Speakin' easy at F. Jones Corner in Jackson

The moon cascades over the downtown exoskeleton of Jackson and settles over a certain corner of Farish Street. A short walk across the cobbles leads you through a fog of smoke and muffled melodies to a blue concrete building. The only difference between this building and the next which remains nameless is the looming lapel around the top, which reads F. Jones Corner.

The era of the speakeasy has long since passed--as have the prohibition laws that drove those in the thirties to own and operate them--but the spirit for "good music, good food, and good people" still lives and breathes through Frank Jones Corner.

As you walk in the door, the shotgun-style building immediately directs your attention to the stage at the far end, but the history of Jackson surrounds you from the moment your feet hit the floor. The bar top is encased with photographs spilling out the story of the building through music, friendship, and good times. Robert Johnson greets you as you walk past the looming frame he sits in on the way to the dance floor. At night, the swell of open space is filled by legendary Jackson musicians like Jesse Robinson, Jackie Bell, the Houserockers, Sherman Lee Dillon, and countless others who play to audiences as diverse as their music. As the sign inside divulges: "No Black. No White. Just the Blues."

Traditional Southern aromas that include the F'n Burger or the F'n Crab Burger--both half-pound gut busters--and other favorites like fried pickles and Frito pies fill the air. Daily specials are also available for lunch and dinner, but homemade desserts like Banana Foster Pudding are in incentive for dinner alone. The bar is full of ice-cold beer, domestic and import (thanks to the "Big A## Foster's") They also offer set-ups at a friendly price thanks to the BYOB liqour policy.

One of the oldest buildings on Farish Street--built in 1923--Frank Jones Corner is currently listed in the National Registry of Historic Places. It was named after a successful local businessman, and it has changed many hands and hats over the years. The sense of history is all around you but you can't help but think you have become part of it as soon as you leave.

Co-owners Adam Hayes and Daniel Dillon have created a new generation of the speakeasy establishment with a lot less worry than those who came before them. Aside from the new wave of businesses in downtown Jackson, Hayes and Dillon have stood true to their Jackson roots. Their love of food, music, and good people resonates like the music from the stage.

For more information: F. Jones Corner, 303 North Farish St., Jackson, MS 39215, 601-983-1148