Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room — Restaurant in Savannah

Where to begin…if this was a normal restaurant with realistic wait times and hot food made to order I’d recommend. But it’s mostly an anxiety inducing tourist trap unfortunately. The wait is insane. And it’s buffet only from 11-2pm and you never know IF or when you’ll get in so many of us skip breakfast & by the time we’re inside 2+hrs later we’re starved.

I read up on it we got there at 10:20, doors open at 11. There were already a decent amount of people in front of us and just as many behind us. I would not be surprised if they aren’t regularly turning away the last half of the line. There’s only one small level and it fills quickly. The table eats together so you have to wait until the entire table of 8-10 clears to get in. We didn’t get in until 12 and were out in 40mins. A lot of the food was cold because it’s already on the table when you come in and you have to pass so many dishes around and are trying to see and figure out what’s what by the time you’ve made your plate it’s cold. That was pretty disappointing. There’s also very little service. They set the table & occasionally check to refill things. We had to do inventory of what we needed & stop someone to replace sides.

As far as the taste: the cream corn was like crack-very good & the green beans were really good. The chicken was crispy but over salted, the rice and sausage was good as well as the stew. The mashed potatoes and mac & cheese were only okay. I’ve definitely had better. Majority of the other sides were unnecessary.

I kept seeing people say it’s worth it but I’d have to disagree. This was the longest I’ve ever waited especially on foot in a line for a meal. There’s other comparable southern options with way less hassle.

Just do reservations or upgrade to a larger more accommodating...

If you’re anywhere near Savannah, you must go to Mrs. Wilkes for a meal. From the moment we walked through the door, we were greeted with warm smiles and genuine Southern hospitality that set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, the kind of place where it feels like Sunday dinner at Grandma’s — if Grandma happened to be a five-star cook.

The meal was served family-style, and it was a true Southern spread — generous, hearty, and absolutely delicious. The meats were the undeniable stars of the table: tender fried chicken with perfectly crispy skin, smoky pulled pork that melted in your mouth, and slow-cooked beef stew. Each meat was cooked to perfection, seasoned just right, and clearly made with love.

The sides were no afterthought either. We were treated to creamy mac and cheese, tangy collard greens, buttery cornbread, fluffy mashed potatoes with rich gravy, fried okra, and so many more. Every dish had its own distinct flavor and homemade charm — nothing tasted store-bought or rushed. The balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors was spot on, and everything was served piping hot and replenished with a smile.

What really elevated the whole experience was the service. The staff was attentive without being overbearing, always ready with a fresh pitcher of sweet tea or a recommendation for what to try next. They made us feel like we were part of the family — something you just can’t fake.

If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying, this Southern family-style spot delivers in every way. Come hungry, leave happy, and don’t forget to save room for the peach cobbler and banana pudding, they are sweet ending to a truly...

I have heard about this restaurant from my grandmama, aunts, and cousins since I was young. Stories about how black folk were not allowed to eat in the front of the house and had to get their food from the window in the lane and how they could eat for several days off a single purchase. Needless to say, I had my mouth set to be dazzled. We arrived around 10:30 to make sure that we didn't have to stand in line too long. The line moved at a decent clip, and pretty soon, we were ushered into the far dining room. As we entered our room, the food was already on the table... a sea of different items from which to choose. My eyes and stomach were ready. And so was my mouth. Sadly, beyond the visual appeal of the Sunday supper seating and so many different dishes, the food did not measure up to the hype. Sure, the cole slaw, lima beans, and rutabagas were nice, but I don't know many people who want to pay $30 for that. The centerpiece that everyone raved about, the fried chicken, was crunchy but didn't have that pop of extra j' ne sais quoi that I was naively expecting. An older woman sitting in our group mentioned that she preferred Popeye's and KFC, so let that sink in. Dessert was included, but I am a purist when it comes to my banana pudding (vanilla pudding, bananas, and Nilla Wafers) and this did not look the part. The servers were attentive and made us feel welcome and relaxed. After the meal, we had to "bus" our own plate and cup. Again, maybe this is supposed to be a throwback to Sunday dinner. If you've never had family-style Southern dinner, it may be worth the experience. But if you want to have decent down-home cooking, there are other places in Savannah that...