re: Update: I am in Rebel Bear country for the first time.

I live in Jackson but only for the last 6 months or so. I'm not the best to give Jackson advice.

I will say that some good places to eat are
Julep - Not really sure how to describe the food they serve. It's just great.
Keifer's - Mediterranean. If you've never had it before don't knock it. It's pretty great.
Jaco's Tacos - guess
Sal and Mookie's - Pizza

Depending on where your staying, Mama Hamil's is about 10 minutes outside of jackson in Ridgeland and it's an amazing buffet of home southern cooking.