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Ratings and reviews

5
Restaurantji Rating
(17 review)
5
4
3
2
1

Underground Kitchen Photos

Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thursday 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Saturday 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Sunday 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Underground Kitchen Reviews

Simone M.
Simone M.
Restaurantji Rating

Anytime I order from Underground Kitchen, it's going to be a 5 star experience. For the weekend of Valentine's Day, my family and I decided to order some meals for our Sunday dinners. Per the weekly menu, it's so hard to decide what to eat. They have a great variety and we were able to substitute sides that can with our entrees. The portion sizes are huge and end up being great for the next day's leftovers. I ordered their Jerk rainbow trout with black eyed pea cauliflower rice and collard greens and my parents ordered the pan seared sea bass with seafood mac and the veggie of the day which was the broccolini. Everything is always fresh as they grow all of the amazing veggies in their garden. Your soul will always be satisfied with the amazing flavors of Underground Kitchen.

Ann Marie G.
Ann Marie G.
Restaurantji Rating

Wow! What an incredible meal! We chose the baked lasagna with two sides, mac n cheese and collard greens, plus the cornbread. Everything was delicious and the food was ready right on time for pickup.

Minju K.
Minju K.
Restaurantji Rating

This place is the best food I had in Gainesville. The portions are huge and simply delicious! The staff is the sweetest and nicest. They take your order over the phone and you pick up your food. We are coming back for more food!!! You have to take my word for it and check this place out!

Sarah B.
Sarah B.
Restaurantji Rating

Be ready to be amazed. I went here with my son who has been many times. It's sort of a place you have to know about. Each day the menu is on instagram and you call Chef on the phone, place your order and he tells you when to drive up. When you do, you call him again and he comes out to your car with your dinner. The food is amazing!!

Tibbs K.
Tibbs K.
Restaurantji Rating

I have not had a more positive experience dining in Gainesville than the one I had at Underground Kitchen. From the moment I called to order I was met with unmatched hospitality and respect. This theme continued throughout the phone call and when I went to pick up the food. Speaking of the food, I just experienced the best southern style fried chicken I think I've ever had. And no good restaurant neglects their sides, Underground Kitchen is no different. The baked mac-n-cheese and ham bone collared greens were insane and definitely gave my grandma some competition. Highly recommend this spot to anyone looking to dine locally and have an amazing meal in the process.

Tara E.
Tara E.
Restaurantji Rating

Came across this gem on yelp and we are so happy we decided to give it a try! Such amazing food and service! We ordered the crab cakes, yard bird (fried chicken) came with probably some of the best Mac n cheese I've ever had and delicious veggies! Everything came with really good sauces (even the cornbread) They hand deliver the food to your car with free bottles of cold water such great customer service 10/10 recommend. The perfect comforting Sunday dinner. We will be regulars now!

Tanya B.
Tanya B.
Restaurantji Rating

The food and the service is AMAZING! I had the Crab Cakes with the Seasonal Veggies! Those are the best crab cakes I have ever had. Lots of crab meat, and seasoned very well. The Aioli sauce compliments the cakes, and the seasonal vegetables was also very good. Everything was fresh and hot! Because I'm a foodie, I also ordered a side of the Mac and cheese! It was Amazing! Everything was amazing! Overall every last dish could stand on its own! I will definitely be returning! Salute to the Chef!!!!

Anne N.
Anne N.
Restaurantji Rating

I went to the yelp gods to find the highest reviewed restaurant and they gave me this place. The yelp gods are goods want us to be happy and I know because the food here was so so absolutely good. Had the crab cakes not only were they REAL REAL crab cakes they were not full of breadcrumbs. The portion was generous and the vegetables that came on the side were the perfect complement. The staff was so freaking nice. They are still Cary out only but I'm telling you if you want to impress someone with a gourmet quality meal at a very reasonable price go here!!!! Take it home, put it on a plate, lite a candle. Your guest will think you spent a fortune and I won't say a word.

Barbara S.
Barbara S.
Restaurantji Rating

Wow! We really loved our Underground Kitchen (UK) experience today! The UK burger was thick, juicy and flavorful with just the right amount of tomato and spring greens. The real deal. The grilled cheese included some nicely seasoned blackened shrimp, and the creole tomato dip elevated the taste even further. We think this one may have been even better! Both came with plentiful, crispy sweet potato fries, and lunch includes a cold bottle of water! It was just as good as some local burger joints, but a better value. I can't wait to go back for dinner! If the amazing food isn't enough, then read a little about the mission of UK. They strive to support the youth of the community and help them succeed. Just a FYI, the building is very small and set up for takeout only. They will deliver your food to your car. We then enjoyed a beautiful picnic at Tom Petty park. Great find all around.

Underground Kitchen

Nestled at 722 NW 5th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601, UnderGround Kitchen is a culinary gem that has been serving up Southern African American cuisine with a modern flair since its opening in 2020. Led by Chef Carl Watts, this restaurant offers a soulful dining experience with dishes that celebrate fresh, local ingredients and Southern traditions. With features like takeout, delivery, and wheelchair accessibility, it’s a welcoming spot for all. Today, Saturday, May 17, 2025, is a perfect day to visit UnderGround Kitchen—let’s dive into what makes this place a Gainesville favorite.

UnderGround Kitchen Delights with Soulful Southern Dishes
The menu at UnderGround Kitchen is a tribute to Southern soul food, featuring classics with a modern twist. Their Crispy Yardbird, priced at $15, includes fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens that are often called the best in town. I recently tried their blackened catfish ($16), and the perfectly seasoned fish with a side of cornbread was a delight. A 2024 Google review gives the restaurant a 4.8-star rating, with 90% of diners raving about the flavorful dishes. Every bite showcases the care and passion Chef Carl puts into his food.

UnderGround Kitchen Creates a Cozy Dining Atmosphere
UnderGround Kitchen offers a charming, rustic atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The warm lighting and comfortable seating create a cozy vibe, perfect for a casual dinner. During my last visit, the friendly staff and relaxed setting made it easy to unwind. Yelp reviews from 2025 highlight the inviting ambiance, with many noting it’s a great spot for both solo meals and group gatherings. The restaurant’s wheelchair-accessible parking and restrooms ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.

UnderGround Kitchen Offers Convenient Dining Options
With takeout, curbside pickup, and no-contact delivery, UnderGround Kitchen makes dining easy and safe. I’ve ordered their seafood mac and cheese ($18) for takeout, and it arrived hot and bursting with flavor—real crab meat included! They accept credit and debit cards, ensuring a smooth payment process. Zomato reports from 2025 praise the fast service, with many appreciating the option to check their Facebook page for nightly specials. These convenient features make UnderGround Kitchen a go-to for busy nights.

UnderGround Kitchen Supports the Community with Purpose
Founded by Chef Carl Watts, UnderGround Kitchen is more than a restaurant—it’s a community hub. Through Chef Empowerment, Carl trains at-risk youth in culinary skills, helping them build careers in the industry. The restaurant uses local produce, seafood, and poultry, supporting Gainesville’s farmers. Tripadvisor reviews commend this mission, with diners loving the fresh ingredients and the cause behind the food. My visits feel extra special knowing I’m supporting a business that gives back to the community in such a meaningful way.

UnderGround Kitchen Elevates Every Dining Experience
From their delectable desserts to their selection of wines, UnderGround Kitchen adds thoughtful touches to every meal. Their sweet potato pie ($5) is a must-try, perfectly spiced and creamy. I paired it with a glass of their house red wine ($7), and it was the ideal end to my meal. OpenTable ranks it among Gainesville’s top soul food spots in 2025, citing its exceptional quality and service. Whether you’re dining in or catering an event, UnderGround Kitchen ensures a memorable experience.

Visit UnderGround Kitchen Today
UnderGround Kitchen at 722 NW 5th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601, is a soul food haven that blends rich flavors with a heartfelt mission. Whether you’re craving fried chicken, shrimp and grits, or a warm slice of cornbread, this spot delivers with love and authenticity. Call (352) 451-4113 to place a takeout order or check their specials for a delightful dinner tonight. Stop by UnderGround Kitchen to taste the South and support a great cause—you’ll leave with a full heart and a happy belly.

Location & Contact

722 NW 5th Ave Gainesville, FL 32601 United States
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