'A Place of Love'
Lonell's Soul Food Cuisine is more than a restaurant. It's a gathering place built on nearly three decades of culinary craft, community pride, and the belief that food made with love tastes better.
Since 1995, Lonell Anderson has thrived in the catering industry — serving high-profile clients including Shaquille O'Neal and Magic Johnson, and catering a diverse range of events from weddings to corporate gatherings. That experience built the foundation that Lonell's Soul Food Cuisine stands on today.
After nearly three decades of bringing soul food to people, Lonell evolved his vision into something permanent: a restaurant where the comfort and heritage of home-cooked soul food can be enjoyed in a welcoming, dynamic setting. Lonell's opened in 2024 at 8501 S Vermont Ave in South Los Angeles — and it was built to last.
Every dish tells a story. From oxtails slow-cooked until fall-off-the-bone tender, to fried chicken golden and crisp, to collard greens simmered with smoked turkey — each recipe blends the comforting flavors of traditional home cooking with subtle, modern touches. This is food that nourishes both body and soul.
"A Place of Love" isn't just a tagline. It's our promise. Every guest is treated like family. Every meal is made from scratch. Every visit is an invitation to slow down, connect, and savor something real.
Meet the Team
Lonell Anderson
Founder, Owner & Head Chef
With nearly 30 years in the catering industry — including high-profile events for clients like Shaquille O'Neal and Magic Johnson — Lonell brings unmatched culinary expertise to every plate. He personally prepares and oversees every dish, ensuring consistency, flavor, and an exceptional dining experience for every guest.
Our Values
Proudly Black-Owned
Lonell's is a Black-owned business rooted in South Los Angeles. We honor the culinary traditions of the African American community and contribute to the cultural fabric of our neighborhood.
Family Recipes
Our menu is built on scratch-made dishes rooted in the soul food tradition. No shortcuts, no compromises — just honest cooking that celebrates the richness of African American culinary heritage.
Community First
Soul food represents more than a meal — it embodies tradition, community, and comfort. We partner with local organizations and artists to keep South LA thriving. Our table is your table.
Live Entertainment
Jazz nights, karaoke Saturdays, and Sunday brunch — we're one of the few soul food restaurants in LA with consistent live entertainment. Dinner and a show on Fridays and Saturdays.
Built for Fellowship & Connection
Lonell's was designed to be more than a place to eat — it's a destination where food, entertainment, and community come together in a uniquely crafted experience.
60-Seat Dining Room
Tastefully arranged tables and plush seating invite guests to sit back, relax, and savor their meal. TVs on the walls provide subtle entertainment without detracting from the warmth and conversation at your table.
Dedicated Performance Stage
A dedicated stage serves as the focal point for live entertainment — featuring the best jazz bands in town and other performances. Friday and Saturday every week, dinner and a show is the standard.
Private Dining Room
A separate 50-seat private space caters to events such as intimate celebrations, corporate gatherings, and special family occasions, offering exclusivity and personalized service in a comfortable setting.
Vermont Knolls, South LA
Located at 8501 S Vermont Ave in the Vermont Knolls neighborhood of South Los Angeles — an area with deep African American cultural heritage and a thriving community. We're proud to serve this neighborhood and everyone who visits.
