Ma Lessie's Chicken and Waffles

It was good, just not special, especially for that line!Best cabbage I've ever had. Chicken was perfectly crunchy, and could have used extra seasoning. Yams were good. Fail on the waffles. I think they're meant to be savory, as they taste like cornbread waffles versus the light flaky pancake batter-kind.There's a small space for indoor dining, but the claustic space is covered by the incessant line.

The line was pretty long but went quickly and I totally understand. I just got an order of fried catfish. It was well seasoned and flaky. I was kinda mad at myself that is didn't get sides the macaroni and cheese and yams looked pretty good. Next time I will definitely get more. But the catfish is definitely a stunner. You have to try it !

The Fried Chicken and Baked Mac n Cheese are some of the best I've ever had. Ordering the Entree with side is the way to go, and could honestly feed 2+. Quick service and huge portions. Will absolutely come back!

Being from the South I have eaten a lot of chicken and collards. My presumptuous thought when I saw 30 minute line told me this place must be worth the slow march. So the family and I did the 30 minute Philadelphia chicken mosey to the cashier. On this particular day they must have forgotten to add the herbs and spices to the chicken. Had to be a mistake. The greens were descent but lacked that seasoning and a hint of sweet southern cider spice. The staff were northern friendly and they are blessed. Opinions are opinions, and they all differ. Sorry, but not worth the wait on this day.

I frequently work at the convention center in Philadelphia, right across from the Reading Terminal Market. I've explored nearly every food vendor within the market, but Ma Lessies consistently had lines stretching down the corridor. That level of popularity has to mean something special, yet due to my limited time, I never had the opportunity to wait in line--until yesterday.I can tell you now the hype is entirely real; Ma Lessies is nothing short of exceptional. The chicken is remarkably tender inside, boasting a delicious blend of flavors, and comes with a beautiful, crispy exterior. They fry basically everything--chicken, fish, cod, shrimp, and more--and each dish comes with a choice of one side. I've heard people saying that a single side is not enough, but for me, it was more than plenty.For my lunch, I got the chicken breast combo with their Mac and Cheese. Being a mac and cheese enthusiast, I can tell you that it was soooo good. I couldn't resist adding the cornbread to my order, and it lived up to my expectations--it's homemade, by the way, but be aware that it's an additional cost.Ma Lessies takes pride in crafting everything from scratch and preparing each plate to order, so be prepared for a bit of a wait during busy times. Nevertheless, I've learned a local's trick to avoid the long lines (which worked perfectly for me). The place opens at 11 AM, so arrive about 10 minutes early to secure your spot in line and get your food promptly. Despite not being a fan of an 11 AM lunch, the exceptional flavor of the food makes it entirely worthwhile.I'm eagerly looking forward to trying their Chicken and Waffles, which is, essentially, their signature dish.

I walked around Reading Terminal for 15 mins trying to find something to eat. I saw a line for Ma Lessie's and thought since there was a line maybe the food is good. So I joined the line! I stood in line for 30 mins before my order was taken. I ordered fried wings with mac&cheese. Fried catfish with Mac& cheese, side of greens , side of yams, and cornbread. I had to wait an additional 10 mins for the fried wings. Fried wings 9/10, fried catfish 9/10, mac&cheese 7/10, greens 10/10, yams 8/10, and corn bread 10/10. It was great to see how busy this establish was and how well the team worked together. I will definitely order from Ma Lessie's chicken and waffles again.

Customer service was very good. The chicken with the "chicken & waffles" was good, however the waffle was not good at all. The side of mac & cheese was decent. Not sure if that was a bad batch, but I do not eat the waffles. The best thing was the amazing Me Lessie's tea, which had strawberries, peaches and blueberries in it. It almost reminded me of a tea & kool aid mix. I will be back the next time I'm in Philly to try the turkey wings, yams and menu items. This spot should also be praised for their menu pricing. Nothing in my opinion is overpriced. Especially in today's inflated market.

The food is absolutely amazing. Good authentic soul food. The savory flavor of the Mac and cheese was a unique approach to a soul food staple dish. The chicken was seasoned and fried to perfection. If you want some good soul food like your best cooking auntie or grandma would make? This place has that! The decor is cute as well and they have a small seating area. This is a must try if you are in Philly!

Wow is the best way to describe what I tasted from Ma Lessie's Chicken and Waffles. Waffles were delicious and fluffy the chicken was delicious. Tasted so so good.

This food is AMAZING! The Reading Market is always jam packed because of food like this. Worth the wait!!!#REALSOULFOOD