Let me tell you something about this little place.. we stopped here on our way home from Jackson and we’re from the coast. When I say we will be making special trips JUST to come back here, I mean it. Our waitress was PHENOMENAL. Super sweet, very tentative, kind, and funny too. I believe her name was Lani, I’m so sorry if that’s wrong but she made our experience beyond perfect. Now, the food. That dang coleslaw was DEVINE. I had two bowls and those picked green tomatoes!? BOYYY. Talk about good. Crunchy, spicy, savory, and a little sweet. I’ve never had anything like it. We shared the fried pickles and they were perfect paired with the house made comeback sauce! I got the regular shrimp platter and my fiancé got the popcorn shrimp. EXCELLENT. Perfectly seasoned, tasty, I can’t say enough good things about it. The hush puppies were out of this world. Oh, and their sweet tea hit home. I could’ve just hooked myself up to an IV with it. It tasted just like my momma used to make. Anyway.. this place is worth every penny spent. You can absolutely taste the love poured into the food and the atmosphere is so sweet. I already can’t wait to go back!!!
Overview
Located at 7343 US 49 in Hattiesburg, MS, Rayner's Seafood House has built a reputation for being one of the top spots in the area to enjoy fresh, flavorful seafood. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, stepping into Rayner's feels like being welcomed into a family that truly cares about your dining experience. The restaurant has earned praise not just for its variety of dishes but also for the exceptional quality and commitment to using the freshest ingredients available.
As you walk through the doors, you're greeted by the warm ambiance of a cozy, yet bustling environment. The rustic, charming decor sets the tone for the experience to come. The interior is spacious, with booths and tables that cater to both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel at home, with a casual vibe that still offers an air of sophistication.
The menu at Rayner's Seafood House is a true celebration of what the Gulf Coast has to offer, with a wide range of dishes that highlight fresh, locally sourced seafood. From the moment you glance at the menu, you can see that everything is made with care and precision. One of the standout dishes that you absolutely cannot miss is their signature shrimp po' boy. It's a perfect blend of crispy, golden shrimp tucked inside a soft, toasted bun, drizzled with a tangy sauce, and topped with fresh greens. The flavors are balanced beautifully, making it an unforgettable choice for any seafood lover.
Another must-try is the blackened catfish, which is seared to perfection with just the right amount of seasoning. The catfish is tender, flaky, and flavorful, with the blackening seasoning adding a hint of smokiness without overwhelming the natural taste of the fish. Paired with the restaurant’s homemade hushpuppies and a side of perfectly seasoned fries, it’s a meal that captures the essence of Southern seafood.
What sets Rayner's Seafood House apart from other local seafood joints is their attention to detail in every aspect of the dining experience. The staff is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu, always ready with recommendations or to answer questions about any dish. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, the service is consistently excellent, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
For those with a taste for variety, the seafood platter is an exceptional choice. It’s a generous serving of oysters, shrimp, and fried fish, served alongside tangy cocktail sauce and fresh lemon wedges. The platter is perfect for sharing, and its diverse selection allows you to enjoy a little bit of everything Rayner's Seafood House is known for.
Not to be overlooked are the sides, which complement the main dishes perfectly. Their coleslaw is light and creamy, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory seafood. The fried green tomatoes are another highlight, with their crispy coating and tender, flavorful inside. Every dish is crafted with an eye for balance and flavor, making it clear that Rayner's Seafood House has mastered the art of Southern seafood cuisine.
The dessert menu is just as tempting, with classic Southern treats like pecan pie and key lime pie to round off your meal. The pecan pie, in particular, stands out with its rich, nutty filling and buttery crust. It’s a sweet, satisfying end to a meal that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience from start to finish.
As for the reviews, Rayner's Seafood House consistently receives high marks from both locals and tourists alike. Visitors frequently comment on the quality of the seafood, the friendly service, and the warm, inviting atmosphere. Many patrons return time and time again, eager to indulge in their favorite dishes and discover new ones.
Rayner's has firmly established itself as a staple in Hattiesburg, offering a dining experience that goes beyond just food. It’s about savoring the flavors of the Gulf Coast in a relaxed, welcoming environment, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking for a delicious seafood meal. Whether you're craving a casual bite or a special dinner, Rayner's Seafood House delivers an unforgettable experience that keeps guests coming back for more.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-in âś“ DeliveryHighlights
âś“ Great tea selection âś“ Serves local specialtyPopular for
âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Coffee âś“ Quick biteDining options
âś“ Dinner âś“ Dessert âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ CosyCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ Groups âś“ TouristsPlanning
âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ High chairs âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lot âś“ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Best catfish ever. Light fine corn meal batter. My favorite the pickled green tomato. Omg you have got to stop if you are thinking about it.
Waitress was phenomenal! Food was excellent. I don't care for fish most of the time, but tried the wife's dinner and that was damned good fish.
I have passed tjis place many times in my life. I finally decided to stop in. It was wonderful! I hope to stop in again some day.
As ALWAYS, an excellent experience with great food! Rayners does it right!
I really enjoyed the food and the excellent customer service from Jo. This was my first visit and I will definitely be back. Great times!