Spread the word: Biloxi’s got the blues.
Given its location at the end of the Mississippi Blues Trail, Biloxi is a fitting place for the second location of Morgan Freeman’s Ground Zero Blues Club. As of press time, the long-awaited eatery and music venue was set to celebrate its grand opening on February 18.
“Although the Coast is not known specifically for the blues, it did traditionally host many Blues musicians in the nightclubs that boomed in the post-World War II era,” says General Manager Angie Ladner. “Ground Zero Biloxi takes its place in that shared blues heritage while bringing its own distinct offerings to the table and stage.”
Now occupying the historic 20,000 square-foot Kress Building on Howard Avenue, Ground Zero Blues Club has three stories, all of which open to the stage below. Ladner says the plan is to open each floor in phases, with a VIP area in the works. The walls are filled with music memorabilia, including signed guitars and relics from famous bluesmen.
“We have a huge emphasis on customer service, but also on enjoying life and having fun,” Ladner says. “Like a lot of the Coast and the blues, it’s meant to be an enjoyable escape — with a little bit of decadence.”
She describes the menu as “a modern take on some great Southern staples, with a strong coastal vibe.” Guests can savor delectable treats such as boiled peanut hummus, crawfish fitters or a blues collar plate featuring a slow-braised smoked pork belly, cast-iron black-eyed peas, simmered turnip greens and Delta johnny cakes.
“It’s a delicious menu and sure to please,” Ladner says.
The drink menu is equally fun with lots of twists on traditional cocktails. Ladner’s favorite is the Feel’in Luckett, a bourbon, sweet tea and limoncello concoction named in honor of Bill Luckett, one of the co-founders of the original Ground Zero in Clarksdale.
Of course, music will be at the heart of Ground Zero Blues Club, and Ladner says the venue eventually will offer nightly entertainment. Many of the staple performers from the sister club in Clarksdale are expected to perform regularly in Biloxi.
“Because of the space, larger bands will be able to perform here as well,” Ladner says. “We’re looking at some really great bands coming this way. Some of our approaching acts include Django Knight, Lucious Spiller, and Rashad and the Blues Kid.”
Having worked for several event venues in Mississippi. Ladner’s career has allowed her to indulge her lifelong love of music and provide special experiences for both musicians and their audiences. She says her latest role combines many of the things that have shaped her life and are dear to her: blues music, celebrating the Coast and the magic of live entertainment. Plus, the project contributes to the ongoing revitalization of downtown Biloxi.
“(Ground Zero Blues Club) adds a great venue and compliment to the offerings of the existing nightclubs and casinos,” Ladner adds. “Mississippi has such a rich musical and culinary heritage, and this is another way to honor it.”
IF YOU GO
Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi
814 Howard Ave, Biloxi
(228) 910-6600
Will be open Wednesday through Saturday for lunch and supper, and shows in the evening
For further details, visit www.groundzerobiloxi.com and check www.facebook.com/groundzerobiloxi/