Shady Acres Village — Local services in Collins

The store is very nice and the people working in that section were attentive. The problem I had was the restaurant side. We ordered about 45 minutes before closing. (We didn't know they closed at 4 pm on a Monday). The group of workers behind the counter were in a deep conversation, and the person taking our order kept stopping to talk. We ordered 2 cheese burgers, 1 order of fries, and 1 drink. We got 2 burgers, no cheese, fries, and 2 drinks. I am unable to drink anything carbonated, but they were out of sweet tea. I asked for some, and they used what was left of the unsweetened and made it sweet. That was fine, but they never let us know it was ready. The burgers were good even though the cheese was missing. It was listed on our order ticket. I guess the cooks were in conversation as well, and the server didn't double-check it before bringing it out. We finished our meal before closing and went to get tea refill before leaving, but they had pulled it. I would think they would have asked before pulling it if we needed more since it was a self-serve drink station. But this is my opinion from someone that has worked in food service for over 30 years. Hopefully this was a fluke and...

Shady acres is always a pleasant stop for us when we travel to Jackson. I will usually restock on my homemade jellies and get fruit for the trip. The place has come back from a fire and it's people there are good friendly people. There is a lunch served daily, reasonably priced and good eating. I would recommend at least stopping in once and I think you will be back again and again. There are jellies, preserves, butters, salsas, BBQ sauces, syrups, molasses, seasonal fresh fruit, and plenty of candies and snacks. There is also a room with craft and signs and touristy stuff, candles and gag items. And more. I would suggest you stop by. I don't think you'll be disappointed. Just had their hamburger steak lunch with mashed potatoes, field peas and roll. It was really good and plenty good to fill me up. Glad I...

Shady Acres Village — Worth the Drive, Every Time

Tucked off the beaten path, Shady Acres Village is the kind of country gem that makes you glad you took the detour. It’s cute, cozy, and packed with seriously tasty eats — hot plate favorites like smoked chicken, ribs, sausage, and Southern sides that taste like Sunday supper (don’t skip the collard greens or sautéed onions).

Their crawfish boil is no joke — cleaned right, seasoned just enough, and downright addictive.

Wander through the general store for local goodies, fresh produce, Amish soaps, and old-school charm. The bakery’s a sleeper hit too — their banana pudding might be the best thing you eat all week.

Hours can be quirky, but if you catch it open, it’s a whole experience — and absolutely...