8 Hidden Soul Food Spots In Ohio Worth A Day Trip

Ohio might not be the first place that comes to mind for soul food, but hidden throughout the Buckeye State are incredible restaurants serving up authentic Southern comfort dishes. From crispy fried chicken to slow-cooked collard greens, these spots bring generations of family recipes to life. Pack your appetite and hit the road to discover these eight hidden gems that locals try to keep secret.

1. Kay’s Soul Food Kitchen: Market-Fresh Comfort

Tucked inside North Market, Kay’s stands out among the food stalls with aromas that stop shoppers in their tracks. What began as a weekend pop-up has evolved into a Columbus institution where lines form early. The oxtail stew sells out daily, tender meat falling from the bone into rich gravy perfect for sopping up with cornbread. First-timers often order the sampler plate – three meats and three sides that showcase Kay’s range and provide leftovers for tomorrow. Kay herself still works the counter most days, remembering regulars’ orders and offering samples to the undecided.

2. Soul Secrets: Cincinnati’s Best-Kept Treasure

Walking into Soul Secrets feels like entering your grandmother’s kitchen on Sunday afternoon. The aroma of perfectly seasoned fried chicken hits you first, followed by the unmistakable smell of slow-simmered greens. Regulars rave about the catfish – crispy outside, flaky inside – and sides like candied yams that strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The mac and cheese, made with a secret blend of cheeses, has developed something of a cult following. Family-owned for over a decade, this welcoming spot keeps locals coming back with generous portions and prices that won’t break the bank.

3. Mz. Jade’s Soul Food: Sharonville’s Homestyle Haven

“I cook everything like I’m feeding my own family,” says owner Jade Williams, who opened this Sharonville gem after years of catering neighborhood events. Her philosophy shines through in every bite. The smothered pork chops fall apart under your fork, bathed in gravy that customers have been known to mop up with extra cornbread. Regulars time their visits for Thursday’s oxtail special – tender, rich, and worth planning your week around. Despite its strip mall location, stepping inside transports you to a place where food is made slowly and with intention.

4. Modern Southern Table: Columbus’ Flavor Powerhouse

Don’t let the unassuming storefront fool you – Modern Southern Table packs more flavor into its compact Columbus space than restaurants triple its size. Chef Daisy started with family recipes, then added her own contemporary twists. The buttermilk fried chicken achieves that mythical balance – shatteringly crisp outside, juicy inside – while maintaining its crunch even when taken to go. Vegetarians rave about sides that could be meals themselves, particularly the smoky black-eyed peas and creamy four-cheese mac. Weekend specials often sell out by mid-afternoon, so early arrival is strongly recommended.

5. Chars Chitlins: Authentic Family Traditions

Three generations of cooking wisdom create the magic at this Columbus family institution. The restaurant’s name gives away its specialty – perfectly cleaned and prepared chitlins that even the hesitant find irresistible. Beyond its namesake dish, the smothered chicken falls off the bone after hours of slow cooking. The greens here deserve special mention – simmered with smoked turkey and a splash of vinegar that cuts through the richness perfectly. The tiny dining room hosts just six tables, creating an intimate experience where regulars are greeted by name and newcomers leave as friends.

6. CJ’s Soul Food: Westerville’s Rib Haven

When former NFL player Carlos Johnson returned to his Ohio hometown, he brought his grandmother’s recipes and opened CJ’s in a converted gas station on Westerville’s outskirts. The unusual location hasn’t stopped food lovers from finding this gem. The ribs here achieve barbecue perfection – smoky bark outside, pink smoke ring within, and meat that yields to gentle pressure but doesn’t fall off the bone. Sweet potato casserole topped with a pecan crust serves as both side and dessert for many regulars. Football memorabilia decorates the walls, but the food remains the star attraction.

7. Mama Joyce’s: Cleveland Heights’ Rising Star

At just two years old, Mama Joyce’s has revitalized Cleveland’s soul food scene with recipes that honor tradition while incorporating subtle modern touches. Owner Joyce Wilson learned cooking alongside her Mississippi grandmother and brings those techniques to every dish. The catfish, dredged in cornmeal with a secret spice blend, maintains its moisture while developing an addictive crust. Thursday’s chicken and dumplings – with hand-rolled dough rather than biscuits – draws a dedicated weekly crowd who often order extra to freeze. The bright, cheerful space features local art and weekend live music from area jazz musicians.

8. Zanzibar Soul Fusion: Cleveland’s Creative Classic

Soul food meets culinary innovation at Zanzibar, where traditional recipes receive thoughtful, contemporary updates. Their signature soul rolls – egg rolls filled with greens, black-eyed peas, and rice – demonstrate the kitchen’s creative approach. The shrimp and grits elevates the classic with jumbo Gulf shrimp and stone-ground grits imported from South Carolina. An impressive bar program features cocktails incorporating Southern ingredients like peach nectar and blackberry moonshine. With two locations in greater Cleveland, Zanzibar balances sophistication and comfort, making it perfect for both special occasions and satisfying everyday soul food cravings.