This California Soul Food Spot Serves Southern Plates So Good, Locals Say They’ll Never Give It Up

I showed up at Dulan’s on Crenshaw in LA, California, with a plan to “just taste” and left guarding a takeout tray like treasure. The line moved quick, the aroma moved quicker, and my willpower moved nowhere.

Between the cafeteria-style rhythm, the community photos, and those generous plates, I knew I’d be back before I even sat down.

Stick with me and I’ll walk you through the Southern classics that make locals swear they’re not giving this spot up.

Crispy Fried Chicken Plate

First bite and the crunch announces itself like a drumline, then the juice follows with swagger. I ordered dark meat and watched the counter team move with practiced precision, friendly and fast.

The seasoning leans savory with pepper and garlic, no gimmicks. I paired it with mac and cheese plus collard greens, and the two-step of creamy and tangy worked wonders.

Portions are generous at the typical twenty-to-thirty range, easily shareable. I once tried saving a piece for later and failed before I hit Crenshaw and 48th. Hours run lunch to evening, so plan accordingly.

Smothered Pork Chops with Gravy

Thick-cut chops slide under a peppery brown gravy that means business. I asked for rice to catch the sauce and felt like a genius with each spoonful.

The meat’s tender, the seasoning leans soulful, and the portion borders on “bring a friend.” Locals swear by this plate before games or concerts near SoFi or The Forum. Service is quick, friendly, and they’ll guide you to the best sides. Price stays fair for the heft.

I once tried to talk while chewing and immediately realized silence is respect. Map the address, get there when the doors open at 11 AM.

Mac and Cheese Superstar Side

Golden crust on top, creamy river beneath, and a cheese pull that could win a talent show. I’ve tasted plenty around LA, and this one hits that baked homestyle note without going oily or bland.

The seasoning is subtle, letting sharp cheddar lead. I usually double up because one scoop disappears fast. Staff don’t blink when I ask for extra, and I thank them with a grin.

Pair it with fried chicken or smothered chicken for peak comfort. It reheats like a champ, though mine rarely survives the car ride. Consider it a non-negotiable on your tray.

Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

Greens arrive tender with that gentle bite, balanced by savory smoked turkey that seasons the pot just right. I tasted the broth and immediately added cornbread to mop it up.

Salt is steady, vinegar whisper-level, and the texture avoids that overcooked slump. It’s the side that makes you feel virtuous while you angle for cobbler later. Staff says it’s a best-seller, and I believe them.

Add hot sauce if that’s your style, but it doesn’t need much. Prices stay friendly, and the serving could count as a light lunch. I’ve converted more than one skeptic with this bowl.

Candied Yams Done Right

Sweet, buttery, and just shy of dessert, these yams bring cinnamon warmth and caramel edges that shine. I caught myself negotiating bites with the mac and cheese, and everyone won.

Texture lands tender, not mushy, with enough structure to spear. The glaze clings without turning syrupy. Locals call them the best in the city, and I get the hype.

Add cornbread for contrast, and you’ll understand crowd loyalty here. It’s a side that doubles as a reward after braving lunchtime lines. Grab an extra to-go because cravings are real about two hours later.

Smothered Chicken Falling-off-the-Bone

Braise lovers, assemble, because this chicken yields at the nudge of a fork. The gravy leans peppery and soulful, coating rice like it was born for the job. I ordered green beans to keep things balanced and appreciated the clean snap.

Portions are generous, making this an ideal comfort pick on cooler evenings. The team’s hospitality seals the deal, greeting regulars like family. Price aligns with the rest of the menu, and value feels strong.

I’ve returned for this plate after long days, and it never misses. Timing tip: earlier dinner means shorter line.

Fried Fish with Cornbread Combo

Light, crackly cornmeal crust gives way to flaky fish that stays juicy. I squeeze lemon, take a bite, then chase it with a warm cornbread muffin that walks the line between sweet and savory.

It’s a power combo that wins lunch without weighing you down. Regulars in line told me this plate flies out on weekends. Prices remain reasonable, and the speed is clutch when you’re hungry.

I’ve sat on the patio and watched smiles multiply. Add a veggie for balance or double down with mac. Either way, you’ll be plotting your next visit mid-bite.

Sweet Potato Pie and Peach Cobbler

Dessert here knows how to close the show, with sweet potato pie that tastes like tradition and cobbler that arrives warm and fragrant.

I lean toward pie for the silky texture and balanced spice, though the cobbler’s tender peaches make a strong case. Not every batch will taste identical, but the spirit of it stays generous.

I’ve boxed extra to share and ended up hoarding it. Prices land fair for the slice and scoop. Pro move: grab dessert first if the line’s moving fast. Your future self will thank you after the last forkful.