Willie Mae's Scotch House: A New Orleans Culinary Landmark

Nestled in the heart of the historic Tremé / Lafitte neighborhood in New Orleans, Willie Mae's Scotch House stands as a beacon of soulful Southern cooking and cherished tradition. Since opening its doors in 1957, this family-owned gem has become synonymous with some of the best fried chicken you'll find anywhere in the United States.

Iconic Fried Chicken and Soul Food Experience

Willie Mae's serves up crispy, golden-brown fried chicken with a perfectly seasoned, juicy interior that crunches with every bite. This isn’t just fried chicken; it’s a culinary experience that has earned a legendary status among locals and visitors alike. Beyond the chicken, the menu features comforting soul food staples like white beans, red beans, green beans, mac n cheese, and moist corn bread that complement the main dish beautifully.

Note: The portions tend to be modest and the restaurant is known for its freshness and quality, which some patrons find worth the wait despite occasional long lines and seating delays.

A Welcoming Atmosphere and Family-Friendly Dining

Willie Mae’s offers more than just food; it provides an authentic New Orleans dining experience. The friendly and efficient staff add warmth to the humble setting, making guests feel right at home. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and welcomes families, offering a menu suitable for both adults and children. Outdoor seating and free street parking make visits convenient, especially for those wanting to soak up the local vibe.

Practical Details for Visitors

Operating hours: Monday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM; closed Sundays.
Reservations: Accepted after 5:00 PM on weekdays; weekends are first-come, first-served.
Payment methods: All major credit cards accepted, including debit and NFC payments.
Parking: Free street parking available nearby.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible for inclusive dining.

Frequently asked questions

What are the operating hours of Willie Mae's Scotch House? The restaurant operates Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM and is closed on Sundays.
Does Willie Mae's Scotch House accept reservations? Reservations are accepted after 5:00 PM on weekdays; weekends are first-come, first-served.
What payment methods are accepted at Willie Mae's Scotch House? The restaurant accepts all major credit cards.
Is there parking available at Willie Mae's Scotch House? Parking is available on the street.
Is Willie Mae's Scotch House wheelchair accessible? Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

community sentiment summary

Willie Mae's Scotch House is renowned for its exceptional fried chicken and authentic New Orleans soul food. While the food receives high praise for its flavor and quality, some patrons note that wait times can be lengthy, especially during peak hours. The staff is generally friendly and efficient, creating a welcoming atmosphere that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.

Willie Mae's Scotch House: A New Orleans Culinary Legacy

Nestled in the heart of New Orleans' Historic Tremé neighborhood, Willie Mae's Scotch House has been a beacon of authentic Southern cuisine since its founding in 1957. Originally established as a humble bar, this family-owned establishment has evolved into a symbol of soulful hospitality and culinary excellence, celebrated far beyond Louisiana's borders.

Historical milestones of Willie Mae's Scotch House

The journey began in 1957, when Willie Mae's Scotch House opened its doors as a local bar in the culturally rich Tremé district. Over the decades, it gained fame for its legendary fried chicken and soul food, drawing food lovers from all walks of life. Its dedication to authentic flavors and warm service earned it the prestigious James Beard Award in 2005, recognizing it as "America's Classic Restaurant for the Southern Region." This accolade cemented its status as an iconic culinary landmark.

1957 Established as a bar in New Orleans' Historic Tremé neighborhood.
2005 Received the James Beard Award for "America's Classic Restaurant for the Southern Region."
2014 Opened a second location in the Uptown neighborhood to expand its reach.
2022 Announced plans to open a location in Los Angeles, marking its first expansion beyond Louisiana.

A cultural and culinary icon in New Orleans

Willie Mae's Scotch House is more than just a restaurant; it is an institution that embodies the spirit of New Orleans' vibrant culture. Its legendary fried chicken—crispy, golden-brown with a perfectly seasoned, juicy interior—has earned rave reviews from both locals and visitors worldwide. The restaurant's commitment to serving soul food in a welcoming, familial atmosphere has made it a must-visit destination for foodies, digital nomads, and travelers seeking an authentic taste of Southern hospitality.

Whether you're savoring the crispy fried chicken, indulging in savory sides like white beans and red beans, or soaking in the rich history of Tremé, Willie Mae's Scotch House offers an unforgettable culinary journey steeped in tradition and flavor.

Willie Mae's Scotch House: A New Orleans Fried Chicken Icon

Nestled in the vibrant Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, Willie Mae's Scotch House has been delighting food lovers since 1957 with its legendary fried chicken and soulful Southern cuisine. This family-owned gem offers a truly authentic taste of New Orleans soul food, drawing locals and visitors alike who crave a crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned chicken experience.

What Makes Willie Mae's Stand Out

The standout feature here is undoubtedly the exceptional fried chicken, often hailed as some of the best in America. Each piece boasts a golden-brown crust that crackles with flavor, enclosing tender and juicy meat inside. Complementing the chicken are classic New Orleans sides like rich red beans and creamy mac 'n' cheese, which provide a satisfying and hearty meal. Beyond the food, the friendly and efficient staff create a welcoming atmosphere in a humble yet charming setting, making every visit memorable.

Things to Consider Before You Go

While Willie Mae's Scotch House offers a must-try culinary experience, visitors should be prepared for some drawbacks. The restaurant does not accept reservations on weekends, which leads to long wait times during peak hours — sometimes extending to an hour or more. Additionally, parking can be challenging due to limited options, although free street parking is available. The portions, while flavorful, are moderate in size and the pricing is on the higher side for comfort food, reflecting the quality and reputation of the establishment.

Additional Perks and Amenities

Wheelchair accessible – making it welcoming for all guests.
Accepts all major credit cards – convenient payment options for visitors.
Offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery – flexibility for how you enjoy your meal.
Outdoor seating available – enjoy your meal amidst New Orleans' lively street scene.

In summary, Willie Mae's Scotch House stands as a culinary landmark for those seeking genuine New Orleans soul food, especially its peerless fried chicken. While the experience requires a bit of patience due to wait times and parking limitations, the richly seasoned dishes and warm hospitality make it worthwhile for food enthusiasts and travelers exploring the city's famed cuisine.

2401 St Ann St., New Orleans, LA 70119, USA

(504) 354-8194

Closed

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

Closed

Thursday

Closed

Friday