Soul Food Legend’s Historic BBQ Fest Redefines Atlanta’s Culinary Scene

(L To R) "Wake Up With Dee Morning Show" Host Dr. Dee Dawkins- Haigler "Owner Of Delilah’s Everyday Soul" Auntie Delilah
(L To R) "Wake Up With Dee Morning Show" Host Dr. Dee Dawkins- Haigler "Owner Of Delilah’s Everyday Soul" Auntie Delilah Photo credit Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler, Auntie Delilah

Recently on the "Wake Up With Dee" Morning Show, Host Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler spoke with renowned culinary figure celebrated for her award-winning Southern dishes Delilah Winder about her journey from family kitchens to national acclaim and outlined plans for Atlanta’s Third Annual Barbecue and Beer Fest.

Ms. Winder, whose seven-cheese mac and cheese was named best in the nation on The Oprah Winfrey Show, traced her culinary passion to her Virginia roots. “Grew up like dying to eat food, always loving the smells in the house while they’re cooking,” she said, recalling her family’s exceptional cooks in King and Queen County and Richmond. Raised in Philadelphia but immersed in Southern traditions during Virginia summers, Ms. Winder launched her career at Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market in 1984, building a reputation through grit and family-inspired recipes.

Her signature mac and cheese, made with eggs, milk, butter, and seven cheeses, became a sensation, earning her a James Beard honor as the only African American woman among 13 recognized female chefs. “It’s kind of a creamy, dreamy, warming, comforting experience when you do eat the macaroni and cheese,” she said, highlighting its unique flavor profile. Ms. Winder’s accolades include cooking at the James Beard House three times and reaching the finals of Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown Season 2, where she helped the winner secure victory.

Recently this past week, Host Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler joined Auntie Delilah at their Third Annual Barbecue and Beer Fest that was held at Scott’s Law Brewery in Atlanta.

(L To R) "Wake Up With Dee Morning Show" Host Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler "Owner of Delilah’s Everyday Soul" Auntie Delilah
(L To R) "Wake Up With Dee Morning Show" Host Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler "Owner of Delilah’s Everyday Soul" Auntie Delilah Photo credit Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler

Ms. Winder also highlighted her three Atlanta restaurants run by her daughter Delana Reeves and son-in-law Jason, continuing her legacy of Southern soul food.

To listen to the full interview, click the link above.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler, Auntie Delilah