Paula Deen has closed her flagship restaurant, The Lady and Sons, in Savannah, Georgia, marking the end of an era for the Southern cooking icon. The restaurant, which had become a culinary destination in the historic city, ceased operations on July 31. The closure also includes the adjacent takeout spot, The Chicken Box.
The Lady and Sons began as a modest catering operation known as The Bag Lady, run out of Deen’s home before expanding into a full-service restaurant in downtown Savannah in 1996. Over the years, it became one of the city’s most popular eateries, drawing both locals and tourists eager to sample traditional Southern fare like fried chicken, collard greens, and gooey butter cake.
Deen announced the closure alongside her sons in a farewell message expressing gratitude to their loyal customers over the past 36 years. The family emphasized their intention to focus on other restaurant locations, including those in Pigeon Forge, Myrtle Beach, Nashville, and Branson, which will remain open.
Though no official reason was given for the decision, the announcement surprised many. The restaurant had long been a Savannah staple and often appeared to be bustling with business. At its peak, it helped propel Deen into national fame, coinciding with her rise on the Food Network and the launch of a media empire.
The restaurant’s windows are now papered over, and a sign on the door bids patrons a final goodbye. For many, The Lady and Sons was more than just a place to eat—it was a symbol of Deen’s brand and a key part of Savannah’s downtown revival. While her original restaurant may be gone, Deen’s influence on Southern cuisine and her ongoing business ventures suggest her presence will continue to be felt far beyond the city’s historic district.
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