Prominent patrons from around the globe continue to consume the mouthwatering traditions Mary Mahoney began preparing over 50 years ago.

The most prominent New Orleans style dining location beyond the Crescent City opened its doors on May 7th, 1964. Generations of Biloxians and National Geographic writers have all called Mary Mahoney’s Old French House restaurant “Biloxi’s Oldest House.” Mary Mahoney was forced out of the hotel lounge she ran and took out a $13,000 loan to buy the French House in 1962. Mary, her husband Bob, and her brother Andrew Cvitanovic, renovated the building after Andrew sold his shrimp boat. The building’s impressive history was only outshined by Mary’s brilliant personality. Her signature evening wear and generous spirit were as familiar as her gumbo that remains on the menu today. Before Mary passed at age 61 in 1985 she was the first woman named Mississippi Small Business Person of the year in 1982. She was named president of the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce a few years later. On only its 2nd Chef in 50 years Mary Mahoney put the Old French House on a path to greatness that it still enjoys today.

The French House was built more than 30 years before the American Revolutionary War by French colonist Louis Frasier in 1737. High ceilings, hand-made brick, and columns of cypress demonstrate its French design. French governor Jean Baptiste Bienville headquartered the Louisiana Territory from this house. Many different people lived in the house as the territory changed hands from French, Spanish, and British governments. Descendants of the original owner, Frasier, lived here until 1820.

Presidents, celebrities, and hungry patrons have all appreciated the fine food and elegant atmosphere at 110 Rue Magnolia in Biloxi. The 200-year-old Oak Tree that covers the courtyard has roots extending well into the wine cellar. A telegram from President Kennedy rests on one wall with a letter from President Reagan on another. This is well known to be one President G.W. Bush’s favorite places to eat, too. Whether it’s private dining, a black tie affair, or just a bowl of gumbo it’s extremely hard not to enjoy your meal and the remarkable atmosphere at Mary Mahoney’s Old French House.