If you’ve ever traveled through the South, you’ve probably heard of a Meat ‘N’ Three—a legendary dining tradition that lets you build your own perfect plate. It’s simple, comforting, and deeply rooted in American food culture. But at Lady Jaye, we’re taking this classic and putting our own smoked, fire-kissed, flavor-packed spin on it.
So, what exactly is a Meat ‘N’ Three, where did it come from, and how does Lady Jaye make it something special? Let’s dig in.
What is a Meat ‘N’ Three?
At its core, a Meat ‘N’ Three is a choose-your-own adventure meal built around one protein (the meat) and three side dishes. It’s the perfect mix of customization and comfort, allowing diners to craft their own plate based on their cravings.
Step 1: Pick a meat—commonly fried chicken, meatloaf, pork chops, or barbecue.
Step 2: Choose three sides—think mac and cheese, collard greens, black-eyed peas, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.
Step 3: Enjoy a meal that’s hearty, soulful, and full of tradition.
While the format is simple, the flavors and options are endless, which is why the Meat ‘N’ Three remains a staple in Southern food culture.
Where Did the Meat ‘N’ Three Come From?
The Meat ‘N’ Three tradition originated in the cafeterias and diners of the American South, particularly in Nashville, Tennessee, during the early 20th century. It was born out of a need for affordable, home-cooked meals that could feed working-class folks while still offering variety and choice.
Back in the day, these restaurants were often small, family-run establishments with a rotating menu of meats and sides, allowing customers to mix and match based on what was available. Over time, the concept became a defining part of Southern cuisine, with variations popping up across different states.
Today, the Meat ‘N’ Three is still a staple in the South, but its influence has spread far beyond, inspiring modern chefs and barbecue joints to put their own twist on it—just like we do at Lady Jaye.
How Lady Jaye Puts a Spin on the Meat ‘N’ Three
At Lady Jaye, we love tradition—but we love shaking things up even more. Our take on the Meat ‘N’ Three celebrates the smoky, fire-roasted flavors we’re known for while bringing in bold, unexpected twists.
The Meat: Instead of traditional fried chicken or meatloaf, we highlight smoked, and slow-cooked meats that pack serious flavor. Think smoked Wagyu New York Strip, Coffee rubbed pork belly, Smoked Bologna Sandwich, Smoked Tri Tip steak, Smoked Filet Mignon, Smoked Delmonico Cheesesteak and Smoked Wagyu Cheeseburgers.
The Sides: While we honor the classics, we also bring seasonal, scratch-made sides that go beyond the basics. You might find:
- Smoked Jalapeno Kale Caesar
- Horseradish Potato Salad
- 10 Veggie Slaw with Mustard Vinaigrette
- Dill Pickle French Fries
- Baked Black Eyed Peas
The Experience: We’re not just about the food—it’s about bringing people together for a meal that feels familiar yet completely fresh. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a plate to-go, Lady Jaye’s Meat ‘N’ Three is a tribute to tradition, infused with our signature bold flavors.
The Meat ‘N’ Three is more than just a meal—it’s a slice of American food history that continues to evolve. At Lady Jaye, we’re proud to take this beloved Southern tradition and give it a smoked, fire-roasted, and flavor-packed upgrade. Whether you’re a longtime Meat ‘N’ Three fan or trying it for the first time, we guarantee you’ll never look at this classic the same way again.
So, next time you’re craving comfort food with a twist, come see us at Lady Jaye—where we keep the tradition alive, one plate at a time.
