The General Jackson Menu offers a delightful culinary journey that perfectly complements the unique atmosphere of the General Jackson Showboat, a landmark of entertainment and dining. This menu is crafted with a rich blend of Southern-inspired dishes, classic American fare, and innovative culinary creations, designed to satisfy a wide range of palates.
Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal before a show, a light snack during the cruise, or an indulgent dessert to cap off the evening, the General Jackson Menu presents an array of options that balance flavor, quality, and presentation.
Each dish on the menu reflects the vibrant culture and history of the region, featuring fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes. The menu is thoughtfully segmented to cater to diverse preferences, including seafood lovers, steak enthusiasts, vegetarians, and those with a sweet tooth.
With attentive service and a warm ambiance, the General Jackson dining experience becomes more than just a meal—it becomes a memorable part of your visit.
Explore the variety and richness of the offerings, from appetizers and entrees to desserts and beverages, all designed to enhance your time aboard this iconic riverboat. The General Jackson Menu strikes a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation, inviting guests to savor every bite while enjoying panoramic river views and live entertainment.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Beginning
The appetizer section of the General Jackson Menu sets the tone for the dining experience by offering a range of small plates that showcase bold flavors and fresh ingredients. These starters are perfect for sharing or enjoying individually, providing a delicious preview of the meal to come.
Appetizers here are crafted to appeal to a variety of tastes, from crispy fried favorites to lighter, vegetable-forward options. Each dish is prepared with care, ensuring that every bite bursts with texture and seasoning.
Many appetizers feature Southern staples like hush puppies and fried green tomatoes, enhanced with modern twists that elevate the classics.
Guests will find that these starters pair beautifully with the menu’s signature cocktails and wines, making them an ideal choice for pre-show dining or casual snacking during the cruise. The presentation is elegant yet approachable, reflecting the General Jackson’s commitment to quality and hospitality.
Popular Appetizers
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy, tangy slices served with a spicy remoulade sauce.
- Smoked Chicken Wings: Tossed in a house-made barbecue glaze, offering a perfect balance of smoky and sweet.
- Crab Cakes: Golden brown, packed with fresh crab meat, and complemented by a zesty aioli.
- Southern Hush Puppies: Light and fluffy, these cornmeal fritters are a beloved comfort food item.
“The appetizers at General Jackson are a true testament to Southern hospitality, blending bold flavors with a welcoming presentation.”
Entrées: Main Courses Crafted to Perfection
The entrée selection on the General Jackson Menu showcases an impressive variety of dishes designed to satisfy hearty appetites and discerning tastes alike. The focus here is on quality ingredients and expert preparation, whether it’s a perfectly grilled steak or a delicate seafood entrée.
Each entrée is thoughtfully paired with complementary sides, enhancing the overall flavor profile and creating a balanced dining experience. The culinary team emphasizes fresh, locally sourced produce and meats, ensuring every plate is vibrant and full of life.
Guests can expect both classic Southern dishes and contemporary American cuisine, with options designed to appeal to meat lovers, pescatarians, and vegetarians. The menu offers flexibility, allowing diners to customize elements to suit their preferences.
Signature Entrées
- Blackened Catfish: Served with a Cajun cream sauce and seasonal vegetables, delivering a spicy kick.
- New York Strip Steak: A 12-ounce cut, grilled to order and accompanied by garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: A medley of fresh vegetables tossed in a savory Asian-inspired sauce, perfect for lighter appetites.
- Chicken and Waffles: Crispy fried chicken paired with fluffy waffles and drizzled with maple syrup for a sweet-savory combination.
| Entrée | Main Ingredient | Accompaniment | Calories (approx.) |
| Blackened Catfish | Catfish | Cajun cream sauce, seasonal vegetables | 550 |
| New York Strip Steak | Beef | Garlic mashed potatoes, green beans | 750 |
| Vegetable Stir-Fry | Mixed vegetables | Asian sauce, jasmine rice | 400 |
| Chicken and Waffles | Chicken, waffle | Maple syrup | 680 |
Seafood Specialties: Fresh from the River
Seafood lovers will find a treasure trove of options on the General Jackson Menu, where fresh catches are celebrated with expert preparation. The menu capitalizes on the proximity to the river, incorporating local fish and shellfish into flavorful and satisfying dishes.
Each seafood dish is carefully balanced with complementary spices and sides, highlighting the natural flavors without overwhelming the palate. The culinary team prioritizes sustainable sourcing, ensuring that every seafood entrée is both delicious and responsibly harvested.
From rich, buttery preparations to light and zesty options, the seafood section caters to a variety of preferences. This focus on freshness and care makes seafood one of the standout categories on the menu.
Featured Seafood Dishes
- Grilled Salmon: Marinated with herbs and lemon, served with wild rice and steamed asparagus.
- Shrimp and Grits: Creamy stone-ground grits topped with sautéed shrimp in a spicy Creole sauce.
- Fried Catfish Platter: Classic Southern preparation with hush puppies and coleslaw.
- Seafood Pasta: Linguine tossed with shrimp, scallops, and a light garlic white wine sauce.
“Our seafood dishes reflect the bounty of the river and the Gulf, delivering freshness and flavor in every bite.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Inclusive and Flavorful
The General Jackson Menu thoughtfully includes a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes that do not compromise on taste or creativity. These options ensure that all guests can enjoy a fulfilling dining experience without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Vegetarian selections often incorporate fresh, local produce, legumes, and grains, all prepared with a focus on bold seasoning and satisfying textures. Vegan dishes are crafted with plant-based ingredients that highlight natural flavors and wholesome nutrition.
The culinary team is attentive to dietary needs and preferences, offering clear menu labels and the possibility of customizing dishes to accommodate allergies or restrictions.
Popular Plant-Based Choices
- Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms: Filled with quinoa, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with a balsamic glaze.
- Vegan Chili: A hearty blend of beans, vegetables, and spices, served with cornbread.
- Grilled Vegetable Platter: Seasonal vegetables marinated and grilled, served with a side of couscous.
- Black Bean Burger: Topped with avocado and chipotle mayo, served on a whole wheat bun.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Served With | Calories (approx.) |
| Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms | Quinoa, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes | Balsamic glaze | 420 |
| Vegan Chili | Beans, vegetables, spices | Cornbread | 380 |
| Grilled Vegetable Platter | Seasonal vegetables | Couscous | 350 |
| Black Bean Burger | Black beans, avocado, chipotle mayo | Whole wheat bun | 470 |
Salads and Soups: Fresh and Comforting
Salads and soups on the General Jackson Menu provide a refreshing or comforting option for guests seeking lighter fare or a flavorful start to their meal. These offerings combine fresh ingredients with house-made dressings and broths.
The salads feature crisp greens, seasonal fruits, nuts, and cheeses, often enhanced with homemade dressings. Soups range from rich and hearty to light and aromatic, catering to different seasons and tastes.
Both categories are designed to complement the main courses or to be enjoyed on their own as a satisfying meal alternative.
Salad and Soup Highlights
- Caesar Salad: Classic romaine lettuce with Parmesan, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing.
- Southern Tomato Soup: A smooth, tangy soup made with ripe tomatoes and a hint of basil.
- Mixed Berry Salad: Fresh berries, mixed greens, candied pecans, and goat cheese with a raspberry vinaigrette.
- Chicken and Sausage Gumbo: A hearty, spicy stew rich with meats and vegetables.
“Our salads and soups bring together fresh ingredients and traditional recipes to comfort and delight every guest.”
Desserts: Sweet Endings to Remember
No meal aboard the General Jackson is complete without indulging in the dessert offerings, which highlight Southern classics and inventive creations alike. Desserts are prepared in-house with an emphasis on rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
The menu includes a variety of cakes, pies, and frozen delights, each designed to provide a satisfying conclusion to your dining experience. Many desserts incorporate seasonal fruits, handmade sauces, and traditional ingredients like pecans and chocolate.
These sweet endings pair well with coffee, dessert wines, or specialty cocktails, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your time on the riverboat.
Signature Desserts
- Pecan Pie: A Southern staple made with toasted pecans and a rich, gooey filling.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm chocolate cake with a molten center, served with vanilla ice cream.
- Banana Pudding: Layers of vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and whipped cream.
- Key Lime Cheesecake: A tangy, creamy dessert with a graham cracker crust.
| Dessert | Main Ingredients | Served With | Calories (approx.) |
| Pecan Pie | Pecans, sugar, eggs, butter | Whipped cream | 600 |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Chocolate, eggs, flour, sugar | Vanilla ice cream | 650 |
| Banana Pudding | Bananas, vanilla pudding, whipped cream | None | 450 |
| Key Lime Cheesecake | Key limes, cream cheese, graham cracker crust | Fresh lime zest | 520 |
Beverages: Complementing Every Course
The beverage selection at the General Jackson is designed to complement the diverse menu offerings and enhance the overall dining experience. From crafted cocktails to fine wines and non-alcoholic options, the drink menu caters to all preferences.
Signature cocktails often incorporate Southern flavors such as bourbon, mint, and citrus, creating refreshing and memorable drinks. The wine list includes both local and international varieties, carefully chosen to pair well with the menu’s flavor profiles.
For guests seeking non-alcoholic options, a variety of fresh juices, specialty coffees, and teas are available, ensuring everyone can find a satisfying refreshment.
Featured Beverages
- Mint Julep: A classic Southern cocktail made with bourbon, fresh mint, and crushed ice.
- Sweet Tea: Traditional iced tea sweetened to perfection, served with lemon.
- Local Craft Beer: Rotating selections from regional breweries, highlighting unique flavors.
- House Red and White Wines: Carefully selected to enhance both seafood and steak dishes.
“Our beverage offerings are crafted to celebrate Southern tradition while providing variety and excellence.”
Conclusion
The General Jackson Menu is a celebration of Southern culinary heritage infused with contemporary flair, offering guests a diverse and satisfying dining experience. Each section of the menu has been carefully curated to reflect quality, flavor, and regional pride, ensuring that every guest finds something to delight their palate.
From the bold and flavorful appetizers to the expertly prepared entrées, fresh seafood, and thoughtfully crafted vegetarian options, the menu provides a well-rounded selection that caters to all tastes and dietary preferences.
The sweet and indulgent desserts provide a perfect finale, while the beverage offerings enhance every moment with refreshing and complementary flavors.
Dining aboard the General Jackson is more than a meal—it’s an immersive experience where food, ambiance, and hospitality come together to create lasting memories. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, the menu invites you to savor the rich culinary traditions of the South while enjoying the unique charm of this iconic riverboat.
