Cuisine Scene: Soul Food
Craving some soul–and stomach–satisfying food? These Long Beach soul food spots deliver all manner of favorites: crispy fried chicken to savory smothered meats, creamy sides and sweet treats. Whether you’re after the classic favorites or in the mood for some bold, modern twists, these must-try spots deliver indulgent, home-cooked dishes that feel like a hug on a plate.
ROSCOE'S HOUSE OF CHICKEN 'N WAFFLES
A Long Beach soul food landmark, Roscoe House of Chicken n’ Waffles (730 E Broadway) is, of course, where crispy, juicy fried chicken meets soft, buttery waffles drenched in maple syrup. Yeah. But, beyond the signature dish, their menu offers smothered chicken, wings, red beans, cornbread and creamy mac & cheese, all of it bursting with home-cooked flavor. More than a restaurant, Roscoe’s is a community gathering spot where every meal delivers comforting, Southern cuisine.
GEORGIA’S RESTAURANT
A soul food staple at Long Beach Exchange, Georgia’s (4101 McGowen St) plates up classic Southern comfort with heart. Expect richly seasoned fried chicken, juicy smothered pork chops, and crispy catfish alongside hearty sides like fried green tomatoes and pickles, collard greens and black eyed peas. Their shrimp and grits and gumbo are crowd‑pleaser as are sweet finishes like beignets and candied yams to round out an indulgent meal.
THE CULTURED SOUL
Once a legendary food truck, The Cultured Soul (400 E Anaheim St) now has a brick and mortar location where it continues to serve its brand of Southern classics with big, bold flavors. Plates often feature fall‑off‑the‑bone smoked pork spare ribs, juicy fried chicken, oxtail and grits and rich gouda mac & cheese, with great sides like collard greens, BBQ baked beans and candied yams. Desserts like peach cobbler are a sweet highlight.
THROWDOWN SOULFOOD
A soulful catering favorite in Long Beach, Throwdown Soulfood brings homemade comfort to every bite. Their menu contains brunch, soul food and BBQ selections and spans chicken wings and biscuits, seafood gumbo and hot links, often served with classic sides like potato salad, greens and BBQ baked beans. It’s the kind of food that warms you from the inside, as does their otherworldly peach cobbler egg rolls. Yeah.
