The Absolute Best Soul Food in Dallas [Updated 2025]

I've taken the time to review 12 of the most beloved soul food spots in the city, each offering a unique taste of this comforting cuisine.

From classic fried chicken to rich collard greens and cornbread that feels like a warm hug, Dallas has a vibrant soul food scene that deserves to be celebrated.

I've savored every bite, and I can't wait to share my favorites with you, ensuring that your next meal is nothing short of a culinary delight.

Join me as we explore the heart and soul of Dallas, where every dish tells a story and every restaurant has a legacy.

Mary’s Twisted Kitchen

Highlights
Amazing food flavors
Kind and dedicated staff
Generous portion sizes
Clean and tidy restaurant
Highly recommended take-out spot

Review of Mary’s Twisted Kitchen

As I stepped into Mary’s Twisted Kitchen, I was immediately greeted by the warm atmosphere and the delightful aroma wafting through the air. This charming eatery truly knows how to pack a punch when it comes to amazing food flavors! Each dish is a tantalizing twist on classic soul food, and I found myself utterly enchanted.

The kind and dedicated staff played a significant role in my experience—they were attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the menu. I couldn't resist trying their famous fried chicken, which came in generous portion sizes that left me pleasantly stuffed. The crispy exterior and succulent meat were simply divine!

Another highlight was the restaurant’s impeccable cleanliness. It's refreshing to see a place that maintains such tidy surroundings, enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether you're dining in or opting for take-out (which I highly recommend for those cozy nights in), Mary’s has got you covered.

In a city brimming with soul food options, Mary’s Twisted Kitchen stands out as a must-visit spot for an unforgettable culinary journey. If you’re looking for a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the soul, make this gem your next stop!

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Roots Southern Table

Highlights
Delicious shrimp & grits
Exceptional service experience
Vibrant live music atmosphere
Must-try halibut dish
Great cocktails selection

Review of Roots Southern Table

Stepping into Roots Southern Table feels like a warm hug from your favorite auntie, except in this case, auntie is a culinary genius! My journey began with the delicious shrimp & grits, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. Every bite transported me to a sun-soaked Southern porch on a lazy afternoon.

One of the true delights of my visit was the exceptional service experience; the staff was attentive without being overbearing, making me feel like a cherished guest rather than just a customer. To elevate the ambiance further, a delightful live music atmosphere enveloped the restaurant, blending seamlessly with the tantalizing aromas wafting from the kitchen.

As I indulged in the evening's offerings, I couldn't resist trying the must-try halibut dish, which was so fresh and flavorful it practically danced on my palate. To wash it all down, the great cocktails selection brought a contemporary twist that perfectly complemented the soul food roots.

In a city definitely rich with soul food options, Roots Southern Table stands out as a true gem. It's a perfect blend of comfort, joy, and mouthwatering food that beckons you to return for more!

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YA' MOMMAS KITCHEN, LLC

Highlights
Comfort food at its best
Made-to-order entrees
Amazing fried chicken
Must-try black eyed peas
Delicious cornbread

YA' MOMMAS KITCHEN, LLC is downright delightful! As I stepped into this cozy establishment, I immediately felt the warm embrace of comfort food at its finest. Their made-to-order entrees are a true testament to the love that goes into every dish.

I was practically hypnotized by the aroma of amazing fried chicken wafting through the air, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Each bite was crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, reminiscent of the meals I enjoyed at my grandma's house.

Now let's talk about the must-try black-eyed peas, which were seasoned perfectly, adding a soulful richness to my meal. They were a gentle reminder of Southern hospitality and a pure joy to savor. And if you fancy a delightful Southern staple, the delicious cornbread served here is a fluffy, golden treat that summons the spirit of family gatherings.

YA' MOMMAS KITCHEN, LLC has truly mastered the art of soul food, blending tradition with a modern twist. If you're in Dallas and craving a taste of home, this place might just steal your heart—and your appetite!

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Street's Fine Chicken

Highlights
Phenomenal food and service
Incredible black eyed peas
Delicious fried green tomatoes
Great bourbon Sriracha meatloaf
Honey biscuits to die for

Street's Fine Chicken is a delightful haven for soul food enthusiasts, and stepping through its doors, I felt like I had entered a family gathering brimming with warmth and flavor. The moment I was seated, I was greeted with phenomenal service that made an immediate impression.

Now, let's get to the good stuff—the food! Their incredible black-eyed peas are a must-try; they’re seasoned to perfection, with just the right amount of spice to evoke a home-cooked feeling. The delicious fried green tomatoes are equally worthy of praise; each bite offers a crispy, tangy crunch that dances on the palate.

For a true indulgence, you can't go wrong with the bourbon Sriracha meatloaf. It's rich, smoky, and packed with flavor, making it a standout dish that sends comfort food to new heights. And of course, let’s not forget the honey biscuits—these marvels are not just good; they are to die for, adding a sweet finish to an unforgettable meal.

Overall, my experience at Street’s Fine Chicken was nothing short of spectacular, making it one of the best soul food joints in Dallas. If you’re on a quest for flavor and heart, this spot is a true gem!

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Southern Gourmet Kitchen

Highlights
Complimentary cornbread muffins
Delicious fish and grits
Great brunch atmosphere
Attentive service
Live DJ on Sundays

Southern Gourmet Kitchen truly encapsulates the essence of soul food in Dallas. From the moment I stepped inside, the inviting ambiance set the tone for a memorable dining experience. It was a delight to be greeted with complimentary cornbread muffins that made my taste buds dance; those fluffy bites of cornbread were simply divine!

As I perused the menu, I was irresistibly drawn to the delicious fish and grits. It’s a classic Southern dish that this establishment executes beautifully. The perfectly cooked fish was flaky and seasoned to perfection, complementing the creamy grits that brought comfort with every mouthful.

The overall vibe of the restaurant, especially during brunch, is vibrant—enhanced by a live DJ on Sundays that brings an upbeat rhythm to the experience. The attentive service made me feel right at home, like I was dining with friends rather than in a bustling eatery.

In a city rich with soul food options, Southern Gourmet Kitchen stands out not just for its scrumptious dishes, but for its friendly atmosphere and thoughtful touches. It’s a must-visit spot that has me coming back for seconds—quite literally!

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The Free Man Cajun Cafe & Lounge

Highlights
Great live music
Delicious Cajun wings
Sweet potato fries
Vibrant Deep Ellum vibe
Recommended for date nights

During my recent culinary adventure to The Free Man Cajun Cafe & Lounge, I was immediately drawn in by the vibrant atmosphere of Deep Ellum, where jazzy tunes spill out from the venue and beckon you to join the festivities. As I settled in, I couldn't resist ordering a plate of their delicious Cajun wings—a true delight that packs a flavorful punch! Each bite was an explosion of spices, perfectly crispy on the outside and tender within, evoking that delightful Southern charm.

To complement these zesty wings, I opted for their sweet potato fries, which were a delightful twist on the classic side. They were perfectly seasoned and a fantastic pairing, providing a subtle sweetness that balanced the dish beautifully.

What truly sets The Free Man apart is the lively atmosphere; live music fills the air, making it an ideal spot for a fun date night. Whether you're there for the food or the ambiance, this place offers a vibrant experience worth savoring. I left fully satisfied, my soul fed and my heart dancing to the rhythm of good food and good vibes. If you’re seeking the essence of southern comfort food, look no further than The Free Man!

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Sweet Georgia Brown

Tucked away in the heart of Dallas, Sweet Georgia Brown is a soul food sanctuary that sings to your taste buds! From the moment I stepped inside, the warm ambiance wrapped around me like a cozy blanket. The fried catfish was a crispy masterpiece, perfectly seasoned, while the collard greens danced with a flavor that had me coming back for more. The cornbread? A heavenly slice of moist perfection! Each bite felt like a warm hug from Grandma. If you're craving an unforgettable soul food experience, this gem will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Come hungry, leave happy!

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Sweet Bella Soul Food Kitchen

Tucked away in a cozy corner of Dallas, Sweet Bella Soul Food Kitchen offers a delightful feast for the senses. The moment I stepped inside, the aroma of slow-cooked collard greens and crispy fried catfish enveloped me like a warm hug. I savored every bite of their signature mac and cheese, which was perfectly creamy and topped with a golden crust. The staff's hospitality was genuinely warm, making me feel like part of the family. If you’re in search of authentic flavors and a place that feels like home, Sweet Bella is a must-visit for any soul food lover in Dallas!

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Kendall Karsen’s Upscale Soul Food

Stepping into Kendall Karsen’s Upscale Soul Food feels like a warm hug from grandma. This gem redefines tradition with dishes that sparkle with creativity. The fried catfish had a perfectly crunchy exterior, paired with a zesty remoulade that danced on my tongue. Equally enticing were the collard greens, simmered to perfection with a hint of smoky bliss. For dessert, the peach cobbler was a slice of heaven, sweet yet balanced. The atmosphere buzzed with vibrancy, making every bite even more delightful. If you’re craving soul food with a twist, this spot definitely deserves a visit!

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Kendall's Soul Food

Kendall's Soul Food is a delightful gem that captures the heart of Southern cooking. From the moment I stepped in, the aroma of smoked meats and freshly baked cornbread enveloped me, promising a hearty feast. Their fried catfish was crispy and seasoned to perfection, while the collard greens offered a comforting tang that made me feel right at home. The portions are generous, ensuring you leave with a satisfied belly. The warm, friendly service adds an extra layer of charm to the experience. If you're hunting for authentic soul food in Dallas, Kendall's is a must-visit destination!

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Soulful Street Bites

Soulful Street Bites is a delightful gem that captures the essence of soul food with a modern twist. From the moment I stepped in, the aroma of slow-cooked perfection enveloped me. I couldn't resist the fried catfish, which was crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth tender inside. The collard greens were seasoned flawlessly, giving me that nostalgic comfort I crave. Each bite felt like a warm hug from Grandma! The ambiance is as inviting as the dishes, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking delicious soul food in Dallas. A true culinary love letter to classic flavors!

Tha Neighborhood Kitchen

Tha Neighborhood Kitchen offered a delightful taste of Southern comfort that immediately felt like a warm hug. From the moment I stepped in, the inviting ambiance and friendly staff set the tone for a culinary adventure. I savored their famous fried chicken—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, accompanied by a side of buttery collard greens that were downright heavenly. The mac and cheese? Pure cheesy goodness! Each dish felt like a tribute to time-honored recipes, reminding me of family gatherings. If you’re after authentic soul food in Dallas, this kitchen feels like home on a plate!