Best Soul Food Restaurants in South Pasadena

Los Angeles' Soul Food scene has really diminished over the last 30 years, so it's refreshing to have an authentic, high quality soul food experience. We went on New Year's night and the place was PACKED! Even though we were 45 minutes late for our reservation (Rose Bowl traffic), the hostess worked us in and we were seated about 10 minutes after checking in. Our server was very cheerful and knowledgeable about the menu (as was, we later discovered, the busser). We had the Ox Tails (amazingly tender & flavorful, with a touch of umami - not sure if it was Worcestershire or Soy - that gave them tang), Fried Chicken, Red Beans, Okra, Collard Greens, Yams, Corn Bread and Peach Cobbler. The chicken was crispy, yet the breast was still moist, and the red beans were classic. The okra was charred excellently (I usually don't like okra) and we enjoyed it thoroughly. Collards and Yams were authentic southern style. The cobbler was a little syrupy, but tasted great. BUT IT'S THE SERVICE THAT MADE EVERYTHING STAND OUT - from the greeters to the bussers, the staff was amazing, which made the experience all the better.

I have been to Joyce several times and for me it’s one of my favorite and best restaurants in Los Angeles. The food is as good as it looks, the vibrations are amazing, I love the staff and crave the food I have to keep going back. You have to experience Joyce. It’s one of the best 💙

Always great food, service and vibe. All staff are great and provide excellent service.