Washington State’s soul food scene holds flavors that feel like home. Across Seattle, Tacoma and beyond, family-run kitchens and cozy diners serve up recipes that remain true to tradition.
I’ve spent time exploring these spots, tasting their specialties, and talking with locals who keep these kitchens thriving. Here are eight soul food restaurants where you’ll find plates that tell a story, each spot has its own personality, but all of them serve food that tastes like family history.
1. Simply Soulful (Seattle)
If comfort had an address in Seattle, it would be at Simply Soulful on South Jackson. The first time I tasted their breakfast biscuit sandwich, I realized why so many locals keep coming back. The staff greet you by name and always seem genuinely happy to see a full house.
This café feels both laid-back and lively, especially on weekends when families gather for brunch. Their cornbread waffles and fried chicken strike a perfect balance, crispy outside, tender inside, with just the right hit of sweetness. Even the shrimp and grits have a depth that suggests a well-loved family recipe passed through generations…