Henry's Soul Cafe

Henry's Soul Cafe

1704 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

+1 202-265-3336

Soul food restaurant, Cafe, Restaurant, Southern restaurant (US)
(622)
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About This Place

Nestled in the heart of Washington, DC’s vibrant U Street Corridor, Henry's Soul Cafe stands out as a comforting beacon for lovers of authentic Southern soul food. This cozy cafe and restaurant offers a genuine taste of Southern hospitality paired with a menu brimming with deeply satisfying, home-cooked favorites that pay homage to time-honored recipes.

The aroma alone is enough to draw you in—with plates steaming hot and filled to the brim, Henry's Soul Cafe invites you to indulge in rich, comforting flavors that remind you of family gatherings and soulful traditions. Signature dishes like the perfectly seasoned 2 Pork Chops Dinner served alongside buttery collard greens and luscious macaroni and cheese capture the essence of true Southern cooking. Fans rave about the crispy, golden fried chicken wings paired with delicately creamy yams and cornbread that strikes the ideal balance of sweet and savory.

Seafood lovers are not left out—delight in the flaky, tender catfish dinners or the fresh, crispy whiting cakes layered with classic candied yams and okra. The Sweet Potato Pie and Banana Pudding offer a decadent sweet finish, ideal for those who crave a touch of nostalgia after their savory feast.

Henry’s also excels in its sandwiches, such as the hearty ½ Fried Chicken Sandwich and the mouthwatering BBQ Ribs Pork Sandwich, which are perfect for a quick yet unforgettable soul food fix. Accompany your meal with one of their flavorful sides, from soul fries dusted with Cajun seasoning to creamy mashed potatoes or traditional stuffing, each prepared with care and authenticity.

Though the cafe features limited seating with a few bar spots, the warmth of the staff and the quick, efficient takeout service ensures a welcoming experience for all. Visitors consistently praise the attentive service and the palpable love infused into every dish—whether it’s a first visit or a treasured repeat stop while passing through DC.

Customer testimonials echo the heartfelt quality that defines Henry’s Soul Cafe. One visitor expressed their delight calling it a perfect “10/10,” highlighting the smothered pork chop and catfish paired with traditional sides that felt like a taste of home. Another diner emphasized the “divine” mac and cheese rivaling their own family recipes, while yet another promised to return purely for the turkey wings. The cafe’s ability to cater to last-minute cravings, especially for travelers staying nearby, speaks volumes about their personable approach and commitment to satisfying soul food enthusiasts.

For anyone seeking an authentic Southern dining experience in Washington, DC, Henry’s Soul Cafe serves up not only hearty meals but also an unmistakable sense of community and warmth—capturing the rich spirit and soul of classic Southern cuisine with every bite.

Service options
Delivery Takeaway
Highlights
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Offerings
Comfort food Quick bite
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Catering Dessert Table service
Atmosphere
Casual Historic Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking Paid street parking Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    11:00 AM - 06:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    11:00 AM - 06:00 PM
  • Thursday
    11:00 AM - 06:00 PM
  • Friday
    11:00 AM - 06:00 PM
  • Saturday
    11:00 AM - 06:00 PM
  • Sunday
    11:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • All Things Shamika
    3 week ago

    Omg on vacation for a long weekend decided to give this place a try. It was a complete 10/10. Got the catfish and smothered porkchop. The sides yams, cabbage and mashed potatoes on point and cornbread. I recommend it if you want soul food from a fellow Alabama girly.

  • Mr. Walston
    4 week ago

    I was in town staying at the Washington Hilton. We ate most meals in the hotel. But I wanted Soul Food. I ran there mostly to get there by 6 PM. They worked with at the last minute. Pleasant staff and delicious baked chicken. Who knows, I might drive up for turkey wings.

  • Christopher Jolly
    1 month ago

    They still have some of the best Mac and cheese I’ve ever tasted. Compete with my mama’s. The staff is friendly, responsive and open. They don’t have seating but the takeout was efficient.

  • Destinie Harris
    1 month ago

    I travel to the DMV frequently and have heard so much about this spot and I’m so glad I stopped by!You can feel the love when you walk through the door. I visited twice during my week stay, that speaks for itself. I ordered the chicken wings (fried to perfection and seasoned very well, Mac & cheese was divine, candied yams were delish, and the woman who greeted me (I forgot her name unfortunately) recommended their sweet potato pie - they’re known for it, it was 10/10, I also enjoyed their greens. All of the food was made fresh and I left with fresh food, excellent service and warm smiles each time I visited. The food couldn’t wait until the hotel, I had to snap pics immediately in the car and sample a bite of EVERYTHING. See you next month!

  • Loubna
    2 month ago

    The best food I’ve tried in DC!! The place was warm and welcoming, and the quality-to-price ratio was excellent. I had some fried chicken, mac&cheese, and a potato salad paired with an amazing strawberry lemonade (still dreaming about it) They also have a restroom and a few bar seats to sit! Merci

  • Paradise Donaldson
    3 month ago

    My boyfriend and I visited this place because we wanted Soul food and we heard great things about this place. They did not dissapoint. I got cornbread, greens, mac and cheese, 6 wings, and a sweet potatoe pie. The lemonade was very good. I will def come back when ever I come back to town.

  • Uniquely E
    3 month ago

    Let me tell yall, from a girl down south. This food tasted like Florida food. Like somebody grandma in the back singing church music. I went to alot of places in the VA trying to find soul food, guess what $300 letter we did. 20/20

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