The Absolute Best Soul Food in Athens [Updated 2025]

Having personally tried and reviewed ten different soul food establishments in Athens, I have gathered all the essential information you need to satisfy your cravings for authentic Southern cuisine. From mouthwatering fried chicken to delectable collard greens, this article aims to be your go-to resource for discovering the hidden gems of Athens' soul food scene.

Whether you're a local searching for new spots or a visitor eager to indulge in the rich flavors of the South, join me on this culinary journey as we explore the best soul food that Athens, Georgia has to offer. Get ready to treat your taste buds to a truly unforgettable experience!

The Place

Highlights
Extraordinary service
Delicious fried pickles
Large portions
Fun and inviting atmosphere
Great shrimp & grits

Let me just start by saying, the service at The Place is absolutely extraordinary. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and genuine enthusiasm. The staff made me feel like an honored guest, and their attentiveness throughout my meal was truly remarkable.

Now, on to the food. The Place really knows how to satisfy those soul food cravings. One of my favorite dishes was their delicious fried pickles. The batter was just the right amount of crispy and the pickles had the perfect tanginess. It was a delightful appetizer that set the tone for the rest of the meal.

Speaking of the rest of the meal, the portions at The Place are no joke. If you're looking for somewhere that won't leave you hungry, this is it. They definitely don't skimp on serving sizes, which is a major plus in my book.

Another thing that really stood out about The Place was its fun and inviting atmosphere. The decor was vibrant, the music was lively, and the energy in the restaurant was contagious. It's the kind of place that instantly puts you in a good mood.

And let's not forget about the star of the show: the shrimp & grits. Oh boy, were they good! The shrimp were perfectly cooked, tender and seasoned to perfection. The grits were creamy and had just the right amount of cheesy goodness. It was a flavor combination that left me craving more.

Overall, my experience at The Place was nothing short of fantastic. The service, the food, and the atmosphere all combined to create a memorable dining experience. If you're in Athens and looking for some exceptional soul food, make sure to pay The Place a visit. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Food For the Soul

Highlights
Food for your soul
Must-try buffet option
Home cooked soul food
Varied daily selections
Convenient parking

Upon entering Food For the Soul, I was immediately greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The aroma of home cooked soul food filled the air, instantly making my mouth water. I knew I was in for a treat.

One of the highlights of this establishment is their must-try buffet option. The buffet spread was a sight to behold. There were varied daily selections of soul food favorites, each dish more tempting than the last. From crispy fried chicken and tender collard greens to fluffy cornbread and rich macaroni and cheese, every item on the buffet was a feast for the senses.

I loaded my plate with an assortment of dishes but made sure to save room for their famous peach cobbler. The moment I took my first bite, I was transported to soul food heaven. The cobbler was warm, oozing with sweet peach filling, and topped with a golden, buttery crust. It was pure bliss.

Aside from the incredible food, convenient parking made my visit even more enjoyable. I didn't have to worry about searching for a spot or walking a long distance to reach the restaurant.

Food For the Soul in Athens truly lives up to its name. It is a place where you can find food that nourishes not only your body but also your soul. The combination of home cooked soul food, a must-try buffet option, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a standout in the Athens soul food scene. Don't miss out on this culinary gem!

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Weaver D's Delicious Fine Foods

Highlights
Secret turnip greens
Southern church vibes
Hot and fresh food
Great owner and staff
True soul food rarity

Walking into Weaver D's Delicious Fine Foods, I immediately felt the southern church vibes that were promised. The humble and friendly atmosphere was reminiscent of a beloved neighborhood gathering spot. As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice that some dishes had an intriguing star next to them. I quickly discovered that these were the secret menu items, and that's when I knew I was in for a special treat.

Of all the delicacies I tried, the secret turnip greens stole the show. They were cooked to perfection, tender yet packed with flavor. Each bite transported me to my grandmother's kitchen, reminding me of Sunday dinners and family stories shared over generous portions of soulful food.

What truly impressed me about Weaver D's was not just the amazing food, but the dedication and warmth of the owner and staff. They made sure that every dish was served hot and fresh, and their passion for creating a true soul food experience was evident in every bite.

It's not often that you come across a restaurant that excels in both the food and the atmosphere, but Weaver D's Delicious Fine Foods is a true soul food rarity. Whether you're a local or just passing through Athens, this place is a must-visit. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Hot Corner Celebration And Soul Food Feast

Hot Corner Celebration And Soul Food Feast in Athens is a lively gem that will transport you straight to flavor paradise. With its mouthwatering menu of classic soul food dishes like fried chicken and collard greens, it's a celebration for your taste buds. Don't forget to try their finger-lickin' peach cobbler for the perfect sweet ending. A true soul food feast awaits you at Hot Corner!

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Kelly's Jamaican Foods

Kelly's Jamaican Foods in Athens is a hidden gem for any soul food enthusiast. The flavors exploding from every bite will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Jamaica. From the juicy jerk chicken to the spicy curry goat, every dish is an explosion of authentic Caribbean flavors. Don't miss their flavorful plantains and crispy fried dumplings. Be warned: Kelly's Jamaican Foods may cause serious addiction!

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South Kitchen + Bar

Hey folks! As an authority on soul food, I recently swung by the oh-so-delicious South Kitchen + Bar in Athens. Let me tell ya, this joint is the real deal. With their mouthwatering dishes and warm southern hospitality, I can confidently say they've nailed it. Don't miss out on their finger-lickin' good fried chicken and unbelievably creamy mac 'n' cheese. It's a soul food haven, y'all!

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Stricklands Restaurant & Catering

Stricklands Restaurant & Catering in Athens is a hidden gem for soul food enthusiasts. From their succulent fried chicken to their mouthwatering collard greens, every bite transports you to a southern heaven. The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the enjoyable dining experience. Don't miss out on their amazing peach cobbler for a perfect ending.

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home.made

Home.made in Athens is a delightful slice of soul food heaven. The cozy ambiance combined with the unforgettable flavors of their dishes transports you straight to Grandma's kitchen. Don't miss their crispy fried chicken and mouthwatering mac and cheese. It's a true soul food love affair!

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Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen

I must say, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen is a delightful spot that offers a soulful experience for your taste buds. Their menu boasts a remarkable range of southern-inspired dishes that are made from scratch with love and expertise. From the moment you step inside, the warm and inviting atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable meal. The friendly staff are attentive and knowledgeable, making you feel like a welcomed guest. As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of comfort food, I opted for their famous Chicken Fried Steak, and boy was I in for a treat! The steak was tender, juicy, and perfectly coated in a golden, crispy batter. It was served with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes and perfectly seasoned gravy that will make your taste buds dance with joy. The menu also features classic dishes such as BBQ Ribs, Fried Catfish, and the iconic Southern Fried Chicken that are all bound to satisfy your cravings for authentic soul food. If you're feeling adventurous, I highly recommend trying their loaded baked potato soup. It's a hearty and creamy delight that will warm your soul on a chilly Athens evening. Oh, and before I forget, the portion sizes at Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen are incredibly generous. You definitely won't leave this place hungry! So, if you find yourself in Athens and in need of some soulful sustenance, look no further than Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen. They provide a delectable taste of the South in a warm and inviting setting. It's soul food at its finest.

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Dawg Gone Good BBQ

I've been on a quest to find the best soul food in Athens, and my taste buds soared when I stumbled upon Dawg Gone Good BBQ. With succulent smoked meats, heavenly sides, and friendly service, this hidden gem is a true soul food paradise. Get ready to taste your way to BBQ bliss!

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