When Dallas is mentioned as a city known for its food, barbecue is one of the first things that comes to mind for many people. And while the Dallas area has its favorite dishes, the thriving culinary scene has much more to offer than brisket and ribs. Take the soul food scene, for example, which has quickly become the talk of the town among locals and visitors alike. Whether you love fried, braised, or vegan fare, there’s something for everyone here!
Sweet Georgia Brown
Ask around, and Sweet Georgia Brown will be one of the top names associated with soul food in Dallas. This decades-old restaurant is a staple in the city, serving up a variety of beloved dishes. From meat dishes like fried chicken, Salisbury steak, and meatloaf to sides like collard greens, red beans, and black-eyed peas. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to save room. Among the endless options at Sweet Georgia Brown are peach cobbler, pound cake, 7UP cake, and sweet potato pie.
Ellen’s
With a slogan of “Grits Rule,” it’s safe to assume that Ellen’s knows what it’s doing when it comes to Southern fare. And it really does! Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the day, this West End spot offers a taste of soul that will appeal to everyone. Fillings include chicken and dumplings, as well as Joe’s Gritty Balls — deep-fried cheese grits with bacon and jalapeño. Dishes include buttermilk-fried chicken and Texas catfish. Don’t forget the fried okra!
Kitchen + Kocktails
One of the newest restaurants, Kitchen + Kocktails, burst onto the scene in the midst of the pandemic, and despite opening during turbulent times, it has retained its clientele. The downtown Dallas eatery entices guests with everything from fried pickles to oxtails and chicken and waffles. There’s even seafood gumbo!
Kendall Karsen’s Upscale Soul Food
Named after his two sons, Kendall and Karsen, owner Kevin Winston offers Dallas family recipes that hold a special place in his heart. Kendall Karsen’s serves ribs, cornbread dressing, fried fish, and chicken tetrazzini. Must-try sides include pinto beans, collard greens, okra gumbo, and macaroni and cheese!
Fine Chicken
Whether you visit the original location in Oak Lawn on Cedar Springs or head to Forest Lane, Street’s Fine Chicken offers a variety of soul-satisfying Southern dishes. Choose from appetizers such as pimento cheese fritters and fried green tomatoes, as well as entrees such as fried chicken steak, chicken pot pie, and slow-cooked pork chops with apple brandy butter. Yum!
Vegan Food House
The love of comfort food knows no discrimination. Those who follow a vegan diet often crave the taste of home cooking, and Vegan Food House fills that void. Their plant-based menu features many delicious dishes, such as Southern Dinner Catch — fried oyster mushrooms with mashed potatoes and gravy, macaroni and cheese with corn, and shrimp (cooked with konjac root) and grits.
