Celebrities and ordinary folks alike flock from near and far to eat at the boardinghouse that Selma Wilkes, now 93 years old, founded in 1943. Four generations of Wilkes have helped Selma keep the business thriving, serving countless platters of Selma's legendary fried chicken, biscuits, pork ribs, mashed sweet potatoes, collard greens, banana pudding and other traditional southern staples.

This book shares over 250 recipes from Mrs. Wilkes boardinghouse, but it's much more than just a cookbook. Historian John T. Edge's text brings to life Selma Wilkes' contributions to Savannah culture and Southern cuisine, making this a cookbook that you'll take to bed at night to read as well as to the kitchen to cook.

Who knew that when Selma Wilkes started her unassuming establishment almost 60 years ago that it would turn into the Savannah legend it is today, winning the accolades of the press and such prestigious awards as the 2000 James Beard Award for regional cuisine, the 2000 Southern Living Reader's Choice Award and 1990 Condé Nast Traveler Distinguished Restaurant Award.

This book celebrates the essence of what makes Mrs. Wilkes Boardinghouse so special, in words, historical photos and of course, mouth-watering recipes. Selma Wilkes still works in her restaurant every day, but if you can't get to Savannah to visit in person, this book is the next best thing.