Letrell and Samara Russell, both Chattanooga natives and high school sweethearts who met in 1991 at Kirkman Technical High School, are bringing a long-held aspiration to life.
After honing their skills for years — cooking for co-workers, catering events and running street-side stands — their dream became a reality this October when they opened Soul Food Xpress on Brainerd Road.
“This is something we’ve always wanted to do,” said Letrell Russell, who describes their menu as “comfort food — anything you could think of that could bring you comfort in the South.”
Soul Food Xpress is a small, cafeteria-style “meat-and-two,” where customers can order at the counter, choosing from daily selections at the hot bar.
Meats like fried chicken wings, pork chops, smoked ribs and fried shrimp can be paired with classic Southern sides like macaroni and cheese, green beans, coleslaw, fried okra and cornbread muffins. Wait times are minimal, as most meals are plated immediately or take a short time to prepare.