People Cross County Lines In Florida Just To Have A Bite At These Soul Food Icons
Florida’s soul food scene is more than just a meal—it’s a full-on experience that draws devoted fans from miles away.
From crispy fried chicken that shatters at first bite to collard greens simmered with generations of love, these restaurants have earned legendary status.
Folks regularly hop county lines just to get a taste of these comfort food treasures.
Here are soul food icons worth every mile of the journey.
1. Jackson Soul Food – Miami
Oxtails so tender they practically fall off the bone have made this Miami landmark a pilgrimage site for soul food lovers statewide.
Jackson Soul Food has been dishing out flavor-packed plates since day one, earning a reputation that stretches far beyond city limits.
The fried chicken arrives golden and crackling, while smothered pork chops swim in rich, savory gravy that begs for a mountain of rice.
Located at 950 NW 3rd Ave, Miami, FL 33136, this spot represents everything authentic about Florida soul cuisine.
Regulars swear by the mac and cheese, which is creamy enough to make you weep with joy.
2. Big Lee’s – Serious About Barbecue – Ocala
When Central Floridians crave soul food that hits different, they make the trek to Big Lee’s without hesitation.
This Ocala institution combines barbecue mastery with soul food classics in ways that create unforgettable flavor memories.
Smoke-kissed meats meet perfectly seasoned sides, creating plates that feel like Sunday dinner at grandma’s house.
The aroma alone could guide hungry travelers from counties away.
Find this treasure at 2611 SW 19th Avenue Rd #100, Ocala, FL 34471, where Big Lee takes his craft seriously.
Expect generous portions that prove why folks drive an hour just for lunch.
3. Chef Creole – Miami
Caribbean spices meet Southern soul in this Miami hotspot where griot and fried seafood reign supreme.
Chef Creole brings a unique twist to traditional soul food by infusing island flavors into every comfort plate.
The griot arrives perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside, seasoned with a blend that transports taste buds straight to the islands.
Fried seafood plates showcase fresh catches prepared with techniques passed down through generations.
Head to 200 NW 54th St, Miami, FL 33127, for soul food with serious Caribbean flair that keeps crowds returning.
4. Ocoee Taco Company (Soul Food Sundays) – Ocoee
Who knew a taco joint would become famous statewide for soul food pop-ups that create Sunday morning traffic jams?
Ocoee Taco Company transforms into soul food heaven every Sunday, drawing regulars who plan their entire weekend around these special plates.
The limited-time offerings create urgency that has people lining up before doors open, phones ready to capture every glorious bite.
Word spread so fast that folks now drive from opposite ends of Florida.
Find this culinary chameleon at 40 Taylor St, Ocoee, FL 34761, but arrive early because sellouts happen regularly.
5. Big Mama’s Soul Food – Tampa
Fried chicken that crackles with every bite and mac and cheese so creamy it should be illegal—that’s Big Mama’s magic formula.
This Tampa staple has perfected the art of soul food consistency, delivering the same outstanding quality whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
Candied yams arrive glazed to perfection, sweet enough to qualify as dessert but savory enough to complement the main course beautifully.
The mac and cheese has achieved cult status among locals.
Find Big Mama at 3701 E Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Tampa, FL 33610, dishing out love on every single plate.
6. Se7en Bites – Orlando
Modern Southern soul meets cult-like devotion at this Orlando hotspot where food pilgrimages have become a regular occurrence.
Se7en Bites reimagines soul food classics with contemporary twists while respecting traditional foundations that make these dishes timeless.
The comfort food here inspires passionate loyalty, with fans planning entire trips around meal times at this beloved establishment.
Innovative approaches to familiar favorites create exciting plates that still feel like home.
Find this culinary destination at 617 Primrose Dr, Orlando, FL 32803, where Southern tradition meets modern excellence in every unforgettable bite.
7. Mrs. Potts’ BBQ & Soul Food – Orlando
Old-school soul food traditions are alive and well at Mrs. Potts’, where every plate feels like it was cooked with patience, pride, and plenty of seasoning.
This Orlando favorite is known for deeply flavorful oxtails, tender fried chicken, and slow-cooked sides that taste like they’ve been simmering all day—because they usually have.
The no-frills setting keeps the focus exactly where it belongs: on food that comforts, satisfies, and brings people back again and again.
Located at 4550 S. Kirkman Road, Orlando, FL 32811-2848, this spot draws loyal diners from across Central Florida who swear it’s worth every mile for a true soul food fix.