In the mood for Southern food, but don't want to empty your wallet?
Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the finest destinations for affordable Southern cuisine around Dallas, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of the best places to satisfy your cravings on a budget.
1. Norma's Cafe
Topping the list is Norma's Cafe. Located at 1123 W. Davis St. in Oak Cliff, the traditional American diner is the highest-rated source for inexpensive Southern fare in Dallas, boasting four stars out of 392 reviews on Yelp.
"Norma's Cafe is a Dallas home-cooking institution, founded in 1956," touts the history section of the business' Yelp profile. "Norma's Cafe serves up hot, fresh and savory home-style meals with a sinful Texan flare, which are sure to make your mouth water."
Furthermore, "We have won numerous awards for our menu, but some of the most popular dishes for breakfast are our breakfast tacos, country breakfast with chicken fried steak or chicken fried chicken and then, of course, the Ol' Number 7, which won Dallas Observer's Best Hangover Cure."
2. Catfish Connection
Next up is Southwest Dallas' Catfish Connection, situated at 2464 W. Kiest Blvd. With four stars out of 88 reviews on Yelp, the Southern joint, which serves seafood and more, has proven to be a local favorite for those looking for an economical option.
"Catfish Connection is an family-owned business, established in the mid-80s," the business states in the history section of its Yelp bio. "Known for its great spicy fish, Catfish Connection been serving the city of Dallas and surrounding areas [ever] since."
As far as what the business is known for, "Catfish Connection ... [serves] ever-so-tasty Cajun-style fish, specializing in the spicy department with shrimp to compliment," it continues on Yelp in the section pertaining to signature items. "They also carry a non-spicy seasoning for those who need a little less heat, but same great taste!"
3. Chicken House
East Dallas' Chicken House, settled at 909 N. Fitzhugh Ave., is another superior choice, with Yelpers giving the low-cost Southern eatery, which specializes in fried chicken and comfort food, four stars out of 82 reviews.
Yelper Youmi L., who reviewed Chicken House on Jan. 3, wrote, "Delicious, fresh fried chicken with excellent service! I love coming here, since it's never greasy and always fried to perfection. The chicken tenders are a must-try!"
Moniqua H. added, "The chicken here is great. I have no complaints at all. The seasoning is delicious; it's always hot and fresh. The gravy that comes with the tender meal is so good. And, the fries are great — it's hard to get good fries from a chicken joint. The prices are pretty decent, as well!
4. Henderson Chicken
At last, Henderson Chicken, a Southern restaurant that offers chicken wings, soul food and more in Cedar Crest, is another budget-friendly go-to, with four stars out of 12 Yelp reviews. Head over to 337 E. Ledbetter Drive to try it out for yourself.
Yelper Bianca A., who reviewed Henderson Chicken on Jan. 21, wrote, "I really like Henderson's Chicken in general. ... My food is not only always good, but they also are friendly and make sure your order is right."
Denise L. noted, "I hear the chicken is amazing, but I went for the fish. Fish basket is well worth the long wait it takes to get it! Be sure to get extra seasoning. The filets are a nice size and fried to perfection. You also get all the basket staples — bread, pickles and peppers."
This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
