These Are Minneapolis, Minnesota’s Best Soul Food Spots That Locals Swear By
Minneapolis might be famous for its lakes and cold winters, but locals know the real treasure lies in its incredible soul food scene.
These restaurants serve up comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly with authentic flavors passed down through generations.
From crispy fried chicken to creamy mac and cheese, these spots have earned their reputation through years of satisfied customers and word-of-mouth recommendations.
1. Mama Sheila’s House of Soul, Minneapolis
Walking into this cozy restaurant feels like stepping into your grandmother’s kitchen on Sunday afternoon. The aroma of perfectly seasoned fried chicken and fresh cornbread fills the air.
Owner Sheila Thompson has been perfecting her recipes for over twenty years. Her catfish is crispy on the outside and flaky inside, while the collard greens simmer with just the right amount of smoky flavor.
Regular customers often joke that they come here more than their own homes for dinner.
2. Soul Bowl, Minneapolis
This modern twist on traditional soul food attracts young professionals and families alike. The restaurant combines classic recipes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that make each dish pop with flavor.
Their signature mac and cheese uses three different cheeses and gets topped with crispy breadcrumbs. The pulled pork melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with their tangy coleslaw.
Sunday brunch here features bottomless mimosas alongside chicken and waffles that locals absolutely adore.
3. Smoke in the Pit, Minneapolis
Barbecue smoke billows from this restaurant’s outdoor smokers twelve hours daily, creating an irresistible invitation for hungry passersby. The pitmaster starts preparing brisket at four in the morning.
I remember my first visit here three years ago when the smell alone made my mouth water before I even placed my order. Their cornbread comes out piping hot with honey butter.
The loaded potato skins topped with brisket have become legendary among local food bloggers and reviewers.
4. Lion’s Den Soul Food Cafe, Minneapolis
This family-owned establishment has served three generations of Minneapolis residents with unwavering consistency. The walls display photos of satisfied customers spanning decades of delicious memories.
Their fried fish comes with a special batter recipe that creates the perfect golden crust. The banana pudding gets made fresh daily and disappears quickly from the dessert case.
Thursday nights feature live jazz music that transforms dinner into an unforgettable cultural experience for diners.
5. The Camden Social, Minneapolis
Located in the heart of Camden neighborhood, this trendy spot attracts food enthusiasts from across the Twin Cities. The menu changes seasonally but always maintains its soul food foundation.
Chef Marcus Williams trained in New Orleans before bringing his expertise to Minneapolis. His gumbo recipe includes andouille sausage and fresh okra that transports diners straight to Louisiana.
Weekend reservations fill up quickly, so smart diners call ahead to secure their favorite table.
6. Lutunji’s Palate, Minneapolis
African-American heritage meets contemporary culinary techniques at this innovative restaurant that pushes soul food boundaries. The chef incorporates global influences while respecting traditional cooking methods.
Their jerk chicken wings pack serious heat balanced by cooling cucumber sauce on the side. The sweet tea gets brewed with real sugar and fresh mint leaves.
Food critics consistently praise this establishment for elevating comfort food without losing its authentic soul and character.
7. Angelea’s Soul Food Kitchen, Brooklyn Park
Just outside Minneapolis proper, this Brooklyn Park gem draws customers willing to travel for exceptional home-style cooking. Angelea Davis cooks everything from scratch using recipes her mother taught her.
The oxtail stew simmers for hours until the meat becomes fork-tender and falls apart. Her peach cobbler features fresh fruit and a buttery crust that locals dream about.
Takeout orders often include handwritten thank-you notes that make customers feel like extended family members.
8. West Indies Soul Food, St. Paul
Caribbean flavors blend seamlessly with traditional soul food at this unique St. Paul establishment. The fusion creates exciting new tastes while honoring both culinary traditions.
Curry goat served alongside dirty rice offers an adventure for adventurous eaters seeking something different. The plantains get fried to golden perfection and served as a sweet side dish.
My cousin introduced me to their jerk pork last summer, and now I crave it weekly.
9. Sota Soul, St. Paul
This St. Paul favorite combines Minnesota nice with Southern hospitality in every dish they serve. The restaurant name plays on the state nickname while celebrating soul food culture.
Their chicken and dumplings warm hearts during harsh Minnesota winters when comfort food becomes absolutely essential. The greens get cooked with smoked turkey instead of pork for lighter flavor.
Local food writers frequently feature this restaurant in their annual best-of lists and restaurant guides.