Best Soul Food in Washington DC: 10 Black-Owned Restaurants (2026)

By Online African Shop Team · Updated September 2026

Looking for the best soul food in Washington DC? These 10 Black-owned restaurants cover everything from chili half-smokes, fried fish and wood-smoked barbecue to brunch spots and modern Southern kitchens. You'll find them in U Street, Shaw, LeDroit Park and Historic Anacostia. Our top picks are Ben's Chili Bowl, Florida Avenue Grill and Oohh's & Aahh's.

Every business here was named as Black-owned by a trusted local source (listed at the bottom). Hours and locations change, so call or check the website before you go.

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FAQ

What is the best soul food restaurant in Washington DC?

Ben's Chili Bowl on U Street is the landmark, famous for its chili half-smoke. Florida Avenue Grill is one of the oldest soul food restaurants in the country, and Oohh's & Aahh's is the go-to for fried fish, mac and cheese and generous plates.

Which Washington DC neighborhoods have the most spots on this list?

U Street, Shaw, LeDroit Park and Historic Anacostia each have places on this list.

How was this list made?

We only include businesses named as Black-owned by trusted local sources, such as city tourism boards, local news and food writers. The sources are listed below. We check the list regularly, but always confirm hours before you go.

Can I suggest a business?

Yes. Email youronlineafricanshop@gmail.com with the business name, address and a link.

Keep exploring

Sources

• 20+ Black Chefs and Black-Owned Restaurants & Bars in Washington, DC (Destination DC)
• How To Spend A Day In Black-Owned Washington, D.C. (Travel Noire)
• Oohh's & Aahh's (Intentionalist)
• DCity Smokehouse - Anacostia (Intentionalist)
• Doro Soul Food (Intentionalist)
• Nine Black-owned restaurants to try for dinner in Charlotte (QCity Metro)
• Delicious meals are plentiful during Black Restaurant Week (Washington Informer)
• Black-Owned Restaurants in Washington D.C. (Travel Noire)