Katie O Soul Food

- 452 E New York Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225

Katie O Soul Food is more than just a restaurant; it is a true Brooklyn institution that offers a taste of Southern comfort right in the heart of New York. This beloved establishment, situated in the Prospect Lefferts Garden/Crown Heights area of Brooklyn, has built its reputation on serving authentic, down-home soul food with a profound sense of family and community. Founded by Kiana "Katie" Muschett-Owes, the restaurant is a realization of a dream inspired by her late grandparents, Grandma Peaches and Papa, embodying the belief that 'food is love.'

Since opening its doors in August 2014, Katie O Soul Food has become a culinary cornerstone, known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere where every diner is invited to "come on home." The commitment to a warm, family-style experience, coupled with the generous portions of deeply flavorful food, has made it a viral sensation and a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike who are craving genuine, plate-licking soul food.

Beyond the delicious meals, Katie O's is rooted in service to the community. The spirit of feeding the neighborhood, which Katie learned from her Grandma Peaches, led to the formation of its sister non-profit, Soul Food to the People, during the 2020 government lockdown. This initiative continues to provide free, homemade meals to food-insecure Brooklynites on a weekly basis, demonstrating the restaurant's deep connection to and care for its neighbors. This dual mission of serving incredible food and giving back to the community is part of what makes Katie O Soul Food a uniquely special place in the New York dining landscape.

The restaurant's ambiance is best described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it an ideal setting for a variety of occasions, from a casual family dinner to a lively outing with friends. The welcoming spirit is immediately evident, with staff often offering samples to patrons waiting in line, ensuring everyone feels right at home, a clear reflection of the founder’s ethos.

Location and Accessibility

Katie O Soul Food is conveniently located in Brooklyn, New York, in the vibrant neighborhood situated between Prospect Lefferts Garden and Crown Heights. The exact address is:

Address: 452 E New York Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225, USA

For New Yorkers utilizing public transit or driving, the location is accessible, with free street parking available—a significant amenity in Brooklyn.

Contact Information

To place an order, make inquiries, or check for current specials, you can reach the restaurant at the following numbers:

Phone: (516) 669-9941

Mobile Phone: +1 516-669-9941

Services Offered

Katie O Soul Food is dedicated to providing a comfortable and convenient dining experience for all its patrons. The services and offerings include:

• Dine-in service in a casual, cozy, and welcoming atmosphere.
• Takeout options for enjoying their meals at home or on the go.
• Delivery service to bring your comfort food right to your door.
• Accepts reservations, which is advisable given its high popularity.
• Full dining options including Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert.
• A selection of alcoholic beverages, including Beer and signature Cocktails, with a Bar onsite.
• Menu offerings that include classic Comfort food, Quick bites, Small plates, and even some Healthy options.
• Accepts major payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Features and Highlights

The restaurant is renowned for its exceptional features that contribute to its standing as a top-tier soul food spot in the city.

• Women-Owned Business: Katie O Soul Food proudly identifies as a women-owned establishment, contributing to the diversity of Brooklyn's culinary scene.
• Authentic Soul Food Experience: The menu is a love letter to traditional Southern cooking, serving up generous portions of well-seasoned, freshly prepared dishes.
• Signature Cocktails: Patrons can enjoy specialty drinks like the famous Papa's Punch, offered with various liquor choices including Vodka, Blanco, Reposado, and D'Ussé, a nod to the founder's grandfather.
• Standout Specialty Dishes: While all dishes are praised, the Turkey Wings (often described as 'AMAZINGGG & juicy falling off the bones'), Fried Chicken (a fan favorite and Katie O's most popular order), and creamy Macaroni & Cheese are consistently highlighted as must-try items.
• Exceptional Hospitality: The staff, including the owner Katie, are known for their extremely friendly and welcoming service, often offering food samples to customers waiting in line, creating a genuine, family-like dining experience.
• Community-Minded: The restaurant is inextricably linked to its non-profit, Soul Food to the People, a community kitchen that provides free meals to those facing food insecurity, reflecting the deeply altruistic foundation of the business.
• Inclusivity and Atmosphere: The restaurant is noted for being family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a Transgender safespace, fostering an inclusive and comfortable environment for all.
• Dedicated Dessert Menu: The simple yet satisfying dessert menu features house-made favorites, specifically the Banana Pudding and the Cookies n' Cream Pudding.

What is Worth Choosing: A Taste of Brooklyn's Best

For any New Yorker seeking an authentic, satisfying soul food meal, Katie O Soul Food offers several compelling reasons to visit.

The Home-Style Plates: The core menu items are steeped in tradition and flavor. If you are looking for a main course that will truly stick to your ribs and remind you of a relative's cooking, the choices in the main platter are exceptional. The Baked Turkey Wings are a highly recommended dish, repeatedly praised for their tender, fall-off-the-bone quality. The Fried Chicken is another crowd-pleaser, delivering the crispy exterior and juicy interior expected from perfectly executed Southern comfort food. The Fried Catfish and Fried Pork Chops are equally popular options for those who prefer seafood or pork.

The Essential Sides: A soul food experience is incomplete without the sides. The Macaroni & Cheese, though sometimes noted as being slightly oily, is a staple, while the Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey and the Cornbread Stuffing with Gravy are prepared with depth of flavor that complements the main proteins perfectly. Be aware that the Candied Yams are known to be on the sweeter side—a rich, dessert-like treat perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

Signature Drinks for a 'Home' Vibe: Don't overlook the beverage selection. The Soul Punch is a great non-alcoholic choice, but for an adult beverage, the Papa's Punch cocktails are a must-try. This specialty drink, named after the founder's grandfather, is an excellent way to elevate your meal and truly enjoy the "grown & sexy" social atmosphere that the restaurant fosters.

The Personal Touch: The customer experience at Katie O's is consistently highlighted as a major draw. The welcoming staff, led by Katie herself, creates a deeply personal and familial dining atmosphere. From the moment you join the line—which can be long on peak days, so plan accordingly—the samples and friendly engagement make the wait worthwhile. This level of dedication to customer service and community care is a rare find and solidifies the feeling that you are genuinely "coming home."

For New Yorkers seeking a flavorful, generous, and heartfelt soul food dining experience, Katie O Soul Food offers a compelling combination of traditional Southern cooking, a lively atmosphere, and a strong sense of community that sets it apart from other dining options in the borough. Whether you are craving the juiciest turkey wings in Brooklyn or a perfect dessert like the homemade Banana Pudding, this spot delivers on its promise of down-home deliciousness.

Katie O Soul Food

452 E New York Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225, USA