In an era when independent restaurants struggle to survive a single year, Les Sisters' Southern Kitchen continues to thrive nearly four decades after three "sisters in spirit"—Clara Huling, Roda Hadi, and Willie Stanford—first opened their doors in 1986.
Now run by third-generation owner Jessica Huling, the Cajun restaurant has moved from its original Chatsworth home to Winnetka, but the emphasis on homestyle cooking and old-fashioned hospitality has never wavered. The modest strip mall location churns out some of the best fried chicken in Los Angeles alongside authentic Louisiana staples.
"Whether you go for the hot or mild variety, get the Cajun fried chicken: Golden, crispy-skinned, and nearly greaseless, the well-seasoned crust sets it apart from other styles of American Southern-style fried chicken," raved Eater LA's Patricia Kelly Yeo in a recent review.
Awards and press accolades from over the years dot the walls, alongside Mardi Gras memorabilia and other New Orleans touches. A regular clientele of locals cycle in and out to pick up takeout, many on a first-name basis with the longtime staff.
The menu spans shrimp jambalaya, collard greens, black-eyed peas and rice, smothered chicken, and plush cornbread that exemplifies the Southern "meat and three" tradition. On Sundays, the kitchen fries up classic beignets dusted in powdered sugar—a sweet tribute to the Big Easy.
For drinks, guests can order sweet tea, muddy water (Arnold Palmer), or traditional New Orleans-style chicory coffee.
In a city that constantly chases the next trend, Les Sisters' represents something increasingly rare: a family-run restaurant that honors its roots while welcoming new generations of customers who've grown up on Huling's Cajun fried chicken.
Everything is made to order, so call ahead for faster service.