SOUL SECRETS FoodForTheSoul

When it comes to Cincinnati and food there are a number of place you can go for a great mean But if there was a #1 Go To Soul Food restaurant to visit in Cincy then Soul Secrets is the place Named #1 for their delicious fried chicken, centered Downtown between Nostalgia and OTR Cinema Soul Secrets has been known to serve some of the best southern inspired dishes that will leave you wanting more.

Cincy Black travel had the opportunity to meet the owner of Soul Secrets and discuss why her restaurant is Cincinnati's newest gem.

Q: Tell us more about yourself and what started your business?

Candice: My name is Candice Holloway, owner of Soul Secrets Soul Secrets started as an opportunity for me to connect with my teenage daughter who was dealing with depression I began baking recipes that my grandmother shared with me to connect with her, it was an opportunity for me to create a safe space for her to open up, as well as teach her recipes that had been passed down by my great-great-grandmother Food brings families closer, it’s a way to connect and share.

Q: Your logo has a small red bird sitting on the U in your logo. What does that represent?

Candice: It's Red Cardinal Bird and it was important that we got to fit that into the logo. Growing up Red Birds were always symbolic of an Ancestral Spirit.

So it was important to me that it was included in the logo especially with the business being built from my grandmother's recipes. Throughout this journey of opening up our storefront, there would always be a red bird around me

Q: I love the ancestral connection How important is it for you to incorporate that with your business?

Candice: We were very intentional in using photographs that are on the walls. They include pictures of my great-grandmother, grandmother, and my mom. This was my way of being able to pay homage to them through the business. I remember growing up in church and my grandmother would be cooking for some gathering for the community Back then she didn't have the opportunity to start her own restaurant so having her included in this way means a lot to me I am so grateful that she took the time to share these things with me that I can share with our city

Q: Why was OTR a prime place for you to open your business?

Candice: We started at Findley Market. Being Downtown with all of the revitalization happening here. My father was very big on 2nd chance hiring, so it was my mission to bring my business here That way we can create jobs for our community and help give others 2nd chances 500% of my staff lives within walking distance from our establishment I also love that we are right next to Nostalgia and OTR Cienma is right across the street its an amazing vibe, and I had to be a part of it.

Q: If someone was new to Cincinnati and it was their first time at Soul Secrets what would you suggest they try first?

Candice: Definitely our catfish We were also voted best Fried Chicken in the Tri-State so try the fried chicken and our mac & cheese is top tier We also have desserts some of my favorites are our Banana Pudding and pound cake Our menu is fantastic you won't go wrong with anything you try on our menu