DSF Restaurant & Bar

Great Eats Award Winner

DSF—short for "Down South Family"—is a family-owned soul food restaurant and bar that opened in downtown Fayetteville in August 2024. Located at 106 Person Street, it blends Southern comfort fare with an elevated, elegant twist. The space features full-service dining, a bar, and both indoor and patio seating, making it ideal for relaxed dining in a lively neighborhood atmosphere .

how it all started.

Founded by Fayetteville natives Mario and Ayanna Wilson, DSF reflects their vision of upscale soul food informed by family and Southern roots. After missing home-style cooking during their time on the West Coast, the couple returned and launched DSF to introduce “elegant, classy” soul food in their hometown. They emphasize scratch-made dishes, local sourcing (like sweet potatoes from nearby farmers), and creating a family-centric, nostalgic dining experience .

What should you Try?

DSF’s menu features beloved Southern classics with a gourmet touch:

  • Fried Chicken & Chicken & Waffles – crispy, golden, and satisfying staples.

  • Smothered Pork Chop – rich, meaty, and full of flavor .

  • Pearline’s Fried Ribs – tangy, savory, and named for a treasured family recipe .

  • Southern Pork Chops – hearty and homestyle, served with two sides and cornbread .

  • Down South Rolls – inventive egg-rolls filled with cabbage, candied yams, and macaroni, served with a signature sauce .

  • Homestyle Hamburger Steak – comfort food elevated with caramelized onions and choice of Southern sides .

Expect rotating weekly specials—Taco Tuesdays, Wine & Wings, and $5 Tequila Thursdays—adding to the bar’s vibrant atmosphere .

Location and Contact Information

  • Address: 106 Person St, Fayetteville, NC 28301

  • Phone: (910) 600‑7961

  • Hours:

    • Tues–Sat: 11 AM–8 PM (Lunch til 3 PM; dinner till close)

    • Sunday: 10 AM–6 PM

    • Closed Mondays

  • Bar & Specials: Full bar with weekly drink events and specials

DSF Restaurant & Bar encapsulates the essence of your content approach: a local, family-driven brand offering elevated comfort food in a revived downtown setting. With its heartwarming origin story, expertly crafted dishes, welcoming ambiance, and intentional community connection, DSF is a standout pick for readers seeking soul food with sophistication

Related Winners

Murphy’s Family Restaurant

Murphy’s Family Restaurant is a warm, family-owned breakfast and lunch diner at 4963 Lake Michigan Dr Suite D, Allendale, MI 49401. Open since 2006, this traditional sit-down spot serves all-day breakfast favorites and a wide lunch menu, creating a cozy, community-oriented atmosphere with friendly service and hometown charm .

Continue Reading

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Gus’s is a celebrated Memphis-style fried chicken joint at 1815 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007. Known nationally for its spicy, crispy, bourbon-colored crust and juicy interior, this casual, counter-service restaurant is a Houston favorite for fans of Southern comfort food .

Continue Reading