The legacy of Selma Wilkes is carved into the very floorboards of Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, a wood-paneled basement sanctuary that has outlasted nearly every high-end bistro and chain restaurant in Savannah.
Locals from Ardsley Park and Starland District routinely battle for a spot in the legendary line on Jones Street for a meal that feels more like a Sunday dinner at home than a commercial transaction.
While newer establishments in the Historic District shift toward high-tech reservations and minimalist small plates, the Wilkes-Thompson family has stubbornly maintained their 1943 boarding-house model.
It remains a fiercely independent anchor for Chatham County, proving that an 83-year-old mission—focusing on family-style abundance and “neighborhood-first” communal values—can keep a city’s heart beating.
Quick Bite – Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, Savannah 🤯
Fast facts and local trivia you shouldn’t miss.
Selma Wilkes’ decision to maintain a single dining room for both tourists and locals to share the same bowls of food is what saved this institution.
She bet everything on the idea that the community wanted genuine connection over private booths at a time when traditional boarding houses were disappearing.
This “communal dining experiment” paid off by turning a humble basement kitchen into a permanent cultural anchor for the Jones Street community.
By adhering to this hospitality philosophy, the kitchen maintained a level of quality that has attracted world leaders and culinary enthusiasts for over eight decades.
The most legendary part of the kitchen involves the sheer volume of dishes, as every table is loaded with over 20 different bowls of Southern staples simultaneously.
This refusal to compromise on the labor-intensive “family-style” service is exactly why 107 W Jones St remains the most sought-after seat in the Hostess City.
Even high-profile guests must navigate the “no-reservation” rule, famously resulting in President Obama waiting in line for his fried chicken.
The staff maintains a strict policy where guests clear their own plates, a final nod to the shop’s genuine boarding-house roots.
Signature Bites – Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, Savannah 😋
The must-try dishes locals keep coming back for.
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Famous Southern Fried Chicken: Whole chickens are broken down, seasoned with a proprietary dry rub, and deep-fried in batches until the skin is golden and crisp. This entree is the centerpiece of every table and is served continuously throughout the lunch service. 🍗
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Slow-Simmered Beef Stew: Large chunks of beef are braised for hours with potatoes, carrots, and onions in a savory brown gravy. This recipe dates back to Selma’s original 1943 menu and is served in large communal bowls. 🥣
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Savannah Red Rice: Long-grain rice is baked with tomatoes, bacon, onions, and bell peppers to create a savory, reddish-hued side dish. It represents a specific Gullah-Geechee influence that has anchored the Lowcountry menu for decades. 🍚
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Black-Eyed Peas: Dried peas are slow-cooked with ham hocks and traditional Southern seasonings until the broth is rich and the peas are tender. This side dish is available daily and is a mandatory staple for regular neighborhood diners. 🫘
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Hand-Cut Collard Greens: Fresh greens are stripped from the stem, chopped, and simmered with smoked pork and a splash of vinegar. The result is a savory, tender green that provides a traditional acidic balance to the rich fried chicken. 🥬
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Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits: Dough is hand-mixed and rolled out daily to create towering, layered biscuits that are baked until the tops are browned. They are served warm with house-made preserves and real whipped butter. 🍞
Local Insider FAQ – Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, Savannah 🤫
Tips, tricks, and things to know before you go.
What is the “inside vibe” and social atmosphere like?
The vibe is a masterclass in “Southern charm” grit that spills out from the 19th-century basement to the sidewalk queue.
While the interior is intimate and rich with the scent of hot oil and sweet tea, the social hub truly comes alive at the 10-person tables.
It is one of the few places where you’ll see local history professors and international travelers sharing space, all bound by the historic gravity of the 1943 landmark.
How do I handle the legendary line?
The line forms on the sidewalk of Jones Street, often starting at 9:00 AM. In 2026, regulars suggest bringing a bottle of water and a book, as the wait for the 11:00 AM opening is part of the “pro” Savannah experience.
What is the “clear your own plate” etiquette?
When you finish your meal, you are expected to pick up your plate, utensils, and glass and take them to a designated station in the back. This is a non-negotiable tradition that honors the shop’s boarding-house history.
How do I pay in 2026?
While the dining room was cash-only for generations, they now accept credit cards, though the fixed price makes cash a faster option to keep the table turnover moving.
What are the strictly-enforced 2026 operating hours?
Mrs. Wilkes maintains a very limited weekday-only schedule: Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. They are strictly closed on Saturdays and Sundays, so don’t make the drive to Jones Street on the weekend.
Takeaway Bite – Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, Savannah 😎
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room is the definitive destination for anyone seeking the authentic flavor of traditional Savannah. It is a masterclass in communal hospitality, proving that a 1943 vision can remain the spirit of a city 83 years later. 🍑
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| 🌎 Origin | Founded in Savannah, GA (1943) |
| 🍴 Chain Status | Unique / One-of-a-Kind |
| 💵 Price Point | $$ (Fixed Price $30–$35 per person) |
| ✨ Vibe | Boarding House Warmth / Nostalgic & Bustling |
| 🌐 Official Website | mrswilkes.com |
📍: 107 W Jones St, Savannah, GA 31401
📞: (912) 232-5997
🕒: Mon-Fri: 11AM–2PM; Sat-Sun: Closed