I definitely consider myself a fried chicken connoisseur. Each time I travel to a new place or city, I will go out of my way to eat the best around. I’ve eaten a lot of fried chicken in my life (probably an embarrassing amount), and I definitely know what separates a good bird from a mediocre one. Up until my visit to New Orleans, Gus’ World Famous (that I visited in Memphis) held the title as top dog for me. Sorry Gus, but you’ve been dethroned. The best fried chicken you will ever eat is at Willie Mae’s in New Orleans, LA!
Location
Willie Mae’s is located on St. Ann’s street in the 6th Ward. It’s about a 30 minute walk from the French Quarter, but only about 10 minutes by cab. If you don’t have a rental car and are trying to decide between the two, definitely grab a cab. Willie Mae’s is located in a residential neighborhood on the corner of small streets. Not to say the walk would be unsafe, but they definitely aren’t neighborhoods that are filled with tourists. However you get there, just make sure you do it.
Be prepared to wait
Willie Mae’s is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and you should expect it to be busy (just about) all the time. They open each day at 10:30 am and getting there early is key, as they do not take reservations. My advice? Skip breakfast and get there a few minutes before opening. A line will undoubtedly form each day outside of the small restaurant, and the wait times can be long. A few locals that I met in line mentioned that 1-2 hour waits are common. In that hot New Orleans sun? No thank you!
Ambiance
Willie Mae’s atmosphere can be described in three words: simple and cozy. While at the same time, it’s all you need. The building is small and only has 3 rooms for dining. If you’re lucky enough to get seated in the back room, you’ll get to walk past the kitchen both there and back. I stopped at the window to try and watch the chefs at work, but was told I could not stand there. Make your glances quick, and keep it moving! I also had my phone in my hand and was told no photos were allowed. They keep their secrets close to the chest here!
The wait staff is super friendly (and how could they not be, working in a place like this!). In fact, my waitress even offered to take a photo of me with my plate but my dumb self accidentally deleted the photo! One of my biggest mistakes.
Time to eat
Their menu is short, sweet and to the point, and chicken comes in an order of white or dark meat only. No special orders! I opted for the dark meat, which came with a thigh, leg, and wing. I panicked when it came to the sides and stuck to my safety: french fries. My advice? Skip them. They were fine, but nothing to write home about (and tough to pair with such a sensational entree). From what I heard, the butter beans are where it’s at! The cornbread however, is worth the hype.
I’m definitely not a food reviewer, but this chicken is absolute perfection. Whatever they do, they’re doing it right. The meat explodes with juices and is so tender that it falls right off the bone. The skin is so crispy and flaky and is packed with rich flavors from their blend of seasonings. I ate every piece of chicken off the bones. I’m pretty sure I would die for this chicken.
Oh, and when you’re done… don’t forget to lick your fingers!
Bottom line
Willie Mae’s in New Orleans is the absolute shit. In fact, if I ever see a cheap enough airfare come across my screen, I would fly down for a day and just go to Willie Mae’s. After eating there, every meal I had over the next few days just fell short. I just couldn’t get it out of my head!
Whether you find yourself in New Orleans for one week or one day, this place is absolutely worth a stop. And if it’s not on your food bucket list, put it on there right now! Is anyone else’s mouth drooling, or just mine?
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