Down-home, classic southern food is what pulls locals through Tupelo’s doors, and the rustic charm and hospitality are what keep them at the table — downing andouille-and-okra-flecked gumbo and plates of fried oysters. Oh, and those folks wandering in after 9 p.m. looking for crispy grits and locally produced brews? Ain’t no thang; this is one joint where that kind of behavior is encouraged.

Tupelo | 1193 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA | 617-868-0004 | http://www.tupelo02139.com/