We had a great trip in Savannah this weekend. Before we left today, our last stop was Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House.
In 1943, a young Sema Wilkes took over a boardinghouse in historic downtown Savannah. Her goal was modest: to make a living by offering comfortable lodging and homestyle Southern cooking served family style in the downstairs dining room. They don't take boarders any more, just serve wonderful Southern food. Over the course of two-plus decades, the lines at Mrs. Wilkes' have grown longer, and the good press just keeps rolling in, even as other boardinghouses close up shop for the final time.
I had been told that it was better than Paula Deen's restaurant, Lady and Sons. Since I didn't go to Paula's restaurant, I can't compare, but believe me .... it was FABULOUS!! We arrived a little before 10:45 and got in line in the drizzling rain. They started letting people in a little before 11:00. They serve you family style and you just pass the bowls and fill your plates.
I took a picture but it doesn't do the table justice! They served: F
ried Chicken (to die for), Beef Stew, Pork; Rice and Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Okra & Tomatoes, Cabbage, Snap Beans, Macaroni and Cheese, Butter Beans, Black Eyed Peas, Rutabaga, Squash, Potatoes au Gratin, Yams, Pickled Beets, Red Beans, Turnip Greens, Carrot Salad, Cucumber Salad, Sausage, Creamed Corn, Corn Bread and homemade rolls! For dessert, Banana Pudding and Blueberry Cobbler. Of course, I sampled almost everything!! My Yankee husband was not quite as impressed as I was though. He's lived down South now for almost 40 years, you would think he would be liking our Southern cuisine. But, no, he won't even eat a grit!!
If you're ever in Savannah, this is MUST for dining!! Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room is located on one of the most elegant streets in Savannah. Jones Street runs through the center of the Historic District lined with moss laden trees and paved with cobblestone. It wasn't until 1987 that Mrs. Wilkes consented to a sign out front. She made this place somewhat of a legend, and her family is keeping it a family affair. They don't take reservations and are only open Monday - Friday from 11 - 2.
Your friends may be correct; I just talked with someone at Bible Study this morning who went to Savannah and ate at Paula Dean's and she said none of them liked what they got - and they did choose from the menu and not the buffet - think there were 3 of them. She said it was not good at all. They didn't say anything to anyone about it, but Isuggested she should have. I don't think Paula would enjoy that everyone was saying it wasn't good. I sure would want to know if it were my restaurant - cause she's not there all the time...she's a busy lady.
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