10 Utah Soul Food Spots Bringing Southern Warmth Out West
Utah might seem like an unlikely place to find authentic soul food, but the state has a growing number of restaurants serving up classic Southern comfort dishes. From crispy fried chicken to creamy mac and cheese, these spots are bringing flavors from the Deep South to the Mountain West.
I’ve rounded up the best places where you can enjoy a taste of Southern hospitality without leaving Utah.
1. Ity’s Kitchen
When you walk through the doors here, the smell of seasoned chicken frying hits you immediately. Ity’s has become a local favorite for anyone craving real Southern cooking in Salt Lake City.
Their menu features everything from smothered pork chops to candied yams. The portions are generous, and the prices won’t break your wallet either.
2. Sugarhouse BBQ Company
Barbecue and soul food go hand in hand, and this spot does both beautifully. Their slow-smoked meats have that perfect bark on the outside while staying juicy inside.
You’ll find classic sides like collard greens and black-eyed peas alongside their famous ribs. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for family dinners or takeout.
3. Pretty Bird
Hot chicken lovers have found their paradise at this spot with multiple Utah locations. The Nashville-style spice levels range from mild to dangerously hot, so choose wisely based on your tolerance.
Each piece gets hand-breaded and fried to order. Their chicken sandwiches have developed a cult following among locals who appreciate authentic Southern heat.
4. Big Daddy’s BBQ
This family-owned restaurant brings Texas-style barbecue with soul food influences to the table. Big Daddy’s keeps things simple by focusing on quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Their catfish is fried golden and crispy every time. The homemade sides taste like they came straight from a Southern grandmother’s kitchen, full of flavor and love.
5. The Chicken Coop
Nothing beats their perfectly seasoned fried chicken that stays crunchy on the outside and moist inside. The Chicken Coop has mastered the art of Southern-style poultry preparation.
Their biscuits deserve special mention because they’re flaky, buttery, and made fresh throughout the day. Drizzle some honey over them, and you’ll understand why people keep coming back.
6. Mo’ Bettahs Hawaiian Style Food
While technically Hawaiian cuisine, this chain shares many soul food influences through its comfort food approach. The founders grew up eating both Hawaiian and Southern dishes, which inspired their menu.
Their mac salad and slow-cooked meats bridge the gap between Pacific Island and Southern cooking traditions beautifully. It’s comfort food with an island twist.
7. R&R BBQ
Award-winning barbecue meets Southern soul food at this popular Utah chain. R&R has won numerous competitions for their smoking techniques and flavor profiles.
Their sweet potato casserole tastes like dessert but counts as a side dish. The pulled pork gets piled high on sandwiches, and the meat practically melts in your mouth with each bite.
8. Taste of Soul Cafe
This hidden gem serves authentic Southern recipes passed down through generations. Taste of Soul Cafe keeps the menu focused on doing a few dishes exceptionally well rather than overwhelming you with choices.
Their oxtails are fall-off-the-bone tender and swimming in rich gravy. The owner often greets customers personally, making everyone feel like family.
9. Smoking Apple
Apple wood smoke gives their meats a distinctive sweetness that sets them apart from other barbecue joints. The Smoking Apple combines traditional smoking methods with creative soul food side dishes.
Their collard greens get cooked low and slow with just the right amount of seasoning. Every plate comes out looking restaurant-quality while tasting homemade.
10. The Dodo Restaurant
Brunch gets a Southern makeover at this spot known for creative takes on classic soul food. The Dodo puts unexpected twists on traditional dishes while respecting their roots.
Their chicken and waffles have become legendary among Utah foodies. The combination of savory fried chicken with sweet maple syrup creates the perfect balance of flavors everyone craves.
