This Unique Restaurant In Mississippi Will Give You An Unforgettable Dining Experience
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published February 15, 2016
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
Situated among the standard Mississippi scenery that lines Highway 61 near Natchez, is something a bit unusual, and it comes in the form of a nearly 30’ tall woman. The distinct landmark now houses one of the state’s most popular restaurants, Mammy’s Cupboard. Since being built, the “politically incorrect” building has gotten a lot attention, attracting people from all over the world. Between the attention-grabbing building and the delicious home-cooked food, a visit to Mammy’s is definitely an experience that won’t be forgotten.
Built in 1940, this larger-than-life mammy stands at 28’ tall and is constructed of brick, wood, and stucco. Aside from its appearance, the building is unique in another way – its architect was female. Designed by Annie Davis Bost, Mammy’s Cupboard is one of the few documented works of a female architect in Mississippi.
The one-of-a-kind building was constructed for Mr. and Mrs. Gaude as a complement to their gas station. The Gaude’s believed the large mammy-inspired building would draw customers in.
The couple began serving food from underneath the bright red brick skirt, often catering to tourists in town for the Natchez Pilgrimage, which was becoming increasingly popular since the release of "Gone with the Wind."
By 1974, however, the building was vacant, in disrepair, and nearly bulldozed for the widening of Highway 61. Luckily, the iconic structure was spared.
Things started to look up for the building when, in 1994, it was reopened by Doris Kemp. In addition to repairing and repainting the weathered building, Doris introduced a new menu filled with "Mammy-cooked home-style meals" and officially named the restaurant Mammy’s Cupboard.
Over time, the restaurant’s popularity continued to increase. Eventually, Mammy’s Cupboard was featured on PBS and in Southern Living. The Natchez restaurant has even attracted several famous diners, including Hilary Swank, Linda Hunt, and Craig Robinson.
Today, Mammy’s Cupboard features a menu filled with home-cooked classics, gourmet sandwiches on fresh baked bread, and delicious homemade desserts. According to customers, saving room for the pie is a must.
