Best Soul Food Restaurants in Downtown

28 restaurants available nearby

1. Alligator Soul

4.8

Exceptional(6806)

Price: Very Expensive

• Soul food • Historic District - North

Booked 20 times today

Alligator Soul in Savannah's Historic District - North stands out as a beacon of organic cuisine, offering a unique and adventurous menu that truly captivates the spirit of culinary exploration. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of the dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The Alligator Fritters are amazing and a must order!" The authenticity of their organic offerings shines through in their carefully curated seasonal menus, ensuring every ingredient is not only fresh but also sustainably sourced. The ambiance, described as a romantic spot nestled in the basement of a historic building, adds to the allure, making every meal a memorable experience. Whether it’s the praised alligator crab cakes or the innovative wild boar stroganoff, Alligator Soul delivers an organic dining experience that is both top-notch and truly unforgettable.

A photo of Taste Kitchen + Bar - Downtown restaurant

2. Taste Kitchen + Bar - Downtown

4.7

Exceptional(431)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Downtown

Booked 23 times today

Taste Kitchen + Bar in Downtown Houston is a must-visit for authentic Soul food that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich flavors and hearty offerings. Diners rave about the "Taste of Soul" platter and the "catfish with grits," highlighting the dishes' perfect seasoning and authentic Southern charm. One glowing review noted, "The food was so good... the best fish and grits I’ve ever had in Houston!" The restaurant also scores high on atmosphere and service, creating a vibrant dining experience. Whether it's the warmly recommended "chicken and waffle salad" or the "yams" that keep patrons coming back, Taste Kitchen + Bar stands out as a beacon of Soul food excellence in Houston.

3. Kiss Houston

4.7

Exceptional(164)

Price: Very Expensive

• Soul food • Northside

Booked 45 times today

Kiss Houston, nestled in Northside, is a beacon of Fusion/Eclectic cuisine that promises an unforgettable dining adventure. Renowned for its vibrant Vibe Dining Experience, Kiss merges culinary artistry with lively entertainment, creating a dynamic atmosphere that consistently wows its patrons. Guests rave about the "flavorful and beautifully presented" dishes, highlighting specialties like oxtail empanadas and Korean pork ribs. The fusion of flavors is a testament to their innovative approach, with one guest exclaiming the food is "5 STAR amazing." The exceptional service complements the eclectic menu, ensuring every visit is not just a meal, but a spectacular event. Whether it’s the "mind-blowing" Strawberry Lemonade cheesecake or the perfectly cooked rib-eye steak, Kiss Houston is a must-visit for an eclectic culinary experience that is as memorable as it is delicious.

4. Lucille's

4.4

Awesome(2356)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Museum District

Booked 52 times today

Lucille's in Houston's Museum District is a beacon of Southern cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional recipes with innovative international twists. Housed in a charming 1920s mission-style home, Lucille's pays homage to the culinary legacy of Chef Chris Williams’ great-grandmother, Lucille B. Smith, a pioneer in Southern cooking. Diners rave about the authenticity and flair, with one guest exclaiming, "Lucille’s gumbo was the best gumbo I've had in a very long time!" From the braised oxtails to the shrimp and grits, every dish is crafted to perfection, ensuring a delightful and memorable dining experience. As another patron noted, "Every single bite of food was amazing!" Lucille's is undoubtedly a must-visit for anyone seeking the soul of Southern cooking in Houston.

A photo of Thirteen by James Harden restaurant

5. Thirteen by James Harden

4.0

Excellent(988)

Price: Very Expensive

• Soul food • Midtown

Booked 15 times today

At Thirteen by James Harden in Midtown Houston, diners are treated to an authentic Japanese culinary experience that stands out brilliantly in the local dining scene. Founded by NBA star James Harden, Thirteen has quickly become synonymous with quality and authenticity, with patrons enthusing about the "exceptionally good food" and the "amazing" atmosphere. The restaurant's Japanese offerings, such as the teriyaki and seafood fried rice, are repeatedly praised for their flavor and precision in preparation. Reviewers rave about the restaurant's ability to blend upscale ambiance with the delicious intricacies of Japanese cuisine, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of refined and authentic dining experiences.

A photo of Upper Kirby Bistro restaurant

6. Upper Kirby Bistro

4.3

Awesome(676)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Upper Kirby / Shepherd Corridor

Booked 4 times today

Remember the good ole days of Corner Table, 1919 Wine & Mixology, and The Brownstone? This Houston historical landmark venue is now open Tuesday – Sunday for corporate events, private and holiday parties! We are the perfect location with five unique venues for your special event or a weekly night out dining!Five Central is an Events, Dining, and Entertainment Center located in the heart of River Oaks. Here we feature five unique concepts under one roof offering full-catering, food, and beverage service for events as well as a full dining experience in our restaurant Upper Kirby Bistro.! Your one-stop-shop for Events, Dining, and Entertainment! • 15,000 total sq ft.• 600 standing capacity• Custom Theme Food and Drink Menus• Full-Service Catering & Events Staff• Meeting Facilities• $10 Valet, arrangements can be made for private service• Private breakout rooms• River Oaks District• Located Near I610 & I59• Turn-Key Venue Experience!

A photo of Goode Co. Armadillo Palace restaurant

7. Goode Co. Armadillo Palace

4.6

Exceptional(227)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Upper Kirby / Shepherd Corridor

Booked 4 times today

Goode Co. Armadillo Palace in Houston's Upper Kirby / Shepherd Corridor is a quintessential celebration of American cuisine with a Texas twist. Recognized for its "authentic Texan food in a true Texan ambiance," this restaurant is a local gem where tradition meets culinary innovation. Patrons rave about the atmosphere and dishes, with reviews highlighting the "best damn burger I’ve ever had" and "redfish on the half shell that was great." The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident, as one diner noted, "For those who wish to experience authentic Texan food... this restaurant is highly recommended." Whether it's the live music, the Orange Blossom Bar's whiskey-forward drinks, or the legendary service, every aspect of Goode Co. Armadillo Palace ensures a memorable dining experience that's deeply rooted in the heart of Texas.

A photo of Rockhouse Southern Kitchen restaurant

8. Rockhouse Southern Kitchen

4.4

Awesome(318)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Mid West

Booked 38 times today

Rockhouse Southern Kitchen in Mid West, Houston is a top destination for those seeking a premier Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service experience. This venue has been lauded for its “amazing service” and exceptionally “delicious drinks,” making it a standout in the city's vibrant scene. Patrons consistently rave about the hand-crafted cocktails and the warm, welcoming atmosphere enhanced by live Blues, Jazz, and R&B music that keeps the vibe alive all day and night. As one visitor put it, the experience is "always a good vibe," with drinks that are as memorable as the music. Whether you're there for the soulful live performances or the “exquisite” brunch offerings, Rockhouse Southern Kitchen ensures every visit is imbued with authentic Southern charm and outstanding hospitality.

A photo of Fixins Soul Kitchen restaurant

9. Fixins Soul Kitchen

4.7

Exceptional(4319)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Downtown

Booked 149 times today

Fixins Soul Kitchen in Downtown Los Angeles is a haven for those craving authentic American cuisine with a soulful twist. This vibrant spot not only serves up delicious dishes but also offers an energetic atmosphere that's hard to find elsewhere. Guests rave about the chicken & waffles and the lip-smacking oxtails, describing them as "outstanding" and "cooked to perfection." The ambiance, enhanced by lively music and occasional line dancing, makes every dining experience memorable. As one patron put it, "The food and service were amazing... I will definitely return when I’m back in LA." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just in need of a hearty meal, Fixins Soul Kitchen promises a delightful and authentic American dining experience.

A photo of Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - Hyde Park restaurant

10. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - Hyde Park

3.9

Excellent(143)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Hyde Park

Booked 31 times today

At Jordyn's Soul Cafe in Hyde Park, Chicago, the essence of authentic American soul food is celebrated with every dish served. Since its opening in 2022, this upscale restaurant has captured the hearts of diners with its "perfect blend of soul food and fine dining." Patrons rave about the "amazing" food, highlighting favorites like smothered turkey wings and pot roast empanadas, which are described as "stellar." The authenticity of the cuisine shines, with one guest noting the food "reminded me of my grandmother’s southern cooking," underscoring its genuine, comforting appeal. The restaurant consistently earns high praise for both its delightful dishes and the warm, attentive service, making every meal an experience to remember. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe is indeed a gem for those seeking a taste of true American soul in Chicago.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Best Soul Food Restaurants in Downtown

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28 restaurants available nearby

1. Alligator Soul

2. Taste Kitchen + Bar - Downtown

3. Kiss Houston

4. Lucille's

5. Thirteen by James Harden

6. Upper Kirby Bistro

7. Goode Co. Armadillo Palace

8. Rockhouse Southern Kitchen

9. Fixins Soul Kitchen

10. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - Hyde Park

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