The Absolute Best Soul Food in Austin [Updated 2025]

Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the city's rich culinary landscape, where flavors burst with soulful goodness. With a lighthearted tone and a hunger for uncovering hidden gems, I have personally reviewed eight delightful soul food spots that will have you begging for seconds.

So, whether you're a local looking to spice up your palate or a visitor eager to sample Austin's finest, join me as we navigate the streets in search of the best soul food that this vibrant city has to offer. Get ready to indulge in a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more!

Hoover's Cooking

Highlights
Excellent food
Great staff
Huge portions
Reasonably priced
Wonderful service

First and foremost, the food at Hoover's Cooking is nothing short of excellent. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The flavors and seasonings were perfectly balanced, and every dish I tried was bursting with authentic soul food goodness.

Equally impressive was the great staff who greeted me with warm smiles and made me feel right at home. Their knowledge of the menu was impressive, and they were more than willing to offer recommendations based on my preferences. It was clear that they took pride in providing top-notch service.

Now, let's talk about the portions. They were enormous! It seemed like every plate that left the kitchen was overflowing with soul-satisfying goodness. I appreciated that Hoover's Cooking didn't skimp on quantity, because when it comes to soul food, more is always better.

But here's the best part - the prices were reasonable. Considering the quality and quantity of the food, I expected to pay a small fortune. However, Hoover's Cooking proved me wrong by offering delicious soul food at prices that won't break the bank. It's a win-win situation.

Lastly, I cannot forget to mention the wonderful service I received at Hoover's Cooking. From the moment I walked in, I was treated like a valued customer. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was exceptional.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best soul food in Austin, Hoover's Cooking is a must-visit. The excellent food, great staff, huge portions, reasonable prices, and wonderful service make it a standout in the city's soul food scene. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Mama’z Soul Kitchen

Highlights
Delicious enchiladas
Tasty honey cornbread
Friendly and sweet staff
Unique and delicious tea
Generous portion sizes

Walking into Mama’z Soul Kitchen, I was immediately greeted by the warm and comforting aroma of soul food. The menu was filled with mouthwatering options, but I decided to try their famous enchiladas. Let me tell you, they were delicious! Each bite was packed with savory flavor and the perfect amount of spice.

To accompany my meal, I ordered a side of honey cornbread. It was tasty and had just the right amount of sweetness. The combination of the moist cornbread and the flavorful enchiladas was a match made in culinary heaven.

The staff at Mama’z Soul Kitchen were not only efficient and attentive, but they were also friendly and sweet. They made me feel right at home and gave great recommendations, which made the dining experience even more enjoyable.

One unique aspect of Mama’z Soul Kitchen was their selection of teas. I tried their special blend, and it was unlike any tea I had ever tasted. It was a burst of flavors, perfectly balanced and incredibly refreshing.

And let's not forget the portion sizes! Mama’z Soul Kitchen doesn't skimp on their servings. Each plate was filled to the brim with satisfying soul food that left me feeling completely satisfied.

Overall, Mama’z Soul Kitchen is a hidden gem for soul food lovers in Austin. Their delicious enchiladas, tasty honey cornbread, and unique tea make for a dining experience that is both flavorful and satisfying. The friendly and sweet staff only enhance the already enjoyable atmosphere. If you're looking for a soulful and fulfilling meal, Mama’z Soul Kitchen is definitely worth a visit.

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Colleen's Kitchen

Highlights
Friendly service
Delicious food
Cozy atmosphere
Prompt seating
Excellent brunch

From the moment I stepped foot into Colleen's Kitchen, I was greeted with the warmest smile and friendliest service. The staff here truly knows how to make you feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, it was nothing short of fabulous! Every dish I tried was bursting with flavor and seasoned to perfection. From the tender and juicy fried chicken to the melt-in-your-mouth collard greens, the flavors at Colleen's Kitchen are simply divine.

The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant only added to the overall experience. With its rustic wooden furniture and colorful decorations, it felt like I had stumbled upon a hidden gem in the heart of Austin. The seating was prompt and I never felt rushed, allowing me to fully enjoy my soul food feast.

But let me tell you, their brunch is something special. From the fluffy buttermilk pancakes to the crispy bacon and cheesy grits, every bite was a party in my mouth. I couldn't help but leave satisfied and ready to take on the day.

Colleen's Kitchen truly encompasses everything that soul food should be – comforting, flavorful, and downright enjoyable. If you're in Austin and craving some soul-soothing delights, make sure to stop by Colleen's Kitchen. Trust me, you won't regret it.

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Big Mama's kitchen

Drum roll please! Big Mama's kitchen in Austin is a soul food haven that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. The perfectly seasoned fried chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and the Mac and Cheese is ooey-gooey deliciousness. Don't even get me started on the collard greens. They're the definition of Southern comfort. With friendly staff and nostalgic vibes, Big Mama's is a must-visit for all soul food enthusiasts in Austin.

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Watts-That Soul Food&More

Highlights
Friendly owner
Tender oxtails
Perfectly seasoned pork chops
Mouthwatering greens

Stepping into Watts-That Soul Food&More, I was immediately greeted by the friendly owner, who made me feel right at home. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Now, let's dive into the star attractions of this soulful eatery. The oxtails were like tender little bundles of joy, cooked to perfection. Each bite yielded a burst of succulent meat that fell right off the bone. Combined with the rich and savory gravy, it was a harmonious symphony of flavors that danced on my palate.

But that's not all – the pork chops were equally phenomenal. The meat practically melted in my mouth, beautifully seasoned with just the right balance of herbs and spices. It was a true carnivorous delight that left me craving for more.

No soul food experience would be complete without a generous portion of greens, and Watts-That Soul Food&More delivered on that front. The greens were cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of smoky flavor. They were tender yet still retained a slight bite, showcasing the chef's expertise in achieving the perfect texture.

Overall, Watts-That Soul Food&More effortlessly captured the essence of soul food with their delicious offerings. From the friendly owner to the mouthwatering dishes, my visit was an absolute delight. If you're in Austin and looking for a place to satisfy your soul food cravings, look no further than Watts-That Soul Food&More.

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Fixe Southern House

Highlights
Best biscuits
Great fish fry
Delicious pork chop

Let me start by saying that Fixe Southern House truly lives up to its reputation of serving some of the best soul food in Austin. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm southern hospitality and a charming ambiance that made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the food. The biscuits at Fixe Southern House are simply out of this world. They are fluffy, buttery, and melt in your mouth with every bite. I couldn't resist ordering seconds, and maybe even thirds.

Next up on the highlights menu is their fish fry. If you're in the mood for some crispy, golden-brown fried fish, this is the place to be. The fish is perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Paired with their tangy tartar sauce, it's a match made in heaven.

And let's not forget about the pork chop. Juicy, succulent, and bursting with flavor, this dish was a showstopper. The meat was tender and seasoned expertly, leaving me licking my lips and craving more.

One thing that impressed me about Fixe Southern House was their attention to detail. Each dish was beautifully presented, and the flavors were well-balanced. It's evident that the chefs at Fixe Southern House take pride in their craft and truly understand the essence of soul food.

Overall, I had a delightful experience at Fixe Southern House. The combination of delicious food, impeccable service, and cozy atmosphere made for an unforgettable meal. If you're looking for the best soul food in Austin, look no further than Fixe Southern House. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

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Whip My Soul

Highlights
Fresh and hot food
Well seasoned dishes
Fast service
Packed with flavor
Wide variety of options

As soon as I stepped into Whip My Soul, the aroma of fresh, hot food hit me right in the taste buds, and I knew I was in for a treat. The first thing that impressed me was the impeccable seasoning of their dishes. Each bite burst with a delightful blend of spices that danced on my tongue. From the tender collard greens to the succulent fried chicken, every dish was bursting with flavor.

Not only was the food outstanding, but the service was also top-notch. The staff was friendly and efficient, ensuring that my meal was served promptly. Despite the crowd, I never felt rushed or ignored. The entire experience was smooth and seamless.

What sets Whip My Soul apart from other soul food establishments is the wide variety of options available. Whether you're craving classics like macaroni and cheese or want to try something new like their signature shrimp and grits, there's something for everyone. The menu has plenty of vegetarian and vegan options as well, making it inclusive for all diners.

Overall, my visit to Whip My Soul was a delightful experience. The food was nothing short of a culinary masterpiece, with each dish leaving a lasting impression. If you're looking for soul food that is fresh, packed with flavor, and served with a smile, Whip My Soul should be at the top of your list.

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The Rolling Rooster

Highlights
Chicken and waffles
Crispy catfish
Fresh okra
Cheesy grits

From the moment I walked into The Rolling Rooster, I knew I was in for a soulful treat. The smell of fried chicken and homemade waffles filled the air, instantly making my mouth water. As I perused the menu, my eyes lit up at the sight of the words "chicken and waffles." I knew I had to try this classic soul food combination.

When the plate arrived, I was greeted with a beautifully golden and crispy chicken perched atop a fluffy waffle. The chicken had the perfect amount of seasoning, creating a delightful balance between savory and sweet. Each bite was a harmonious symphony of flavors, leaving me wanting more.

Not to be outdone, the catfish at The Rolling Rooster was a winner as well. The fillets were fried to perfection, achieving a crispy exterior while maintaining moist and tender meat on the inside. Paired with a side of fresh okra, the dish transported me straight to the heart of the South.

To round out the meal, I indulged in a serving of cheesy grits. These creamy, buttery grits were the ideal companion to the rich and flavorful main dishes. Each spoonful was like a warm hug from a loved one.

Overall, The Rolling Rooster is a must-visit for soul food enthusiasts in Austin. Their chicken and waffles, crispy catfish, fresh okra, and cheesy grits are a testament to the delicious and comforting nature of soul food. So if you're looking to satisfy your cravings with a soulful twist, be sure to stop by The Rolling Rooster. Your taste buds will thank you!

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