9 Top Soul Food Spots In Ohio You Need To Taste

Ohio’s soul food scene brings warmth, flavor, and community to the table in ways that feel both nostalgic and deeply satisfying.

Across the Buckeye State, restaurants celebrate the dishes that have defined generations, delivering comfort food that speaks to tradition, family, and the joy of gathering for a hearty meal.

Crispy fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, tender greens, and cast iron cornbread all play starring roles in kitchens that honor the roots of Southern cuisine.

Ohio may be far from the Deep South, but the passion behind these recipes proves that soul food knows no geographical limits.

These restaurants aren’t just serving meals – they’re carrying forward histories, memories, and flavors passed down through time.

From bustling city neighborhoods to quieter suburban communities, Ohio’s soul food establishments continue to draw loyal locals and curious newcomers eager for plates that feel both comforting and unforgettable.

Each spot brings its own personality to the table, whether through classic preparations or creative twists that expand what soul food can be.

What remains constant is the heartfelt cooking that transforms simple ingredients into plates full of love.

These nine standout spots showcase the diversity and depth of Ohio’s soul food scene, offering dishes that warm the heart and satisfy the appetite in equal measure.

1. Zanzibar Soul Fusion

Shaker Square in Cleveland holds a culinary treasure at 13225 Shaker Square #2314, Cleveland, OH 44120, where soul food merges effortlessly with Caribbean and Creole influences.

Zanzibar Soul Fusion captures the essence of multiple culinary traditions and brings them together in dishes that feel both comforting and boldly flavorful.

The restaurant’s ability to blend well-known Southern staples with vibrant spices and ingredients from other cultures makes it one of the most distinctive dining destinations in the city.

The shrimp and grits showcase this beautifully, combining tender, perfectly seasoned shrimp with creamy, decadent grits that offer richness without heaviness.

Cornbread served in a hot cast iron skillet reinforces the restaurant’s dedication to tradition, arriving warm enough to melt butter instantly.

Guests often describe the skillet cornbread as a dish that demands savoring every crumb.

Smothered pork chops complete the experience with fork-tender meat covered in deep, savory gravy that embodies homestyle cooking.

The welcoming atmosphere at Zanzibar Soul Fusion adds to the experience, making diners feel like part of a community gathering rather than just a meal out.

Every dish reflects a balance between innovation and respect for the roots of soul food.

2. Soul Secrets

Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood is home to Soul Secrets, located at 1434 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, where hospitality feels as essential as the food itself.

The restaurant immediately gives the impression of stepping into a friend’s kitchen, where warm smiles and generous servings set the tone for a memorable meal.

Soul Secrets has earned a loyal following for its dedication to comfort food made with care and authenticity.

The fried chicken is known for its golden crust that stays crisp from the first bite to the last.

Catfish receives the same attention, with a crunchy exterior that gives way to moist, delicate fish inside.

Vegan soul food options are given equal care, proving that plant-based diners don’t have to miss out on rich, comforting flavors.

These dishes incorporate traditional seasonings, creative textures, and deep flavor profiles that appeal to vegans and non-vegans alike.

Generous portions mean diners rarely leave hungry, and many appreciate having leftovers to enjoy later.

The friendly service enhances the entire experience, making Soul Secrets a standout in the Cincinnati dining scene.

3. V’s Gourmet Chicken

Cleveland’s West Side hosts V’s Gourmet Chicken at 15418 Lakeshore Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44110, a cozy spot known for its rotating menu and intimate setting.

The restaurant’s daily-changing offerings keep visitors excited, while regulars return for the catfish that has become a beloved staple.

The catfish arrives with a spectacularly crispy crust that shatters at the first bite.

Inside, the fish remains tender, flaky, and seasoned with a thoughtful balance of spices that enhance flavor without overwhelming it.

V’s takes pride in preparing each dish as if it were for family, creating meals that feel personal and deeply satisfying.

The small, welcoming dining space encourages conversation, connection, and a relaxed pace that makes every visit memorable.

Guests appreciate the opportunity to try something new with each visit while still having the option to enjoy longtime favorites.

The restaurant’s atmosphere fosters a sense of warmth and familiarity that enhances its homestyle cooking.

For many Clevelanders, V’s Gourmet Chicken is more than a restaurant – it’s part of their weekly rhythm.

4. Southern Grace Eats

Located at 3751 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45212, Southern Grace Eats brings imaginative flair to soul food while respecting the traditions that define it.

This restaurant is known for preparing everything from scratch, resulting in vibrant, carefully crafted dishes.

Buttermilk fried chicken exemplifies their skill, offering tender meat encased in a crisp, flavorful coating that avoids heaviness.

Red velvet waffles provide a creative twist that elevates the dining experience, pairing sweetness with savory Southern classics.

These combinations demonstrate how innovation can blend seamlessly with tradition, creating new favorites that still feel grounded in comfort.

Guests appreciate the thoughtful presentation and rich flavors that distinguish Southern Grace Eats from more conventional soul food spots.

The scratch-made approach gives every dish depth and freshness that stands out from first bite to last.

This restaurant has become a destination for Cincinnati diners seeking soul food that honors the past while exploring new possibilities.

5. CJ’s Soul Food

Located at 1262 E Powell Rd, Westerville, OH 43082, CJ’s Soul Food shows that unforgettable soul food can thrive even in suburban settings.

This restaurant emphasizes community, serving hearty meals that make diners feel welcome from the moment they walk in.

Collard greens arrive perfectly cooked, offering tangy brightness and deep flavor that reflect careful preparation.

Mac and cheese delivers everything fans expect from this ultimate comfort dish – gooey cheese, smooth sauce, and satisfying richness.

Portions are consistently generous, giving diners the option to share or savor leftovers later.

CJ’s has earned a reputation for meals that taste lovingly prepared and deeply rooted in Southern culinary traditions.

The welcoming environment complements the food, creating a sense of community that resonates with families and solo diners alike.

For many in Westerville, CJ’s is the go-to spot for soul food that warms both stomach and spirit.

6. Chars Chitlins

Columbus residents turn to Chars Chitlins at 2183 Jefferson Ave, Columbus, OH 43211 for meals that feel steeped in family tradition.

This restaurant captures the essence of soul food with dishes that taste like they’ve been perfected over generations.

Fried chicken emerges golden, crispy, and deeply seasoned, reflecting years of culinary experience.

Candied yams offer buttery sweetness, balancing savory dishes with warmth and comforting flavor.

Cornbread arrives warm and crumbly, its slightly sweet interior enhancing every part of the meal.

Chars Chitlins takes pride in its homage to Southern roots, creating dishes that feel soulful, satisfying, and lovingly crafted.

The nostalgic vibe makes guests feel like they’re sharing a family dinner rather than simply dining out.

This commitment to tradition keeps Chars Chitlins firmly rooted in the hearts of many Columbus families.

7. Carbrys BBQ & Soul Food

Located at 4550 Warrensville Center Rd, North Randall, OH 44128, Carbrys BBQ & Soul Food blends smoky barbecue traditions with classic soul food sides.

Ribs take center stage with meat so tender it falls off the bone effortlessly.

A tangy, well-balanced sauce enhances the flavor without overwhelming it.

Baked beans and coleslaw provide cool, creamy contrast to the hearty meats.

Warm cornbread serves as the perfect finishing touch, soaking up every bit of sauce.

The casual, inviting atmosphere allows diners to enjoy their meals at a relaxed pace.

Guests appreciate Carbrys for its comforting, no-frills approach to soul food and barbecue.

This spot continues to draw a devoted following who return for flavors that satisfy every time.

8. Gram Gram’s Soulfood

Gram Gram’s Soulfood at 481 E 260th St, Euclid, OH 44132 channels the spirit of home-cooked meals straight from a beloved grandmother’s kitchen.

Smothered chicken arrives drenched in savory gravy that has simmered slowly to develop rich depth and flavor.

The meat becomes so tender it practically melts upon tasting.

Black-eyed peas add tradition and heartiness, seasoned to complement the entrée perfectly.

Cornbread comes out warm and slightly sweet, ideal for soaking up every drop of gravy.

Every dish reflects care, history, and comfort, making Gram Gram’s a treasure for soul food lovers.

The restaurant captures the warmth of Sunday family dinners, inviting diners to enjoy familiar flavors with every plate.

9. Red Tyes Kitchen & Catering

Columbus diners can savor soulful comfort at Red Tyes Kitchen & Catering, located at 2274 S Hamilton Rd, Columbus, OH 43232.

This cozy spot has built a reputation for genuine hospitality paired with dishes that evoke memories of family gatherings and traditional home-cooked meals.

The fried chicken stands out for its juicy interior and crisp, seasoned exterior that satisfies with every bite.

Smothered pork chops are another signature item, bathed in a rich, velvety gravy that diners love to pair with bread or cornbread.

Classic sides like potato salad and green beans add familiar flavors that complement the mains perfectly.

Each dish brings together fresh ingredients and time-tested techniques that highlight the soul of Southern cooking.

The warm service at Red Tyes enhances the dining experience, making guests feel like longtime friends rather than customers.

The restaurant’s comforting atmosphere keeps people returning for meals that taste as heartfelt as they are flavorful.

Red Tyes continues to solidify itself as a cherished Columbus dining spot where food and community intertwine.