Located at 400 Blair Blvd. stands what looks like a home, but is known as Papa’s Soul Food Kitchen and BBQ. Starting out from a food truck, Papa, the owner, was able to make his dream come true and turn his food truck into a restaurant. The popular restaurant has brought in many customers due to the delicious BBQ, soul food and Cajun menu. Papa was inspired by southern food to open up his restaurant in the Pacific Northwest.

The classic soul food dishes are recipes that Papa’s mom made for him, as well as the recipes that he picked up from his experiences living in the South. They serve anything from their popular fried chicken to their special fried catfish. There are numerous sides that you can choose from to create the perfect meal.

“I think a lot of people come here focused on one thing,” said Cliff “Redbone” Davis, the executive chef and manager at Papa’s Soul Food. “Sometimes, it is hard to sway people away from what they come here for.”

Not only is the food excellent but the restaurant atmosphere is just as enjoyable. Local artists perform live music on the weekends at Papa’s. This fun atmosphere attracts a variety of people to enjoy the live music, as well as the awesome food.

“My favorite part of Papa’s Soul Food is the atmosphere,” senior Samantha Ridout said. “Picture your family’s backyard BBQ on a warm, spring evening and pair it with authentic, delicious southern food and you’ve got a taste of home right in the heart of the Whitaker.”

When you think of soul food, you think of BBQ and different types of delicious, flavored meat. According to their website, it explains they have a small list of vegetarian options. This list also includes asterisks for items that are made completely without animal products, particularly for vegans.

The menu items have been tweaked and developed to perfection over the years. Papa’s Soul Food has attracted locals, travelers and BBQ enthusiasts and will continue to do so with their authentic southern comfort food.