Melly Mel's - Madison

SEARCH AND DISCOVER THIS HIDDEN GEM! This restaurant is somewhat tucked away, so make sure you know your way, but the food, service, and prices are fantastic. U... read more SEARCH AND DISCOVER THIS HIDDEN GEM! This restaurant is somewhat tucked away, so make sure you know your way, but the food, service, and prices are fantastic. Unfortunately, they don’t serve beer or wine. It’s particularly great for lunch!

I am unable to access your menu, and I would like to see what dishes you have so that I can place an order. read more I am unable to access your menu, and I would like to see what dishes you have so that I can place an order.

Don't be deceived by the simple, homey decor; the food is outstanding. We shared a three-piece dark meat chicken platter and fried catfish, accompanied by four... read more Don't be deceived by the simple, homey decor; the food is outstanding. We shared a three-piece dark meat chicken platter and fried catfish, accompanied by four sides: cabbage, yams, macaroni and cheese, and potato salad. While all the sides were impressive, the real stars were the chicken and catfish. Both dishes were perfectly cooked—not underdone at all, yet not overdone either—just incredibly tender. The breading was crispy but light, so it didn’t soak up grease. I didn't notice any greasiness, which is a big deal for me as I'm sensitive to the bitterness of old frying oil. Honestly, I think these are the best fried chicken and catfish I've had in years. For dessert, we indulged in slices of freshly baked lemon cake with in-house frosting. The cake was warm and fluffy, while the frosting had a silky consistency, a delightful blend of light whipped cream and rich buttercream. If anything could have made the cake even better, it might have been poppy seeds, but they’re not to everyone's taste. Still, I have no complaints—it was truly excellent. I also enjoyed chatting with Mell, the owner. She shared some wonderful stories and has a fascinating palate for food. Our conversations during her trips to the kitchen made the dining experience even more enjoyable. I’m definitely planning to return!

Unfortunately, they had run out of their renowned Mac and Cheese, as well as the catfish nuggets and cabbage when I visited on Friday around 12:45 pm. However,... read more Unfortunately, they had run out of their renowned Mac and Cheese, as well as the catfish nuggets and cabbage when I visited on Friday around 12:45 pm. However, the staff was friendly and accommodating, and the food was quite decent. I opted for the catfish filet, which was a touch overcooked, but well-seasoned and nicely coated with cornmeal. It came with two sides: the green beans, cooked with ham, had good flavor, while the coleslaw was just average. I was hoping for a bit more for my money, but the food definitely had that comforting homemade quality and was enjoyable.

Chicken, macaroni and cheese. Really good chicken. Really creamy mac cheese. read more Chicken, macaroni and cheese. Really good chicken. Really creamy mac cheese.