In the historic Smoketown neighborhood of Louisville, behind an unassuming brick façade on South Clay Street, culinary magic happens daily at Shirley Mae’s Café.
Where the fried chicken achieves a level of perfection that would make Colonel Sanders himself question his life choices.
While Kentucky may be known worldwide for a certain fast-food fried chicken empire, locals know that the real poultry perfection exists not in bright red buckets but on simple plates served in this beloved soul food institution at 802 South Clay Street.
The modest exterior gives little indication of the gastronomic treasures within – just a straightforward sign with “Shirley Mae’s Café & Bar” announcing itself without fanfare or pretension…