“We’re Sandra Austin and Kathy Leslie, affectionately known as Shugga San and Shugga Kat. We are native Nashvillians, and we started Shugga Hi Chicken & Waffles to spread love through our food. Our mother Catherine would selflessly prepare a full-course dinner and dessert for our family every night after her shift as a full-time nurse. As a special treat, momma would sometimes let us have a taste of dessert before our meal. We would all gather around the table to eat, talk and have a boatload of fun! After we finished, we would listen to music and dance the night away, and that was such a feeling of love. While neither of us had previous restaurant experience, we opened Shugga Hi to share that love with you. Our main ingredient that you taste is love.” Quoted from the Shugga Hi website.
As a patron, I have gone there many times to experience the same high-quality food and sense of family that’s been the same since I started going there. The only thing that has changed is the people over the years who have grown to love the experience.
The music at the restaurant varies from performer to performer. It reminds me of the old days when people would go somewhere to eat and simply remember and share with family and friends. It’s rare when I place makes you feel that way.
Several thanksgivings I have attended. They offer a free meal out of their love for the community. The homeless are given the same opportunities every year. Sugga Hi loves everyone equally.
“Come Celebrate Thanksgiving”
Nov. 16: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The meal is free. The only cost is how much joy you take home.
1000 Dickerson Pike, Nashville (Shugga Hi Address)