Hattiesburg has seen its share of restaurants come and go, but some have withstood the test of time. Offering a dining experience like no other, Coney Island Café in Hattiesburg has been around for 100 years!
Coney Island Café in Hattiesburg
A treasure to Downtown Hattiesburg, Coney Island Café was founded in 1923 and continues to serve up some of the best food in The Hub City.
In an interview with WDAM, Andrea Saffle, executive director of Downtown Hattiesburg, said, “Being able to say they’re still family-owned and still operating, really, that’s significant because that’s the story of downtown.”
BJ Fokakis, the co-owner of Coney Island Café in Hattiesburg, continues to serve and carry on the legacy left by his great-grandfather, the original owner. BJ inherited the restaurant after the passing of his father, Billy Fokakis.
In the 35 years that Billy owned the restaurant, he never missed a day of work. BJ knows that he has some big shoes to fill with this beloved restaurant.
More about Coney Island Café
Looking back, BJ recalls how his dad made preparing the lunches look easy. Ironically, he says this has been one of his biggest learning experiences. The restaurant’s co-owner has found that becoming good at owning the restaurant was one thing, but trying to replicate the character of his father was another.
Hattiesburg residents continuously show him support and thank him for keeping the doors to this local gem open.
With its success due to consistency and loyal customers, BJ says that “as long as they keep showing up, we’ll keep cooking for them.”
The food
What keeps customers coming back? The food of course! Coney Island Café’s menu features classic burgers, po’boys and open-faced sandwiches like their hot steak, hot ham and hot roast beef. There’s also a full breakfast menu with all your traditional favorites.
Visiting details
Head out to 400 N. Main St. in Hattiesburg to experience the mouthwatering taste of Coney Island Café.
Coney Island Café in Hattiesburg is open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., and just recently announced they will soon be open on weekends from 6 a.m. to noon.
Summary
To view the full menu and stay up to date with any news, follow Coney Island Café in Hattiesburg on Facebook.
Want to join Coney Island Café and become a Hattiesburg resident? Contact Summer West Apartments! Finally, continue reading our blog for more community news and updates.