Popular soul food restaurant coming to Aurora

A popular West suburban Black-owned restaurant is moving to the state’s second-largest city.

Mandy’s Soul Food Kitchen, a staple in Bolingbrook for years, has closed its restaurant and is relocating to Fox Valley Mall in Aurora, where it will reopen under a new name — The Soul Spot.

Owner Delicia Bowling said she is excited to bring her soul food to Aurora.

“Aurora already feels like home. You all have welcomed me with open arms,” she said.

Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin announced the restaurant’s move at a recent city council meeting attended by Fox Valley Mall executives. They presented Bowling with a “Signed Contract” award, officially welcoming The Soul Spot.

“The addition of The Soul Spot to Aurora is a testament to our city’s growing and diverse business community,” Irvin said. “This is a major win for commerce, our community, and the culture.”

Other than rebranding, everything that made the restaurant special remains the same — the owner, the talented cooks, and the menu featuring homemade favorites such as fried chicken, collard greens, banana pudding, and sweet potato pie, according to Bowling.

The Soul Spot is set to open early next month at Fox Valley Mall.

“Just a few days ago I wanted a bowl of shrimp and grits and the only spot I know with authentic shrimp and grist is Mandy’s Soul Food Kitchen,” said Aurora minister Sheila Nunnes. “So, I drove from Aurora to Bolingbrook and, to my surprise, I was devastated when I saw the white piece of paper, ‘permanently closed,’ on the door. I am so happy it is reopening in Aurora. I'll be there with my fork, spoon and knife ready.”