Cincinnati, OHSoul Food

Chef Nem's carryout turns out rotating soul food plates built around fried chicken, smothered meats, macaroni and cheese, greens, yams, and cornbread. The Reading Road format is straightforward: check the day's offerings, choose a main and sides, and leave with a substantial comfort-food meal.

Soul Secrets brings family recipes to Vine Street through fried chicken, catfish, meatloaf, greens, yams, cornbread, and a notably rich macaroni and cheese. The dining room gives classic plate lunches a polished home while keeping the portions and familiar side dishes central.

Just Cookin serves smoked meats and soul food sides from its Bond Hill location after relocating for the soccer stadium project. Ribs, chicken, macaroni and cheese, greens, and other rotating plates connect the barbecue counter to a broader home-style cooking tradition.

Nolia channels chef Jeff Harris's New Orleans upbringing into a changing menu that is personal rather than bound to a fixed regional canon. Roasted meats, seafood, greens, grits, and seasonal produce arrive in an intimate Clay Street room.

French Toast Heaven's Norwood brunch menu reaches into Southern comfort cooking with grits, fried catfish, pork chops, and fried chicken. The breakfast bowl layers cheesy grits with eggs, potatoes, onions, and a choice of protein; other grits plates pair them with fish or chicken. Order the fried catfish and grits for the savory side of a kitchen also known for its elaborate French toast.