I can address Southern culture, too; I was born in Maryland and attended university in Virginia. My sister and her family now live in Atlanta, so I've spent quite a bit of time there.
For me, BBQ is the quintessential Southern meal. I won't touch on the differences between Memphis, Carolina, Texas, and Kansas City BBQ, unless someone truly wants to read about it. I know Kansas City isn't in the South, but they have a dog in the BBQ race, too. Some people eat cole slaw on their BBQ sandwiches, but I prefer mine without...and light on the sauce so the flavor of the meat comes through. @Amapola76 's variations--pulled pork and brisket--are great ideas, along with ribs.
Fried chicken, with potato salad or macaroni salad, is another classic meal. So is chicken and waffles--either fried chicken with waffles and syrup (deep Southern-style) or pulled chicken with waffles and gravy (Pennsylvania Dutch-style).
Shrimp and grits, gumbo, and black-eyed peas would fit perfectly on a plate in Willow Creek.
Cobblers and pies are absolute must-haves for dessert.
I could go on and on and on...and while we're at it, we can discuss other regional food traditions, too!