ANNOUNCER: The Southern Kitchen's downhome scratch Southern cooking is hardly a secret to anyone that's been in town long enough to ask, "where's a good place to eat?" This week, Jackie and Dutch visit what has been a mainstay since 1995 to enjoy what is often boasted as a favorite for all walks of life in Tacoma. The atmosphere, service and food convey everything that Southern food is about.

DUTCH: This was not my first visit, and I return because I love the service here. In true Southern fashion, you may find yourself in a 15-minute conversation about the weather, the traffic, or even the Seahawks with your waitress before she ever asks you what you would like to eat. The goal is for everyone to feel at home and get some home cooked comfort food while you're at it.

JACKIE: It's an intimate setting, too, so don't be surprised if the conversation carries over to neighboring tables also enjoying their meal. Southern Kitchen is more community than your average dining establishment.

DUTCH: At first glance, there is catfish all over the menu. Available in a sandwich, filets, strips, or even a full pair of catfish for breakfast, it always makes me crave some. The Cajun catfish strips have just the right amount of spice and crispiness for any catfish lover. Add your choice of sides like mashed potatoes or their famous mac ‘n cheese and you are sure to be satisfied.

Catfish strips coupled with Southern Kitchen’s celebrated mac ‘n cheese. Photo credit: Jackie Fender
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JACKIE: And you can't spell soul food without F.R.I.E.D. C.H.I.C.K.E.N. The Southern fried chicken is crave-able with perfectly seasoned, crisp skin and a juicy, tender meaty interior. You can choose dark or white meat and two sides. I made my husband order the BBQ Beef Brisket, which is sweet ‘n smoky and smothered in barbeque sauce. Being the glutton I am, I went rich with that famous-for-a-reason mac and candied yams. The serving sizes are plentiful and you'll probably take some grub to go.

DUTCH: One other hard-to-find item that is offered here is the fried green tomatoes. Served on a large platter for sharing, these suckers are crispy with just a touch of tartness. Everyone should start their meal this way.

JACKIE: And those jalapeno hush puppies? I mean, c'mon, I don't have words. I know, words are supposed to be our thing. Southern Kitchen is a mainstay for a reason. The very essence of home cookin' is perfectly presented with each dish.

Southern Kitchen, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday-Saturday; 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday, 1716 6th Ave., Tacoma, 253.627.4282, southernkitchen-tacoma.com