Did you know there's a place in Tennessee where you can enjoy an award-winning Southern buffet, shop for old-fashioned candy, treat yourself to homemade waffle cones, and explore railroad history without having to drive to several different locations?
Welcome to Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store in Jackson, Tennessee!
Located inside the charming Casey Jones Village, this longtime West Tennessee favorite combines delicious Southern cooking, nostalgic shopping, family entertainment, and fascinating history.
And this isn't just another roadside restaurant!
From plates piled high with Fried Chicken, Catfish, Macaroni & Cheese, and homemade desserts to shelves filled with childhood candies and unique gifts, there's something here for almost everyone.
The Old Country Store has been welcoming visitors since 1965, and in 2026, its famous buffet earned a place among America's 10 best buffets for the fourth consecutive year.
Whether you're planning a Tennessee road trip, looking for somewhere different to eat, or searching for a family-friendly destination, Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store deserves a spot on your bucket list!
A Tennessee Tradition Since 1965
Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store first opened in May 1965.
What began as a family business has grown into one of West Tennessee's most recognizable dining and shopping destinations.
The business remains family-owned, with a third generation of the Shaw family continuing its traditions.
In May 2025, the Old Country Store celebrated an impressive milestone: 60 years of welcoming guests!
Over the decades, it has become a favorite stop for travelers exploring the region.
Its popularity comes from more than just the food.
The nostalgic setting, welcoming atmosphere, old-fashioned merchandise, and nearby attractions make visiting feel like a step back in time.
An Award-Winning Southern Buffet
One of the biggest reasons people visit Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store is its famous Southern Soul Food Buffet.
The buffet features traditional Southern comfort foods, offering visitors an opportunity to enjoy several favorites during one meal.
Depending on the day, selections may include:
-
Fried Chicken
-
Fried Catfish
-
House-Smoked Meats
-
Macaroni & Cheese
-
Turnip Greens
-
Sweet Potatoes
-
White Beans
-
Redskin Mashed Potatoes
-
Fried Green Tomatoes
-
Baked Cinnamon Apples
-
Fresh Vegetables
-
Southern-Style Breads
-
Homemade Desserts
The buffet also features a salad and fruit bar.
Menus rotate, so specific dishes may not be available every day.
One particularly appealing feature is the variety. The restaurant's published menus describe multiple meat selections, vegetables, breads, and desserts, making it easy for guests to build a meal around their favorite Southern foods.
Recognized Among America's Best Buffets
Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store has received national recognition for its food.
In June 2026, the restaurant was named the No. 4 Best Buffet Restaurant in America in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.
That marked its fourth consecutive year among the nation's top 10 buffet restaurants, with recognition in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026.
It also held the No. 4 position in both 2025 and 2026.
The awards recognize buffet restaurants for their food quality, variety, and value.
For a family-owned restaurant in Jackson, Tennessee, that's an impressive achievement!
Southern Favorites That Keep Visitors Coming Back
If you enjoy traditional Southern cooking, the buffet offers plenty of familiar favorites.
Fried Chicken is one of the restaurant's signature offerings.
Fried Catfish is another popular choice, especially for visitors who enjoy classic Southern seafood.
Side dishes such as Turnip Greens, Macaroni & Cheese, Sweet Potatoes, and White Beans help create the kind of meal many people associate with Sunday dinners and family gatherings.
The restaurant has also featured specialties such as Smoked BBQ Bologna, Creamed Spinach, and Baked Cinnamon Apples.
And don't forget to save room for dessert!
The selection changes, but homemade sweets are an important part of the experience.
Enjoy Breakfast at the Old Country Store
Visitors can also enjoy a Southern-style breakfast buffet on weekends.
Saturday Breakfast Buffet: 6:30 AM–10 AM
Sunday Breakfast Buffet: 8 AM–10 AM
Breakfast is a wonderful option if you're beginning a day of sightseeing around Jackson.
During the week, visitors looking for breakfast can stop at the Dixie Café, which offers made-to-order options.
Because the restaurant's online pages contain some conflicting references to Friday breakfast service, visitors should confirm directly before planning a Friday morning buffet visit.
The Dixie Café: Another Way to Enjoy Southern Cooking
Not everyone wants a large buffet meal.
Fortunately, Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store also features the Dixie Café.
This casual dining option serves Southern favorites, including meat-and-two-style meals, breakfast plates, burgers, and other comfort foods.
It's a convenient choice for visitors who want a smaller meal or prefer ordering something specific.
The Dixie Café also offers takeout and drive-through service.
That makes it useful for travelers passing through Jackson who want Southern food without spending as much time dining inside.
Menus and service hours may vary, so check the current offerings before visiting.
Step Back in Time at Miss Anne's Ice Cream Shoppe
After enjoying a Southern meal, stop by Miss Anne's Ice Cream Shoppe.
This nostalgic ice cream parlor serves Blue Bell ice cream in a variety of flavors.
Visitors can enjoy their favorite scoop in a homemade waffle cone.
Depending on availability, flavors may include:
-
Homemade Vanilla
-
Butter Pecan
-
Chocolate
-
Strawberry
-
Mint Chocolate Chip
-
Rocky Road
-
Blackberry Cobbler
-
Pecan Pralines & Cream
The old-fashioned setting makes the experience especially enjoyable.
Miss Anne's has also been recognized by USA TODAY as one of America's notable ice cream parlors.
It's a sweet addition to a visit to Casey Jones Village!
Discover Old-Fashioned Candy
One of the most nostalgic parts of Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store is its candy selection.
Instead of finding only modern candy bars, visitors can browse treats that may remind them of childhood.
The store has featured classics such as:
-
Necco Wafers
-
Rock Candy
-
Candy Buttons
-
PEZ Dispensers
-
Old-Fashioned Caramels
-
Gummies
-
Sanded Candy Drops
-
Nostalgic Candy Sticks and Sweets
Visitors can also browse mix-and-match candy selections.
For many adults, this part of the store brings back memories of visiting old-fashioned general stores.
For children, it's an opportunity to discover sweets they may have never seen before.
And even if you're not planning to buy candy, browsing the selection is part of the fun.
Shop at Miss Juanita's Gift Shop
Another highlight is Miss Juanita's Gift Shop, located inside the Old Country Store.
This isn't a typical gift shop with only a few souvenirs.
Visitors can browse a wide variety of merchandise, including:
-
Tennessee Souvenirs
-
T-Shirts and Apparel
-
Jewelry and Fashion Accessories
-
Home Décor
-
Books
-
Stuffed Animals
-
Old-Fashioned Toys
-
Specialty Food Products
-
Gifts and Collectibles
The store celebrates the tradition of Southern general stores, which once served as important gathering places for their communities.
Whether you're looking for a souvenir from your trip or shopping for a gift, there's plenty to explore.
Browse Antiques and Nostalgic Displays
Part of what makes Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store special is its old-fashioned atmosphere.
The property features thousands of antiques and nostalgic items.
These displays help recreate the feeling of visiting a traditional country store.
For visitors who enjoy history, antiques, and vintage décor, the surroundings are almost as interesting as the merchandise.
The combination of old-fashioned displays, Southern cooking, and nostalgic shopping makes the destination feel different from an ordinary restaurant.
Explore Casey Jones Village
Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store is part of Casey Jones Village, a destination celebrating Southern heritage, railroad history, and family entertainment.
The village includes several attractions and activities that visitors can enjoy before or after their meal.
These include the Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum, gift shops, outdoor spaces, and seasonal recreation.
Instead of stopping only for lunch, visitors can easily spend several hours exploring the property.
It's especially appealing for families who want a combination of food, shopping, history, and entertainment.
Who Was Casey Jones?
Casey Jones was a famous American railroad engineer whose story became part of railroad folklore.
Born John Luther Jones in 1863, he became known for his work as a locomotive engineer.
He earned the nickname Casey from his hometown of Cayce, Kentucky.
On April 30, 1900, Jones died during a train collision near Vaughan, Mississippi.
He became famous for remaining at his controls and attempting to slow the train before the crash.
His actions helped establish his reputation as a heroic railroad engineer.
His story was later celebrated in songs, books, and railroad history.
Today, visitors to Casey Jones Village can learn more about his life and legacy.
Tour the Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
One of the most interesting attractions at Casey Jones Village is the Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum.
The museum preserves the story of the legendary engineer and the history of railroad transportation.
Visitors can explore Casey Jones's historic home and discover exhibits about his life.
The museum also includes railroad artifacts and historical displays.
One particularly fascinating item is the pocket watch Casey Jones carried during his final train journey.
Visitors can also learn about the importance of railroads in Tennessee's development.
For railroad enthusiasts and history lovers, the museum adds an educational experience to the day.
Climb Aboard Engine 382
One of the museum's most memorable attractions is its locomotive exhibit.
Visitors can explore a 35-ton replica of Casey Jones's famous Engine 382.
Children and adults can climb aboard and ring the locomotive's bell.
It's a fun photo opportunity and an interactive way to experience railroad history.
Families with children who love trains will especially appreciate this part of the museum.
The locomotive is a replica rather than the original engine involved in Casey Jones's final journey.
Discover More Railroad Exhibits
The museum also features exhibits exploring the role of railroads in American history.
One permanent exhibit focuses on The Railroads & the Civil War in Tennessee.
Visitors can learn how railroad transportation influenced military movements and regional history.
The museum's Jackson Room highlights the city's own railroad heritage.
There's also a children's theater area with train-related activities.
These features make the museum interesting for both adults and younger visitors.
Enjoy Family Fun at The Farm
Casey Jones Village also offers outdoor activities at an area known as The Farm.
Depending on the season and current operations, activities may include miniature golf, gem mining, and other family-friendly experiences.
Mini golf can be a fun way to spend additional time at the village after visiting the restaurant.
Gem mining offers another activity for children who enjoy discovering colorful stones and treasures.
Outdoor activities are weather-dependent and may operate on seasonal schedules.
Visitors should confirm availability before planning their trip around a particular attraction.
Save Money With the Casey Jones Village Fun Pass
If you're planning to enjoy several attractions, the Casey Jones Village Fun Pass may be worth considering.
The currently advertised pass combines multiple experiences for one price.
It includes:
-
One Southern Buffet Meal and Drink
-
Admission to the Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
-
One Old-Fashioned Glass-Bottled Drink
-
A 10% Discount at Both Gift Shops
-
A Choice of Mini Golf or a Small Gem Mining Bag
-
A Choice of One Scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream or a Container of Nostalgic Candy
Published Fun Pass Prices:
Adults: $38.20
Children Ages 4–10: $19.65
The restaurant advertises potential savings of approximately $10–$15 per person compared with purchasing the included experiences separately.
Mini golf is seasonal, and gratuity is not included with the buffet meal.
Visitors can purchase the pass at registers inside the Old Country Store or railroad museum.
Prices and inclusions may change, so confirm current details before purchasing.
Conveniently Located Along Interstate 40
Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store is particularly convenient for travelers exploring West Tennessee.
The property is located near Interstate 40 in Jackson, approximately halfway between Memphis and Nashville.
Travelers can reach the village from I-40 Exit 80A, following the Highway 45 Bypass toward Casey Jones Lane.
This convenient location makes it an appealing stop during a longer Tennessee road trip.
Rather than stopping at a typical interstate restaurant, visitors can enjoy a meal and explore several attractions in one location.
The property also accommodates buses and larger vehicles, making it a popular stop for tour groups.
A Great Place for a Family Day Trip
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store is the variety of activities available.
Families can enjoy a Southern meal, browse candy, shop for souvenirs, and explore railroad history.
Children may especially enjoy the locomotive exhibit, ice cream parlor, and seasonal outdoor activities.
Adults can appreciate the historic displays, traditional Southern cooking, and nostalgic shopping.
Because several attractions are located within Casey Jones Village, there's no need to spend the day driving from place to place.
How Long Should You Spend at Casey Jones Village?
If you're visiting only for the buffet, plan approximately 45–75 minutes for your meal.
Allow another 30–45 minutes to browse the gift shop, antiques, candy, and ice cream parlor.
Visitors planning to tour the Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum should allow additional time.
Families participating in mini golf, gem mining, or other activities may want to spend several hours at the village.
For the full experience, plan approximately 2–4 hours, depending on the activities you choose.
Tips for Visiting Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store
Come hungry. The Southern buffet offers plenty of comfort-food favorites.
Check the daily menu. Food selections rotate, so your favorite dishes may not be available every day.
Save room for dessert. The homemade desserts and Miss Anne's Ice Cream Shoppe are worth exploring.
Browse the nostalgic candy. Look for childhood favorites and unusual sweets.
Visit Miss Juanita's Gift Shop. You'll find souvenirs, specialty foods, toys, and gifts.
Don't miss the railroad museum. Casey Jones's historic home and the Engine 382 replica add a fascinating historical experience.
Consider the Fun Pass. It may offer savings if you're planning to enjoy multiple attractions.
Check seasonal activities. Mini golf and outdoor experiences depend on weather and operating schedules.
Plan around the buffet schedule. Breakfast is generally offered on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
Allow extra time. There's much more to explore than just the restaurant.
Plan Your Visit to Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store
Business: Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store
Location: Jackson, Tennessee
Address: 56 Casey Jones Lane, Jackson, TN 38305
Phone: (731) 668-1223
Established: May 1965
Location: Casey Jones Village
Known For:
-
Award-Winning Southern Soul Food Buffet
-
Homemade Desserts
-
Miss Anne's Ice Cream Shoppe
-
Nostalgic Candy
-
Miss Juanita's Gift Shop
-
Dixie Café
-
Antique Displays
-
Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum
-
Seasonal Mini Golf and Family Activities
Old Country Store Hours:
-
Monday–Saturday: 6:30 AM–8 PM
-
Sunday: 8 AM–5 PM
Buffet Meal Times:
Monday–Thursday
-
Lunch: Approximately 10:30 AM–3:45 PM
-
Dinner: Approximately 3:45 PM–8 PM
Friday
-
Lunch: Approximately 10:30 AM–3:45 PM
-
Dinner: Approximately 3:45 PM–8 PM
Saturday
-
Breakfast: 6:30 AM–10 AM
-
Lunch: 10:30 AM–3:45 PM
-
Dinner: 3:45 PM–8 PM
Sunday
-
Breakfast: 8 AM–10 AM
-
Lunch and Dinner: 10:30 AM–5 PM
Published Buffet Prices:
-
Monday–Thursday Lunch: $17.99
-
Monday–Thursday Dinner: $17.99
-
Friday Lunch: $19.99
-
Friday Dinner: $24.99
-
Saturday Breakfast: $17.99
-
Saturday Lunch: $19.99
-
Saturday Dinner: $24.99
-
Sunday Breakfast: $17.99
-
Sunday Lunch and Dinner: $24.99
-
Children Ages 4–10: $9.99
-
Senior Discounts: Available for Ages 60+
Casey Jones Home & Railroad Museum Hours:
-
Monday–Saturday: 9 AM–5 PM
-
Sunday: 1 PM–5 PM
Museum Admission:
-
Adults: $12
-
Seniors Ages 60+: $11
-
Children Ages 4–10: $8
-
Children Ages 3 and Under: Free
Fun Pass:
-
Adults: $38.20
-
Children Ages 4–10: $19.65
Parking: Available On-Site, Including Bus and Truck Parking
Recommended Visit Length: Approximately 2–4 Hours for Dining, Shopping, and Attractions
Holiday Closures: The business has traditionally closed on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
Before You Go: Confirm current buffet times, prices, museum hours, Fun Pass inclusions, and seasonal activities directly with the business.
Is Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store Worth Visiting?
If you love Southern cooking, nostalgic shops, old-fashioned candy, and unique Tennessee attractions, Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store is absolutely worth considering.
The award-winning buffet alone makes it an appealing destination for food lovers.
But what makes this place especially memorable is everything surrounding the restaurant.
Visitors can browse old-fashioned gifts, enjoy ice cream, explore antiques, learn about railroad history, and participate in family-friendly activities.
It's the kind of destination where a simple lunch stop can turn into an afternoon of exploring.
And with more than 60 years of history and four consecutive national buffet awards, Brooks Shaw's Old Country Store has earned its reputation as a West Tennessee favorite.
Whether you're traveling across the state or planning a day trip to Jackson, this nostalgic destination deserves a spot on your Tennessee bucket list!
Discover More Unique Places to Eat, Shop, and Explore in Tennessee!
Love discovering delicious local restaurants, old-fashioned general stores, charming small towns, fascinating museums, unusual attractions, and unforgettable places to stay?
That's exactly why I created "The Ultimate Tennessee Bucket List"!
My Tennessee bucket list book is filled with destinations across the state, helping you discover new places and plan memorable day trips, weekend getaways, and vacations.
Instead of wondering where to go on your next free weekend, you'll have a collection of Tennessee adventures waiting to be explored!
Looking for a thoughtful Christmas gift?
"The Ultimate Tennessee Bucket List" also makes a wonderful gift for anyone who loves traveling and discovering new places.
Give someone a gift that can inspire adventures and memories throughout 2027!