WLBT - Highly anticipated Hen & Egg restaurant hosts private grand opening

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - Located in the remaining portion of the historic Sun-and-Sand hotel in Downtown Jackson, Hen & Egg held a private grand opening ceremony.

The former hotel that was once a gathering place for politicians, civil rights activists, and literary figures will now house the southern-style restaurant founded by Mississippi Chef Nick Wallace.

Wallace wants to honor the building and what it meant to Mississippi while also giving it a new chapter.

Wallace says he was happy to partner with the state to help make this happen in Downtown Jackson.

“You have to bridge that gap of working with your community and doing things just strictly for your business, but I think we have found the happy medium. We’re there for our community, and I have been working downtown Jackson for 26 years or so. So downtown Jackson is what I love, so I am really happy that we are putting the anchor down in Jackson, MS.“

The Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services has partnered with Wallace to provide employment for individuals with disabilities.

Executive Director Billy Taylor says projects like this are what his agency hopes for.

“It’s a great feeling. That’s the mission of our agency is to empower individuals with disabilities through employment, and that’s certainly what we’re doing here today. So looking forward to seeing this place thrive for years to come.”

With its motto “Slow Food Served Fast,” Hen & Egg will offer reimagined Southern classics like breakfast plates, chicken sandwiches, and blue-plate specials.

The restaurant will officially be open to the public on August 12th.

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