16 North Carolina Soul Food Spots Locals Say Rival Grandma’s Cooking

North Carolina is home to an array of soul food spots that locals swear by, each offering dishes that feel like a warm embrace. From fried chicken to comforting sides, these eateries promise a taste reminiscent of cherished family meals. Here’s a curated list of 16 places where you can find soul food that might even rival grandma’s cooking.

1. Mert’s Heart & Soul — Charlotte, NC

Tucked in the heart of Charlotte, Mert’s Heart & Soul serves up comfort on a plate. Imagine shrimp and grits, cooked to perfection, alongside crispy fried chicken that melts in your mouth.

The aroma alone is enough to draw you in, promising flavors that are both familiar and exciting. Each side dish, whether it’s collard greens or mac and cheese, beckons second and third helpings.

It’s the kind of place where every meal feels like a warm embrace, leaving you satisfied and eager to return for more.

2. Nana Morrison’s Soul Food — Charlotte, NC

In Charlotte, Nana Morrison’s Soul Food is where homestyle cooking reigns supreme. The fried chicken is crispy, and the yams are sweet, cooked just like you remember from family gatherings.

Each dish captures the essence of Southern comfort, making it a spot where the scent alone triggers hunger. With mac and cheese so creamy, it’s impossible not to indulge.

This is a place where every visit feels like a trip back to a cherished family kitchen, making it a beloved choice for locals.

3. Soul Central Restaurant — Charlotte, NC

Soul Central Restaurant exudes a laid-back charm that makes every visit feel like dining with family. The dishes are straightforward but expertly crafted, embodying the spirit of true soul food.

Regulars often have their go-to orders, whether it’s a heaping plate of ribs or a side of rich, buttery cornbread. It’s a no-frills experience focused on delivering hearty, satisfying meals.

Perfect for those who crave authentic soul food without any pretension, it’s a local staple of comfort and flavor.

4. Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack — Asheville, NC

Not your typical soul food spot, Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack in Asheville packs a punch with its fiery offerings. The chicken here is spicy and crispy, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

While it may stray from traditional soul food, it hits the same comforting notes. The bold flavors are a reward for those who love a bit of heat.

Messy in the best way possible, it’s an experience that’s both exhilarating and deeply satisfying, drawing locals and visitors alike.

5. Beasley’s Chicken + Honey — Raleigh, NC

In Raleigh, Beasley’s Chicken + Honey is where traditional meets modern in a delightful blend. The fried chicken, golden and crisp, is elevated with a drizzle of honey, adding a sweet twist.

While the chicken is the star, the sides are quietly spectacular, offering flavors that complement each bite. The environment feels like coming home, with a modern touch.

This spot is a testament to how comfort food can evolve yet remain true to its roots, making it a favorite among locals.

6. Angie’s Restaurant — Garner, NC

A beloved spot in Garner, Angie’s Restaurant is perfect for those who treasure breakfast and lunch. Its retro charm is coupled with a menu that boasts grits, biscuits, and comforting plates.

Each dish is crafted with care, offering the kind of comforting flavors that need no introduction. It’s a place where the atmosphere is as warm as the food.

Ideal for enjoying classic Southern breakfast and lunch fare, Angie’s is a comforting escape that feels like a step back in time.

7. Dame’s Chicken & Waffles — Durham, NC

Dame’s Chicken & Waffles in Durham is where the magic of sweet and savory truly shines. The crispy chicken paired with fluffy waffles creates a taste sensation.

Each bite is an invitation to savor the harmonious blend of flavors, leaving you longing for just a little more. The vibrant atmosphere adds to the experience, making it more than just a meal.

This spot transforms classic comfort food into an unforgettable culinary journey, capturing hearts with its unique offerings.

8. The Chicken Hut — Durham, NC

The Chicken Hut in Durham is a pillar of tradition, serving up fried chicken that feels like a Sunday dinner staple. Its cafeteria-style setup offers a nostalgic dining experience.

Each plate is a generous helping of comfort, from the crispy chicken to the soul-warming sides. It’s the kind of place where every day feels like a special occasion.

A local favorite for its timeless appeal, it’s where both comfort and community come together over hearty meals.

9. Let’s Eat Soul Food — Durham, NC

Let’s Eat Soul Food in Durham offers a straightforward approach to beloved classics. It’s a place where the focus remains on delivering perfectly executed soul food.

The simplicity is its strength, inviting diners to indulge in dishes that evoke memories of family gatherings. Each bite resonates with authenticity and warmth.

It’s the kind of spot where you grab your plate, find a cozy seat, and savor every moment of culinary comfort.

10. Pure Soul — Durham, NC

Pure Soul in Durham redefines traditional soul food with its plant-based offerings. It provides the same comforting flavors without the heaviness.

The dishes are vibrant and full of life, showcasing how plant-based cooking can satisfy cravings for classic comfort. It’s a delightful surprise for those seeking taste without compromise.

With each bite, Pure Soul proves that vegan cuisine can be both indulgent and heartwarming, winning over even the most skeptical diners.

11. Saltbox Seafood Joint — Durham, NC

In Durham, Saltbox Seafood Joint transforms seafood into soulful comfort. With a fish-camp vibe, it’s a place where simplicity meets flavor.

The fried fish is crisp and tender, a delight that turns a humble dish into something memorable. It’s all about fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation.

Locals flock here for the taste of the sea, where each meal feels like a cherished coastal memory brought to life.

12. Tru Soul Food Kitchen — Creedmoor, NC

Tru Soul Food Kitchen in Creedmoor offers plates that are not just meals but experiences crafted with love. Each dish feels like it’s been made just for you.

The bold flavors and generous portions invite a hearty appetite, ensuring no one leaves hungry. It’s a place where dessert is not optional but a delicious necessity.

This kitchen is a celebration of soul food, bringing to life the essence of homemade goodness with every visit.

13. District 924 Soulfood & Cocktails — Winston-Salem, NC

In Winston-Salem, District 924 Soulfood & Cocktails offers a blend of comfort and style. The menu features classics with a twist, served in a lively setting perfect for a night out.

Each dish is crafted to impress, from the soulful flavors to the vibrant presentation. It’s easy to indulge and even easier to enjoy.

This spot brings together the best of soul food and cocktails, making every meal a celebration of flavor and fun.

14. Simply Sonya’s — Winston-Salem, NC

Simply Sonya’s in Winston-Salem is more than just a restaurant; it’s a gathering place. The lively atmosphere complements the comforting dishes, making every visit feel special.

The menu is filled with soulful classics that draw people in with their rich flavors and home-cooked appeal. It’s a place where stories are shared over generous plates.

Loved by locals for its consistent quality and inviting environment, Sonya’s is where comfort and community meet.

15. Aunt E’s Southern Cuisine — Greensboro, NC

Aunt E’s Southern Cuisine in Greensboro serves up dishes with a touch of nostalgia. The seasoning is just right, reminiscent of family meals in a loved one’s kitchen.

Each plate is a testament to the art of Southern cooking, offering flavors that keep loyal patrons coming back. It’s a place where every bite feels like a warm memory.

Known for its authentic taste and welcoming atmosphere, Aunt E’s is a culinary hug from start to finish.

16. Casey’s Buffet & BBQ — Wilmington, NC

In Wilmington, Casey’s Buffet & BBQ provides a feast for the senses. The buffet-style setup allows for crafting the ultimate soul food plate.

With an array of options, from barbecue to hearty sides, it’s a place to embrace indulgence and explore flavors. It’s perfect for those who love variety and abundance.

Casey’s turns every meal into a hometown feast, offering a taste of Southern hospitality with every visit.