Discover Albany’s Mouthwatering Soul Food Spots

Soul food is characterized by its ingenuity and bold flavors. Recipes are passed down through generations, intertwining into the legacy of families all across the south. Quintessential soul food as we know it today contains recognizable dishes from fried catfish and oxtails to candied yams and mac and cheese. In Albany, you’ll find a plethora of incredible spots serving up the best soul food around!

Looking for a quick bite that will have you licking the plate clean? Discover a variety of casual establishments that offer fast and friendly service alongside delectable plates. A Taste of Soul offers a wide selection of soul food favorites, from an oxtail dinner and spaghetti plate to fried okra. For a quick-service experience, Soul Food Grille features a rotating menu that you can mix and match. While options vary depending on the day, you can expect an assortment of proteins like fried chicken and neck bones alongside classic sides like mac and cheese and butter beans. New Flavor Restaurant is another popular spot that offers daily lunch specials like a $6.99 two piece and a side deal. Their menu features a variety of mouthwatering meats like smothered pork chops and sides including collards and more. Another casual eatery that’s take-out only is Dunbar’s BBQ & Soul Food, where smoked barbecue meets incredible soul food options like fried chicken and oxtails.

If you’d rather enjoy a meal with the whole family, there are plenty of sit-down dining options for your next get-together. Sista's Soul Food Kitchen is known for its authentic flavors that are rooted in community and tradition. Choose from a variety of dishes, from jambalaya to southern BBQ ribs. For families who are ready to eat their weight in southern cuisine, BJ’s Country Buffet is a great option for an all you can eat experience. Their daily specials rotate but often feature fried chicken, whole catfish and fried okra.

For those looking to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy an upscale dining experience, Haystack Southern Kitchen offers exceptional service and Southern-style plates. This restaurant features a menu of classic dishes like buttermilk-fried chicken and waffles, shrimp & grits and a decadent pecan pie skillet for a sweet treat.

An iconic part of a traditional soul food experience is fried chicken. What sets southern fried chicken apart from other types is the perfectly cooked chicken leg or breast that’s juicy and a seasoned, crispy batter. Baby Shane Southern Fried Chicken is a family-owned spot that’s been serving the Albany community for over 30 years! Known for its crispy fried chicken, creamy mac & cheese and homemade peach cobbler, this is the type of spot where you’ll be asking for seconds. If you’d rather indulge in a plate of crispy chicken wings, Imperial Wings offers a wide selection of sauces like honey lemon pepper, dry ranch and hot honey mustard that take their wings to the next level.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to get your soul food fix in or a restaurant where the whole family can enjoy a meal together, Albany is home to plenty of incredible spots. Check out more of Albany’s eateries and restaurants by visiting our dining page!