Three of the area’s most legit Southern eateries are well worth exploring — even if it’s just for the hushpuppies.

Hankering for quality comfort food that won’t require a visit to the closest Cracker Barrel? Then take a short drive to one of the three local establishments we found where bona fide Southern cuisine is served with passion and perseverance. These aren’t places that opened last month or even last year. Rather, these are institutions that have stood the test of time and have earned the loyal following of the locals.