THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Powell's Place

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Powell's Place Restaurant Review:

Renowned gospel personality Emmit Powell opened San Francisco's landmark Southern restaurant over 30 years ago. With soul food enjoying a renaissance, it seems fitting that Powell's Place would move to bright, spacious digs in the heart of the Fillmore's famous Jazz District. Lemon yellow walls, dark wood veneer and fans on the high ceilings have replaced the kitschy look of the Hayes Valley spot, lending a Southern plantation vibe. While the ambience has changed, the wonderful home-cooked food definitely hasn't. The fried chicken is still some of the best in the Bay Area. Puny chickens need not apply---Powell's uses only large, plump birds. They dredge each fresh piece in seasoned flour---classic Southern style---and fry it until the outside is golden brown and every crunchy bite releases the steam and juices from the hot meat inside. Most of the traditional sides like crispy okra, dirty rice and mashed potatoes are good, but our favorites are the wonderful creamy grits, smoky-salty greens, and lightly sweetened yams scented with cinnamon and cloves. If you're not feeling the chicken, the fall-off-the-bone pork ribs slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, smothered pork chops, or oxtails are good options.