Soul Food Restaurants near Emeryville, CA

“Shawny C was an absolute beacon of light from the moment we met her. Her warm personality, genuine kindness, and welcoming spirit made us feel right at home. She didn't just serve drinks—she created an experience that made us feel valued, appreciated, and cared for.

It's rare to meet someone who naturally makes people feel welcomed and loved, but Shawny does exactly that. Her positive energy was contagious, and her authenticity stood out in the best possible way. By the end of our visit, we felt like we'd come back just to see her again.

Rob Ben's Restaurant & Lounge is fortunate to have someone like Shawny representing their establishment. She turned a good visit into a memorable one, and we can't wait to return.“

“Fried fish like fat grandma used to make. Mmm mm mm“

“Great food and if you like hot, they’ve got it!“

“The fried chicken is crispy outside and juicy tender inside. The various chicken combos are good deals. There is a wait for orders because the food is not precooked and sitting under heat lamps. Parking can be difficult and the small parking lot fills up quickly. I will definitely be returning!“

“Was looking for a good breakfast spot and this popped up. This little joint packs a lot of flavor in every bite. I do believe this place has the best chicken and waffles in the city. The off the porch cocktail was dangerously delicious, and I'm saying that as someone who generally never drinks alcohol, but it was incredible. We ordered the sweet creme pancake, chicken and waffles, beingets, cocktail and hash brown on the side. Everything with tip set me back a pretty penny (75$) but it was honestly worth every cent, and today's meal was definitely a splurge (without the beignets and cocktail, I would have saved myself $20).
Considering they offer $22 by steak and eggs, I think that's the cheapest I've seen it anywhere, so please, get what you can afford here, as you won't be sorry.
Fried chicken was drippingly moist, tender and well seasoned. Waffles were fluffy and went perfect with the maple butter. Pancake tasted like a slice of fresh cake, fried eggs and bacon were on point, and hash browns didn't even need ketchup as they were perfectly fluffy and crispy, just needed a touch of salt and pepper. My chicken and waffles came out last and a little longer than everything else, but it was worth the wait, as the chicken was clearly fresh from the fryer.
Service is more help yourself: for the coffee they gave us a mug to go grab our own from an airpot (slightly sour, which suggested a lighter roast; not bad, but not great 'diner' coffee, but palatable with our meal enough for a free refill). You order at the front and help yourself to cutlery and water at the back. There's a bathroom (single room, air dryer, gender neutral), the walls are beautifully painted with a proudly black woman theme, and the tables are primarily benches or metal garden furniture seating. All tables accommodate 4-6 adults, but table sharing seems okay here too. If driving here, parking can be a little difficult, but coming on a Sunday meant no payment which was nice, and we found a spot relatively fast and nearby on the main street. Otherwise, plenty of public transit options are very close.
If you're looking for a giant fluffy PANcake, an amazing chicken and waffles, or just looking for a great cocktail, stop by this place and you won't regret it. Splurge if you can, too, cus the sides are all incredibly worth it.“

“Great food and music. Xxx.“

“Outstanding customer service. Black Owned and Operated...“

“I had the salmon croquettes and they were absolutely amazing!!“

“People working here are friendly, really old-fashioned friendly. The food is absolutely the best! This is definitely a hidden gem of the East Bay; once you come and enjoy the delicious catfish and chicken, you’ll keep coming back. I guarantee it!! Oh, did I mention the lemon cake? Outstanding!!“

“We ordered the family dinner and added the jumbo prawns. Very happy with our selections. Everything was right on point. Server was very knowledgeable about the menu and the drinks/wine, very professional. We had high expectations and were very pleased after our dinner.“

“Honestly the best soul food I have had in years. Ox tail was the true meaning of tendernisim, and for 35 bucks, you can not beat it. mac and cheese was perfect, greens were on point, fire red beans and the shrimp, OMFG. These guys know what they are doing. An absolute must stop for authentic soul food. And they do catering or single plates.“

“YS_Choice is amazing. The food was great and servers were very polite.“

“great food.. great service...i cannot express how tasty the food was...definitely must try“

“Shout out to Kenny and his crew! Community focused, amazing food, and creates such a fun atmosphere! Thank you for supporting the Claremont Middle School Awards celebration!“

“The most tender brisket I may have had anywhere. 🥰🥰“

“Fried fish like fat grandma used to make. Mmm mm mm“

“Loved the food!“

“We ordered fried chicken, mac and cheese, greens, and yams for our work Black History Month event, and everything was absolutely delicious! The food arrived hot, fresh, and perfectly prepared.

It added such a special touch to our celebration and gave attendees a wonderful taste of soul food that truly complemented the spirit of the event. Guests were going back for seconds and thirds — which says it all! 😊

Rome himself delivered the food right on time and provided excellent customer service. He was professional, friendly, and made the entire experience seamless.

Thank you for helping make our event memorable — we will definitely be ordering again“