Derek Emerson To Launch New Restaurant Concepts at The District at Eastover
Jackson chef Derek Emerson, known for his award-winning culinary legacy at Walker’s Drive-In, and his restaurants Caet and Local 463, is ushering in a new era of casual dining with three unique restaurant concepts at The District at Eastover.
This expansion comes after Emerson sold Walker’s in June 2025 to longtime colleague Joe Craven, closing a 24-year chapter.
Effie’s – Elevated Bar & Lounge
Opening in August, Effie’s honors longtime manager Effie Kappis Hubanks and will offer signature cocktails, flatbreads, charcuterie, and standout snacks like short ribs with blue cheese chips in the former Cultivation Food Hall space.
Emerson Provisions – Grab-and-Go Gourmet
This specialty shop, also in the former Cultivation Food Hall location, is expected to open in September and offer ready-to-heat meals like slow-braised short ribs and mashed potatoes.
“We’ll do entrees to go... and then we’ll sell that here so you wouldn’t have to take the time to make it at home yourself."
Masa Mesa (tentative name) – Taco & Burger Fusion
Set for an October debut, this fast-casual taco and burger spot in the former Eudora's location will feature indoor-outdoor dining and a walk-up tequila bar. The menu will incorporate smoked meats from Emerson’s Sacred Ground Barbecue in Pocahontas.
“We’re going to incorporate the smoked meats in the tacos instead of just shredded beef… brisket and stuff we do at the barbecue place.”
“We’re just excited to do something, you know, like, it’s a little bit more casual, a little more fun, and just kind of like a hangout.” Derek Emerson as told to Clarion Ledger
Why It Matters
With these three fresh concepts, Emerson blends local flavor with scalable innovation. Anchored in community and creativity, The District at Eastover—already home to Sal & Mookie's and Northshore Coffee—is becoming Jackson’s next essential food destination.
All quotes as told to Clarion Ledger
