Located at 118 Courthouse Square in Oxford, Mississippi, Ajax Diner stands as a cornerstone of the local culinary landscape. For those wandering through the historic streets of this vibrant college town, the diner offers a welcoming atmosphere that captures the essence of Southern hospitality. It is a place where the pace of life seems to slow down, allowing guests to enjoy a meal that feels both familiar and thoughtfully prepared. Whether you are a long-time resident or a visitor passing through the region, the diner serves as a communal hub where stories are shared over plates of comfort food.
The philosophy behind the kitchen is rooted in the traditions of the American South, focusing on recipes that have been refined over generations. By prioritizing quality ingredients and a commitment to authentic preparation, the establishment has maintained its reputation as a reliable destination for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The interior reflects a classic aesthetic, characterized by a casual charm that invites patrons to relax and engage with the surrounding community. It is more than just a place to eat; it is a reflection of the culture and spirit that defines Oxford.
What Makes Ajax Diner a Local Favorite
Authentic Southern Flavors: The menu is a tribute to regional culinary heritage, featuring dishes that highlight the depth and complexity of Southern cooking. Every plate is crafted to provide a genuine taste of the local area, ensuring that guests experience the true character of Mississippi cuisine.
A Prime Location: Situated directly on Courthouse Square, the diner is perfectly positioned for those exploring the historic district. Its proximity to local landmarks and cultural sites makes it an ideal stop for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the authentic atmosphere of Oxford.
Welcoming Community Atmosphere: From the moment you step through the doors, you are greeted with a sense of warmth. The staff and the environment are dedicated to creating a comfortable space where individuals, families, and groups can gather, converse, and enjoy a shared dining experience.
Consistency and Quality: The kitchen maintains a steadfast commitment to high standards, ensuring that every meal served meets the expectations of its patrons. This dedication to quality is what keeps the local community returning time and time again, establishing the diner as a staple of the town.
A Culinary Landmark in Mississippi
The enduring appeal of Ajax Diner lies in its ability to balance tradition with a welcoming, unpretentious environment. In a world where dining trends shift rapidly, this establishment remains grounded in the values of good food and genuine service. By honoring the culinary roots of the South, it provides a sense of continuity for the people of Oxford. The diner does not rely on gimmicks or complex presentations; instead, it focuses on the fundamental joy of a well-cooked meal served in a space that feels like home.
As you plan your visit to the historic Courthouse Square, consider making this diner a part of your itinerary. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture through the universal language of food. Whether you are stopping in for a quick bite during a busy day or settling in for a leisurely meal with friends, you will find that the experience is defined by a commitment to excellence and a deep respect for the community it serves. Ajax Diner continues to be a vital part of the Oxford experience, inviting everyone to pull up a chair and enjoy the simple pleasures of a classic Southern meal.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Service options
Delivery
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Happy hour drinks
Hard liquor
Quick bite
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom
Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Historic
Trendy
Crowd
College students
Family-friendly
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking
Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Menus
Salads
Cook's Salad$12.00
Pop's Shrimp Salad$12.00
The Ronzo Salad$12.00
Homemade Dressings
Sandwiches & Poboys
Shrimp Poboy (Half $9 / Whole $17)
Roast Beef & Gravy Poboy (Half $9 / Whole $17)
Fried Catfish Poboy (Half $9 / Whole $17)
The Club Poboy (Half $9 / Whole $17)
Grilled Andouille Poboy (Half $9 / Whole $17)
Grilled Ham Poboy (Half $9 / Whole $17)
The Big Easy$11.00
Burger$9.00
The Deuce$13.00
Plates
Chicken & Dumplings$14.00
Country Fried Steak$14.00
Grilled Pork Chops$14.00
Meatloaf$14.00
Mississippi Pot Roast & Gravy$14.00
Red Beans & Rice$14.00
Southern Fried Catfish$14.00
Turkey & Dressing$14.00
3 Veggie Plate$9.00
4 Veggie Plate$12.00
Veggies
Broccoli Rice Casserole$3.00
Butter Beans$3.00
Cheese Grits$3.00
Corn & Tomato Salad$3.00
Cornbread Dressing$3.00
Cucumbers & Onions$3.00
French Fries$3.00
Fried Okra$3.00
Green Beans$3.00
Hashbrown Casserole$3.00
Mac & Cheese$4.00
Mashed Potatoes$3.00
Purple Hull Peas$3.00
Red Beans & Rice$3.00
Rice & Gravy$3.00
Squash Casserole$3.00
Steamed Broccoli$3.00
Sweet Potato Casserole$3.00
Turnip Greens$3.00
Desserts
Chocolate Chess Pie$5.00
Homemade Banana Pudding$5.00
Beverages
Unsweet Tea$2.00
Sweet Tea$2.00
Lemonade$2.00
Coke$2.00
Diet Coke$2.00
Sprite$2.00
Barq's Root Beer$2.00
Photos
Reviews Ajax Diner
Shan McLean
05-04-2026
The okra was AMAZING. Star of the plate. Catfish was delicious as well. Cornbread was really good as well! My friend had the meatloaf and thought it was really good. They do not skimp on portion sizes either. I have enough to take with and have for dinner later too! Loved the music selection. We had Trace as a server and he was phenomenal!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Eugene Boyanton
05-04-2026
Good food good service. What else could you ask for?
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Philana
05-04-2026
My mom suggested we eat here, and I'm so glad she did. Ajax Diner is located on The Square in Oxford, MS... a beautiful historical city. The food was great! I got the Deuce Buger, named after Deuce McCallister. It consists of two black … More
Eugene Boyanton
05-04-2026
Good food good service. What else could you ask for?
Food: 4…
More
Nam H. Nguyen
05-04-2026
On the way into town, I was told Ajax has a new owner and things may not be the same! The meat loaf taste the same, green beans the same and the sweetness in the corn bread, the same. … More
James Bentivegna
05-04-2026
We stopped in here off several recommendations from people. The place at the town square and in an old store. It’s beautiful inside and exactly like you would expect. We got sat quickly and service was fast. … More
Firesteel Films
05-04-2026
Had a great lunch - McKenzie was a great server! Food was good southern!
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Sherry Grissom
05-04-2026
It was a fun place to go in downtown Oxford. Food was ok but not great. Wait staff were good but really slow to get us the ticket to pay.
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 3
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Counter seating
Parking space
Difficult to find parking
Parking options
Paid street parking
Parking
You must be patient when looking for a parking spot. Honestly, I was about to leave when I finally found a spot.
Mike C
05-04-2026
I really love this place. I went twice in one day. So good. The staff was exceptional and the food is incredible. Parking sucks though. The area is asking to be walked. The ambiance in the restaurant is awesome. Plenty of space. And the beer is cold. I loved it. They had plenty of options and everything I ordered was really good . I want to come back again.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Wait time
No wait
Recommendation for vegetarians
Highly recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Clearly labeled vegetarian dishes
Parking space
Difficult to find parking
James
05-04-2026
Ajax Diner is a true staple of Oxford, Mississippi, and for good reason. The food is fantastic, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the people make it feel like home.
Our server, McKenzie, was especially delightful—chipper, attentive, and genuinely helpful throughout the meal. Service like that elevates an already great dining experience.
Ajax Diner consistently delivers on all fronts, and it deserves its reputation as one of Oxford’s best restaurants. Hopefully, it stays that way for a very long time.
Meal type
Dinner
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Sweet Potato Casserole, Mashed Potatoes, The Big Easy
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area
Philip Greenberg
05-04-2026
The ribeye was really good for the price point and the sides are equally as good. I sat at the bar and Sarah was my bartender. She is super nice. Had a very good experience. Would highly recommend
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Sides, Squash Casserole, Red Beans and Rice
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Booth seating
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Paid street parking
Mason King
05-04-2026
An Oxford classic for a reason. Great southern cooking and great service as well and of course the location on the square is awesome. My first piece of catfish had some bones in it and they promptly brought out a new one for me. The fried pickles are great too
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Rebecca Mitchell
05-04-2026
If you’re looking for a true taste of Southern comfort food with impeccable service, Ajax is the place to be! From the moment we walked in, the customer service was beyond exceptional—warm, attentive, and welcoming. We tried the fried … More
Wright Cox
05-04-2026
Great lunch on the square in Oxford. We enjoyed the amazing chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes. Black eyed peas were seasoned to perfection. In addition, the chicken and dumplings were good, not great. The fried okra was outstanding … More
Nia Colom
05-04-2026
No. No and Noooo!!! I was told that this place seasons their southern food so good. NO! Dumping salt on something is not seasoning your food. The greens were too salty to eat. The pork chops were paper thin and very salty. The Mac N Cheese reminds me of the cafeteria Mac and cheese n elementary school… just noodles and cheese. No flavor and very bland. The cornbread had nice flavor but it was near burnt, dry and hard. My gravy was stiff. The purple hull peas were good and service was friendly. I wasted money today. 😭
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Wait time
10-30 min
TravelGirl74
05-04-2026
We ordered chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, broccoli, catfish cakes, sweet cream corn, and tomatoes. The catfish cakes were SO GOOD! Crispy on the outside, not oily. We were seated quickly, our food came out quickly, and the service was great!
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Loud, but you can still talk
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Booth seating, Counter seating
Joseph Copley
05-04-2026
Great Southern Food!! Callie does a Great Job! Great Atmosphere and the food is Awesome 💯😎!!
Meal type
Lunch
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Lorenzo Parish
05-04-2026
First my chicken N dumpling came out cold and the okra was like mush. The dumpling looked like soup because it had no dumplings. The okra came back out with a burned taste. Both of my kids uncharged mac&cheese was cold. I asked the waiter what's going on back there and he gave me a shitty look but he sure didn't forget to add his 20% gratuity to my check. This was our 1st and last time visiting Ajax Dinner.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 1
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 3
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
T Koedel
05-04-2026
Laid back atmosphere, friendly workers and great food! What else you need? The catfish, fried okra and mac n cheese were really good. Parking is tough at lunch time but the it was worth it...
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Adam Oswalt
05-04-2026
We came to look at the campus and asked for places to eat and this place was highly recommended. This was our first time here and it did not disappoint. Our server Trace was phenomenal and gave us an amazing experience. We asked what he recommended from the menu and he said the catfish was something that is the most popular and that’s what I got. It was wonderful. Best I have ever had. My wife got the meatloaf and it was great too. We will definitely come back when we are in the area again.
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Seating type
Indoor dining area
Kelly Galipeau
05-04-2026
Love this place! It's such an iconic part of the square in Oxford! Great food and great service! It feels like you are stepping into your parents dining room. Warm and inviting. The food is down home, stick to your ribs kind of food. Great burgers. I love the chicken fried steak! This is the kind of place you look forward to going back to. If you haven't been here yet...go in and check it out.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Reviews Ajax Diner