Welcome to Southern Cafe
At Southern Cafe, nestled in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, we celebrate the rich traditions of Southern soul food. Our story is rooted in the warmth of hospitality, where every meal is crafted with love and authenticity. Guests can savor timeless dishes like smothered pork chops, catfish po'boys, and our signature peach cobbler, each bursting with flavor and heritage. With a cozy ambiance perfect for families and groups, we invite everyone to indulge in breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Whether you're stopping by for a quick takeout or a leisurely meal, we promise a comforting experience that feels like home.
Southern Cafe: Reviews & Ratings
I'm giving you 5 stars bc I don't believe in judging businesses without being fair. Are you guys open or temporary closed? Google is saying you're closed, Yelp is saying open. Y'all gotta get that phone on Yelp fixed up there. Cmon Southern Cafe let's be great!
I recently was in Cleveland for a short vacation and decided to stop by this place after a long day by Lake Erie, and loved it from the moment I walked in. Parking was a breeze, and the I was seated right away. The friendly server - who also doubles as the cashier - was incredibly welcoming. It has an extensive menu of some southern classics. While the decor was nothing to write home about, places like these are about the food, not the decor. I got the smothered pork chops with collard greens and candied yams. The chops were nicely spiced and salted, the gravy rich and deep with slivers with onions in it. The collard greens were the best I have ever had. If you're visiting Cleveland, this is a must-try.
Hello from Cleveland, Ohio. On the road for a graduation. And you know when you are out vacationing you must try what the locals recommend. So here is my personal review of this place. Unfortunately it took a while to get our order because there is only one server, cashier, greeter. You name it this lady is outstanding. Kudos to her for keeping it cool when the place is full. I had the catfish fingers with mashed potatoes. It was the best I have had. The only one hung is that it was a bit salty for my taste. The mashed potatoes were also a bit salty but really good. The hubby had the catfish Po'boy with fries. And my son had the Philly cheesesteak with fries. We all shared some shrimp and grits. Delicious. And I had to try the purple rain drink. I am a big fan of Prince so I just had to have this and it did not disappoint. I'm he ambiance was great since I was with the family and there were other families there too. The only thing I did not like is that they have you go to the front to pay and we did not get a receipt. I can totally understand because the waitress/cashier was the only one. So thank you Cleveland for this experience.
Love the fried okra Catfish seasoned well Red velvet pancakes were wonderful. Service was good.
The menu is amazing! So many delicious meals and sides to choose from! Quick and friendly service....and help in choosing just the right dish. The food is fresh and authentic flavor. Everything we ordered was delicious! Wear your stretching pants because you won't be able to stop eating! This is a hidden gem'
Service was great and friendly (I think her name was Lisa). The food was truly just so delicious. The portions were big. The prices very reasonable. The music was a chill Vibe. It was just a perfect afternoon, in good company, with fantastic food and service. There was everything to love about this place!
We stopped here one day while visiting the area and I have to say it was a great choice. My son had blackened catfish with yams and okra for the sides, I had smothered fried pork chop with grits and yams for my sides and of course we washed it all down with tall glasses of kool aid. Both came with a moist and tender jalapeño corn muffin. We also split an app of fried green tomatoes. The flavors were ON POINT. I have to say that the grits were amazing and probably some of the best I have ever had. The only thing taking it from 5 to 4 is it was super hot and the AC needed some work, also my sons meal came out a good 15 minutes after mine so I was nearly done by the time his came and I really wanted a smothered turkey chop but they didn't have any turkey. We also had some peach cobbler- very good!
As ALWAYS I was hungry but for a small slim Lady like me, it gets to a point of being HANGRY. I was out on the West side of Cleveland running around and got to my point. My trusty Yelper to the rescue! I just did a search and let my tastebuds do the talking and scrolled to Southern Cafe. If I'm not going to do breakfast, make it soul food please. Now. When Cynthia greeted me, I looked sidewise. But you know there is affirmative action and she was just a good ass server. Didn't get anything wrong and I had everything without asking. And the best part was she did just the right amount of checking in and was ever so polite. Nice and clean place. Black owned and operated. The menu has a combination of all of your Southern comforts. We opted for the perch dinner that came with 2 sides (fried okra & Cole slaw) and chicken & red velvet Waffles with a half cup of grits. FIRST OF ALL WHERE IS THE CHEF BECAUSE S/HE NEEDS TO BE AT MY HOUSE EVERYDAY!!! Ya'll the food came out quick and HOT. It all looked good and was hot. My friend just kept saying the fish is delicious, the okra is delicious, I don't really like Cole slaw except with my fish and its delicious! Lolol I have to say my chicken was hot and crispy, the Waffles had a hint of cocoa, which I appreciated and my grits were freaking bomb! Yall we HAD to meet the chef. Andrew God bless you Brother. I pray goodness and mercy follow you all of the days of your life. Ya'll support the man doing his thing. The restaurant is on a quaint little street and very comforting inside
Location
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13905 Kinsman Ave Cleveland, OH 44120 United States Hotline: (216) 801-4535
Welcome to Southern Cafe, a charming haven for lovers of Southern and soul food nestled in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio. Located at 13905 Kinsman Ave, this delightful eatery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a delightful breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner experience steeped in authentic Southern flavor.
As you walk through the doors of Southern Cafe, you are enveloped by a warm, casual ambiance perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to enjoy hearty soul food in a quiet, welcoming setting. The cafe is not only wheelchair accessible but also offers amenities such as free Wi-Fi, TVs for entertainment, and gender-neutral restrooms, ensuring comfort for everyone. Add to that the options for takeout, catering, and group meals, making Southern Cafe an ideal spot for any occasion.
At Southern Cafe, the heart of the experience lies in the menu. Diners can start their day with heavenly dishes like the Red Velvet Waffles or classic Pancakes, both served with a choice of savory meat, promising a little taste of indulgence. For something unique, try the Omelette Sandwich featuring a perfectly cooked vegetable omelette, fried green tomatoes, and smoky applewood bacon—all enveloped in Texas toast and finished with bayou mayo. It’s a breakfast lover’s dream!
But the soul doesn’t stop with breakfast. Customers rave about the Smothered Pork Chops and Collard Greens, where every bite is bursting with rich, deep flavors reminiscent of home-cooked Southern meals. If you're a fan of seafood, the Catfish Fingers and Catfish Po’boy come highly recommended, showcasing perfectly seasoned fish that is simply irresistible.
Don’t overlook the appetizers, which are equally tempting. Guests are often drawn to Soul Rolls, a unique spin on the classic eggroll, or the quintessential Fried Green Tomatoes, a signature Southern dish. Whether it’s the vibrant flavors of the Purple Rain drink or the satisfying crunch of fried okra, every dish tells a story of Southern tradition and culinary love.
While the food steals the show, it’s the service that makes Southern Cafe stand out. Many visitors highlight the friendly and welcoming staff, who ensure that your experience is as delightful as the meals they serve. However, be prepared for a unique ordering process, where you pay at the front, which keeps things casual and laid-back.
With a menu brimming with delicious options, and a reputation for fantastic food and warm service, Southern Cafe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. So bring your family, grab your friends, and discover this hidden gem where the Southern hospitality truly shines. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast or a delightful brunch, you’ll leave with a satisfied palate and fond memories.
For those planning a visit or looking for more information, you can reach out to Southern Cafe at (216) 801-4535. Prepare your stretchy pants and a hearty appetite—this Southern gem is ready to serve you!
