Two iconic Louisville dining spots have recently earned recognition in their respective fields. Shirley Mae’s Café, 802 S. Clay St. has been listed # 66 of The Daily Meal’s list of “America’s 75 Best Fried Chicken Spots”, the only Kentucky eatery on the list. Quills Coffee was awarded the title of America’s Best Coffeehouse as a result of a competition in Chicago in June.
The food blog The Daily Meal commended Shirley Mae’s for serving “soul food that really fills you up,” and cited the restaurant’s hot water corn bread for special mention. Shirley Mae’s is a long-time family business in Smoketown, with Shirley Mae and her daughter frying up the chicken in black cast-iron skillets, and her son waiting on customers.
Baristas from Quills’ U of L location competed for the title at Coffee Fest in Chicago. The competition judged beverage quality, customer service, speed, teamwork, and communication. The team also served a signature drink, a twist on Quills’ shakearado.