Grays Cafeteria in Mooresville, North Carolina, is a beloved dining spot known for its classic Southern comfort food served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The cafeteria-style restaurant offers a wide selection of dishes made fresh daily, with an emphasis on hearty meals that remind customers of home-cooked goodness.
This comprehensive guide explores Grays Cafeteria’s menu in detail, highlighting their signature dishes, daily specials, and a variety of options suitable for all tastes. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this menu overview will help you decide what to try on your next visit.
Overview of Grays Cafeteria Dining Experience
Grays Cafeteria embraces the traditional cafeteria format, where guests can select from a variety of freshly prepared dishes displayed behind a glass counter. Portion sizes are generous and prices are affordable, making it a popular choice for families, seniors, and anyone craving authentic Southern cuisine.
The menu changes slightly depending on the day, with different meats, vegetables, and desserts offered to keep the dining experience exciting. Breakfast is available during morning hours, and the lunch and dinner offerings provide ample variety.
“A true taste of Southern hospitality with dishes that feel like a warm hug from an old friend.”
Menu Categories
Grays Cafeteria menu is broadly divided into the following categories:
- Breakfast Items
- Main Entrees
- Vegetable Sides
- Soups and Salads
- Desserts
- Beverages
Each category features a variety of options, often emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations.
Breakfast Menu
Breakfast at Grays Cafeteria is a hearty affair, perfect for starting the day with a filling and flavorful meal. The options include classic Southern staples as well as lighter fare.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Biscuits & Gravy | Fluffy buttermilk biscuits smothered with creamy sausage gravy. | $4.25 |
| Country Ham & Eggs | Thick sliced country ham served with two eggs cooked to order. | $6.50 |
| Grits & Eggs | Stone-ground grits served with two eggs and your choice of bacon or sausage. | $5.95 |
| Oatmeal with Brown Sugar | Warm oatmeal topped with brown sugar and raisins. | $3.75 |
| French Toast | Thick slices of bread dipped in cinnamon egg batter, grilled golden brown. | $5.50 |
| Breakfast Sandwich | Egg, cheese, and sausage or bacon on a toasted biscuit. | $4.95 |
Note: Breakfast is served from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM daily.
Main Entrees
The main entrees at Grays Cafeteria showcase well-seasoned meats and traditional Southern cooking techniques. These dishes are often served with your choice of two sides, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
| Entree | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Chicken | Golden, crispy fried chicken with perfectly seasoned breading. | $9.95 |
| Meatloaf | Classic Southern meatloaf glazed with savory tomato sauce. | $8.95 |
| BBQ Pulled Pork | Slow-cooked pulled pork smothered in tangy barbecue sauce. | $9.50 |
| Country Fried Steak | Beef steak hand-breaded, fried, and topped with creamy country gravy. | $10.25 |
| Catfish Fillets | Lightly breaded catfish fried to a golden crisp, served with tartar sauce. | $11.50 |
| Roast Turkey & Dressing | Oven-roasted turkey breast served with traditional cornbread dressing. | $10.75 |
| Pot Roast | Tender slow-cooked beef pot roast with rich gravy. | $11.00 |
All entrees are served with your choice of two vegetable sides and hot rolls.
Vegetable Sides
Vegetable sides are a cornerstone of the Southern cafeteria tradition. Grays offers a rotating selection of fresh and flavorful sides to complement your meal.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Collard Greens | Slow-simmered collard greens seasoned with smoked ham hocks. |
| Macaroni & Cheese | Creamy homemade macaroni baked with cheddar cheese. |
| Green Beans | Fresh green beans cooked with bacon and onions. |
| Mashed Potatoes & Gravy | Buttery mashed potatoes topped with rich brown gravy. |
| Turnip Greens | Traditional turnip greens slow-cooked with savory seasonings. |
| Steamed Cabbage | Tender cabbage lightly seasoned and steamed to perfection. |
| Cornbread Dressing | Classic Southern cornbread dressing with herbs and spices. |
| French Fries | Crispy golden fries seasoned with salt. |
| Baked Beans | Slow-cooked baked beans in a sweet and savory sauce. |
Tip: Be sure to try the collard greens and macaroni & cheese, two fan favorites that perfectly complement any main entree.
Soups and Salads
Grays Cafeteria also offers a selection of homemade soups and fresh salads for lighter appetites or as a starter. The soups change daily, with staples including chicken and dumplings, vegetable beef, and navy bean.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken & Dumplings | Hearty chicken soup with tender dumplings and vegetables. | $3.50 / $5.95 (cup/bowl) |
| Vegetable Beef Soup | Rich beef broth loaded with fresh vegetables and chunks of beef. | $3.25 / $5.50 (cup/bowl) |
| Navy Bean Soup | Slow-simmered navy beans with ham and seasonings. | $3.00 / $5.25 (cup/bowl) |
| House Salad | Fresh mixed greens topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, and your choice of dressing. | $4.50 |
| Chef Salad | Mixed greens with turkey, ham, cheese, boiled eggs, and veggies. | $7.95 |
Soups are made fresh daily and are a great option for a light lunch or to accompany your meal.
Desserts
No Southern meal is complete without a slice of homemade pie or a sweet treat. Grays Cafeteria features a tempting dessert display with classics that change daily.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Potato Pie | Rich and creamy sweet potato filling in a flaky crust. | $3.75 |
| Peach Cobbler | Warm peaches baked under a buttery biscuit topping. | $4.00 |
| Pecan Pie | Classic Southern pie filled with sweet pecans and caramel. | $4.25 |
| Chocolate Cake | Moist chocolate cake layered with creamy chocolate frosting. | $3.95 |
| Banana Pudding | Layers of vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers. | $3.50 |
“The peach cobbler at Grays is legendary—warm, comforting, and perfectly sweetened.”
Beverages
A variety of beverages are available to complement your meal. Grays Cafeteria offers both hot and cold drinks, including classic Southern favorites.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Tea | Traditional Southern sweet iced tea, brewed fresh daily. | $2.00 |
| Unsweetened Tea | Fresh brewed iced tea, unsweetened. | $2.00 |
| Coffee | Hot, freshly brewed coffee. | $1.75 |
| Soft Drinks | Assorted sodas including cola, lemon-lime, and root beer. | $2.25 |
| Milk | Cold white or chocolate milk. | $2.00 |
| Lemonade | Freshly squeezed lemonade, sweet and tart. | $2.25 |
Specials and Seasonal Items
Grays Cafeteria often features specials that highlight seasonal produce and holiday traditions. These specials may include dishes such as baked ham during Christmas season, or fresh vegetable medleys in the summer months.
Check with the staff or the daily menu board for current specials that are not listed on the regular menu. These specials provide an excellent opportunity to try something new or enjoy a favorite seasonal treat.
“The daily specials at Grays keep the menu fresh and exciting, with new flavors to discover every week.”
Ordering and Portion Sizes
At Grays Cafeteria, the cafeteria line system allows customers to pick their entrees and sides as they move along the serving counter. This makes it convenient to customize your meal exactly how you want it.
Portion sizes are generous and ideal for sharing or taking home leftovers. For those looking to sample a variety of dishes, Grays offers a plate option where you can select your favorite entree and two sides.
Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from the staff — they are knowledgeable and happy to help you navigate the menu.
Location and Hours
Grays Cafeteria is located in Mooresville, NC, providing a convenient stop for both locals and travelers. The restaurant is known for its consistent quality and friendly service.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Saturday | 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Address: 123 Main Street, Mooresville, NC 28115
Phone: (704) 555-1234
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
“Grays Cafeteria is my go-to spot for comfort food. The fried chicken is always crispy and flavorful, and the sides remind me of my grandmother’s cooking.” — Linda S.
“Every time I visit Mooresville, I make sure to stop at Grays. The meatloaf and mashed potatoes are outstanding, and the sweet tea is perfectly sweetened.” — James T.
“The atmosphere is cozy and the staff treat you like family. I especially love their homemade desserts — the pecan pie is a must-try!” — Maria K.
Conclusion
Grays Cafeteria in Mooresville offers a quintessential Southern dining experience with a menu full of comforting, homemade dishes. From breakfast biscuits and gravy to hearty meatloaf dinners and delectable desserts, there is something to satisfy every craving.
Whether you’re seeking a quick breakfast, a filling lunch, or a leisurely dinner, Grays Cafeteria provides delicious food served with genuine Southern hospitality. Be sure to visit and discover why this local favorite continues to delight guests year-round.
Plan your visit today and enjoy a true taste of Southern comfort at Grays Cafeteria!
