Big Ma's Soul Food Restaurant

"Big Ma's Soul Food Statesboro, GA** *A Local Spot with Heart, Flavor Potential, and Room to Grow* Big Ma's Soul Food has the kind of hometown charm that makes you want to root for it from the moment you walk in. It's a chill little spot in Statesboro with friendly energy, but the atmosphere could definitely benefit from a refresh some updated decor, a bit more personality, and a touch of soul to match the name would go a long way in creating a warm, inviting dining experience. Now, on to the food. I ordered the oxtail plate, and while the portion size and presentation were promising, the flavor just didn't land. The oxtails were **overcooked and noticeably bland**, lacking the deep, slow-cooked seasoning and richness you expect especially at the price point. With a dish as iconic and labor-intensive as oxtails, diners naturally expect bold flavor, tenderness, and that signature gravy that brings everything together. On the brighter side, the **fried fish and fried chicken were both solid**, well-cooked, and seasoned better than the oxtails. Those dishes showed glimpses of what Big Ma's kitchen can really do when the seasoning and execution line up. Overall, Big Ma's Soul Food has great potential, and as a Black-owned business, I genuinely want to see it thrive. A little more attention to seasoning, consistency, and ambiance could easily elevate this spot from "nice lil chill spot" to a place people go out of their way to visit. I'll be stopping by again to see how things evolve because with the right touches, Big Ma's can live up to its name and deliver the soulful comfort the community is looking for."

"After reading the reviews. I had to try it out. I was not disappointed! 10/10 from the customer service all the way down to the drinks!!! Most definitely will be back again."

"Down home feel with down home taste. I arrived around 4pm on a Saturday and they weren't too busy. The staff seemed very friendly and engaging with I'm assuming were regulars. Everyone seemed happy. They were out of a few things I wanted but no biggie. I did a to go order. When I got back to my hotel my food was still hot. Some things were a little salty for my taste, but it was still good. My food was served with a pancake (flapjack) instead of cornbread or roll which was a different touch. I will definitely return."

"I was in town on business and decided to try this place out and soooo glad I did. This is a family owned business that comes with great southern hospitality. Although my order was to go, I enjoyed the service and atmosphere! The first time I went, I ordered the salmon with rice, cabbages, and Caribbean vegetables. I had never heard of Caribbean vegetables but quickly became my favorite! The second time I went, I ordered oxtails with more Caribbean vegetables, broccoli, and cabbages!"

"This is a true soul food spot! Friendly culture of people. Cook has outstanding talent for old school 60's meat gravy and rice is not mush. Drinks are tasty, Kool-aid would go great with their meals."

"The first time I tried this place, I didn't really like the food. I forgot what had got but I didn't like the parsley flakes on everything. But, I decided to give this place a second try and well... it was wayyyy better than the first. I don't know who was in the kitchen today but the food was excellent! I got the smothered pork chops with rice and gravy, with a side of their green beans and potatoes, macaroni and cheese with their hoecake/flapjacks. The only thing was my pork chop was a little chewy but I know people have different ways of cooking things. But overall 8.5/10 (a high 8). I actually should've added another hoecake, it was so delicious!"

"I came here on a one off and was happy I found them food and customer service was awesome. My daughter is a super picky eater and loved all of her food. My husband daid it tasted like his grandma cooking. I will be going back asap to try the turkey wings. I got the oxtails collards and Mac"