12 Texas Soul Food Restaurants That Locals Absolutely Love

If you have ever chased that warm hug of flavor only soul food delivers, Texas has a plate waiting for you. From crispy fried chicken to buttery cornbread, locals know exactly where to find the real thing. This list pulls together beloved neighborhood staples and road trip worth destinations across the Lone Star State. Bring an appetite and a little patience because the best plates are worth the line.

1. Lucille’s – Houston

Locals swear by Lucille’s for refined Southern plates with Houston swagger. You get oxtails that melt, chili biscuits with a playful kick, and shrimp over creamy grits that feel like a hug. The room buzzes with date night energy and neighborhood comfort.

Order a cocktail, then chase it with hot cast iron cornbread and seasonal greens. Portions hit that sweet spot between polished and generous, so you leave satisfied, not stuffed. Weekend brunch turns into a scene, but the hospitality stays calm and focused.

2. The Breakfast Klub – Houston

The line at The Breakfast Klub can snake down the block, but it moves faster than you think. Wings and waffles arrive crackly and juicy, dusted with powdered sugar, with syrup pooling perfectly. Grits are creamy, buttery, and an easy add on.

Locals treat it like a ritual because the vibe feels friendly and effortless. Coffee is strong, plates are hot, and kids get just as much attention as regulars. Go early, split a couple of dishes, and thank yourself later.

3. Sweet Yams – San Antonio

Sweet Yams leans healthy without losing soul, which is its magic trick. Expect organic touches, bright flavors, and sweet potato everything, from waffles to creamy mash. The fried chicken stays crisp yet light, and the collards keep their bite.

It feels like a neighborhood porch where everyone knows your name. Grab a lemonade, order seasonal specials, and post up on the patio. You leave energized instead of weighed down, still craving another forkful.

4. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken – Austin

Yes, Gus’s is a Memphis legend, but the Austin crew makes locals proud. The chicken crackles with peppery heat that sneaks up and stays friendly. White bread and pickles keep it classic, while sides like baked beans bring sweetness.

The vibe is fast casual, loud, and fun. Perfect for a quick lunch or late night refuel after a show on Red River. Order extra napkins and a tall sweet tea, then let the spice do its thing.

5. Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley – Dallas

This place dresses up soul food without losing comfort. Think chicken and waffles with golden crunch, honey butter glistening, and cocktails that taste like Saturday night. The mac is creamy and luxe, and greens are braised just right.

Music hums, tables clink, and birthdays get enthusiastic love. It is where you bring friends who want a scene with their supper. Make a reservation, arrive hungry, and share plates so nobody misses the hits.

6. The Greasy Spoon – Houston

At The Greasy Spoon, the steam table reads like a love letter. Smothered turkey wings, oxtails, mac, and candied yams come heavy and honest. Portions are generous, sauces stick to the ribs, and cornbread turns every bite into comfort.

Lines move, staff smiles, and takeout stays hot on the ride home. Weekends sell out, so get there early or order online. It is a no fuss, big flavor stop that locals defend fiercely.

7. Sam’s BBQ – Austin

Sam’s BBQ is a soul soaked Austin classic where smoke and blues meet. Brisket is tender and pepper crusted, while rib tips steer toward sticky satisfaction. Collards, pinto beans, and white bread round everything into a Southern feast.

The room feels timeless, with neon hum and friendly conversation. Late nights are legendary, and the hospitality runs deep. Grab extra sauce, sit anywhere, and let the music flavor the meat.

8. Mrs. Kitchen Soul Food – San Antonio

Mrs. Kitchen serves classic plates that taste like Sunday. Fried chicken arrives hot and confident, with gravy that begs for biscuits. Meatloaf feels nostalgic, and the sides make it a full hug on a plate.

Service is quick, genuine, and kind, which keeps regulars loyal. Save room for peach cobbler because it is the closer you deserve. Bring family, split everything, and enjoy leftovers tomorrow.

9. Lo-Lo’s Chicken and Waffles – Southlake

Lo-Lo’s brings big personality and bigger plates. Waffles are buttery and crisp, chicken is seasoned clear to the bone, and the red Kool Aid smiles back at you. It is unapologetic, joyful comfort food.

Brunch gets lively, so expect a wait and a happy crowd. Staff keeps things moving without rushing you. Share a sweet potato waffle, add hot sauce, and lean into the moment.

10. Stairs and Gravy – Dallas

Stairs and Gravy feels like a neighborhood kitchen with serious biscuit game. Sausage gravy coats everything in savory warmth, and the chicken keeps its crunch. Eggs, grits, and tender potatoes make daytime soul food easy.

The staff remembers faces and favorite orders, which adds to the comfort. It is casual, quick, and consistently satisfying. Grab coffee, settle in, and watch plates disappear as fast as they arrive.

11. The Turkey Leg Hut – Houston

This spot goes big in every direction. Smoked turkey legs come stuffed with everything from dirty rice to Cajun shrimp, dripping with butter and attitude. Sides slam with spice, and the patio plays like a block party.

Lines can be long, but the people watching and anticipation make it fun. Bring napkins, friends, and a phone for photos. You will leave full, happy, and a little dazed.

12. Mikki’s Soulfood Cafe – Pearland

Mikki’s is a Houston area staple where comfort comes cafeteria style. Smothered pork chops, baked chicken, and oxtails line the steam table like greatest hits. Mac is gooey, greens are seasoned, and yams bring dessert energy to dinner.

Service is friendly and fast, perfect for lunch breaks and family nights. Portions are generous enough for leftovers, which reheat like a dream. Grab cornbread, pick two sides, and thank yourself later.