The Absolute Best Soul Food in Columbia [Updated 2025]

I’ve scoured the streets of Columbia, diving fork-first into plates brimming with flavor, and after tasting my way through 12 top spots, let me tell you—this city knows how to do soul food right! Whether it’s the perfectly crispy fried chicken, melt-in-your-mouth collard greens, or that sweet, sweet cornbread that just hits different, my taste buds have been on a delicious journey.

You can trust my palate; I’ve been on a quest for the heart and soul of southern cuisine, and Columbia has left me craving more. If you’re ready to indulge in some seriously good eats that warm the heart and nourish the soul, stick around. You won’t want to miss out on these culinary gems!

Carolina Buffet

Highlights
Good Southern Cooking
Affordable Buffet Prices
Excellent Homemade Desserts
Flavorful, Not Overseasoned
Inviting First Experience

Carolina Buffet is a delightful gem in Columbia, serving up good Southern cooking that truly warms the heart. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by a cozy atmosphere that felt like a welcoming embrace from your favorite aunt. The affordable buffet prices made it easy for me to indulge in a feast without breaking the bank.

As I made my way down the buffet line, the array of dishes made my mouth water. The food here is flavorful, yet not overseasoned, allowing the natural ingredients to shine through—just the way soul food should be! I piled my plate high with fried chicken, collard greens, and the most comforting macaroni and cheese I’ve had in ages.

What really stole the show were the excellent homemade desserts. I couldn’t resist trying the peach cobbler, which was a symphony of sweet and buttery bliss that left me wanting more. Overall, my first experience at Carolina Buffet was inviting and fulfilling. If you're searching for the best soul food in Columbia, this spot is a must-visit!

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Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe

Highlights
Friendly and accommodating staff
Delicious, high-quality food
Great for large groups
Customizable allergen options
Consistent positive experiences

Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe in Columbia is a delightful treasure tucked away for any soul food enthusiast. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly and accommodating staff who instantly made me feel at home. It’s not just a cafe; it’s an experience that encourages sharing good food with good company!

Now let's talk about the food—oh, the food! The dishes are a celebration of high-quality ingredients, thoughtfully crafted to deliver that classic Southern comfort with a modern twist. I appreciated the customizable allergen options, making it a breeze to enjoy my meal worry-free. Whether tackling fried chicken or creamy collard greens, each bite was a testament to Southern hospitality.

The atmosphere itself is buzzing with warmth, perfect for large groups or an intimate meal. My visit was marked by consistently positive experiences, leaving me eager to return. Mr. Friendly’s embraces the true essence of soul food, offering flavors that dance on the palate and a vibe that wraps around you like a warm hug. If you’re in search of the best soul food in Columbia, look no further—this cafe is a must-visit gem!

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Big Bull's Bang'n BBQ and Southern Comfort Food

Highlights
Short Ribs Highly Rated
Inconsistent Brisket Quality
Notable Takeout Preference
Struggles with Staffing
Dining Area Could Improve

At Big Bull's Bang'n BBQ and Southern Comfort Food, I was eager to dive into the soul-stirring flavors that this establishment promises. The first bite of the short ribs was pure joy, leaving me craving more. Tender, juicy, and seasoned to perfection, they are undoubtedly a highlight of the menu. However, I did encounter a bit of inconsistency with the brisket quality on my visit, which was somewhat disappointing.

While I appreciated the option for takeout—ideal for those cozy nights at home—the dining area felt a bit lacking in ambiance. It could benefit from some sprucing up to match the delicious food being served. Furthermore, staffing challenges seemed apparent on my visit, which slightly impacted the overall experience.

In the end, Big Bull's Bang'n BBQ undoubtedly delivers some soul food goodness, especially with their short ribs. If you're in Columbia and looking for a comforting, satisfying meal, this place is absolutely worth a try. Just be prepared for possible ups and downs—but isn't that part of the adventure in the world of BBQ?

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Indulge N PTS

Highlights
Amazing Philly Cheese Steak
Excellent customer service
Variety of wing sauces
Affordable $10 menu specials
Hidden gem in Columbia

Review of Indulge N PTS in Columbia

If you're wandering through Columbia and your taste buds are yearning for some authentic soul food, look no further than Indulge N PTS. This charming hidden gem offers a delightful twist on classic comfort dishes that had me coming back for more! Their Philly Cheese Steak is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece; a perfect blend of succulent steak and melty cheese that dances on your palate!

What truly made my visit memorable was the excellent customer service. The staff were not just friendly; they genuinely seemed to appreciate my enjoyment of their food, enhancing the whole experience. The atmosphere is cozy, with a welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home.

As if that weren't enough, their range of wing sauces is truly impressive, allowing for an explosion of flavors with every bite. Plus, their affordable $10 menu specials make it easy to indulge without breaking the bank.

In short, Indulge N PTS is the perfect spot for anyone craving savory soul food in Columbia. Trust me, this place deserves a top spot on your must-visit list!

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(Skeet & Ro's)Seasoned with Soul...

Visiting (Skeet & Ro's) Seasoned with Soul in Columbia felt like stepping into a warm embrace of flavor! The moment I entered, the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked collard greens and crispy fried chicken enveloped me, inviting me to indulge. The mac and cheese was creamy perfection, while the cornbread practically melted in my mouth—sweet and buttery bliss! The staff radiated Southern hospitality, adding to the homey vibe. If you're hunting for authentic soul food, this gem is a must-visit. I left feeling satisfied and eager to return for more of that soul-warming goodness!

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BIG BONE TAKE OUT

At BIG BONE TAKE OUT, my taste buds danced with delight! This gem serves up finger-licking ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender, perfectly seasoned, and packed with smoky flavor. The collard greens were a wonderfully savory surprise, vibrant with spices that warmed my soul. I adored the crispy cornbread, which paired beautifully with the rich, tangy BBQ sauce. The cozy atmosphere felt like home, and the friendly staff made my visit even more enjoyable. If you’re craving authentic soul food, look no further—BIG BONE TAKE OUT is a delightful destination that promises to satisfy and nourish your spirit!

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Taste And See Soul Food Kitchen

When I stepped into Taste And See Soul Food Kitchen, I was embraced by the warm aroma of seasoned spices and frying catfish. The fried chicken was crispy yet juicy, perfectly accompanied by collard greens that had just the right hint of bacon. Their cornbread? A slice of heaven—sweet and buttery! I also savored the mac and cheese, which was a creamy delight that danced on my taste buds. The atmosphere felt like a family gathering, making it easy to linger over my meal. For an authentic soul food experience in Columbia, this gem captures the heart and soul of home-cooked meals!

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Von's Southern Diner

Craving soul food? At Von's Southern Diner, I found a delightful haven where Southern comfort meets culinary mastery. The moment I stepped in, the rich aroma of smoky collard greens and buttery cornbread wrapped around me like a warm hug. I indulged in their signature fried chicken, perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy within—truly a flavor revelation! The friendly service felt like catching up with old friends, amplifying the cozy atmosphere. If you're on the hunt for authentic soul food in Columbia, Von's is a must-visit. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart.

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A Peace of Soul Vegan Kitchen

Stepping into A Peace of Soul Vegan Kitchen is like finding an oasis of flavor and compassion in the heart of Columbia. Their dishes are a delightful twist on traditional soul food, elegantly crafted to be entirely plant-based. I indulged in the jackfruit pulled 'pork', which tantalized my taste buds with its smoky richness. The mac and cheese was creamy and comforting, leaving me craving more. Plus, the inviting atmosphere and friendly staff made the experience even better. For anyone seeking soul food that nourishes both body and spirit, this gem is a must-visit destination!

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Kiki's Chicken and Waffles

At Kiki's Chicken and Waffles, each bite transports you straight to comfort food heaven. The crispy chicken perfectly balances the fluffy, golden waffles, creating a harmonious blend of texture and flavor. Their signature syrup is an absolute game-changer! I also loved the friendly atmosphere that feels like home. The service was fantastic, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. If you’re hunting for a place where soul food meets warmth and charm, this gem is a must-visit! Trust me, one visit will have you saying, “I’ll be back for seconds!”

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Simply Soulful

Stepping into Simply Soulful, I was enveloped in the warm embrace of comforting aromas that instantly transported me to my grandmother’s kitchen. The fried chicken was impossibly crispy, yet tender, with a secret spice blend that danced on my palate. Accompanied by creamy mac 'n' cheese and perfectly seasoned collard greens, each bite was pure nostalgia. The friendly staff added a personal touch, making my visit feel like a family reunion. For anyone craving authentic Southern flavors, Simply Soulful is an absolute must-visit. I left not just full, but with a heart warmed by soul food in its finest form.

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Food Gallery

Stepping into Food Gallery felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. With savory aromas wafting through the air, I knew I was in for a treat. Their fried chicken is a crispy masterpiece, perfectly complemented by homemade collard greens that sing with flavor. The mac and cheese is creamy and indulgent—each bite feels like a cozy blanket. The atmosphere is vibrant, filled with laughter and good company, making it an ideal spot for soul food lovers. If you're in Columbia and craving authentic comfort, Food Gallery is an absolute must-visit!

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