The Best Thing I Ever Ate: Willie Mae's Scotch House, New Orleans

I just got back to New York from New Orleans, and boy do I miss it. I do not care for any of the restaurants in Manhattan right now (I'm going to Don Peppe's tonight, and I'm not even excited for that. What is wrong with me?) because I need to get back to the South, ASAP! 

Here's a new series of blog posts that I hope to start, simply stating a few of the best things I've eaten. I am now honestly admitting (here goes my nutrition career) that I love fried chicken. I mean, what's not to like? Good old crispy chicken. That simple. 

 

For my last meal in New Orleans, I took a cab outside the French Quarter to the alleged BEST FRIED CHICKEN IN THE UNITED STATES. Several cab drivers told me this. And one of them even said this, "My wife said that if this place has the best fried chicken in America, then I make the best fried chicken in the world." I did not have the luxury to try dear old Mrs. Charles' fried chicken, but Willie Mae's is pretty  amazing (understatement). The area itself was hit pretty hard by Hurricane Katrina, and the restaurant is surrounded by abandoned building and some empty construction sites. Worth the cab ride? Oh was it worth it. 

 

One bite into the chicken, and let me tell you, it is a game changer. The batter is simple, crispy, and delicious, and with every bite, I just couldn't help but wonder.. how is the meat so extremely tender? It's unfair to all other fried chicken ever made. It also has a slight hint of seasoning that I want to say is Cajun inspired because it has the spice of cayenne pepper. It was just so finger-licking good that I even ordered half a dozen pieces to bring home back to New York. 

  

I also tried the country fried pork chop, but really, don't even bother with that. You only need the fried chicken. It also goes well with rice and gravy or corn muffins. Top it off with a cold glass of iced tea (no beer served), and you're golden. I will definitely be going back next time I visit New Orleans. 

Willie Mae's Scotch House

2401 St Ann St  

New Orleans, LA 70119