Nestled on Atlanta’s historic Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Busy Bee Café is a soul food gem known not only for its legendary fried chicken but also for a Tuesday special that steals the show: their hand-breaded, pan-fried cubed steak. This culinary delight is served in rich onion gravy, providing a comforting taste of Southern tradition.
The Legacy of Lucy Jackson
Lucy Jackson, the founder of Busy Bee Café, began her venture in 1947. Her self-taught cooking skills blossomed into a legacy that remains integral to Atlanta’s culinary scene.
Housed in a modest brick building, her café became a cornerstone of the community, serving soul food classics with consistency.
Though the restaurant has evolved, Lucy’s original recipes continue to delight patrons, earning national acclaim.
The Allure of Tuesday’s Cubed Steak
Every Tuesday, a hush of anticipation fills Busy Bee as patrons prepare to indulge in the cubed steak special. This dish, simmered in savory onion gravy, epitomizes comfort food.
Hand-breaded and pan-fried, it taps into the essence of traditional Southern dining.
Served with classic sides, it offers diners a taste of home in every bite, making Tuesday a day to remember.
A James Beard Honoree
Busy Bee Café’s culinary excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed. They’ve earned the prestigious James Beard America’s Classics Award, a testament to their enduring quality.
This recognition places them among the elite in American dining, celebrating their authentic Southern flavors.
Despite the acclaim, the café maintains its humble roots, continuing to serve plates full of tradition.
Fried Chicken: The Gold Standard
Renowned for its fried chicken, Busy Bee sets the gold standard in Atlanta. Marinated and fried in peanut oil, the chicken boasts a shatteringly crisp skin while remaining juicy inside.
This dish is not just popular; it’s iconic, embodying the rich flavors of Southern cooking.
Even with such fame, the chicken-fried steak holds its ground, showcasing Busy Bee’s culinary prowess.
The Busy Bee Atmosphere
Step inside Busy Bee Café, and you’re greeted by an ambiance that’s warm and inviting. The simple, unpretentious setting underscores the focus on food.
With a counter, tightly arranged tables, and a steady flow of takeout orders, it’s clear that the star here is the cuisine.
This down-to-earth environment enhances the charm and tradition of the dining experience.
A Classic Meat-And-Three Tradition
Busy Bee embodies the classic ‘meat-and-three’ tradition, offering a main protein with a choice of three sides. On Tuesdays, the cubed steak becomes the highlight.
Paired with selections like greens, yams, and cornbread dressing, it creates a harmonious plate.
This method of dining, rooted in Southern heritage, emphasizes variety and satisfaction in every meal.
Consistency in Tradition
Part of Busy Bee’s charm is its unwavering dedication to tradition. Recipes have remained largely unchanged, preserving the rich, comforting tastes.
This fidelity to original methods reassures patrons looking for a taste of nostalgia.
Each dish, from the famed fried chicken to the beloved cubed steak, echoes the flavors of the past, served in a setting where history and community converge.