Los Angeles' Best Soul Food [Updated 2025]

I’ve tasted my way through the city, savoring every bite of fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread that Los Angeles has to offer. After reviewing 12 top locations, I can confidently say that this city serves up some of the most mouthwatering soul food you’ll ever experience.

Why trust my recommendations? Well, I’m not just a casual food lover; I’m a passionate connoisseur who believes that every meal tells a story. Each restaurant on my list has its own unique twist on classic dishes, and I can’t wait to share these hidden gems and beloved favorites that make my heart—and stomach—sing. Get ready to indulge in the flavors that define soul food in LA!

Dulan's

Highlights
Warming family service
Generous portion sizes
Delicious baked fish
Lovely patio setting
Mouthwatering desserts

Review of Dulan's Soul Food in Los Angeles

Wandering into Dulan's is like stepping into a warm hug. The moment I crossed the threshold, I was greeted with the kind of warming family service that makes you feel right at home. The ambiance is inviting, with a lovely patio setting that whispers, "Stay awhile!" Perfect for those sunny LA days, it lets you savor each bite in comfort.

Now let’s talk about the food—oh, the food! I was a bit overwhelmed by the generous portion sizes, but my eyes were bigger than my stomach when I spotted their famous baked fish. It was a delectable dish that just melted in my mouth, accompanied by sides that were equally outstanding.

And let’s not forget the crowning glory: the mouthwatering desserts. I couldn't resist indulging in their sweet potato pie, which was the perfect finale to my culinary journey at Dulan's. Each bite was a reminder of why soul food warms the heart and soul.

For an authentic taste of comfort, I wholeheartedly recommend Dulan's—it’s a delightful stop on the quest for the best soul food in Los Angeles!

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A FAMILY AFFAIR SOUTHERN

Highlights
Family-owned and operated
Delicious oxtails
Cajun salmon praised
Top-tier customer service
Convenient parking available

A FAMILY AFFAIR SOUTHERN is a delightful gem tucked away in the vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles soul food. This family-owned establishment exudes warmth and charm, reminiscent of Sunday dinners at Grandma's house. From the moment I walked in, the aroma wrapped around me like a cozy blanket, instantly igniting my appetite.

Among the highlights, the oxtails stole the show with their incredibly tender texture and rich gravy that had me mopping up every last bit with fluffy cornbread. I also had the pleasure of savoring the Cajun salmon, which was expertly seasoned and cooked to perfection—definitely a dish to come back for!

What truly set this place apart was the top-tier customer service; the staff treated me like family, making my dining experience enjoyable and heartfelt. I appreciated the convenient parking situation, which is always a plus in LA.

In a city brimming with soul food options, A FAMILY AFFAIR SOUTHERN stands out as a place where flavor meets nostalgia. Whether you're craving comfort food or simply looking to indulge in Southern delights, this spot should be at the top of your list!

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My 2 Cents LA

Highlights
Exceptional food and service
Friendly and welcoming staff
Diverse yet concise menu
Delicious catfish and breakfast burger
Large, flavorful spring rolls

My 2 Cents LA is a delightful culinary gem that captures the heart of soul food in Los Angeles! From the moment I entered, I was greeted by a friendly staff that made me feel like family. The atmosphere is both cozy and vibrant, setting the perfect stage for a soul food feast.

The menu, though diverse, keeps things refreshingly concise, allowing diners to focus on quality over quantity. One standout for me was the catfish, perfectly seasoned and fried to a crispy perfection that simply melted in my mouth. Honestly, it was like a warm hug on a plate!

Then there’s the breakfast burger—an unexpected treat that I can only describe as a delicious union of morning indulgence and classic comfort. But the real surprise was the large, flavorful spring rolls that burst with fresh ingredients and a soul-infused twist. They are the perfect appetizer to kickstart your meal!

In the world of soul food, My 2 Cents LA reminds us all that food is love, and they certainly serve it in heaping portions. For a delightful experience that will leave you grinning from ear to ear, this place is a must-visit!

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Dulan's On Crenshaw

Highlights
Family-friendly atmosphere
Outstanding customer service
Generous food portions
Crisp fried chicken
Delicious sides options

Dulan's On Crenshaw is a soul food gem that effortlessly captures the essence of comfort eating. Walking into this vibrant establishment, I was immediately enveloped by a family-friendly atmosphere that felt like a warm hug. The outstanding customer service added to the welcoming vibe, as they treated every guest with genuine care and attention.

Now, let’s talk about the food! I indulged in their famed crispy fried chicken, which was nothing short of spectacular. Each bite was a delightful crunch, giving way to perfectly seasoned, juicy meat—truly a soul food lover’s dream! The generous food portions left me satisfied and ready to savor more.

Complementing my chicken were an array of delicious side options that tantalized my palate. Each side dish felt handcrafted, bursting with flavors that sang the praises of Southern cooking. From classic mac and cheese to collard greens, every item on my plate told its own story.

Dulan's is more than just a eatery; it’s a celebration of culture and community. If you're in Los Angeles and craving authentic soul food, this spot should be at the top of your list!

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Dulan's Soul Food Kitchen

Highlights
Incredible savory food
Excellent customer service
Smooth catering process
Flavorful smothered chicken
Peach cobbler to try

Dulan's Soul Food Kitchen in Los Angeles is an absolute gem that left me grinning from ear to ear! From the moment I stepped through the door, the incredible savory aromas enveloped me like a warm hug. I have to say, the smothered chicken was nothing short of divine—it was tender, juicy, and covered in a drool-worthy gravy that had me reaching for seconds (and thirds!).

The service was equally impressive. The staff genuinely seemed to care, making me feel right at home with their excellent customer service. They provided helpful recommendations and made the dining experience overwhelmingly pleasant. Whether you’re dining in or opting for catering, the efficiency of the process speaks volumes about their commitment to customer satisfaction.

And let's not forget dessert—I indulged in the peach cobbler that is simply a must-try! Each bite was like a sweet symphony that danced on my taste buds. If you're on the hunt for the best soul food in Los Angeles, look no further than Dulan's. This place perfectly embodies comfort food at its best, and I can't wait to go back for another hearty meal!

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Annie's Soul Delicious

Highlights
Mouthwatering oxtail
Crunchy okra perfection
Family-friendly atmosphere
Delicious strawberry cake
Exceptional service

Annie’s Soul Delicious is an absolute gem nestled in Los Angeles, perfect for any soul food enthusiast. As I stepped into the family-friendly atmosphere, I was immediately enveloped by the inviting aroma of seasoned delights wafting from the kitchen. I knew I was in for something special.

I dove right into their melt-in-your-mouth oxtail, which was tender and bursting with flavor—each bite felt like a warm hug! And don’t get me started on the okras, crispy and crunchy, a delightful homage to Southern cooking that had me reaching for more, even when I thought I was full.

To round off my meal, I simply had to try the delicious strawberry cake. Oh, what a sweet ending! Light, fluffy, and packed with just the right amount of fruity flavor, it was a slice of heaven on a plate.

The service was exceptional; the staff felt like my extended family, always checking in with a smile. If you’re in search of soul food that resonates with comfort and love, Annie's Soul Delicious is a top contender on my list. This spot truly embodies the spirit of soulful cooking in LA!

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Granny's Kitchen Southern Style Soul Food

Highlights
Small portions available
Inconsistent food quality
Undercooked rice served
Hood style atmosphere
Cool macaroni and yams

Granny's Kitchen Southern Style Soul Food is a little slice of heaven nestled in the bustling heart of Los Angeles. The moment I stepped through the door, I was enveloped in a charming hood-style atmosphere that felt like a warm hug from Grandma herself. While the country charm was undeniable, the food experience was a bit of a mixed bag.

Let’s start with the positives: they serve some of the most delightful macaroni and yams I’ve ever tasted. Creamy, rich, and just the right sweetness, they whisked me straight back to Sunday dinners at home. However, the portions felt a tad small for a soul food joint, which left me yearning for more.

On the flip side, my meal had its quirks — namely, the rice was notably undercooked, a letdown considering the reputation that soul food carries for heartiness and comfort.

Despite some inconsistencies, I believe Granny's Kitchen serves up a solid plate of Southern goodness. If you’re in search of an experience that feels both familiar and nostalgic, give it a try. Just remember to chew a bit slowly; you might want to savor every little moment!

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Cea-Lo L.A

Highlights
Amazing fish and shrimp batter
Friendly service from owner
High quality, fresh meals
Juicy wingettes
Perfectly cooked fried plantains

Cea-Lo L.A is a vibrant gem in the bustling heart of Los Angeles, and I must say, my taste buds are still doing a little happy dance! From the moment I walked in, the friendly service from the owner made me feel right at home. It's hard not to feel welcomed when the aroma of delicious food wafts through the air, promising culinary delights.

I decided to dive into their renowned fish and shrimp, and let me tell you—the batter was truly amazing! It was crisp without overshadowing the fresh flavors of the seafood. Each bite was wonderfully light and satisfying. And let’s not forget the juicy wingettes! They were perfectly cooked, providing that delightful crunch I crave.

As a side, I ordered the fried plantains, which were cooked to perfection and harmonized beautifully with the meal. Each piece was caramelized just right, giving me that comforting essence of soul food I adore.

To top it all off, the high-quality, fresh meals at Cea-Lo L.A truly showcase the love and care that goes into soul food. If you're on the hunt for a place that embodies the spirit of soulful cooking, don't miss this incredible spot!

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Delicious at The Dunbar

Highlights
Relaxing atmosphere
Daily oxtails available
Excellent food and mimosas
Clean and comfortable setting
Attentive service

Delicious at The Dunbar truly embodies the spirit of soul food, and my visit was nothing short of delightful. The moment I walked in, I was welcomed by a relaxing atmosphere that felt both cozy and inviting, perfect for unwinding.

Now, let's talk food! I couldn’t resist trying their daily oxtails, which are a must-have. They were tender and flavorful, seasoned to perfection—a true testament to Southern cooking. To accompany this, I indulged in their signature mimosas, which complemented my meal beautifully and set a cheerful tone for the day.

One of the standout features of the restaurant was its clean and comfortable setting, allowing patrons to enjoy their meals without distraction. The attention to detail in maintaining the ambiance did not go unnoticed. To top it off, the service was remarkably attentive, making sure I had everything I needed while I savored my meal.

Every bite was a celebration of flavors that transported me home, affirming that Delicious at The Dunbar rightfully belongs among the best soul food spots in Los Angeles. If you’re searching for a spot that combines deliciousness with a dose of hospitality, look no further!

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Fixins Soul Kitchen

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, Fixins Soul Kitchen is a true culinary treasure. From the moment I entered, the warm aroma of fried chicken and collard greens wrapped around me like a cozy blanket. The mac and cheese was creamy perfection, while the smothered pork chops danced on my taste buds with their rich flavors. The atmosphere buzzed with friendliness, making you feel at home. Don’t miss their sweet potato pie—it's a symphony of sweetness that will linger long after your visit. If you're craving soul food, Fixins is a delightful destination that never disappoints!

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M'Dears

From the moment I stepped into M'Dears, the wafting aroma drew me in like a warm embrace. This gem serves up heavenly fried chicken that boasts a perfectly crispy crust, while the inside remains tender and juicy. Their collard greens are a must-try, seasoned just right to embody that soulful essence. The cozy atmosphere wraps you in familiarity, making it feel like a home-cooked meal shared with family. With generous portions and a menu that sings with flavor, M'Dears is undoubtedly a delightful stop on any quest for the best soul food in Los Angeles. You can't miss it!

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Joyce Soul and Sea

Visiting Joyce Soul and Sea in Los Angeles was an absolute delight! The moment I stepped in, the aromas of garlic and seasoned meats enveloped me, setting the stage for a memorable meal. The fried catfish was perfectly crispy, while the collard greens offered a comforting, home-cooked vibe. Their signature cornbread had just the right touch of sweetness, making each bite a joy. The vibrant atmosphere felt like a celebration of culture and community. If you’re on the hunt for authentic soul food that warms both the heart and soul, Joyce is a must-visit!

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