If you're visiting Savannah, GA, there's one dining experience that should be at the top of your list - Mrs Wilkes Dining Room. This iconic restaurant has been a staple in the city for over 70 years and has been featured on the popular food show, Food Network. With its home-style Southern cooking and welcoming atmosphere, it's no wonder why Mrs Wilkes Dining Room has gained such a loyal following.Experience the Mouth-Watering Delights at Mrs Wilkes Dining Room - Savannah, GA
Mrs Wilkes Dining Room - Savannah, GA
The story of Mrs Wilkes Dining Room started in 1943 when a widow named Sema Wilkes opened her home to boarders and started serving them her delicious home-cooked meals. Word quickly spread about her amazing Southern dishes, and soon enough, Mrs Wilkes had a line of people waiting outside her door to enjoy her cooking. Eventually, she turned her home into a restaurant, and it has been a must-visit spot in Savannah ever since. Mrs Wilkes passed away in 2002, but her legacy lives on through her family who continue to run the restaurant and serve up her famous dishes.The History Behind Mrs Wilkes Dining Room
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At Mrs Wilkes Dining Room, you won't find fancy plates or gourmet ingredients. Instead, you'll be served heaping platters of home-style Southern cooking that will make your taste buds sing. The menu changes daily, but some staples you can expect to find include fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread. But the real star of the show is the famous chicken pot pie. This dish has been a favorite among customers for years and is often the first to run out. Made with a flaky crust and filled with tender chicken and vegetables, it's no surprise why this dish is a must-try at Mrs Wilkes Dining Room.What Makes the Food at Mrs Wilkes So Special?
Mrs Wilkes Dining Room - Savannah, GA
Be prepared for a unique dining experience when you visit Mrs Wilkes Dining Room. As soon as you step inside, you'll feel like you've been transported to a friend's home for a family dinner. The tables are communal, so you'll be sharing a meal with strangers, but it's all part of the charm and adds to the welcoming atmosphere. There's no menu at Mrs Wilkes, so you'll just have to trust that whatever is served will be delicious. And trust us, it will be. The portions are generous, so come hungry and be prepared to leave with a full belly and a big smile on your face.What to Expect When Dining at Mrs Wilkes
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If you're planning on visiting Mrs Wilkes Dining Room, here are a few tips to make the most out of your experience:Tips for Visiting Mrs Wilkes Dining Room
Mrs Wilkes Dining Room - Savannah, GA
Mrs Wilkes Dining Room is more than just a restaurant - it's a Savannah institution. With its rich history, mouth-watering food, and welcoming atmosphere, it's easy to see why this spot has become a must-visit for anyone traveling to the city. So next time you're in Savannah, make sure to stop by Mrs Wilkes Dining Room for an unforgettable dining experience.In Conclusion
Food Network
Mrs Wilkes Dining Room: A Taste of Southern Charm and Hospitality
The History Behind Mrs Wilkes Dining Room
Mrs Wilkes Dining Room has been a staple in the city of Savannah, Georgia since its establishment in 1943. What started as a boarding house for travelers during World War II, quickly turned into a beloved restaurant known for its family-style Southern cooking. Mrs Sema Wilkes, the head cook and owner, gained a reputation for her delicious fried chicken, collard greens, and other traditional dishes. Today, Mrs Wilkes' granddaughter, Marcia Thompson, carries on the family legacy and ensures that every guest experiences the same warm hospitality and mouth-watering food that has made the restaurant an iconic destination.
The Atmosphere and Design of Mrs Wilkes Dining Room
Walking into Mrs Wilkes Dining Room is like stepping back in time. The building itself dates back to the late 1800s and still maintains its historic charm with its brick walls, wooden floors, and large communal tables. The dining room is adorned with vintage photos and trinkets, giving it a cozy and nostalgic feel. The restaurant's design perfectly complements the food, creating a truly authentic Southern experience.
The Menu: A Culinary Journey Through the South
Mrs Wilkes Dining Room offers a fixed menu of classic Southern dishes, all prepared with love and care, just like Mrs Wilkes herself would have done. The menu changes daily, based on what ingredients are in season and available at the local farmers' market. Guests can expect to indulge in a variety of dishes such as fried chicken, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, cornbread, and peach cobbler. Each dish is made from scratch and served family-style, encouraging guests to pass around plates and share in the communal dining experience.
The Legacy of Mrs Wilkes Dining Room
In addition to being a popular dining spot for tourists, Mrs Wilkes Dining Room has become a beloved gathering place for locals. It's not uncommon to see families and friends catching up over a hearty meal, or even strangers struck up a conversation at the communal tables. Mrs Wilkes' legacy of Southern charm and hospitality lives on through the restaurant and its guests, creating a sense of community and connection for all who visit.
Experience Mrs Wilkes Dining Room: Where Food and History Come Together
With its rich history, charming atmosphere, and mouth-watering dishes, Mrs Wilkes Dining Room is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true taste of the South. From the moment you walk in, you'll be transported to a time where meals were shared and memories were made over a good home-cooked meal. So, next time you find yourself in Savannah, be sure to stop by Mrs Wilkes Dining Room for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
