Curt comes to Starkville
The Homestead native arrives to play offensive line for Mississippi State.
Reserve
Family owned · On the tracks since 1995
A Florida beginning. A Starkville original.
Rosey Baby grew from Curt Crissey’s family, football years, Cajun cooking, and a belief that Starkville was ready for something it had never tasted.
Where the name began
Roselyn’s “Rosey Baby”
Curt grew up in Homestead, Florida. His mother was named Roselyn, and Curt was her “Rosey Baby.” The family nickname eventually became the name above the door.
He moved to Starkville in 1980 to play offensive line at Mississippi State. While later working on an oil rig, Curt met Louisiana crawfish farmers and saw an opportunity to bring live Louisiana crawfish to Starkville.
Rosey Baby comes alive
Curt opens the restaurant himself in Starkville’s former train depot.
The next generation
Curt’s daughter Ashley Ray and son-in-law Justin Ray take over the family business.
The originals remain
Crawfish, étouffée, gumbo, and creole sauce still connect today’s menu to Curt’s Cajun foundation. Curt remains involved, while Justin leads the current menu.
A Starkville family of businesses
The Crissey Family of Stores
Rosey Baby is one part of a larger family story built across Starkville. The Crissey family’s local businesses have served generations of residents, students, and visitors in different corners of town.
01
Down the Hatch
A neighborhood deli and convenience stop at 405 Russell Street, known for burgers, sub sandwiches, and easy carryout.
Visit on Facebook ↗
02
Coconuts
A longtime craft-beer and convenience store in the heart of the Cotton District at 601 University Drive.
Visit on Facebook ↗
03
Brewski’s
Beer, convenience, and casual food on Highway 12 in Starkville.
Visit on Facebook ↗
04
Bulldog Package Store
Bulldog Package Store and Wine Collection on Highway 12.
Visit on Facebook ↗Still on the railroad tracks