I've been in Madison for about 4 weeks for work and had to eat out every meal. Aside from a couple steakhouses Melly Smells is the best place I've been. I got three pieces of fried chicken; a leg, thigh and breast. I also got Two sides of Mac and cheese and baked beans. The chicken was fantastic. It was freshly made to order and came very hot. The breading was crisp and tasty. I think there was a sprinkle of lemon pepper on the chicken for an added oomph. The breading was not heavy handed and the chicken was moist and delicious.
My sides were really good. The Mac and cheese was creamy and not over done. I would have liked a touch of crunchyness such as corn or crumble topping, but it was still good on its own. The baked beans were the best I've had in the area. They had a smokey tangy sweetness that I like and there was some meat ( pork sausage or ground beef?), which added some flavor and texture.
Lastly I got peach cobbler with ice cream for dessert. It was excellent.
Overall the service was very good. I was the only customer in the restaurant at the time and Kelly came out to talk. We had friendly conversation and we talked about other places I've eaten while in the area. I even got to toss a Frisbee with her granddaughter. I will be back for some BBQ on Thursday. If its as good as tonight I'll leave Madison happy.