Relish in Greater Fayetteville’s rich Black heritage and southern charm during Black History Month through the exploration of soul food dining. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic weekend, family getaway, or solo trip, savoring every moment should be at the top of the itinerary, followed by a stop to one of these delectable restaurants in the region. 

 

Comfort Food & Comfortable Lodging

Our comfort food and comfortable lodging go hand in hand. Settle into your choice of our 70 hotels to start your discovery of Cumberland County hospitality. 

For your traveling ease, a list of a few of our Greater Fayetteville Soul Food favorites:

 

Friends Dinner

Melvin’s at Riverside | 1130 Person Street

Listen to the GPS announce, “arrived,” as you pull into Melvin’s at Riverside and prepare to feel warm hospitality.

Traveling commonly works up quite the appetite, so conveniently situated off North Carolina Highway 210, Melvin’s at Riverside is the ultimate welcome committee into Cumberland County. 

Take a break inside and glance at their menu, where you’ll find soul-food classics divided into Mary Lee’s nibblers, Addie’s chicken baskets, and Sweet Pea desserts. Enjoy your savory choice of soul-food favorites while taking in a view of the Cape Fear Riverside before checking into your comfortable hotel and starting your exploration through the county.

 

Level 88 | 5112 Yadkin Road

Add Level88 to the itinerary under “wine & dine night out.”

Nestled near Fort Bragg, Level 88 is the ultimate dining spot after a full day of exploring. 

With a robust menu complete with treasured dishes like cajun shrimp and grits, catfish bites, smothered pork chops, and waffles and wings, this new restaurant is devoted to providing the bites and the vibes. 

End your adventurous day with a night of relaxation to the soundtrack of live music and a luxurious ambiance.

 

Barbara Ann’s Southern Fried Chicken | 3740 S. Main Street, Hope Mills

Rooted in a cherished family legacy, stop into Barbara Ann’s Southern Fried Chicken for authentic soul food meals crafted with love. 

The heart of Hope Mills

On North Main Street in Hope Mills, easily find both lodging and heartwarming meals. Positioned in the heart of town, dine at Barbara Ann’s Southern Fried Chicken where recipes have been lovingly passed down through generations, starting at the hands of the owner’s matriarchs. Pair their flavorful, crispy fried chicken with soulful sides like candied yams and baked mac and cheese, rooted in tradition and wrapped in southern charm. 

Insider tip: A premier afternoon soul food meal from Barbara Ann’s Southern Fried Chicken is chopped turkey barbecue with baked beans and mac and cheese, and a red velvet waffle with cream cheese drizzle for dessert.

 

Flavor's Restaurant and Bar | 500 N. Reilly Road

Famous for their Fish and Shrimp All-You-Can-Eat Fridays, stop into Flavor’s Restaurant and Lounge for a full-bodied, flavorful taste of soul in every bite. 

Whether you’re pulling over for a casual lunch or staying overnight for an explorative weekend, this family-owned restaurant is keeping the kitchen warm and the atmosphere welcoming with hearty plates and an exciting experience. 

Prepared with love, passion, and the finest ingredients, their soul food menu ranges from oxtails and pork chops to fried crab legs and steak and salmon plates. Plan to start your weekend with fine dining the Southern way by indulging in all-you-eat fish and shrimp on Friday, or end your getaway perfectly by singing along to your favorite tune amongst great company and delicious food.

 

Share Your Experience | Bring Your Family Back for a Family Reunion

Discover the Greater Fayetteville charm and want to share it with your family?

Host your loved ones here for your next family reunion. Our team is standing by, ready to guide you through the planning process with tools to assist with locating enough lodging space for the entire family, friends, and plus-ones and everyone and resources to find the perfect reunion space with ease. 

Are you ready to start planning? Contact our team at sales@distinctlyfayettevillenc.com and get started now. 

 

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FAQ

Where can I find the best soul food in Greater Fayetteville?Greater Fayetteville is home to several standout soul food restaurants that celebrate rich Southern traditions and Black heritage year-round, especially during Black History Month. Local favorites include Melvin's at Riverside, known for its classic comfort dishes and Cape Fear River views, and Level 88, a lively spot offering cajun shrimp and grits, smothered pork chops, and live music.
What makes Greater Fayetteville's soul food scene unique? Greater Fayetteville's soul food scene is deeply rooted in family legacies, Southern hospitality, and cultural heritage. Many local restaurants feature recipes passed down through generations, blending tradition with modern flair.
Can Greater Fayetteville accommodate group travel or family reunions centered around food experiences? Absolutely. Greater Fayetteville is an ideal destination for family reunions, group travel, and celebratory gatherings centered around shared meals and cultural experiences. With a variety of comfortable lodging options and restaurants that can accommodate larger parties, it's easy to plan a memorable food-focused getaway.