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Chef Marilyn's, Queen of Down Home Southern Goodies
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Master Critic Review
Chef Marilyn's, Queen of Down Home Southern Goodies
7.9
A steam-table soul food counter that has held its corner of Crenshaw for three decades on the strength of slow-cooked oxtails, pork neck bones, and sides like candied yams and collard greens built from fixed recipes. The takeout-only format keeps the line moving and the prices low, which is why the same regulars have been showing up for 20-plus years. Come hungry, order heavy on the proteins, and expect no-frills packaging around genuinely seasoned home cooking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Southern Style Oxtails, Collard Greens, Candied Yams
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Three-decade Crenshaw District staple serving steam-table soul food with recipes that keep regulars coming back for 20-plus years
Who should go: Soul food devotees and Crenshaw neighborhood regulars
When to visit: Early lunch to beat the midday line
What to order: Load up on oxtails with two sides — collard greens and candied yams are non-negotiable, add a corn bread muffin to soak up the gravy
Insider tip: Corn bread muffins are just 50 cents — grab a couple to go with the oxtail gravy
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking available on-site — quick in-and-out since it's takeout only
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Veggie sides available a la carte (collard greens, mac and cheese, candied yams, red beans) — you can build a plate from sides only
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No — this is a tiny takeout counter, not a sit-down restaurant. There are no tables, no seating, and no ambiance to speak of. You order from the steam table, get your food in a to-go container, and leave. That said, grabbing plates here and taking them to a nearby park could make for a fun, low-key date if you both love soul food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no tables or reservations — this is strictly counter service and takeout. Expect a line, especially around lunchtime when regulars pack the tiny storefront. Arriving right at opening (11:00 AM) is your best bet to avoid the wait. The line can stretch out the door during peak hours and popular items sell out, so don't wait until evening.
Is it kid-friendly? The food is very kid-friendly — fried chicken, mac and cheese, yams, cornbread — classic comfort dishes kids tend to love. However, there is no seating, no high chairs, and no kids menu. This is a grab-and-go operation, so you'll need somewhere else to sit and eat. The staff and atmosphere are warm and welcoming to families.
Is it good for groups? Not for dining in — there are no tables or seating of any kind. However, you can order large quantities of a la carte items for a group meal elsewhere. The small storefront only fits a few people at a time, so sending one person to pick up food for the group is the practical move. Catering availability is not confirmed — call (323) 737-8101 to ask.
Is there outdoor seating? No outdoor seating. No patio, no sidewalk tables, nothing. This is takeout only from a small storefront on Crenshaw Blvd. Free parking is available in the alley off 28th St behind the restaurant if you want to eat in your car — and there's no shame in that, because the food is worth it.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable soul food takeout with massive portions — a Crenshaw institution for 30+ years, not a sit-down dining experience
Consider Alternatives If: You want dine-in seating — this is strictly takeout, a la carte buffet-style
Hours
Monday11am - 7pm
Tuesday11am - 7pm
Wednesday11am - 7pm
Thursday11am - 7pm
Friday11am - 7pm
Saturday11am - 7pm
Sunday11am - 7pm