Comfort

200 W. Broad St.
780-0004
comfortrestaurant.com

Second Place: Mama J’s Kitchen

Third Place: Julep’s New Southern Cuisine

Comfort doesn’t fool around with its concept — meatloaf, roasted chicken and fried catfish, among other familiar dishes. You can load up your plate with sides your grandmother would be proud of — especially the squash casserole that should always anchor your plate. Before you start, though, this rib-sticking meal ought to be preceded by one of Comfort’s expertly mixed craft cocktails and followed by a shot of bourbon — there are at least 70 versions to choose from. Brunch will satisfy the hole that must be filled with sausage and gravy or a country ham biscuit, and on First Fridays, its large windows make for stellar people-watching. Mama J’s Kitchen brings soul food to the crowds that line up outside of its door all week long. And Julep’s New Southern Cuisine might not wonder how voters landed it in this category because its fried green tomatoes and shrimp-and-grits make diners nostalgic for home.