MCCOMB, Miss. (AP) — The Dinner Bell, a unique restaurant located in McComb, Mississippi, offers a distinctive dining experience centered around community and connection. Owned by Andre Davis, the establishment features just four large circular tables, each accommodating up to 15 guests. At the center of these tables is a lazy Susan brimming with generous platters of classic Southern dishes, including the restaurant's renowned fried eggplant.
With a diverse clientele ranging from local residents to European tourists, The Dinner Bell fosters a sense of camaraderie among diners. Guests often share tables with complete strangers, creating an environment where friendships can blossom over a shared meal. "We've had people sitting together that had nothing in common but the table they were sitting at," Davis noted, highlighting the unique social experience his restaurant provides.
Regular customers like Wayne Dyson appreciate the connections made at The Dinner Bell, recounting stories of meeting various professionals, from doctors to teachers. Dyson, who has frequented the restaurant for 40 years with his wife, loves how the informal dining setting encourages camaraderie. "Especially if they’re eating," he added, reflecting on the universal bond that food creates among diners.
During a recent visit to celebrate his sister's graduation, Justin Monistere quickly formed a bond with the Dysons, referring to them endearingly as "mom" and "pop." Monistere remarked on the rarity of dining without distractions from cellphones, making this experience feel special and reminiscent of family meals from his childhood. "I think that’s a great thing that they’re doing here," he said, praising the communal atmosphere.
The use of lazy Susans in dining, although common in Chinese restaurants, has roots in Mississippi dating back to the early 20th century. Family-style restaurants like The Dinner Bell emerged along railroad tracks, accommodating the large crowds disembarking from trains. Charles Morgan, who owned the now-closed Revolving Tables Restaurant in Mendenhall, shared that his family has deep ties to this dining tradition since its establishment in 1915. He fondly recalls political discussions and college football debates shared around an 18-seater table during his upbringing.
Yet, dining experiences like those at The Dinner Bell are becoming increasingly rare. Morgan expressed regret over the closure of many similar establishments, highlighting that while some remain, fewer are found across the country. "You sure don’t see too many of those anymore," he lamented, although he and his sister harbor hopes of reopening their family restaurant.
Andre Davis acknowledges that this style of dining might not appeal to everyone, as some diners prefer solitude while others thrive in social settings. Some days, the atmosphere is serene, with a few regulars exchanging farming tips, while other days see vibrant interactions among families and tourists. "It’s been hilarious, some of the people that have ended up sitting beside each other," Davis commented, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the connections formed at his restaurant.
Whether forging new friendships or nurturing a sense of respect, the communal dining experience at The Dinner Bell stands out. Remarkably, even a couple comprising a widower and widow met at the restaurant and eventually married, exemplifying the profound impact of shared meals. Each visit promises an opportunity for unexpected connections, making The Dinner Bell a cherished community hub.
