Kales Kitchen, LLC — Restaurant in Durham

I took a chance on Kale’s due to a post of their heavy plates on IG. We tried to drop in a few times but the hours are pop up times and oftentimes late in the evening. However, I turned on IG notifications and was able to catch a pre-order. The pre-order process could use some fine tuning especially for those from out of town or those who don’t have 3-4 hrs to wait on a text. When you text for pre-order, you’re given 15 mins to submit your payment and order. They provide a timeframe, which was 4-8pm in this case. I received a text at 5:22 advising I could pick up my order at 6:30. It was my first time so I wasn’t familiar with the process so I just followed others to the door. There was someone taking names at the door and you’d then get your order. Do not show up before your pre-order time. Do not show up if you don’t have a pre-order. They have different days for walk-ins. Follow them on IG and turn on notifications.

I went into this not knowing anything about the restaurant except the food looked good. Now the pricing on the food caught me off guard. It is definitely much higher than other southern food spots. I assumed the large portion sizes and taste would make up for the price. The taste did not disappoint but the portions weren’t what I’d consider heavy. Food wasn’t heaped, it wasn’t coming out the sides, the plates closed easily. This was my only true disappointment. But that was my fault assuming the plate would look like the ones pictured on IG..

So if you want great tasting food with a bit of a higher price point, it’s worth it. Make sure to arrive early or pre- preorder and definitely grab that macaroni and the wings made me want to...

It truly pains me to leave a negative review for a Black-owned business. I go out of my way to support Black and Brown entrepreneurs, and I really wanted to have a positive experience. But if there’s one thing I value just as much as good service, is honesty—and unfortunately, I didn’t get either from Kale’s Kitchen.

I placed a $500 order for a family gathering and drove an hour to pick it up. That alone shows the level of trust and faith I had in this business. While already en route, I received an email saying the order wouldn’t be ready and asking if 7 PM would be okay. I responded that it wouldn’t be, as we were already pushing it by aiming for a 5:30 PM pickup. Monica then asked if we could come at 6 PM, and I agreed. We arrived at 6:30 PM and didn’t receive the full order until 7:30 PM.

Most of the food was delicious, but the macaroni and cheese was nearly inedible—overcooked, dry, and burnt. It was disappointing and frankly, embarrassing.

I contacted Monica with photos, and she was initially very apologetic, offering either a refund or a future meal. I chose the refund. Despite several follow-ups over the past month, I have yet to receive either the refund or a response. No longer bartering for my money or response, I opted to leave a review so others don't make the same mistake.

I’m sharing this review not out of malice, but because customers deserve transparency—and businesses should be held accountable. I had hoped to give Kale’s Kitchen a second chance, but after this experience, I’ll be taking my...

Kale’s Kitchen is truly a gem. Ms. Kale isn’t just a talented cook; she’s a beacon of kindness and generosity in our community. Her southern soul food is second to none—rich, flavorful, and made with so much love that you can taste it in every bite. The portions are more than generous, making every meal feel like a feast. Her fried chicken is perfectly seasoned, her collard greens are tender and full of smoky goodness, and her mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and absolutely unforgettable.

But what sets Kale’s Kitchen apart isn’t just the food; it’s the heart behind it. Ms. Kale has a selfless spirit that shines through in everything she does. Despite facing her own health challenges, she pours herself into her cooking and finds ways to serve others, especially the homeless. Her kitchen is a sanctuary, not just for delicious meals but for the love and care she extends to everyone who walks through her doors.

If you’re looking for a place that feeds both your stomach and your soul, Kale’s Kitchen is it. Ms. Kale embodies what it means to love thy neighbor, and her food is a reflection of that love. Every bite is a blessing, and every visit reminds you of the power of...