Simply Soulful began as a small operation selling Sweet Potato Pie at local markets. In 2014, mother-daughter duo Barbara Collins & Lillian Rambus transformed their food stand into an authentic soul food restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere. For seven years, Simply Soulful grew as community hub for delicious food and friendly service, and in 2022, moved to 23rd and Jackson in the heart of Seattle’s Central District.

Pro tip: When it comes to the food, you can’t go wrong – be sure that whatever you order includes one of Simply Soulful’s famous cornbread muffins.

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Story
When Lillian Rambus opened Simply Soulful, she was proud to bring a black-owned business back to the historically African American Madison Valley neighborhood. She had spent the first chapter of her career working as a child support enforcement officer, but often lamented to her mother Barbara that soul food in Seattle was hard to come by. Inspired to bring to life the traditional southern home cooking they craved, Lillian and Barbara opened Simply Soulful in 2014. The cafe features family recipes, including Lillian's grandmother Elizabeth Hammond's famous sweet potato pie. In addition to the passion they bring to their food, Lillian takes particular joy in developing the young people who work in the restaurant, and is proud to be a positive role model in the community.
Business Owner
Barbara Collins & Lillian Rambus
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Simply Soulful: Bringing a family soul food tradition to a new Central District location Business Spotlight: Simply Soulful