Oakland's soul-food-restaurant per capita is pretty impressive, especially considering its 3,000 miles from the South. That's thanks to a strong African-American culture that's been part of the city's fabric since the founding. With a hunger for fried comfort, we set out to find the most popular spots in Oakland -- and we know that we've missed a bunch. Let us know and we'll add your favorites to the list!
Everett & Jones (126 Broadway Ave)
In 1973 Dorothy Turner Everett opened Oakland's beloved BBQ & soul-food restaurant. This family-owned business continues to thrive and is a great place for live entertainment!
What to eat: Two Way Combo with Collard Greens
Flip n' Soul (2101 14th Ave)
Flip N Soul incorporates quality ingredients to all of their dishes to adhere to the authentic flavors that we hold near and dear to our hearts. They continue the art of flavor and food design from their ancestors by combining traditional and new techniques to create their own style of Filipino and Soul Food.
What to eat: Fried Shrimp and Catfish
Home of Chicken and Waffles (444 Embarcadero West)
Got a late-night craving for chicken and waffles? Head over to the Home of Chicken and Waffles in Jack London. This 60s style diner has an entire menu dedicated to different chicken and waffles combos!
What to eat: Paiges Palette - 2 Southern Fried Chicken Wings, Egg, and Waffle
Lenas Soul Food Cafe (6403 Foothill Blvd)
This family-run East Oakland haven claims to fame is the 99-cent portion of the menu, but it's the friendly staff and legit soul food that keeps customers coming back.
What to eat: Fried Fish and Mac and Cheese
Lois the Pie Queen (851 60th St)
Lois the Pie Queen passed away, but her son continues her legacy by continuing to put out delicious food at their local go-to spot. Come down for breakfast or lunch for pancakes, grits, biscuits, and waffles.
What to eat: Sweet Potato Pie
Souley Vegan (301 Broadway)
Tamearra Dyson, owner of Souley Vegan has been cooking her signature vegan dishes since the age of 18. Chef Dyson, a vegan from an early age believes in cruelty free eating. Enjoy your usual go-to dishes like gumbo, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy but with a vegan spin.
What to eat: Toasty Burger and Creole Pop’ens
Southern Cafe (2000 MacArthur Blvd.)
Down-home Southern eatery serving up fried chicken, oxtails & collard greens for lunch & dinner. Come on Sundays for their all-you-can-eat special so that you can try a little of everything!
What to eat: Turkey Wings, Collard Greens, Mac & Cheese
