There’s something magical about walking into a soul food kitchen in Alabama. The aromas of fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread transport you instantly to Sunday dinners at grandma’s house. These beloved establishments aren’t just restaurants – they’re keepers of tradition, serving up recipes passed down through generations with a hearty side of Southern hospitality. From Mobile to Birmingham, these eight Alabama soul food kitchens deliver flavors that wrap around you like a warm family hug.
1. Mary’s Southern Cooking: Mobile’s Comfort Food Haven
The moment you join the cafeteria line at Mary’s Southern Cooking, you’re family. Regulars chat across tables while servers dish out portions that could feed a small army. The smothered chicken falls off the bone after simmering for hours in gravy that’s thick enough to stand a spoon in.
Their candied yams strike that perfect balance between sweet and savory, with a buttery glaze that caramelizes at the edges. Many customers make the drive across Mobile just for a taste of their cornbread – crisp on the outside, moist on the inside.
Open since 1984, Mary’s walls are decorated with old family photos and thank-you notes from satisfied customers who’ve been coming back for decades.
2. Mrs. B’s Home Cooking: Montgomery’s Living Room
Stepping into Mrs. B’s feels like walking into your grandmother’s house unannounced – and being welcomed with open arms anyway. Housed in what was actually once a family home, the dining room still has that lived-in charm with mismatched chairs and family photos adorning wood-paneled walls…