Soul Food In and Around Atlanta

If you’ve spent any time in the South, no doubt you have experienced the specialness of soul food. This unique cuisine dates back over 100 years, when some of its core ingredients were brought over during the Transatlantic Slave Trade. It evolved from enslaved people using ingenuity to make meals out of meager rations, to nourishment shared in the Underground Railroad, to robust recipes incorporated into gatherings and celebrations at Black Churches. The term “soul food” originated in the 1960s, and these types of restaurants became retreats for civil rights leaders and protesters to meet and organize. Today, this comfort food, along with its cultural influences and iterations, is beloved by people worldwide.

June is National Soul Food Month! If you want to try some of the best soul food in Atlanta, here are a few “can’t miss” spots.

The Beautiful – Serving healthy soul food since 1979, they pride themselves on giving love to their customers through their cooking. (Atlanta)

Binky’s Eatery – Tucked away near 5 Points Plaza, this is a newer addition to the soul food scene. The owner has a brunch spot, Betty Sue’s, next door. (Atlanta)

Busy Bee Cafe – Launched in 1947 by “Momma Lucy,” it is now run by Tracy Gates, who led the restaurant to the 2022 James Beard America’s Classic Award. (Atlanta)

Delilah’s Everyday Soul – Oprah Winfrey says they have the best mac ‘n cheese in the nation!  Chef Delilah has been featured on TV, has a cookbook, and sells her sauces and rubs. (Atlanta)

Frank’s Cajun and Soul Kitchen – Named in honor of his father, chef David Simmons runs a bustling to-go operation; be sure to order ahead! (Marietta)

K & K Soul Food – A family business since 1968, they open at 6:00 a.m. for you early birds. (Atlanta)

Paschal’s – It began in 1947 with a secret recipe for fried chicken and became a historic meeting place of notable African-Americans. (Atlanta)

Q-Time Restaurant – Bringing you “a story on a plate,” that is “served with tradition” – I couldn’t describe it any better! (Atlanta)

RC’s Southern Cooking – They describe their menu as soul food with a modern twist, using dynamic cooking techniques. (Marietta)

Southern Fire Kitchen – Driven by their love of watching people enjoy their food, they strive for every bite to be “a hug from the south.” (Brookhaven, Fayetteville)

Southern Queenz – Brunch and dinner all day, and many happy hour specials.  Reservations are recommended. (Atlanta)

Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours – TV personality Guy Fieri visited this fan-favorite and highlighted their globally-inspired best sellers. Chef Deborah Vantrece has her cooking show, “Global Soul Kitchen” (Atlanta)

Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar – Gullah Geechee influenced food with a playful menu; you can “wet ya whistle” with their signature cocktails. (College Park, West Midtown, and Conyers)

This is by no means a complete list – there are many more soul food gems in Atlanta. If we missed your favorite, please comment below!