The 16 Best Soul Food in Houston

Exploring the vibrant culinary scene of Houston, soul food stands out as a beloved tradition that has been passed down through generations. From tender fried chicken to savory collard greens, there is no shortage of flavorful options for those seeking a taste of the South in the heart of Texas.
Whether you are a longtime fan of soul food or looking to experience it for the first time, Houston offers a diverse array of restaurants and eateries that cater to every palate. Each establishment brings its own unique twist to classic dishes, promising a memorable dining experience for all.
- Family-owned restaurants serving up traditional favorites
- Modern eateries with innovative takes on classic recipes
- Cozy cafes offering comforting soul food staples
- Food trucks bringing soul food to the streets of Houston
Embark on a culinary journey through Houston's soul food scene and discover the best that the city has to offer. Below is a list of the top 16 soul food spots in Houston, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you coming back for more.
- 1. Mikki's Soulfood Cafe
- 2. Annie B’s Southern Cuisine also known as Soul Y Mex Kitchen
- 3. Esther's Cajun Café & Soul Food
- 4. Aunt Bill's Soul Food Cafe
- 5. Heavenly Choices
- 6. Houston This Is It Soul Food
- 7. The Greasy Spoon
- 8. D Ls Cajun Kitchen
- 9. Houston This Is It Soul Food
- 10. Larry and Laney's Soul Food
- 11. Yo Mama's Soul Food
- 12. Soul Food Vegan
- 13. Soulfood by Catherine
- 14. Southern Soul Food Kitchen
- 15. Just Oxtails Soul Food
- 16. Best Soul Food In Town

1. Mikki's Soulfood Cafe
Información y Opiniones
- The food at Mikki's is pretty good, with standout dishes like Mac n Cheese and Broccoli cheddar rice.
- Customers praise the generous portions and fresh food, recommending the fried chicken with collard greens and Mac n cheese.
- Visitors mention the well-seasoned food and excellent customer service as reasons for their return visits.

2. Annie B’s Southern Cuisine also known as Soul Y Mex Kitchen
Información y Opiniones
- Wonderful service and very nice portion sizes.
- Food gives you that at-home feeling.
- Generous portions, not stingy like chain restaurants.
- Friendly atmosphere and team, very polite.

3. Esther's Cajun Café & Soul Food
Información y Opiniones
Customer reviews highlight some key points:
- First-time visitors were delighted by the awesome food, great atmosphere, and friendly staff.
- One reviewer was disappointed in the food quality and management issues, resulting in a negative experience.
- Some customers commended the variety of menu options and generous portions at reasonable prices.
- Others appreciated the stellar service and warm hospitality experienced during their visit.
If you are looking for a taste of authentic Southern cuisine in a welcoming setting, Esther's Cajun Café & Soul Food is the place to visit.

4. Aunt Bill's Soul Food Cafe
Información y Opiniones
- The owners make customers feel like family, offering a warm and inviting experience.
- The food is described as hot, fresh, and delicious, with generous portions that leave diners satisfied.
- Customers appreciate the attentive service, with servers and chefs personally greeting each table.
- Many guests mention returning to Aunt Bill's Soul Food Cafe for more of their favorite dishes.
With a 4.4-star ranking and over 1181 reviews, Aunt Bill's Soul Food Cafe is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy authentic soul food and a memorable dining experience.

5. Heavenly Choices
Información y Opiniones
- The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make customers feel at home.
- The delicious food, including favorites like oxtails, smothered pork chops, and German butter cake, keeps customers coming back for more.
- Customers appreciate the generous portions and reasonable prices, making their dining experience worth every penny.
- The unique and flavorful drinks, like the beloved Kool-Aid punch, add an extra touch to the overall experience.
With a ranking of 4.6 and over 300 reviews, Heavenly Choices is a top choice for those seeking authentic soul food in Houston. Don't miss out on the opportunity to taste the love and passion put into each dish at this soulful eatery.

6. Houston This Is It Soul Food
Información y Opiniones
- I don't go to Soul Food places that often but this one has amazing written all over it. The Oxtail is the most raved dish to get but it's pricey. The sides are very generous and cornbread is sweet and crumble. The fried chicken was so-so, not special in anyway but good nonetheless. I would definitely take friends and family here!
- This place was the closest to me that I could get some soul food. I used to eat at this place a loooonngg time ago & the food was always good. Unfortunately, I was highly disappointed with the food I received. I ended up getting the smothered chicken (dark meat), with cabbage, yams & green beans as an additional side. My chicken was dry & lacked any flavor, even the gravy. The cabbage had no flavor, only spice. The yams were nothing special & green beans tasted canned. The best thing I ate was the cornbread. Although my food was not up to par with my standard for soul food, the staff were pleasant & the restaurant was clean. I however, will not be a return customer.
- Now this is comfort food very hearty very filling. If you’re hungry, this is a place for you. The people here were really nice. All the workers were super friendly. The pepper steak was really great. The oxtail is to die for.
- These meals deserve no stars at all. Not only was the gravy the wrong color, the food was not seasoned. Pork chops were okay. Sweet potatoes were flavorless. Cornbread was okay. The chicken gravy was undercooked, like flour and water was mixed but not heated to the correct color / temp.

7. The Greasy Spoon
Información y Opiniones
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- The food is delicious, hearty, and worth the price. The portions are generous, leaving customers satisfied.
- There is a variety of options to choose from, with bold flavors and well-cooked dishes.
- The staff is friendly and the service is efficient, although some customers mentioned minor issues with certain side dishes.
- Despite some occasional complaints about specific dishes, many customers enjoyed the overall dining experience and appreciated the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant.

8. D Ls Cajun Kitchen
Información y Opiniones
- Customers rave about the Turkey Wings - always tender and seasoned to perfection, paired with delicious gravy and winning cornbread.
- The Smothered Porkchops are another fan-favorite, with tender meat and flavorful gravy.
- Portions at D Ls Cajun Kitchen are generous, making it a great spot for those looking for hearty meals.
- The atmosphere is described as casual and cozy, making it a comfortable spot for a meal.
Whether you're in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this restaurant offers a variety of comfort food options that are sure to satisfy your cravings. With options for delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, D Ls Cajun Kitchen caters to every dining preference. Visit this restaurant to experience the best of Soul food in the Houston area!

9. Houston This Is It Soul Food
Información y Opiniones
- Customers appreciate the live jazz band on some days, setting a perfect tone for the dining experience.
- The food is highlighted for its quality, with options like fried catfish, fried chicken, green beans, and curried cabbage receiving high praise.
- Many reviewers mention the exceptional customer service, with friendly staff and a welcoming owner who ensures a pleasant visit.
- Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and the overall dining experience is positively reviewed by many satisfied patrons.

10. Larry and Laney's Soul Food
Información y Opiniones
- The turkey leg is a standout dish, praised for its flavor and tenderness.
- The customer service is top-notch, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
- The menu offers a variety of options, from crispy chicken to honey-glazed shrimp.
Overall, customers rave about the food quality and friendly atmosphere at Larry and Laney's Soul Food. Whether you're a local looking for a satisfying meal or a tourist wanting to try authentic soul food, this restaurant is worth a visit.

11. Yo Mama's Soul Food
Información y Opiniones
Here are some summarized reviews from customers:
- Very spacious sitting area and clean. Baked chicken is perfection!
- Great food overall, just needs a little more jazzing up on some dishes. Tea cakes are a hit!
- A must-stop in Houston for delicious soul food like smothered pork chops and more.
- Food seasoned to perfection, with generous portions and a beautiful, home-like atmosphere.
If you're in the mood for some comforting soul food, be sure to check out Yo Mama's Soul Food for a delightful dining experience.

12. Soul Food Vegan
Información y Opiniones
- Customers love the fresh and warm food served at Soul Food Vegan, with options ranging from BBQ mushrooms to mac and cheese and collard greens.
- The menu offers a variety of choices, including desserts, smoothies, and juices, making it a perfect place for vegan comfort food.
- The staff is always friendly and helpful, providing excellent service to customers.
- Although the restaurant can get busy, the wait time is reasonable, and there is ample parking available for convenience.
If you're in Houston and looking for quality vegan dishes that will satisfy your soul, Soul Food Vegan is a must-visit spot!
13. Soulfood by Catherine
Información y Opiniones
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Food is cooked to order with excellent taste and seasoning
- Portions are reasonable, but desserts have small portions for the price
- Atmosphere inside could use a makeover, but the service is excellent
With a ranking of 4.0, it's no surprise that customers have positive things to say about the delicious dishes offered at Soulfood by Catherine. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a cozy dining experience, this restaurant has something for everyone.

14. Southern Soul Food Kitchen
Información y Opiniones
Customer reviews rave about the exceptional service and delicious food at Southern Soul Food Kitchen. Some key points from the reviews include:
- This place exemplifies great service, with accommodating staff who go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction.
- The attention to detail and focus on customer happiness make it a must-visit spot for regular diners.
- A hidden gem on the Southside, with good food and friendly service that come highly recommended.
With a 4.5-star rating and a loyal customer base, Southern Soul Food Kitchen continues to impress diners with its mouth-watering dishes and welcoming atmosphere.

15. Just Oxtails Soul Food
Información y Opiniones
- The food was outstanding, seasoned to perfection, and tasted like homemade soul food.
- Service was beyond horrible, and the food was not worth the money, with undercooked fish and unfriendly management.
- Customers felt disappointed with the decline in quality of the food and service, leading to a negative experience.
- Customers were amazed by the delicious soul food, generous portions, and exceptional customer service, making it a memorable dining experience.

16. Best Soul Food In Town
Información y Opiniones
Customers can enjoy options such as Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. This makes it convenient for customers to enjoy their delicious meals in a way that suits them best.
The restaurant is popular for its Great dessert, making it a go-to spot for those with a sweet tooth. Customers rave about the comfort food and quick bite options available. They also offer a range of dining options, including Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
In addition to their offerings, the atmosphere at Best Soul Food In Town is described as Casual, Cosy, and Trendy, catering to various preferences. Whether you're with a group, a tourist, or a university student, the restaurant welcomes all.
Customer reviews highlight the exceptional customer service, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere. Some key points from reviews include:
- Great customer service and amazing flavors
- Warm and welcoming staff, delicious breakfast options
- Excellent food, friendly employees, and diabetic-friendly options
- One of the best soul food places in Houston, offering consistent quality and delicious meals
Map of Soul Food in Houston
Experience the rich Southern heritage with our selected list of Houston's most delectable soul food spots. From mouth-watering fried chicken, savory collard greens, to delightful peach cobblers, the city's culinary offerings promise a soulful journey of flavors. Await the ultimate comfort food experience by following the map of all the Soul Food Houston below.
What Makes Houston Soul Food Unique?
At the heart of soul food in Houston is the blending of cultural heritage. Modified recipes passed down through generations have resulted in a unique, mouth-watering experience that is Houston soul food. It combines the best of southern comfort food with a Texas twist. Unlike other southern cities, Houston offers an atmospheric environment where soul food chefs can take risks and push the tradition into new, exciting directions.
Trending Soul Food Restaurants in Houston
Looking to sample some of the best soul food in Houston? Here are a few trending restaurants you must check out:
- Lucille's - Known for its chili biscuits and updated takes on classic southern dishes.
- McCardell’s Kitchen & Crafthouse - This family-owned restaurant specializes in comfort food favorites like fried chicken and sweet potato pie.
- The Turkey Leg Hut - Features oversized smoked turkey legs stuffed with tasty fillings like dirty rice or shrimp alfredo.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options in Houston's Soul Food Scene
For those who prefer plant-based meals, fret not. Houston's soul food scene also has a lot to offer. Many restaurants now serve vegetarian and vegan options for classic soul food dishes. Places like Sunshine's Health Food Store and Vegetarian Deli and Green Seed Vegan are worth visiting for their plant-based renditions of classic soul food dishes.
What to Expect When Dining at a Houston Soul Food Restaurant?
When dining at a soul food restaurant in Houston, you're in for a treat of authentic southern hospitality. You'll encounter hearty portions, flavor-packed dishes, and a warm, friendly atmosphere. Expect generous helpings of comfort food classics like collard greens, fried chicken, and cornbread. But don't be surprised if you also see innovative twists on the menu, thanks to Houston's innovative food culture.
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