There’s nothing quite like the comfort of soul food to warm your heart and fill your belly. Arizona might be known for its desert landscapes, but it’s also home to some amazing spots serving up authentic Southern cooking.
From crispy fried chicken to smoky barbecue ribs, these restaurants bring the flavors of Grandma’s Sunday dinner to the Southwest.
1. Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe
A Phoenix institution since 1964, Mrs. White’s serves soul food that’s stood the test of time. The fried chicken emerges from the kitchen with a golden crust that crackles with each bite.
Regulars swear by the smothered pork chops and cobbler that’ll transport you straight to the South. The no-frills setting only adds to its charm – proof that good food needs no fancy presentation.
2. Lo-Lo’s Chicken And Waffles
The grandson of Mrs. White created this Phoenix favorite that’s grown to multiple locations. Sweet meets savory in their signature chicken and waffles drizzled with maple syrup and topped with butter.
Red velvet waffles add a twist to the classic combo. Family recipes shine in sides like mac and cheese and collard greens, making this spot a true celebration of Southern cooking traditions with an Arizona twist.
3. Honey Bears BBQ
Smoke signals from this Phoenix barbecue joint have been drawing crowds since 1986. The Tennessee-style pulled pork sandwich comes piled high with meat that’s been slow-smoked to perfection.
Sweet potato pie makes the perfect ending to a meal here. Family-owned and passionate about authentic flavors, Honey Bears proves that good barbecue isn’t just about the meat – it’s about the love and time put into every dish.
4. Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ
Southern hospitality meets Tempe at this lively spot where the smell of hickory smoke greets you at the door. Massive portions of St. Louis ribs fall off the bone after hours in their smokers.
The banana pudding arrives in a mason jar, just like Grandma would serve it. Live blues music on weekends completes the experience, creating an atmosphere that feels like a backyard family reunion in the Deep South.
5. Harold’s Chicken
Chicago-style fried chicken has found a home in Phoenix at this beloved spot. The chicken comes drenched in their signature mild sauce – a tangy, slightly sweet concoction that locals crave.
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside – this is chicken done right. The catfish dinner with hush puppies rivals anything you’d find along the Mississippi, bringing authentic Midwestern soul food flavors to the desert Southwest.
6. Reggie’s BBQ, Chicken And Fish
Hidden gem alert! This small Phoenix takeout spot might not look fancy, but the food speaks volumes. The fried catfish comes with a cornmeal coating that provides the perfect crunch.
Sweet potato fries dusted with cinnamon sugar offer a heavenly contrast to savory main dishes. Owner Reggie often greets customers himself, sharing stories while preparing plates that taste like they came straight from a family cookbook passed down for generations.
7. West Alley BBQ & Smokehouse
Tennessee meets Arizona at this Chandler smokehouse where the brisket gets a 14-hour date with hickory smoke. The result? Melt-in-your-mouth meat that needs no sauce (though their house-made options are worth trying).
Chess pie for dessert provides a sweet Southern finale. With walls decorated with Tennessee memorabilia and blues music playing softly, eating here feels like you’ve been transported to a Memphis barbecue joint.
8. Brunch N Sip
Soul food meets brunch at this Phoenix hotspot where chicken and waffles arrive beautifully plated and Instagram-ready. The shrimp and grits come loaded with creamy cheese and perfectly seasoned seafood.
Specialty cocktails like their bourbon peach tea elevate the experience. The modern, stylish interior with its bright murals creates a fresh take on soul food dining while maintaining those traditional flavors that comfort and satisfy.
9. Momma’s Soul Fish & Chicken
Family recipes shine at this North Phoenix treasure where the buffalo fish sandwich has developed a cult following. Hand-breaded with seasoning that’s kept secret, every bite delivers that home-cooked flavor.
The mac and cheese comes bubbling hot with a crispy top layer. Momma herself still oversees the kitchen on busy days, ensuring every plate meets her exacting standards – just like Sunday dinner at grandma’s where nothing less than perfection was acceptable.
10. The Mix By Chic Chef
Soul food gets a modern twist at this downtown Phoenix eatery where traditional recipes meet contemporary presentation. This soul food meal is a vibrant, health-forward twist on traditional comfort fare. The salad bursts with color and texture: fresh greens layered with crunchy purple cabbage, earthy mushrooms, and crisp sweet potato chips that add a satisfying bite.
It’s served in a clear container that showcases the ingredients like a curated palette, inviting you to dig in. The citrusy, ice-cold lemonade with fresh lemon slices offers a crisp, tangy contrast that perfectly complements the hearty salad.
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