Weidmann’s, a Culinary Surprise in Mississippi!

Weidmann’s opened in Meridian, MS in 1870 by a chef named Felix Weidmann. Yes, 1870!! The hotel remains in the historic downtown, in the same space it occupied in 1923.  The restaurant stayed in the family until 1999, which is pretty amazing I’m sure you’ll agree.  Apparently the Weidmann family ran out of chefs, as it changed hands in 1999. The current owner is Charles Frazier, and I want to personally thank him for one of the best meals I’ve ever had!  I am not exaggerating. The menu is truly eclectic, with southern dishes served since 1870 alongside newer cuisine.  A charming custom at Weidmann’s is the peanut butter crock on every table.  In the 1930s and 40s, butter was tough to get at certain times.  Without butter, they just set crackers on the table and left it at that.  A guest recommended peanut butter as a substitute for the butter….it was so successful the custom remains today.

The ambiance of the restaurant is comfortable, historical, and interesting.  Photos of famous diners line the walls along with art for sale by local artists. Everything glows and shines with care and elbow grease.  It is spotless.

I decided to get a quiche so I could have one of their famous desserts.  I had an option of two sides, and I couldn’t help but order Corn Pudding.  When the plate arrived I could not believe how wonderfully homemade the food was!  There are no corners cut at Weidmann’s.  The quiche was hot, cheesy and delicious.  I expected the usual quiche you get in a restaurant…this was more like a freshly baked pie.  And the corn pudding?  I could not believe it, but I am compelled to admit it:  their corn pudding is better than my Grandma Nash’s recipe!  I wonder if they share recipes….

My husband ordered a catfish poboy and mac and cheese, both of which were fabulous, according to him.  I didn’t taste it, I was too involved in my own food! Their signature dessert is Black Bottom Pie, but Randy and I opted for the peanut butter pie.  It was unbelievable.  We couldn’t finish it because we were so happily full, but it was luscious. Weidmann’s gave us an unexpectedly fabulous meal along the road, and we could not have enjoyed it more.

The staff was very friendly, and I want to give a shout out of thanks to Nicholas and Chelsea!  Charles Frazier, these two employees are treasures!