New York City, a kaleidoscope of cultures and cuisines, is home to an enchanting array of soul food catering options that tantalize palates and ignite communal gatherings. Here, we delve into ten soul food catering services spread across the city, each with its own distinctive flair and warmth that evokes the essence of its Southern roots. From savory dishes to sweet indulgences, these caterers provide more than just food—they deliver an experience steeped in history and tradition.
1. The Brownstone
Address: 1244 Bed-Stuy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216
Contact: (718) 484-4830
Website: thebrownstoneny.com
The Brownstone is a veritable treasure trove of authentic soul food, infusing classic recipes with a modern twist. Specializing in fried chicken, collard greens, and mac ‘n cheese, their catering service is akin to a warm embrace, bringing families together over time-honored flavors. With impeccable service and a personal touch, The Brownstone transforms any gathering into a soulful feast.
2. Mama’s Cuisine
Address: 1322 6th Ave, Manhattan, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 265-8888
Website: mamascuisine.com
Mama’s Cuisine celebrates the nurturing spirit of Southern cooking, delivering hearty platters that echo the legacy of Southern grandmothers. Their catering services feature mouthwatering gumbo, cornbread, and shrimp and grits, conjuring imagery of lazy Sunday afternoons. With personalized menus, each event becomes a celebration of family traditions and generational recipes.
3. Sylvia’s Restaurant Catering
Address: 328 Malcolm X Blvd, Harlem, NY 10027
Contact: (212) 996-0660
Website: sylviasrestaurant.com
Often referred to as the “Queen of Soul Food,” Sylvia’s offers a catering service that mirrors its famed restaurant’s celebratory atmosphere. Infamous for its fried chicken and waffles, Sylvia’s invokes the vibrance of Harlem culture, turning every catered event into a cultural experience. Their attention to detail and flavor ensures an unforgettable culinary journey.
4. Papo’s Kitchen
Address: 570 Hunts Point Ave, Bronx, NY 10474
Contact: (718) 893-2440
Website: paposkitchen.com
Papo’s Kitchen embodies the vibrant spirit of the Bronx with its lively and flavorful dishes. Renowned for their Caribbean-inspired soul food, offerings like jerk chicken and plaintains add a tropical twist to traditional favorites. Their catering service is a celebration of multicultural influences, serving as a culinary bridge that connects diverse communities.
5. Sweet Potatoes
Address: 294 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Contact: (718) 783-2700
Website: sweetpotatoesrestaurant.com
Sweet Potatoes caters to those who savor the sweetness of life. Famed for their sweet potato pie and innovative use of seasonal ingredients, their dishes are the embodiment of culinary comfort. With a commitment to sustainability, they create catered experiences that are not just delicious but also environmentally conscious, appealing to the hearts and minds of their clientele.
6. Ronnie’s Soul Food
Address: 439 N 6th St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Contact: (718) 383-8880
Website: ronniessoulfood.com
Ronnie’s Soul Food is like an old friend who serves your favorite dish. Specializing in down-home classics, they offer delightful trays of catfish, ribs, and cornbread that are reminiscent of Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house. Their warm hospitality and personalized menus elevate any gathering, ensuring guests leave with their hearts—and stomachs—full.
7. Comfort Zone Soul Food Catering
Address: 1240 Castle Hill Ave, Bronx, NY 10462
Contact: (718) 975-8700
Website: comfortzonesoulfood.com
True to its name, Comfort Zone Soul Food Catering envelops you in familiar flavors and aromas that evoke nostalgia. Their heartwarming dishes like baked ziti and collard greens bring solace in every bite. It’s a catering service that not only feeds the body but also nourishes the soul, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and elegant affairs.
8. Red Rooster Harlem
Address: 310 Lenox Ave, Harlem, NY 10027
Contact: (212) 792-9001
Website: redroosterharlem.com
A culinary gem, Red Rooster Harlem marries soul food with an artistic flair. The brainchild of celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, this catering operation offers a menu that blends traditional dishes with contemporary techniques. Their iconic fried yardbird and signature cocktails serve as the centerpiece for gatherings filled with laughter and stories, making every event a lively affair.
9. D’s Soulful Catering
Address: 57 W 38th St, Manhattan, NY 10018
Contact: (646) 890-4777
Website: dssoulfulcatering.com
D’s Soulful Catering is synonymous with flexibility and creativity. They curate custom menus tailored to the preferences of their clients, seamlessly blending flavors and influences. Their sumptuous shrimp po’ boys and decadent desserts create an enchanting atmosphere that invites connection, making every gathering an occasion to celebrate.
10. Just Soul Catering
Address: 140 W 116th St, Harlem, NY 10026
Contact: (646) 712-0418
Website: justsoulnyc.com
With a mission to redefine soul food for a contemporary audience, Just Soul Catering combines tradition with innovation. Their unique offerings, such as quinoa-battered fried chicken and vegan options, expand the definition of soul food while providing homage to its origins. They encapsulate the versatility of soul cuisine, appealing to a modern palate while preserving its rich heritage.
Each of these soul food caterers presents a unique narrative, an ode to Southern heritage, and an exploration of flavors. For New Yorkers, they provide not just nourishment but an opportunity to come together, share stories, and create lasting memories around the dining table. Whether hosting a picnic, wedding, or corporate event, these caterers ensure that every bite transports you to a place of comfort and joy—a true celebration of soul.
