9 New Jersey Soul Food Spots That Truly Taste Like The South

You don’t need to hop on a plane to Georgia or Louisiana to enjoy real soul food anymore. Right here in New Jersey, talented chefs are cooking up the same recipes passed down through generations in the South.

I’ve tracked down nine restaurants where every bite feels like a warm hug from your grandmother’s kitchen.

1. Kelsey’s – Atlantic City, NJ

Crispy fried chicken that crackles when you bite into it is just the beginning of what makes this spot special.

Located at 1545 Pacific Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, this restaurant has been serving hungry locals and tourists for years.

Live music fills the dining room on certain nights, making your meal feel like a celebration.

Their brunch buffet draws crowds every weekend, and the smothered pork chops practically melt in your mouth.

2. Corinne’s Place – Camden, NJ

Awards don’t lie, and the James Beard Foundation recognized this gem in 2022 as an America’s Classic.

You’ll find it at 1254 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ 08103, where Corinne has been cooking since 1989.

Her fried chicken recipe remains a closely guarded secret that keeps people coming back.

Black-eyed peas seasoned perfectly and pork chops smothered in rich gravy complete the authentic Southern experience here.

3. Vonda’s Kitchen – Newark, NJ

Homestyle cooking reaches new heights when someone puts real love into every dish they prepare.

Visit 183 W Kinney St, Newark, NJ 07103 to experience what I’m talking about firsthand.

Salmon cakes here are crispy on the outside and tender inside, paired beautifully with creamy grits.

The atmosphere wraps around you like a favorite blanket, making strangers feel like family instantly.

4. Beyond Soul – Newark, NJ

Sometimes a restaurant name tells you exactly what to expect, and this one delivers beyond your wildest expectations.

Head over to Newark to discover flavors that honor tradition while adding fresh touches.

Mac and cheese comes out bubbling hot with a golden crust on top.

Every side dish complements the main courses perfectly, creating balanced plates that satisfy completely.

5. Aunt Berta’s Kitchen – Haddon Township, NJ

Family gatherings need food that brings everyone together, and this takeout spot specializes in portions meant for sharing.

Located at 311 N White Horse Pike, Clementon, NJ 08021, Aunt Berta’s serves Camden County residents generously.

Order enough for your whole crew because these family-sized meals disappear fast.

Southern recipes prepared with care make even Tuesday dinner feel like Sunday supper at grandma’s house.

6. Cornbread – Maplewood/Newark, NJ

Nothing beats the smell of fresh cornbread baking, and this restaurant built its reputation on that simple truth.

Find locations in both Maplewood and Newark serving up comfort from morning until night.

Their signature cornbread comes out warm and slightly sweet, perfect for soaking up pot likker from collard greens.

Every menu item showcases ingredients cooked low and slow the way Southern cooks have done for centuries.

7. Cave Kitchen – Plainfield, NJ

Hidden gems often serve the best food, and locals in Plainfield have kept this secret long enough.

Make your way to Plainfield, NJ to taste what everyone’s been whispering about lately.

Fried catfish arrives perfectly seasoned with a cornmeal crust that stays crunchy throughout your meal.

Coleslaw provides the perfect cool contrast, while hush puppies disappear before you realize you’ve eaten them all.

8. J Secrets – Plainfield, NJ

Mystery surrounds the name, but one bite reveals why customers guard this place like a precious treasure.

Located in Plainfield, NJ, this spot serves portions generous enough to share or save for tomorrow.

Ribs fall off the bone with barely a touch, coated in sauce that balances sweet and tangy perfectly.

Mac and cheese reaches creamy perfection, and the greens taste like someone’s grandmother stirred them with love.

9. BelleJohns’ Soul Food – Plainfield, NJ

Plainfield clearly knows good soul food, and this third entry from the city proves residents take their comfort food seriously.

Visit Plainfield, NJ to experience BelleJohns’ take on timeless Southern classics done right.

Candied yams arrive sweet enough to be dessert but savory enough to pair with everything else on your plate.

Biscuits come out fluffy and buttery, begging to be torn apart and savored slowly.