My Father passed right after I turned 12, and being an only child, and the youngest of first cousins, my close family contacts became few. However, my first cousin, Paul, who was 20 years older and I thought looked like James Bond, took me on as a little brother. He was single and all about town and let me tag along on his excursions. So I found Crechales in my early teens, 13 I believe. Paul knew all the waitresses, and was always looking for girlfriends, so I guess his “sidekick” might have been a novelty of some sort for the ladies.
In my early 20’s, our gang, usually consisting of John, Mike, Dalton, and myself would usually brown bag some scotch (no liquor was sold legally at Chrechales during that time) and celebrate special occasions. We usually ordered broiled flounder to be de-boned by the server at tableside while we always praised and flirted with our waitress. Paul taught me that.
Crechales still remains my favorite place to eat and be a host. Over the years, I’ve taken many authors, exposing them to the best of my hometown. I remember taking Jim Harrison, the first of many trips, as Crechales is always a stop for Jim’s Jackson visits. This time Jim and artist pal, Russell Chatham came for the opening of Dalva nationally, at the new Lemuria location in Banner Hall. They ordered the menu, holding court in the back booth as we went through all the courses. The waitresses kept bringing food to their dismay.
Willie Morris loved Crechales and a trip to dine with him and JoAnne was always a treat. Willie seemed to shine there. He felt at home.
Elmore Leonard loved Crechales’s Roadhouse style. I felt he was creating a character watching the Chrechale patrons. Barry Moser loved the chicken gizzards, for him a rare menu treat. Barry Gifford, Tom McGuane, Sam Lawrence and many more have shared in the fun and food here while in Jackson.
And I end by suggesting my style, which is as always as soon as you sit down order onion rings, then top them with Comeback sauce and start your evening delights with a cold beer.
Written by John
Jackson: photographs by Ken Murphy is available now for purchase. To order a copy, call Lemuria Books at 601.366.7619 or visit us online at lemuriabooks.com.
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