Connecting Community Through Food: Royceann’s Soul Food at South District Market
At South of 6th Business District, we’re proud to celebrate the businesses that bring our community to life. Royceann’s Soul Food Restaurant, located in the heart of South District Market, is a shining example of the spirit and culture that make our neighborhood unique.
Owned by Johnson County Supervisor Royceann Porter, this beloved eatery has quickly become a gathering place where locals can enjoy flavorful dishes and meaningful conversations. Local resident Kathy Huedepohl, a recent visitor, enjoyed a meal of pork chops, mac and cheese, and candied yams.
“It’s good,” Huedepohl shared. “I live here in the South District, in Saddlebrook, and wanted to check out what Royceann and others have done with the Diversity Market and now this restaurant.”
A Taste of Tradition
Royceann’s menu is inspired by the soul food she grew up with in Saginaw, Michigan, bringing comforting flavors and rich traditions to Iowa City.
“Back in the day, we picked collard greens from the plant, cut them up, and washed them several times to get the grit off,” Royceann recalls. The greens are then slow-cooked with smoked turkey or ham hocks for four hours. “You can’t rush ’em,” she says.
Daily specials ($18) include fried catfish, pork chops, or chicken wings with sides like candied yams, fried cabbage, mac and cheese, corn on the cob, spaghetti, or cornbread. On Thursdays, customers can enjoy deep-fried tacos with rice and beans ($15), super nachos ($15), or four tacos ($12). For dessert, banana pudding—a local favorite—is available for $3.
“The night before the grand opening on March 25, I stayed up all night prepping vegetables, meats, and baking cornbread,” Royceann says. By 5 p.m. on opening day, the restaurant had sold out. “Business has been wonderful.”
Juggling Service and Leadership
As both a county supervisor and a business owner, Royceann has found a way to balance her commitments. The restaurant is open from 4 to 10 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and from noon to 9 p.m. on weekends, allowing her to attend county meetings during the day. It’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Visitors often recognize Royceann from her role in local government. “They come in and say, ‘You’re on City Council,’ and I have to tell them, ‘No, Johnson County supervisor,’” she says with a smile.
Occasionally, customers bring up local issues, and Royceann is always ready to listen. In one instance, she directed a guest to Iowa City Council Member Pauline Taylor, who happened to be dining nearby. Iowa City Mayor Bruce Teague is also a regular, stopping by at least once a week.
Royceann’s family plays an important role in the restaurant’s success. Her nephew, Jonathan Simpson, serves as head cook, while her daughters, Antonia and Staci, lend a hand during busy times.
The Heart of South District Market
Royceann’s Soul Food is one of four vendors at South District Market, a hub of culinary diversity that reflects the spirit of our neighborhood. Other businesses include Early Bird Cafe (offering coffee, wraps, and salads), Cachua Cakes (known for tortas and tres leches cakes), and a boutique with stylish hats and clothing. The market is located in the front section of a former Slumberland store, with StoreLocal Iowa City leasing storage units in the back. Guests can enjoy their meals on a covered outdoor patio, perfect for gathering with friends and family.
Visit Royceann’s Soul Food
- Location: South District Market, 947 U.S. Highway 6, Iowa City
- Hours: 4 to 10 p.m. Wednesday to Friday; noon to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; closed Monday and Tuesday
- Price Range: $3 to $18
- More Information: Find Royceann’s Soul Food on Facebook
South of 6th Business District — Supporting local businesses and building community connections.
