Best Soul Food in Denver: Hidden Gems Near Lower East Side You’ll Crave

Denver’s soul food scene is a delicious blend of Southern roots and Rocky Mountain flair, especially around the vibrant Lower East Side. From tender oxtails to smoky collard greens, these eateries offer comforting dishes that warm the soul. Dive into our guide to uncover the best soul food spots near Lower East Side, Denver, and satisfy your cravings.

Click on the place names below to open their locations in Google Maps.

Place	Rating	Highlights
The Blazing Chicken Shack II	⭐ 4.4/5	Succulent oxtails that melt in your mouth, available Thursday to Saturday.
Welton Street Cafe	⭐ 4.5/5	Historic hub with crispy fried chicken that’s a local legend.
Mississippi Boy Catfish & Ribs	⭐ 4.1/5	Juicy ribs and golden catfish loved by truckers and locals alike.
CoraFaye's Cafe	⭐ 3.9/5	Historic diner with standout candied yams featured on TV.
Genna Rae Wings & More...	⭐ 4.4/5	Fiery jerk chicken sandwiches that pack a spicy punch.
Mattie's Soul Food Bar & Lounge	⭐ 4.3/5	Intimate lounge with smoky collard greens and weekend jazz.

The Blazing Chicken Shack II ⭐ 4.4/5

Celebrated for its succulent oxtails, caramel cake, and crispy fried chicken, this Park Hill gem embodies Southern hospitality. Oxtails are available Thursday to Saturday, homemade caramel cake often sells out quickly, and portions are generous with standout crispy catfish.

💡 Local Tip: Order caramel cake immediately upon seating to avoid missing out.
🎵 Atmosphere: Homey, casual dining with bar seating
🅿️ Parking: Street parking available

"The oxtail is like a grandma’s hug—tender and unforgettable."

Note: Limited parking mentioned in reviews.

Note: Located within 2 miles of Lower East Side, Denver, CO

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Welton Street Cafe ⭐ 4.5/5

A Five Points institution temporarily closed for relocation but hosting pop-ups with iconic fried chicken and collard greens. It’s a historic community hub where the crispy fried chicken is praised by locals.

💡 Local Tip: Follow their Instagram for pop-up announcements.

"Their collard greens taste like family reunions."

Note: Temporarily closed for relocation.

Note: Located within 1.5 miles of Lower East Side, Denver, CO

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Mississippi Boy Catfish & Ribs ⭐ 4.1/5

Trucker-approved spot known for juicy ribs, golden catfish, and festive catering options. It’s a large group-friendly space with well-seasoned crispy catfish that keeps customers coming back.

💡 Local Tip: Try the weekend specials for smoked meat dishes.
🎵 Atmosphere: Casual, family-oriented
🅿️ Parking: Spacious lot mentioned on website

"Best soul food we’ve had on the road."

Note: Located within 2 miles of Lower East Side, Denver, CO

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CoraFaye's Cafe ⭐ 3.9/5

Historic diner-style spot with divergent reviews highlighting its candied yams and fried okra. It offers classic soul food sides and boasts a historic location featured on TV shows.

🎵 Atmosphere: No-nonsense diner vibe
🅿️ Parking: Limited street parking mentioned

"Great greens but overpriced for the quantity."

Note: Inconsistent service noted and some find prices high for portions.

Note: Located within 1 mile of Lower East Side, Denver, CO

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Genna Rae Wings & More... ⭐ 4.4/5

Take-out joint near Manual High School famous for fiery jerk chicken and catfish sandwiches. It’s known for spicy jerk chicken praised by food scholars and offers budget-friendly portions.

💡 Local Tip: Order early—popular with school crowds.

"Jerk chicken sandwich lit my mouth up—in the best way!"

Note: No dine-in seating per sources.

Note: Located within 1.8 miles of Lower East Side, Denver, CO

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Mattie's Soul Food Bar & Lounge ⭐ 4.3/5

Intimate lounge praised for smoky collard greens and jazz-filled evenings. Enjoy live music on weekends and dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

💡 Local Tip: Weekend reservations recommended.
🎵 Atmosphere: Dim lighting with smooth jazz

"Their fried chicken crust is a textural masterpiece."

Note: Exact address unspecified; reported near downtown Denver

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Discover Denver’s Soul Food Scene Near Lower East Side

Ready to dig into comforting Southern flavors? These soul food spots near Lower East Side, Denver, are waiting to welcome you with open arms and hearty plates. Share your favorite bites in the comments!

Images courtesy of Google Maps and respective businesses.