I’m from the south, spending most of my youth in a little town in the sticks of Georgia. Sure, there’s not a lot in the area, but one thing that was always in steep supply was southern soul food.
A spread of soul food on a table
Photo by Jason Davis/Getty Images
This is, no exaggeration, my favorite type of food, comfort or not, and I’m on a quest to find the best spots for it in New York’s Capital region.
What is Soul Food?
For those less acquainted with the ways of the United States’ Southeastern region, I’ll explain. For the most part, soul food consists of deeply fried foods (typically chicken and fish), beans, mac & cheese, chitlins, collard greens, and a whole lot of pork.
A plate of soul food
Credit: Canva
To many, this might just sound like all southern cooking, but there is a specific difference. Soul food originated from southern cooks using only what they had available, leading to unconventional, yet delicious recipes.
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Where are the Capital Region’s Best Soul Food Restaurants?
Obviously, I’ve been on the lookout for the best southern eats in Upstate New York, and after perusing the internet for a bit, I think I’ve found a consensus. For the most part in the Capital region, there’s two stand outs: Ya Ya’s House in Schenectady, and Suga Foot’s in Albany.
Views of Ya-Ya’s and Suga Foot’s
Credit: Google Street View
Both of these locations have exactly what you’re looking for, mouth-watering menus and home-cooked styles that would make you think it’s a hot summer night in the Mississippi Delta. In the coming weeks, I plan on trying both of these restaurants, and letting you know if they truly hold up to that southern charm.
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There are some amazing barbeque restaurants throughout the Capital Region. Here is a ranked list according to Yelp of the top pitmasters in our area. Try and look at this list without getting hungry! Each has outstanding reviews.
Gallery Credit: google maps-Facebook pages
The Capital Region’s 10 Best Pizza Joints 2024 [RANKED]In the mood for a couple of pies or a slice on the go? The Capital Region is known for its great pizza joints like DeFazio’s, Dom’s, Caputo’s, and so many more. From Troy to Albany to Schenectady, and the surrounding towns and cities, great local pizza spots seem infinite. So to determine the best, we asked our listeners: who serves up the best pizza in the Capital Region? Here are the top 10 in the area – according to YOU! Happy eating!
Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff
The Capital Region’s 10 Best Italian Restaurants [RANKED]
When it comes to food, the Capital Region is best known for its long list of great Italian restaurants. From chicken parm to veal to amazing seafood dishes and everything in between, here are the best of the best in the greater Albany area according to GNA listeners.
Gallery Credit: Matty Jeff
Dining and Cooking