Growing up in landlocked Tennessee, I’ve always viewed seafood as a treat to be enjoyed when I visit the beach. There’s nothing I could do about living seven hours away from the nearest fresh fish market. Fortunately, this is a problem that the folks at Bubba Gandy Seafood have solved for Jacksonians! Bubba Gandy Seafood is a fresh Gulf seafood market in downtown Jackson that opened its doors in February of 2015.

Hello Jackson: The Vintage Market on Church Street

There are many great ways to spend a day off work, but one of my favorites is antique shopping! One of the new kids on the block in the antique scene is The Vintage Market on Church Street. They bring something a little different to the table though, claiming, “We’re not your Grandma’s Antique Store.” Part of what makes The Vintage Market unique is in what the vendors sell.

Hello Jackson: La Cubanita

Since opening in July 2013 at the West Tennessee Farmers' Market, the unique Cuban food of La Cubanita has been a big hit. La Cubanita is operated on the food truck model that has been growing in popularity all over the country. Empanadas, the primary menu item, began as tapas from Spain. In the early 1900s, when the Spanish migrated to Cuba, they brought some of their food traditions with them. The recipe for La Cubanita’s empanadas has been passed down and perfected over four generations.

Hello Jackson: Tulum Fresh Mexican Grill

Hello Jackson’s inaugural feature is one of my personal favorites: Tulum—a distinctive, fresh Mexican restaurant. Tulum serves many traditional Mexican dishes but with gourmet flare. Owner Daryl Fortner and his team decided to do something a little different than the stucco, cactus, and sombrero decor you find in most Mexican restaurants. They instead went with a “Playa” theme that would give guests the feeling of being on a relaxing mini-vacation.

Hello Jackson: OZ Rare & Used Books

As a long-time bookworm, I am excited to be writing about a quaint little bookstore today. OZ Rare & Used Books, where you can find everything from popular drama novels to classic literature, opened its doors downtown this past March. Just like the books inside, OZ isn't brand new; it has a history. The store began as The Book Rack and was owned by Brenda McKinney. Beginning in January current owner Denver Chandler began an apprenticeship with McKinney.