi Carter, and is located right next door at the new multi-use Terrace at Belhaven Town Center. Whet your whistle with inventive cocktails, natural wines on tap, and low or no ABV drinks. They also offer rotating small bites like artisanal cheese plates, olives, and sardines to snack on while you sip.

a young woman serving ice cream
Mayday Icecream
Credit: Drew Dempsey/Tell Agency

Mayday Icecream

We are screaming (pun intended) over this new confections concept located at the Terrace. A treat for the whole family, Mayday offers up locally-made and sourced classic ice cream flavors alongside revolving picks like Blueberry Basil Lemonade and Cookie Crush. Ask for a scoop (or two) in one of their homemade waffle cones, hang out in the open-air space, or dig in with a spoon at home to one of their freshly stocked pints.

District Donuts + Sliders + Brew

This Louisiana-based spot keeps it honest in the Magnolia State with 100% scratch-made donuts, burgers, and coffee. Start your day off with one of their weekly rotating donut flavors and small-batch roasted beans from their brand - Cool Kids Coffee Roasters.

Fertile Ground Beer Co. Beer and neon sign
Fertile Ground Beer Co.
Credit: Drew Dempsey/Tell Agency

Fertile Ground Beer Co.

Good beer is made for sharing. At Fertile Ground, the open-concept space is Jackson's first fully operational brewery and the perfect hangout spot for guests of all ages, including pets. Grab a table or station yourself at one of the many yard games on hand while enjoying a hoppy classic or a limited-edition batch brew. Found a favorite? Fertile Ground is now offering some of its staples in 4- and 6-packs for the beer enthusiast on the go. Stay tuned to their social channels for events like Lagers & Joggers (Thursdays at 6 pm), Pints and Poses (Weekends), sports game streaming, and food truck stop-bys.

Spectrum Sip

Rounding out our list, Spectrum Sip is a short walk from the main BTC thoroughfare and a local standby for Loaded Energy Teas, healthy shakes, pre- and post-workout drinks, and more. Not only do they care about wellness, but they're also an advocate and supporter of ASD Awareness in the Jackson community.

Belhaven Terrace
Belhaven Terrace contains Good Bar, Mayday Icecream, The Terrace Gallery and an events space
Credit: Drew Dempsey/Tell Agency

Beans & Bananas

Beans & Bananas, opened in December 2022, is located next door to Fertile Ground Beer Co. and is a one-stop shop for all things sustainable and locally-made. Be on the lookout for the perfect hostess gifts or home decor additions from regional artisans and creatives. They even offer panini pressed sandwiches!

Terrace Gallery

While hanging out in the District, pop into the new Terrace Gallery, where local and regional creatives are featured throughout the year. The premier artist, Guillermo Salinas, was commissioned by Belhaven Town Center to highlight the beautiful landmarks and locations that make Belhaven home in his signature pen and ink style.

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Anne Marie Hanna

Author

Anne Marie Hanna

Anne Marie Hanna, a Mississippi native, has had a lifelong love of storytelling with her upbringing in the American South. With degrees in Editorial Journalism and Southern Studies from the University of Mississippi, she loves helping us showcase the stories of the City With Soul. When she's not working, she can be found with her nose in a good book, listening to music, or enjoying time with friends and family.

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