Best Soul Food Restaurants in Berkeley

33 restaurants available nearby

1. Soul Cafe

4.7

Exceptional(1407)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • North Scottsdale

Booked 10 times today

Soul Cafe in North Scottsdale offers an authentic Southwest dining experience that truly stands out. Heralded for its "eclectic menu of American classics with a spicy Southwest twist," this gem delights with dishes like the Arizona Medallions and the Bacon-wrapped Shrimp. Patrons rave about the quality and creativity of the menu, emphasizing that the food is "always outstanding" and the service "very attentive." Celebrated for its cozy ambiance and the welcoming vibe of its award-winning chef Sheila Bryson, Soul Cafe captures the essence of Southwest cuisine with a flair that keeps guests returning. "The food is delicious, and the service is impeccable," as one satisfied customer put it, making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Southwest flavors.

2. Burdell

4.5

Awesome(133)

Price: Very Expensive

• Soul food • Oakland

Booked 10 times today

Burdell, nestled in the vibrant Temescal neighborhood of Oakland, stands out as a beacon of exquisite Soul food cuisine. Led by James Beard Finalist Chef Geoff Davis, the restaurant pays homage to his grandmother, infusing traditional Soul food with innovation and sophistication. Diners rave about the authenticity and elevated flavors, describing dishes like the pickle brined fried chicken as “elevated to the highest level of execution” and the BBQ shrimp as “the best I’ve ever had.” Every dish, from the smothered rabbit to the slammin' chocolate cake, is crafted with care, showcasing the best local produce and sustainable practices. The experience of dining at Burdell is consistently applauded as “a special dining experience” with an atmosphere that combines nostalgia and modern flair, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly remarkable Soul food journey.

3. Oeste

4.6

Exceptional(56)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Oakland

Booked 1 time today

Oeste in the heart of Old Oakland offers a soulful dining experience that's hard to forget! This 100-seat bar and kitchen, complete with a rooftop deck, stands out for its dedication to quality, using fresh, organic, and sustainably farmed ingredients. The restaurant skillfully blends California cuisine with Southern, Latin, and Asian influences, creating unforgettable soul food dishes. Patrons rave about the flavors, especially the red beans and rice, which are described as "ON POINT," and the catfish that's always "bussin'." The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with "amazing food, drinks and service," makes Oeste a top choice for those seeking authentic and delicious soul food in Oakland. Whether you're there for a casual meal or a special occasion, Oeste promises a memorable experience.

A photo of Smellys Creole Catering LLC restaurant

4. Smellys Creole Catering LLC

4.4

Awesome(56)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Oakland

Booked 2 times today

Smellys Creole Catering LLC in Oakland is a haven for Soul food lovers, celebrated for its exceptional dishes that resonate with authenticity and flavor. The rave reviews are a testament to its culinary prowess, with diners praising the "melt-in-your-mouth catfish" and the "perfectly seasoned crack n cheese." The restaurant's ambiance enhances the dining experience, imbued with soulful music and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Diners consistently commend the generous portions and the quality of the meals, making it clear why Smellys is a top destination. Whether it's the tender oxtails or the flavorful garlic noodles, every dish promises a delightful taste of Soul food cuisine.

5. Smokin Woods BBQ

4.4

Awesome(21)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Oakland

Smokin Woods BBQ in Oakland has truly mastered the art of authentic barbecue, delighting locals and visitors alike since 2013. Their use of 100% all-natural woods like apple, cherry, mesquite, oak, and pecan ensures every bite is infused with deep, unforgettable flavors. Patrons rave about the "meltingly tender" beef ribs and the "out of this world" sauces that heighten every dish. The consistency of their perfectly seasoned meats, accompanied by standout sides like the much-loved mac and cheese, sets this spot apart. As one satisfied customer put it, the experience at Smokin Woods BBQ is so good it "brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart." Whether it's your first visit or you're a returning barbecue enthusiast, the friendly service and community vibe make every meal memorable.

A photo of Fixins Soul Kitchen restaurant

6. Fixins Soul Kitchen

4.8

Exceptional(659)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Sacramento

Booked 19 times today

WELCOME TO FIXINSFixins is a full service soul food restaurant that celebrates the history and traditions of African American culture in an inclusive environment that welcomes everyone! We’re located in the historic Oak Park neighborhood of Sacramento California in the 40 Acres Cultural complex at the corner of Broadway and 35th Street.

7. Fixins Soul Kitchen

4.7

Exceptional(4329)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Downtown

Booked 105 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 Original Joe's - San Francisco restaurant

8. Original Joe's - San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(4163)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • North Beach

Booked 98 times today

Original Joe's in San Francisco's vibrant North Beach is a true emblem of authentic Italian-American cuisine, offering a dining experience that's both classic and exceptional. Established over 80 years ago, it stands as the oldest of the Joe's restaurants nationwide, pioneering the renowned "Joe's Concept." With its iconic red leather booths and a menu celebrated for its Italian American flair, Original Joe's is a bastion of comfort food crafted with a Northern Californian twist. Glowing reviews often highlight dishes like the "best lasagna I have ever tasted" and praise its "incredible customer service." Whether it's the meatballs or the linguini and clams, each dish is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition, making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine slice of San Francisco's culinary heritage.

9. Miller & Lux

4.7

Exceptional(1148)

Price: Very Expensive

• Soul food • Mission Bay / South Beach

Booked 48 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Mission Bay/South Beach neighborhood of San Francisco, Miller & Lux redefines the Contemporary American dining experience. Spearheaded by the renowned Tyler Florence, this modern American Steakhouse delivers an unmatched culinary delight. From the highest-quality steaks sourced from America's finest ranches to a fresh, sustainable seafood selection, each dish is a testament to Tyler's innovative approach to classic American luxury. Patrons rave about the "impeccable service" and "culinary masterpieces," with special mentions of the unique tableside Caesar salad and the meticulously curated wine list. Whether you're there for a "splurge dinner" or celebrating a special occasion, Miller & Lux promises an "outstanding" gastronomic journey that perfectly captures the essence of refined American cuisine.

10. Alligator Soul

4.9

Exceptional(6813)

Price: Very Expensive

• Soul food • Historic District - North

Booked 22 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.

‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
Jeff
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Delicious food that was deeply flavored and surprisingly bright (sometimes soul food can seem super heavy and overwhelming). A perfect brunch spot. I’m eager to bring others and to try their dinner menu. Chef and staff were very pleasant and professional.
More info
BurdellPrice: Very Expensive• Soul food• Oakland
•
4.5
L
Laura
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
4.0
Dined 6 days ago
First time at Hard Knox Cafe. We chose it because of the reviews and its proximity to the Legion of Honor. We met my niece and nephew and the staff was very accomodating of guest arriving at different times. The food arrived quickly and was very hot which was terrific. The portions are very generous and we had dinner the next night on the leftovers. The food was flavorful without being spicy. We ordered fried chicken dinner with yam fries and salad; ribs with corn and coleslaw; spicy fried chicken with collard greens and another vegetable; and a pulled pork sandwich with fries. We all enjoyed our food and will definitely be returning.
More info
Hard Knox Cafe on Clement StreetPrice: Moderate• Southern• Richmond District
•
4.8
J
Javani
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 17 Nov 2024
Although the wait was not what we expected, the Service was Exceptional and the Food Bay Bay.....yes, I spelled it like that on purpose was Phenomenal, Fantastic, Amazing, Well Worth the Wait!!! Based on history, the owner is family! Thank you so much for welcoming us! And yes!!! I will be back!!!
More info
Smellys Creole Catering LLCPrice: Expensive• Creole / Cajun / Southern• Oakland
•
4.4
E
Erick
San Francisco Bay Area •30 reviews
5.0
Dined on 17 Nov 2024
This was my 3rd dining experience and I brought guest who too were impressed. The team on Saturday night was stupendous! Thank you!
More info
OestePrice: Moderate• American• Oakland
•
4.6
M
marinagvip
San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
5.0
Dined on 30 Jun 2022
Food was delicious and service was great!
More info
Smokin Woods BBQPrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Oakland
•
4.4

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Best Soul Food Restaurants in Berkeley

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33 restaurants available nearby

1. Soul Cafe

2. Burdell

3. Oeste

4. Smellys Creole Catering LLC

5. Smokin Woods BBQ

6. Fixins Soul Kitchen

7. Fixins Soul Kitchen

8. Original Joe's - San Francisco

9. Miller & Lux

10. Alligator Soul

See what locals rave about

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