Laurene's Cafeteria in North Carolina

"I hate that I didn’t find this hidden gem sooner! My children and I went close to closing time, but the food was delicious. I had fried chicken wings, Mac and cheese and sweet potatoes. We also got cornbread and a drink with our meal. Everything was very well seasoned and the customer service was lovely! We were welcomed as soon as we got in the line and I felt at home. We will certainly be return customers."

"Amazing Food, Great Service, and Great History Behind The Restaurant Representing Black History and our culture!!"

"I'm from Nashville and moved to the Carolinas three years ago. My favorite thing is discovering the "hidden" gems. I enjoy, places to eat and main attractions, in the city. Lauren's is a gem. I was in awe of the moving black and white civil rights images, upon entering the cafeteria. I had the baked turkey wings, yams and cabbage. It was good soul food. There's lots to choose from and I will definitely be back!"

"How is there not a line out the door here? The line might look humble but there's good food to be found here. I had the fried chicken, collards and Mac and Cheese. The fried chicken was every bit as good as the gas station chicken you find in South End. The Mac and Cheese would do a southern family reunion proud - definitely from scratch. When I arrived at 12:30p, I was the only customer there. I think the chef served me himself. Definitely a hidden gem that needs help being found so it can thrive."

"Their food is so delicious! Their ribs, Ox Tails, Stew chicken was tender, coming straight off the bone. Collard greens yum yum, yum. Mac and cheese are creamy and heavenly. Yams, OMGOODNESS!!!! Cornbread buttery. Definitely appreciated their hospitality as well."

"Absolutely wonderful. We went on a Sunday around two o'clock and church attendees were still eating. Because you can't rush through this meal. It's so good you have to savor it. We had pork ribs, delectable mac and cheese, corn, a spicy roasted chicken, breaded pork chops, fried okra, candied yams, and great tea. Bonus >> the line is decorated with a very long, wrap around wall decked out with a black history photo mural. It's very cool. Oh, and the corn bread is so good it didn't even need butter."

"My first visit. The history wall is impressive, and they have beautiful black art displayed throughout the restaurant. Very friendly and professional staff. Most important, the veggie plate is so delicious! I will be back next week for lunch."

"Food was amazing! I really enjoyed the fried fish and the cornbread was incredibly delicious! I wish I could have purchase an entire tray of cornbread, YOU HAVE TO TRY IT! You won't be disappointed.. The atmosphere was great as well. All of the staff was welcoming and engaging with the customers. I also loved the black excellence decor on the walls!!"