Unearth The Voyage
North Carolina boasts a vibrant array of soul food restaurants that make every visit feel like a comforting, familial Sunday dinner. These establishments offer dishes steeped in tradition and flavor, providing a sense of warmth and nostalgia. In this post, we explore eight must-visit soul food spots across the state, each with its unique charm and culinary offerings.
1. Mert’s Heart & Soul
Mert’s Heart & Soul is a Charlotte institution that offers more than just food; it offers an experience. With warm service and a soulful vibe, patrons feel immediately at home. Their iconic cornbread is baked in cast-iron skillets, providing a rustic touch to a beloved staple.
The “soul rolls” are a handheld feast, stitching together flavors of salmon cakes, rice, collards, and black-eyed peas – a testament to creative comfort food. Not to be missed are the shrimp & grits, a Southern classic executed with flair. This spot delivers a dining experience that’s both comforting and memorable, making it a staple in the community.
2. Soul Central
Soul Central in Charlotte captures the essence of a soul food feast with its slow-cooked oxtails that melt off the bone. This establishment prides itself on seasoning their sides, like collard greens and black-eyed peas, with the depth of tradition. Such attention to detail makes every bite a flavorful journey.
Even their sweet tea, served in mason jars, adds to the nostalgic dining experience. As you savor the flavors, you might feel the echoes of family gatherings past. Soul Central offers more than just a meal; it provides a genuine taste of Southern hospitality.
3. JJ’s Mama’s Soulfood & More
JJ’s Mama’s Soulfood & More in Lexington is all about abundance and nostalgia. Serving portions generous enough to guarantee leftovers, the experience here is reminiscent of a hearty Sunday at grandma’s. The fried chicken is crispy and flavorful, embodying the essence of Southern cooking.
Candied yams provide a sweet complement, while the classic banana pudding is a nostalgic nod to beloved family dinners past. Each meal here feels like a step back in time, offering a comforting taste of home. This eatery effortlessly combines tradition with hospitality, making every visit a warm and inviting experience.
4. Everybody Eatz
Everybody Eatz in Charlotte’s NoDa district offers a fresh take on soul food with a modern twist. Known for its community-oriented vibe, this spot serves turkey wings smothered in gravy – a dish that feels like a comforting embrace from home.
Their five-cheese mac and cheese provides a rich and indulgent experience, while live music on weekends adds an extra layer of warmth and enjoyment. The vibrant atmosphere coupled with delicious food makes it a place where memories are made and shared. At Everybody Eatz, every plate tells a story of community, flavor, and creativity.
5. Mr. Charles Chicken & Fish
Mr. Charles Chicken & Fish in Charlotte is a beloved classic, serving up a taste of nostalgia with every dish. Since 1992, this no-frills spot has been a go-to for those craving perfectly fried catfish. The fish flakes just right, and the golden crust is a testament to years of perfecting the fry.
Their tartar sauce is made fresh, adding a tangy complement to the crispy fish. This establishment’s enduring popularity is a testament to its consistent quality and timeless appeal, offering a slice of Southern tradition with every bite.
6. Let’s Eat Soul Food
Let’s Eat Soul Food in Durham, with its two welcoming locations, serves a full menu of soul-warming dishes. Chicken & dumplings and meatloaf with gravy are just a few of the comforting classics that evoke the feeling of a home-cooked meal.
Their ribs, mashed potatoes, and fries are prepared with care and flavor, reminiscent of a grandmother’s kitchen. This establishment prides itself on serving food that feels familiar yet special, making every visit an inviting occasion. It’s a place where tradition and flavor unite to create memorable dining experiences.
7. Nana Morrison’s Soul Food
Nana Morrison’s Soul Food in Charlotte and Cary is where family traditions meet the plate. Recipes dating back to the 1940s create dishes that make every meal feel like a cherished family gathering. Imagine perfectly seasoned fried chicken paired with rich, earthy collard greens. The candied yams are sweet enough to feel like dessert, and the cornbread is moist and buttery, making it hard to resist. Their mac and cheese is an indulgent hug for your taste buds.
This family-run spot honors its history through food, offering a genuine taste of Sunday dinner any day of the week. Every bite echoes stories of family, tradition, and love, inviting guests to become part of their extended family.
8. The Pit Authentic BBQ
The Pit Authentic BBQ in Raleigh may focus on barbecue, but its approach is deeply rooted in soul food tradition. Known for their pit-cooked Eastern Carolina-style whole-hog barbecue, this spot fills the air with the enticing aroma of slow-cooked meats.
Their vinegar sauce adds a tangy kick that complements the richness of the pork, transforming each bite into a flavorful celebration. While more BBQ-focused, The Pit embodies the spirit of gathering and abundance, making it a beloved spot for those seeking a taste of Southern hospitality.
