Anthony Bourdain’s 10 Favorite Southern Food Destinations

Anthony Bourdain, the legendary chef and globe-trotting food connoisseur, had a profound appreciation for the culinary traditions of the American South. Known for his authentic storytelling and adventurous palate, Bourdain sought out places that offered a genuine taste of Southern culture. His travels highlighted not just the food, but the stories, history, and people behind each dish. From soul-soothing fried chicken to spicy hot chicken, Bourdain celebrated the diversity and richness of Southern cuisine. Here are ten of his favorite Southern food destinations, each with its own unique character and flavorful offerings.

1. Waffle House (Multiple Southern States)

Renowned for its no-frills charm, Waffle House became a personal favorite of Bourdain’s. He described it as an “irony-free zone”—a compliment that celebrated the chain’s authenticity and down-to-earth vibe. Bourdain admired the simplicity and honesty in their greasy-spoon fare, particularly the pecan waffles he couldn’t resist. The ambiance, complete with its bright yellow signs and jukebox tunes, was as comforting as the food itself. Across Southern states, Waffle House is a symbol of consistency and nostalgia, offering a slice of Americana that Bourdain found irresistible. Whether at dawn or the late hours, it always promised a warm meal and friendly faces.

2. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q — Decatur, Alabama

Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur, Alabama, is home to the legendary white BBQ sauce that captured Bourdain’s curiosity. He visited to experience the succulent pork shoulder, slow-cooked to perfection, paired with this tangy, creamy sauce. The restaurant’s walls tell a story of tradition, with trophies and memorabilia celebrating its rich barbecue legacy. Bourdain appreciated the dedication to flavor and the mastery of smoke, which permeated every bite. The communal tables and friendly chatter added to the experience, making visitors feel like part of the family. For Bourdain, this wasn’t just a meal; it was a cherished culinary journey.

3. The Rendezvous — Memphis, Tennessee

In the heart of Memphis, The Rendezvous is a culinary landmark known for its dry-rub ribs that Bourdain found irresistible. This basement joint, filled with decades of smoky history, offered an unpretentious dining experience that resonated with him. He praised the ribs for their savory blend of spices, perfectly cooked to achieve a tender, flavorful bite. The bustling atmosphere, with patrons eagerly awaiting their meals, added to the charm. The aroma of barbecue smoke filled the air, inviting both locals and tourists to indulge in a truly Memphis experience. Bourdain’s visit here was a testament to his love for genuine, soulful food.

4. The Grey — Savannah, Georgia

The Grey in Savannah, Georgia, is a culinary masterpiece that captivated Bourdain with its blend of elegance and Southern tradition. Once a Greyhound station, this restaurant’s unique setting is complemented by Chef Mashama Bailey’s innovative take on Black Southern cuisine. Bourdain admired Bailey’s ability to marry history and modernity, creating dishes that honored the past while introducing fresh perspectives. The ambiance was both chic and nostalgic, offering a dining experience that felt like a journey through time. From the meticulously crafted decor to the thoughtfully prepared dishes, The Grey stood out as a tribute to Southern culinary artistry.

5. Mary Mac’s Tea Room — Atlanta, Georgia

Mary Mac’s Tea Room in Atlanta is a cherished institution that resonated with Bourdain’s love for traditional Southern fare. Known for its golden fried chicken and sides steeped in regional flavors, this tea room offered Bourdain a taste of Southern hospitality at its finest. The endless sweet tea and warm, welcoming ambiance made it a refuge for comfort food enthusiasts. Bourdain appreciated the sense of history and community embedded within its walls, where generations gathered to share meals and stories. For him, Mary Mac’s was more than a restaurant; it was an embodiment of Southern warmth and culinary tradition.

6. Willie Mae’s Scotch House — New Orleans, Louisiana

Willie Mae’s Scotch House in New Orleans is famed for its legendary fried chicken, a dish that Bourdain hailed as among the best he ever tasted. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, the chicken embodied everything he loved about Southern cuisine. The restaurant’s intimate setting, with a history as rich as its flavors, invited guests to partake in a truly soulful dining experience. Bourdain was drawn to the passion and care that went into each meal, reflecting the city’s vibrant food culture. This unassuming spot offered an authentic taste of New Orleans, filled with heart and flavor.

7. Husk — Charleston, South Carolina

In Charleston, Husk stood out for its dedication to preserving Southern heritage through cuisine. Bourdain admired the restaurant’s focus on local ingredients, from heritage pork to house-made hot sauce. Though not typically drawn to fine dining, he respected Husk’s commitment to flavor and tradition. The rustic yet refined ambiance offered a fitting backdrop for dishes that celebrated Southern roots with a contemporary twist. Bourdain’s visit to Husk was more than just a culinary exploration; it was an appreciation of a philosophy that honored the past while embracing innovation. Each bite was a testament to the care and creativity that defined Southern dining.

8. Franklin Barbecue — Austin, Texas

Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Texas, is synonymous with legendary brisket that drew Bourdain into its fold. Despite the notorious wait times, he declared the experience—and the brisket—worth every minute. With its succulent texture and smoky flavor, the brisket could, as he said, “make a grown man cry.” The bustling atmosphere, filled with anticipation and camaraderie among patrons, added to the charm. Franklin’s commitment to quality and tradition resonated with Bourdain, making it a pilgrimage for barbecue aficionados. Each slice of brisket told a story of dedication and craft that left an indelible mark on all who tasted it.

9. Prince’s Hot Chicken — Nashville, Tennessee

Prince’s Hot Chicken in Nashville is a staple for fiery food lovers, and Bourdain was no exception. Known for its spicy, crunchy hot chicken, this joint offered a culinary experience that was both thrilling and satisfying. Bourdain embraced the heat, savoring each bite that packed a punch. The vibrant atmosphere, alive with the sounds of sizzling chicken and lively conversation, made it a must-visit destination. Bourdain appreciated the cultural legacy embedded in every dish, a testament to Nashville’s rich culinary heritage. For those unafraid of spice, Prince’s provided a delicious challenge that Bourdain was eager to accept.

10. Dooky Chase’s — New Orleans, Louisiana

Dooky Chase’s in New Orleans is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural institution that Bourdain deeply revered. Led by the legendary Leah Chase, whom he called a national treasure, this Creole dining spot served generations of history, community, and Black excellence. The gumbo, rich in flavor and tradition, was just the beginning of a menu that celebrated Creole cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with art and stories, created a sense of connection and history. Bourdain’s visit here was a tribute to the power of food as a unifying force, preserving culture and fostering community.