Dinner Before the Curtain Call: A Night at La Mariposa in Summit, MS
Some nights call for more than takeout and pajamas. This one called for a proper night out.
Before heading to the ballet to support our coworker’s daughter in her winter dance recital, my best friend and I did what any sensible pair would do first—we ate. And not just anywhere.
A Southern Fusion Gem in Downtown Summit
We stopped at La Mariposa in Summit, MS, a Southern fusion restaurant offering a modern take on Cajun and Creole classics. It’s tucked into a charming stretch of Summit’s business district, just across the railroad tracks from the Main Street. The bright blue exterior is impossible to miss and immediately inviting—the kind of place that makes you feel welcome before you even step inside.
Once inside, that feeling only grew stronger. It’s clear the staff at La Mariposa operates like family—warm, close-knit, and genuinely invested in making sure you have a good experience. There’s an ease to the service that lets you relax and settle in.
The “You Can’t Leave Without This” Order
Our coworker informed us that we cannot come to La Mariposa without ordering the fried green tomatoes. And listen—when locals insist, you listen.
They arrived light, perfectly crispy, and beautifully seasoned, topped with a rich crawfish cream sauce that made me seriously consider licking the plate clean. No shame. They were that good.
We also ordered the onion rings, which were so golden and crisp I briefly wondered if they were secretly calamari. Light batter, satisfying crunch, no heaviness—exactly how fried food should be.
Entrées That Don’t Weigh You Down
For our main dishes, I had the Martha Orleans Pasta with chicken, while Garalisha ordered the fried eggplant topped with shrimp and cream sauce. Throughout the meal, I kept repeating the same thought: everything tastes so fresh and light.
Despite the amount of fried goodness on the table, nothing felt greasy or heavy. Every bite was perfectly cooked, golden, and well-seasoned. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you satisfied but not sluggish—a rare and appreciated balance.
A Sweet, Polite Ending
We wrapped up our meal with pineapple foster, a dessert that managed to be both light and indulgent at the same time. It worked beautifully as a palate cleanser and felt like a very polite way to end an already fantastic meal.
From Dinner to the Ballet
Full and happy, we headed over to Southwest Mississippi Community College for the recital. The performance was wonderful, especially since it was both of our first times seeing a ballet. The show, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, was beautifully done, and Anna Claire absolutely shined as the Snow Witch.
The dancers ranged from tiny mice who stumbled through their routines—adorable the entire time—to older performers with strong stage presence and confidence. By the final bow, we were already talking about coming back next year and wondering what show they’ll bring to the stage next.
The Takeaway
La Mariposa isn’t just a place to eat—it’s the perfect starting point for a night out. Thoughtful food, warm service, and an atmosphere that invites you to linger just a little longer. Pair that with local art and performance, and you’ve got the kind of evening that feels both special and deeply rooted in community.
And honestly? That’s my favorite kind of night.
