Detroit Soul

Soul food restaurant · Jefferson Chalmers

Detroit Soul

Soul food restaurant · Jefferson Chalmers

5

14300 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48215

Photos

Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null
Detroit Soul by null

Highlights

Featured in Eater
Placeholder

14300 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48215 Get directions

detroitsoul.net

$$

Information

Static Map

14300 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48215 Get directions

+1 313 926 6305
detroitsoul.net

$$

Features

dine in
takeout
delivery
payment credit card

Last updated

Mar 4, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@eater

The Essential Restaurants for Affordable Dining in Detroit

"Now with two locations, this family-owned, eastside spot serves up classic soul food meals with a healthy-conscious twist. The smoked ribs and turkey wings are excellent, and all of the sides are flavored with turkey instead of ham hocks or fatbacks. Fish sandwiches run for about $10, and all of the portions are hefty, too. Baked beans, potato salad, collared greens, to name a few, cost around $5. They also offer mini-meals, for those who prefer to eat a delicious, but light and thrifty lunch." - Danny Palumbo

https://detroit.eater.com/maps/affordable-restaurants-detroit
View Postcard for Detroit Soul
@eater

14 Stops for Stellar Soul Food in Detroit

"This east-side family-owned carryout institution always serves up friendly smiles and some of the best soul food in the city. The show-stopping turkey wings are the best sellers, by far. The ribs from the smoker out front are tasty, too. Don’t forget the fixins’, which are flavored with turkey instead of ham hocks or fatbacks: baked beans, collards, cabbage, green beans, and potato salad, for starters." - Serena Maria Daniels

https://detroit.eater.com/maps/best-southern-soul-food-detroit
View Postcard for Detroit Soul
@eater

Detroit Soul Is Opening a New Far East Side Location - Eater Detroit

"Detroit Soul, the takeout and catering-friendly soul food spot on Eight Mile, is on track to welcoming a second location on the east side. Come November 21, Detroit Soul will welcome a second location at 14300 E. Jefferson St. Diners at the new location will get to dine in or carryout." - Serena Maria Daniels

https://detroit.eater.com/2022/10/24/23420795/detroit-soul-far-east-side-opening
View Postcard for Detroit Soul
@eater

Detroit Restaurant Ima Is Expanding to a New Space in Corktown - Eater Detroit

"Detroit Soul, known for its healthier take on traditional soul food, is planning to open a second location in early 2022. The first restaurant, located at 2900 East Eight Mile Road, is takeaway-only. The new location aims to continue offering quality and healthier soul food based on family recipes." - Emma Orlow

https://detroit.eater.com/2021/12/10/22827745/ima-noodle-expanding-corktown-bigger-restaurant-gold-cash-gold-detroit-soul-khana
View Postcard for Detroit Soul
@eater

Black-Owned Restaurants in Detroit Are Hard Hit by the Pandemic - Eater

"In the second week of March, Sam Van Buren, co-owner of Detroit Soul — a counter service restaurant offering soul food classics with a healthier twist — fell ill." - Brittany Hutson

https://www.eater.com/2020/4/30/21242951/black-owned-restaurants-in-detroit-are-hard-hit-by-the-pandemic
View Postcard for Detroit Soul

Danielle Gaston

Google
I have been craving SF and found this absolute GEM. My fam and I visited today around 12:30. I had fried chicken meal with greens, yams and cornbread muffin. My cousin had shrimp meal with mac&cheese, yams and dressing with gravy. IT WAS SO GOOD! OUr server was awesome! FOOD was 💯 FR! And then dessert! Oh my word.... thee most moist cake I've had since my grandma cakes! Great experience!! Will definitely be back! Can't wait!!!!

Ignacio Kleinman

Google
Detroit Soul delivers an outstanding soul food experience with its perfectly seasoned and crispy fried pork chops, and the strawberry banana milkshake is a creamy, delightful treat. The warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service make this spot a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Southern comfort food in Detroit. Highly recommended for a satisfying meal that feels like home! Briana was a wonderful server.

Tierra Jones (TierraLaJay)

Google
Pretty nice spot on the Eastside of Detroit. The dressing is so good and moist baby it’s real!! The Mac and cheese was tasty and I had smothered baked chicken which was amazing!

Severin Vogt

Google
I had catfish for the first time here and it was delicious! The chicken was fall off the bone, the yams were hot and savory, the cornbread was authentic, and the strawberry shortcake was sweet and creamy. The owner is very friendly and has done a great job with the place.

Dez St.

Google
If you’re looking for good soul food with AMAZING service, I highly recommend this place! The older lady who greeted me, and my server Bri, were both extremely friendly and kind! The place was pretty empty so I was seated right away and got my food quickly. The meat loaf was okay, could’ve had more flavor and been cooked longer but the sides really made this meal stand out. Hands down the best sides I’ve had at a soul food restaurant! Everything was nice and hot, the flavor was on point. I’ll definitely be back! Also - they sell cake and it was very moist and flavorful. 👍🏽

Marc Mathews

Google
Such a beautiful spot, the fried chicken was amazing, and collard greens better than anything I can find in Vegas. Going to try and make it back before I head out of town. And will for sure return on my next trip to Detroit.

Latonya Foster

Google
Friendly staff with a warm welcome. Clean and beautifully decorated. I ordered the catfish and was very happy to taste farm raised catfish. I had greens and candied yams as my sides. Both tasted fresh. If it's from a can they are very food a disguising it. It's a little on the pricey side. Not going to deter me I will be back to scratch my soulfood itch.

Sparkle Jewel

Google
DEFINITELY RECOMMEND! We came in from Atlanta with our church group and they were very accommodating. The hospitality was excellent and the food was plentiful and taste delicious. The strawberry cake is heavenly. The price and good portions were on point. I will revisit when I come back.
google avatar

Michael H.

Yelp
Well, the waitress made it abundantly clear that we were not welcome as soon as we walked in. "You can have a small table, but MAKE SURE there's two menus". Uh, ok. The place is basically empty, but ok. The wife and I sit at a small table with two menus. She eventually brings over two glasses of ice and a carafe of water. Then walks away. Comes back and asks what we want. Lunch menu or dinner... we place our order and she's gone. 25 minutes later, she sets up a tray holder next to the table, for two meals. Again, ok. The collard greens were pretty good. (I like them a little spicier). The mac and cheese was bland as was my meatloaf. The gravy? Cold. The meat? Cold. Have you ever had cold meatloaf with cold bland gravy? If I order it, I eat it. That's the rules and I got through it. The wife was blah about her smothered pork chop. Especially trying to cut it with a butter knife... Two young women walk in and the waitress lights up, "sit wherever you'd like, you can have one of the big tables too". She made sure we heard and gave me a look after saying it. Again, ok. I'm starting to understand. 20 minutes after finishing our cold meals she brings the tray holder to clear the table and asks if we are adding ice cream to the bill. I say no thank you, just the bill and hand her my card. She then hits me we "I have to go get the bill and bring it to you, THEN I'll take your payment"... uh, what? OK. 5 minutes later she drops the bill on the table, no words, just plop. I don't bother looking at it and hand her my card. I now 100% understand what is going on. She processes the payment and, again, plop... on the table. They automatically charge over 15% gratuity. For two people. That cold ass flavorless meatloaf was $22. I normally tip more than that. Even with shitty service, but again... I get it. They made it very clear to my wife and I that we were not welcome here. Why were we singled out? We're white. That's it. Every other customer got the "family" treatment. We got cold food and an automatic gratuity with a bad attitude.
google avatar

D C.

Yelp
Just left from eating dinner here. The staff was awesome and the food was great. my wait time was fairly short. I ordered the cat fish, with greens and black eye peas and they remind me of my grandmother's. I would definitely go back!
google avatar

Adrian G.

Yelp
Love this place! Great people, Great service, and Great FOOD!!! I urge everyone to patronize this First Class, and down home establishment!!!!
google avatar

Shamar H.

Yelp
As a native Detroiter and one who LOVES Soul Food, I have to give an honest version of my opinion. So to do so, I will do a Pros and Cons version of this review. ** I was at the Jefferson location** Cons (as I like my bad news first) -The service is lacking. Our waitress dropped off our drinks and it was another 15-20 minutes before she circled back around to get our order. After we placed our order it took a VERY long time to get our food, I'm talking over 35-40 minutes. We heard for at least 15 minutes, we are waiting on the fried chicken. . I told my wife, I guess they went and murked the chick and we will have some very fresh chicken. Not fully the case. Also, we had to flag our server down to get the check as things took so long we were now late for our show. Lastly- it was less than 10 total people in the whole dining area and 4-5 of them worked for this establishment. There is no excuse for why it took almost 45 minutes for us to get a fairly basic meal. -Surprise ‼The Ice Cream Lady. Before we got our food and honestly before we could order our meal the Ice Cream lady came over and very pointedly interrupted my wife and I's conversation. Like it was shocking! And when she told us the special, I asked a question and I won't tell you what she said to me, but I had to clutch my pearls on what I thought was a basic question about what she was peddling to us. My Boo later said, you pissed someone off and that's why our food is taking so long....... I can neither confirm nor deny that statement. -The Food, I'm trying to be kind and say, we all have our bad days. So to wait an extremely long time for the food and it be brought out in a very odd way, some sides first, then some other items, then 15 minutes later my chicken, it was disjointed. As for the food itself, a lot and I mean A LOT of salt and pepper and hot sauce was used at our table. Simply stated, the food was bland. Maybe they cater to a crowd that has a specific diet. Pro (and there are a few) - We were graciously welcomed when we entered. It helped to make us feel welcomed and we were immediately seated. - No pork in the veggie options, greens, green beans and others were using smoked Turkey. Very, very, very, very appreciated. - The open concept was great as the sun was shining and with all of the windows, it's a beautiful setting. You also get to look out those wonderful windows and imagine what that part of Detroit used to be. - An amazing play list. The music was very relaxing and set a very calming mood. It was not too heavy on word play but nice instrumental ambiance to guide us through our experience. - I love the concept of having two services in one. Ice cream after dinner is a great touch, especially for couples or friends hanging out. - Our meal was affordable. I didn't have sticker shock and the bill was true to what we ordered and that allowed be to leave a decent gratuity, despite the total experience. All in All, I am glad we trekked from Ypsilanti over to this space. I appreciate what was trying to be delivered. But when we asked each other our key question when reviewing our experiences- "Would you come back", unfortunately it was a resounding no.... Too many other places to try and when the meal takes forever, the food is lack luster and you are made to feel like you pissed a staffer off for asking a question, it all equates to a No Thank You for us. Thank you for the experience Jefferson Detroit Soul.

Ken P.

Yelp
Great food great atmosphere Wonderful people and staff who provided delightful service.

Linda C.

Yelp
The service was great and the food was delicious. I had catfish and it was cooked just right and greens and macaroni were good!
google avatar

Jessica K.

Yelp
We had a great meal here last weekend. I had the meatloaf with Mac and cheese and coleslaw. My husband had fried chicken with the mac and cheese and collard greens, and our son had the chicken wings with mac and cheese and French fries. All of the food was very tasty. My husband said it's the best fried chicken he's ever had. We each had a scoop of the ice cream, which was super fresh and delicious. The service was amazing; everyone was warm and friendly. It wasn't very busy on a Saturday night, so I hope business picks up for them. They're truly a gem and we will definitely return soon!
google avatar

Maureen D.

Yelp
We got a carry out from Detroit Soul last night. The catfish and side dishes were delicious! Check this restaurant out. We definitely plan to go back soon.
google avatar

Chadrick F.

Yelp
From the time I walked in until the time I left, the customer service, ambiance and food was AMAZING. I'd DEFINITELY come again. PS. Candied yams were on POINT and our waitress Briana was great!

Allan R.

Yelp
We enjoyed the tilapia but after ordering the catfish, she returned with a pork chop claiming I ordered it while talking to her staff . She finally came back but this time it was a different kind of fish, definitely not a catfish fillet because of the shape and size. I just ate it just so I don't have to wait much longer. When the receipt came out , the catfish was listed just the way we ordered it in the first place. Too bad because I really wanted to like this place.

Michelle J.

Yelp
The Mother's Day Brunch was outstanding. Detroit Soul literally rolled out the red carpet for all their guests. The buffet had everything including shrimp & grits, eggs, bacon, sausage, fried chicken, greens . . . I can't even name everything but anything anyone could have wanted was on the menu this day. Shout out to the owners and all the staff. They are so hospitable and attentive. Come out and enjoy the food, the atmosphere, and the friendly staff. I highly recommend this place on Jefferson and on Eight Mile.

Keetha M.

Yelp
My honey I are here from California and we found this jewel on yelp... despite some of the negative reviews we wanted to try it for ourselves. And let me tell you they did not disappoint! The ancestors are back in that kitchen coming through with the seasonings. We had the chicken wings, catfish, yams, baked beans, greens, and green beans. Everything was absolutely delicious! The ambiance is pleasant and the staff was friendly. This place is a must try if your looking for some real soul food.
google avatar

Edd E.

Yelp
Food is good, they specialize in healthier options. So this is not your typical soul food, though getting the right items on the menu does satisfy. Not the biggest fan of the chicken, but the fish is great. Also, depending on the side, some are better than others.

Eugene H. D.

Yelp
Portion of catfish did not justify pricing...yes it was two pcs however they were butterflied so hard it was mostly breading ( thin as a sheet of wax paper) ..the muffins were odd tasting....Mac and cheese was dry. Two tablespoons of cabbage...well $20....NOT....in all fairness waitress was nice and attentive.... My fiance had the meatloaf dinner ...2 PCs of meatloaf were cut thin ....not worth the $ 20 either
google avatar

Sheryl M.

Yelp
Excellent service. Very clean. Crispy Catfish, very tender. Great yams. Tender greens - could use more seasoning. Mac and cheese was creamy and flavorful. Salmon cakes were only average. Overall, highly recommended.

Y M.

Yelp
I stopped in on this St. Patties day for lunch. Loving the small quaint clientele. Friendly service. Only in biz for 45 days thus far. But wait, here comes the food??? Complete disappointment. They 1don't give enough to make you happy enough before you walk out the door. Not worth the cost. I had to go to captn Jay's to finish off my satiation. Not recommended if you're hungry.

janne l.

Yelp
1. they don't have a phone 2. I have waited for takeout more than 45 minutes both times I was in the restaurant 3. Last time there, order was wrong...even with 50 minutes to make it. 8-20-23

Gigi S.

Yelp
Went a few months back trying to support a local business in the area. Food was terrible. Waited 30+ minutes for a carryout place wasn't busy and if you look towards the kitchen most things are premade and they box it up cafeteria style. Mac and cheese was gross with no flavor. Asked the waitress to make sure we had tartar and hot sauce and didn't have any once we checked the bag. Catfish was decent but I've had better at the local u buy we fry places.
google avatar

carrie w.

Yelp
Finally tried this location 2 weeks ago. The food was amazing, but our waitress was not. Thankfully the other waitstaff noticed that or waitress forgot about us. We both had fried chicken. Mac and cheese was outstanding. Try it, and don't forget the ice cream.
google avatar

Keith D.

Yelp
I ordered the baked chicken with Mac and cheese and collard greens. Needless to say the food hit my tummy before I could get photos

Alexis M.

Yelp
Had a wonderful meal here Saturday night! The food was delicious, service and atmosphere equally as appealing! Very nice and friendly staff. I had the fried chicken and the others in my group ordered the perch and the baked chicken. The entrees included 2 sides from a nice list of options, and a delicious homemade corn muffin! Also, I loved how there is an Ice Cream Shop called Ice Cream Detroit right there in the restaurant! (A second one will be opening in Midtown in June). The ice cream is made in-house and is phenomenal! I highly recommend the food and ice cream in this new-to-the-neighborhood restaurant. (It's located in the old Kresge Building if you're familiar with the area). Do yourself a favor and go check it out!
google avatar

Georgette B.

Yelp
We were there from 2:00 until 5:00 for my sister Birthday. The food is good but they need to do something about the wait time. Also I had to ask for utensils and water. The utensils should have been on the table when we arrived. We had a party of 9.

Timera C.

Yelp
Quite the disappointment for a casual Sunday meal... I went there on a date with my partner. Food was okay, partner ordered greens and they didn't have enough to bring out for my partner's meal and she said "we'll have some fresh ones in just a few" .... Lousy service all around. Didn't bring tartar sauce then had an attitude when I requested some. By the time we finished our meals they finally brought them out instead of offering an alternative they finally brought them out... felt like we were inconveniencing them by being there. Was yelling to greet customers as they were trying to take our orders, person was clearing off table next to ours and slid the chairs carelessly to our dining space. We were 2 people and only ordered 2 fish dinners. They added an automatic gratuity and no where listed in the menu or inside does it indicate there will be an automatic gratuity charge... smh. 0/10. Would recommend if you're on the east side and don't know how to cook, want your eyes to burn from the kitchen smoke and get poor service.
google avatar

Stephani J.

Yelp
This restaurant is a wonderful addition to the Jefferson Chalmers neighborhood. The food is amazing. I love how they remodeled the building. The service was on point. Get the smothered pork chops! Your grandmother couldn't make them any better.

Christa R.

Yelp
First time to Detroit soul tonight. Delicious! Had the perch with a side of yams and coleslaw. Husband had fried chicken with french fries and the best mac & cheese we've ever had. Everybody working there was kind and friendly. It's a great addition to the neighborhood. Ended the meal with a chocolate milkshake. We will be back.

DeShawn T.

Yelp
I've heard so many good things I was literally excited to try this place out. Finally get there just to be UTTERLY disappointed. The food wasn't fresh. The Mac & Cheese was dry and the pork chops were refried. I spent $80 on 3 meals and had to trash the food. If I NEVER get back to this spot it will be too soon. On the plus side the service was exceptional. The food was sub par to say the least.

Annie D.

Yelp
The food was amazing! The waitress and the hostess were very welcoming. Clean and pleasant environment. I had meatloaf Mac and cheese, cabbage, greens, turkey leg, and candy yams all was very tasty!

Tracy M.

Yelp
Was very excited to try this restaurant,but was totally disappointed.I ordered the fried chicken breast which was small in portion and salty to taste,the macaroni and cheese lacked seasoning and cheese, the dressing was tolerable,the yams had a bit of an after taste and the food was expensive not equal to the quality.By it being a new establishment,no one from management walked around to greet customers and to get feedback.I left 90% of my food on the plate.I love going to restaurants and I don't mind paying for the dining experience if the quality and taste of the food measure up to the cost.I may try again in a couple weeks to see if my dining experience will be better.Today was not good day for me at "Detroit Soul"