The Absolute Best Soul Food in Fort Lauderdale [Updated 2024]

Growing up in Fort Lauderdale, I have been lucky enough to indulge in the rich and flavorful world of soul food. With 15 soul food establishments reviewed, I can confidently share my top picks with you.

From the warm, comforting embrace of perfectly seasoned collard greens to the crispy, succulent fried chicken that will make your taste buds dance, this guide will take you on a mouthwatering journey through the best soul food spots in town. Whether you're a seasoned local or a curious visitor, get ready to experience the soulful delights that Fort Lauderdale has to offer.

Let's dive in and satisfy that craving for genuine, homemade soul food.

Wally's Soul Food

Highlights
Friendly owner
Affordable menu prices
Fresh and fast service
Well-maintained restaurant
Delicious collard greens

Wally's Soul Food in Fort Lauderdale is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your culinary radar. From the moment I stepped into the restaurant, I was greeted by the warm smile of the friendly owner, who was more than happy to answer any questions I had about their menu.

One of the first things that struck me about Wally's was their affordable menu prices. In a city where eating out can sometimes break the bank, it was refreshing to find a place that offered hearty soul food without draining my wallet.

But affordability doesn't mean compromising on quality. Wally's delivers both fresh and fast service, ensuring that you won't have to wait long to dive into their soulful creations. The restaurant itself is also well-maintained, with a clean and inviting atmosphere that adds to the overall dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the food. My taste buds were treated to a variety of mouthwatering dishes, but the one that truly stood out was their delicious collard greens. The greens were cooked to perfection, tender yet flavorful, and paired perfectly with other traditional soul food sides.

In conclusion, Wally's Soul Food is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic soul food experience in Fort Lauderdale. From the friendly owner to the affordable prices and delicious collard greens, this restaurant has all the ingredients for a soul-satisfying meal. Don't just take my word for it, go try it out yourself!

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Blue Tree Cafe Vegan Soul Food

Highlights
Delicious food
Friendly staff
Decent portions
Clean atmosphere
Amazing flavors

Blue Tree Cafe Vegan Soul Food in Fort Lauderdale offers an extraordinary culinary experience that is a delightful surprise for the taste buds. As an expert reviewer, I can confidently say that this place knows how to deliver delicious soul food that is both flavorful and healthy.

Upon entering, I was greeted by the warm and friendly staff who were eager to help and provide recommendations. The atmosphere was clean and inviting, with plenty of seating for both individuals and groups.

Moving on to the main event - the food. The portions at Blue Tree Cafe Vegan Soul Food were more than decent. Each plate was lovingly prepared, showcasing a diverse array of amazing flavors. From the first bite, I knew I was in for a soulful treat. The traditional soul food dishes were given a modern, vegan twist, but without compromising on taste or satisfaction.

One of the standout dishes I tried was their soulful mac and cheese, which was a creamy blend of non-dairy cheese and perfectly cooked pasta. The flavors were rich and captivating, making it hard to believe that it was entirely plant-based. Accompanying the mac and cheese was a mouthwatering BBQ jackfruit, shredded to perfection and perfectly seasoned.

Overall, my experience at Blue Tree Cafe Vegan Soul Food was exceptional. It's a place where soul food enthusiasts can enjoy a guilt-free feast without compromising on taste or quality. If you're searching for the best soul food in Fort Lauderdale, make sure to add Blue Tree Cafe Vegan Soul Food to your list.

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Betty's Soul Food Restaurant

Highlights
Amazing meals
Great mac n cheese
Best fried chicken
Friendly and welcoming

Upon stepping into Betty's, I was immediately greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff was incredibly friendly and made me feel right at home. As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice the amazing variety of soulful dishes that were available.

I decided to start my meal off with a classic staple: mac n cheese. Let me tell you, Betty's did not disappoint. The mac n cheese was rich, creamy, and had just the right amount of cheesy goodness. It was definitely one of the best I have ever had.

For the main course, I had to try Betty's famous fried chicken. And let me just say, it was the best fried chicken I have ever tasted. The chicken was perfectly seasoned, incredibly juicy, and had a crispy coating that was simply divine. Each bite was a true delight to my taste buds.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the service was top-notch as well. The staff at Betty's went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was enjoyable. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and truly made me feel like a valued customer.

In conclusion, if you are searching for the best soul food in Fort Lauderdale, look no further than Betty's Soul Food Restaurant. Their amazing meals, unforgettable mac n cheese, and outstanding fried chicken make it a must-visit for any soul food enthusiast. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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My Brother's Soul Food Heaven

Highlights
Amazing customer service
Delicious soul food
Fast and friendly service
Black owned business
Great food and experience

Let me start by saying, wow! My Brother's Soul Food Heaven truly lives up to its name and provides a heavenly experience for your taste buds. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was greeted with amazing customer service that made me feel like I was dining at a friend's place.

The delicious soul food served at My Brother's Soul Food Heaven is truly a taste of the South. Every dish is bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. Whether you're craving juicy fried chicken, tender collard greens, or melt-in-your-mouth mac and cheese, you can find it all here.

One thing that really stood out to me was the fast and friendly service. The staff at My Brother's Soul Food Heaven are dedicated to providing a delightful dining experience, ensuring that you never have to wait long for your food. They take great pride in their work and it shows in every aspect of their service.

What makes My Brother's Soul Food Heaven even more special is that it is a black owned business. Supporting local businesses is always important, and knowing that you're helping to uplift the community while enjoying fantastic food is an added bonus.

All in all, dining at My Brother's Soul Food Heaven was a truly great food and experience. If you're in Fort Lauderdale and craving some soulful delights, this is the place to be. Don't miss out on the opportunity to taste some of the best soul food the city has to offer.

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Nellie's Southern Table

I must say, Nellie's Southern Table is a delicious soul food haven that will leave your taste buds tapping their toes in joy. From the moment I walked in, the warm and inviting ambiance whisked me away to a southern comfort paradise. And the food? Oh my, it was a soulful symphony of flavors! Their crispy and golden fried chicken had a perfect crunch, while the buttery smooth mac and cheese was a heavenly indulgence. Let's not forget about their melt-in-your-mouth candied yams that were simply divine. Nellie's Southern Table has certainly earned its spot as one of Fort Lauderdale's prime spots for soul food delights.

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R&R World Famous BBQ

Highlights
Great food
Big taste
Highly recommended
Delicious dishes
Tender ribs

Let me start by saying, the food at R&R World Famous BBQ is nothing short of amazing. From the moment I stepped in, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of the delicious dishes filled the air, making my taste buds tingle with anticipation.

First and foremost, the food here is great! Every bite packs a punch of big taste and soulful flavors. Their tender ribs just melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more. The magic they work with their seasoning is truly something to behold.

This place comes highly recommended by me, and it's easy to see why. The combination of well-cooked and flavorful dishes, coupled with their warm and welcoming atmosphere, make it a must-visit for any lover of soul food.

One thing that really stood out to me about R&R World Famous BBQ is their attention to detail. Each dish is prepared with care, and it truly shows. The flavors are balanced, and every ingredient shines through. It's obvious that they take pride in what they do, and that love and passion are reflected in every bite.

If you find yourself in Fort Lauderdale and in need of some soulful comfort food, look no further than R&R World Famous BBQ. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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P-No's Soul Kitchen

Highlights
Everything was good!
Best soul food out here
Great customer service
Outstanding atmosphere
Delicious vegan options

P-No's Soul Kitchen is the epitome of soul food done right. From the moment I entered the restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere exuded warmth and comfort, with lively music playing in the background and a friendly staff ready to greet me with open arms.

I couldn't help but be impressed by the variety of dishes on offer. Everything I tasted from the menu was just exquisite. The flavors danced in my mouth, taking me on a delicious journey through the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. The fried chicken was crispy and moist, the collard greens perfectly seasoned, and the cornbread was simply heavenly.

P-No's Soul Kitchen goes above and beyond to accommodate all dietary preferences. I was pleasantly surprised to find a range of delicious vegan options that still captured the essence of soul food. The smoky black-eyed pea stew and the BBQ jackfruit sandwich were standout dishes that left me wanting more.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me. The customer service at P-No's Soul Kitchen was absolutely exceptional. The staff members were attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about the food they served. They made me feel like a valued guest and went out of their way to ensure my dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best soul food in Fort Lauderdale, look no further than P-No's Soul Kitchen. From the moment you enter until the moment you leave, you'll be treated to an outstanding experience that will leave your taste buds singing and your heart content. Trust me, this is one soul food joint you don't want to miss.

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Heaven's Kitchen

Highlights
Fresh and homemade
Amazing ribs
Delicious collard greens
Huge conch fritters
Outstanding cornbread

As soon as I walked into Heaven's Kitchen, I could immediately tell that I was in for a treat. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and inviting decor made me feel right at home. The staff was warm and friendly, providing excellent customer service throughout my visit.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The menu at Heaven's Kitchen is a delightful mix of traditional soul food dishes, all made with a special attention to detail and a big dose of love. Everything is fresh and homemade, which is a big plus in my book.

I started off with their amazing ribs. The meat was tender and fell right off the bone, and the sauce had the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. It was a flavor explosion in my mouth. The collard greens were equally impressive, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection.

For a little taste of the sea, I ordered the huge conch fritters, and I was blown away. They were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with flavor. I couldn't resist devouring them all.

And let's not forget about the outstanding cornbread. It was moist, buttery, and had just the right amount of sweetness. I couldn't get enough of it.

Overall, Heaven's Kitchen certainly lives up to its name. The food here is heavenly, and the experience is a true delight. If you're in Fort Lauderdale and craving some soul food that will leave you satisfied and smiling, make sure to pay a visit to Heaven's Kitchen. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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LushTreatz

Highlights
Delicious food
Friendly service
Hennessy pineapple cake
Great leftovers

When it comes to soul food, LushTreatz in Fort Lauderdale is an absolute gem. From the moment I walked in, the aroma of delicious food filled the air and made my mouth water with anticipation.

The first thing that caught my attention was the friendly service. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and made me feel right at home. They were knowledgeable about the menu and were more than happy to answer any questions I had.

Now, let's get to the real star of the show—the food. Oh boy, was it amazing! Each dish was prepared with care and seasoned to perfection. The flavors were bold and comforting, just like authentic soul food should be. From the succulent fried chicken to the flavorful collard greens, every bite was a delightful experience.

But the highlight of my meal was undoubtedly the Hennessy pineapple cake. It was a heavenly combination of moist pineapple cake infused with a subtle hint of Hennessy. Each forkful was bursting with sweet and tangy goodness, leaving me longing for more.

As if that wasn't enough, the portions were so generous that I had plenty of great leftovers to take home and enjoy later. LushTreatz truly understands the importance of satisfying their customers and ensuring they leave with a happy belly.

In conclusion, LushTreatz is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to indulge in the best soul food Fort Lauderdale has to offer. With their delicious food, friendly service, and unforgettable dishes like the Hennessy pineapple cake, you'll be in for a treat you won't soon forget. So grab your appetite and head on over to LushTreatz for a soulful dining experience that will leave you eager to return.

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Batch New Southern Kitchen and Tap: Fort Lauderdale

Highlights
Amazing Food
Great Service
Lovely Ambience
Best Brisket Sandwich
Genuine Place with Great Food

Let me start by saying, the food at Batch New Southern Kitchen and Tap is simply amazing. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and excellent service. The staff was friendly, attentive, and truly made me feel like a valued guest.

The restaurant itself has a lovely ambience, with a charming rustic decor that creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It's the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends.

Now onto the star of the show – the brisket sandwich. Oh my, it was divine! The meat was tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The smoky aroma filled the air as I took my first bite, and it was love at first taste. The combination of the perfectly seasoned brisket, paired with the soft and fresh bread, was a match made in soul food heaven.

What truly sets Batch New Southern Kitchen and Tap apart from other soul food establishments is its genuine and authentic approach. Each dish is prepared with love and care, and it truly shows in the flavors. You can taste the passion that goes into the food.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best soul food in Fort Lauderdale, look no further than Batch New Southern Kitchen and Tap. The amazing food, great service, and lovely ambience make it the perfect destination for anyone craving a soulful and satisfying meal.

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World Famous

Highlights
Well worth the wait
Mix and match options
Delicious eggrolls

Let me start by saying that the wait at World Famous is well worth it! As a self-proclaimed foodie, I always appreciate when a restaurant takes the time to prepare each dish with care and attention to detail. This was definitely the case at World Famous.

One of the highlights of my visit was the mix and match options on the menu. It allowed me to truly customize my meal and try a variety of different soul food staples. From the succulent fried chicken to the melt-in-your-mouth macaroni and cheese, each dish was a soul-satisfying experience.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the eggrolls. Yes, you read that right! World Famous is known for its unique twist on soul food classics, and their eggrolls are a must-try. Stuffed with flavorful collard greens, juicy smoked turkey, and a hint of spice, these eggrolls were a delightful surprise that had my taste buds dancing.

While I enjoyed every bite, I must say that the ambience of the restaurant added to the overall experience. The cozy, yet vibrant atmosphere made me feel right at home. The friendly staff and their dedication to providing exceptional service only added to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.

In conclusion, if you're in Fort Lauderdale and searching for the best soul food experience, look no further than World Famous. With their mix and match options, delicious eggrolls, and outstanding service, World Famous is sure to leave you with a soulful experience that you'll be craving time and time again. So go ahead, treat yourself, and let World Famous take you on a soul food journey that you won't soon forget!

Donna's Caribbean Restaurant

Highlights
Helpful and friendly staff
Amazing food
Delicious jerk sauce
Clean and welcoming atmosphere
Comfort food like home

Donna's Caribbean Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale is a hidden gem that captures the heart and soul of Caribbean cuisine. As I walked through the doors, I was greeted by a helpful and friendly staff that immediately made me feel at home.

The food at Donna's is simply amazing. Each dish is prepared with love and care, and you can taste the passion in every bite. The menu offers a wide variety of soulful Caribbean dishes, from jerk chicken to oxtail stew. It's a treat for both your taste buds and your soul.

One of the highlights of my visit was the delicious jerk sauce. It had just the right amount of spice and flavor, perfectly complementing the tender and juicy grilled chicken. It's no wonder why this sauce is highly sought after by locals and tourists alike.

The restaurant itself is a clean and welcoming space. The color scheme and decor transport you to the Caribbean, creating a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. It's the perfect place to unwind and savor some top-notch soul food.

What truly sets Donna's Caribbean Restaurant apart is the way they serve comfort food like home. Each dish feels like a warm embrace from a loved one, reminding you of those soulful family gatherings. It's an experience that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart.

In conclusion, if you're in search of the best soul food in Fort Lauderdale, make sure to pay a visit to Donna's Caribbean Restaurant. With a helpful staff, amazing food, delicious jerk sauce, clean atmosphere, and comforting dishes, it's a must-try for anyone craving a true taste of the Caribbean.

Coco's Kitchen

Highlights
Amazing food
Large portions
Friendly service
Authentic Haitian cuisine

From the moment I stepped into Coco's Kitchen, I was greeted with a warm and friendly atmosphere. The staff was incredibly welcoming and eager to help. It was clear that I was in for a treat.

As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice the extensive selection of authentic Haitian cuisine. Being a lover of soul food, I was instantly drawn to their selection of dishes. After much contemplation, I settled on their famous oxtail stew.

When my plate arrived, I could hardly contain my excitement. The aroma of the stew wafted through the air, making my mouth water. The first bite was heavenly. The meat was tender and succulent, falling off the bone with each forkful. It was a symphony of flavors, a perfect balance of spices and seasonings that left me craving for more.

Not only was the food at Coco's Kitchen absolutely amazing, but the portions were generous as well. I definitely got my money's worth. It's safe to say that I left feeling incredibly satisfied and my taste buds thoroughly satisfied.

I must also commend the staff for their exceptional service. They were attentive, making sure I had everything I needed throughout my meal. They were also happy to provide recommendations and answer any questions I had.

If you're looking for the best soul food in Fort Lauderdale, look no further than Coco's Kitchen. Their amazing food, large portions, and friendly service make it a standout restaurant that you simply cannot miss.

Spoons Grill & Restaurant

Highlights
Attentive service
AMAZING drinks
Good quality
Exceptional service
Delicious food

Let me start by saying, the service at Spoons Grill & Restaurant is absolutely incredible. The staff is attentive and friendly, making you feel like you're part of their family from the moment you walk through the door. As a soul food enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for restaurants that can deliver the perfect blend of flavors and Spoons Grill & Restaurant definitely excels in that department.

Now, let's talk about the drinks. Oh boy, they are AMAZING. From their refreshing homemade lemonade to their signature sweet tea, every sip is a burst of flavor. The bartender knows their stuff and the drink menu offers a variety of options to suit every palate.

The food at Spoons Grill & Restaurant is of good quality and every dish I tried was packed with flavor and cooked to perfection. Whether you're a fan of classics like fried chicken or prefer indulging in some mouthwatering macaroni and cheese, this place has got you covered. And don't even get me started on their cornbread. It's a little piece of heaven on earth.

I want to give a special shoutout to the exceptional service provided by the waitstaff. They are knowledgeable about the menu and can recommend the best dishes to satisfy your soul food cravings. Their warm smiles and genuine enthusiasm create an inviting atmosphere that complements the delicious food.

All in all, Spoons Grill & Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in search of the best soul food in Fort Lauderdale. The attentive service, amazing drinks, and delicious food make it an experience you won't soon forget.

Pappa's Jamaican Restaurant

Highlights
Great food
Great service
Great portions

Let me tell you, the food at Pappa's Jamaican Restaurant is absolutely divine. From the moment I walked in, the tantalizing aroma of spices and flavors filled the air, making my taste buds dance with anticipation.

First, let's talk about the great food. Pappa's Jamaican Restaurant truly captures the essence of soul food. The menu is packed with mouthwatering options, from the classic jerk chicken to the tender oxtail stew. Each dish is bursting with rich flavors and cooked to perfection. Every bite brings you closer to Jamaican culinary heaven.

But it's not just about the food, the great service at Pappa's Jamaican Restaurant contributes to the overall amazing experience. The staff is attentive, friendly, and always ready to recommend the best dishes on the menu. They make you feel like a valued customer and ensure that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional.

And let's not forget about the great portions. Pappa's Jamaican Restaurant knows how to satisfy a hungry soul. The servings are generous, leaving you feeling happily stuffed. You definitely won't be leaving this place with an empty stomach.

In conclusion, Pappa's Jamaican Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in search of the best soul food in Fort Lauderdale. With their great food, great service, and great portions, they have truly mastered the art of soul food. So, if you're looking to indulge in a culinary adventure that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Jamaica, head on over to Pappa's Jamaican Restaurant and get ready for a soulful experience like no other.