In 2004, when two college friends decided to open up an unparalleled eatery with great food, good drinks, and a fun atmosphere, the Mugshots name was born.

    The restaurant now boasts eight locations, each one uniquely different thanks to scrumptious dishes named after friends and family at each franchise location.

    Mugshots has gained a dedicated fan base in the past eight years. The award winning burgers, coupled with a friendly atmosphere, keep the seats full and the cooks busy. With continued success and steady foot-traffic, Mugshots Meridian is quickly becoming a staple for diners in the Queen City.

    As for what’s best on the menu, Rachel Martin, a Decatur native, recommends Stu’s Magic Mushroom. The burger, characterized by the abundance of sauteed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese, is served on a sourdough bun with fries.

    “Ask for a side of the Comeback Sauce that they serve with the fried dill pickles … it is so good!” said Martin.

    Billy Andrews respectfully disagrees. The Cleveland resident visited Mugshots while visiting for the 2012 State Games of Mississippi: “The peanut butter burger is what it’s all about. I know it sounds weird at first, but I took my server’s advice, and I’m glad I did. It definitely hit the spot,” said Andrews.

    If you are up for a true challenge, customers can attempt to tackle the biggest burger of them all: the infamous Mugshot. This monster triple-decker burger is piled high with six strips of bacon, and served with beer battered fries, an onion ring and a beer battered pickle. If you can finish the whole plate in 12 minutes or less, the order is free. If not, you’re out 20 bucks. A belly-ache is included regardless of your success.

    For those looking for lighter options, Mugshots also offers chicken sandwiches and salads. While the menu pokes some fun at customers considering to order anything but a burger, Nana’s Chicken Salad Sandwich remains a crowd favorite for lunch hour dining.

    Located on Highway 493 in the old Landing restaurant building, the Meridian Mugshots franchise is owned by Tray Gamble and Jim Hicks. The Meridian location offers more than 11 flat screen televisions and an outdoor patio for guests to enjoy. The menu boasts burgers with just about any kind of topping, including one with homemade chili and another with an over-easy egg on top.

    The Meridian Mugshots is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. To-go orders are welcome, and a friendly atmosphere is guaranteed.