7 Essential Fixins: Why Kevin Johnson's Soul Kitchen Is Detroit's New Culinary Powerhouse

The vibrant culinary scene of Downtown Detroit has a new, high-profile anchor: Fixins Soul Kitchen. This full-service restaurant, a passion project of former NBA All-Star and Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson, has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination, bringing authentic, high-quality soul food to the historic Paradise Valley district. As of this current date, December 15, 2025, Fixins is receiving rave reviews for its classic dishes and welcoming, Motown-inspired atmosphere, solidifying its place in the city’s rich dining landscape.

The Detroit location, situated at 1435 Randolph Street, represents a significant expansion for the Fixins brand, which aims to celebrate the history and traditions of African American culture through its food and inclusive environment. The restaurant’s concept is simple yet profound: serving soul food that is made with love and attention to detail, offering a dining experience that feels both elevated and comfortably downhome. The combination of celebrity backing, a prime location, and a focus on culinary excellence makes this opening one of the most exciting in recent Detroit history.

The Entrepreneur Behind the Fixins: Kevin Johnson's Biography

Fixins Soul Kitchen is more than just a restaurant; it is the latest venture from a man whose career has spanned professional basketball, public service, and entrepreneurship. Kevin Maurice Johnson, who co-founded the restaurant with his wife, is a figure of significant note in both sports and politics. His journey from the NBA hardwood to a prominent political office and now to the culinary world provides a powerful foundation of topical authority for the Fixins brand.

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• Full Name: Kevin Maurice Johnson
• Born: March 4, 1966
• NBA Career Highlights: Johnson was an NBA All-Star point guard, primarily known for his time with the Phoenix Suns. He was a three-time NBA All-Star and a four-time All-NBA Second Team selection, renowned for his speed and scoring ability.
• Political Career: He served as the 55th Mayor of Sacramento, California, from December 2, 2008, to December 13, 2016. His tenure focused on urban development and civic engagement.
• Entrepreneurial Focus: After his time in public office, Johnson shifted his focus to business, primarily through the Fixins Soul Kitchen chain, which he runs with his wife. The Detroit location marks a major step in the restaurant's expansion.
• Restaurant Philosophy: Johnson has stated that the goal of Fixins is to provide a dining experience that honors the tradition of soul food, ensuring that "Without SOUL, it's just food."

The Fixins Menu: A Deep Dive into Detroit's Soul Food Classics

The true heart of Fixins Soul Kitchen is its menu, which is a celebration of Southern and African American culinary traditions. The offerings are described as "soul food classics," elevated by fresh ingredients and careful preparation. The extensive menu ensures that every craving for authentic comfort food is met, from deep-fried appetizers to hearty main courses and classic sides.

The restaurant has already gained a reputation for certain standout dishes that patrons consider must-try items. These dishes not only showcase the restaurant’s commitment to flavor but also serve as key entities that define the Fixins experience.

Must-Try Entrees and Appetizers

• Fried Chicken: Often cited in customer reviews, the fried chicken is praised for being perfectly seasoned, crispy, and exceptionally flavorful, making it a real standout among the Detroit soul food scene.
• Oxtails: A featured and highly-liked item, the oxtails are a rich, slow-cooked classic that appeal to diners seeking a deeply savory and tender meal.
• Deep Fried Deviled Eggs: This unique appetizer takes a classic potluck dish and gives it a delicious, crispy twist, topped with bacon and hot sauce for an added kick.
• Creole Stew: A nod to Southern and Creole influences, this hearty stew is made with chicken and andouille pork sausage and served over rice, offering a flavorful alternative to the traditional fried dishes.
• Fried Fish and Pork Chops: The menu also features other soul food staples like fried fish and tender pork chops, ensuring a wide variety of protein options.

The Sides That Define Soul Food Excellence

No soul food experience is complete without the proper "fixins"—the side dishes that often steal the show. Fixins Soul Kitchen in Detroit excels in this area, offering a generous selection of sides that are essential to the cuisine's identity. These sides are critical LSI keywords that draw in diners looking for authentic flavors.

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The quality of these traditional sides is a major talking point in customer feedback, with several items receiving specific high praise.

• Collard Greens: Numerous reviews highlight the collard greens as some of the best in the area, described as both crispy and tender. This dish is a true test of a soul food kitchen's authenticity.
• Mac and Cheese: The baked mac and cheese is a creamy, comforting staple that is a must-order side for most patrons.
• Candied Yams: Offering the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, the candied yams provide an essential sweet counterpoint to the savory main courses.
• Charred Okra with Bacon: For those looking for a slightly more unique vegetable side, the charred okra with bacon provides a smoky, textured option that adds depth to the meal.
• Biscuits and Cornbread: Essential bread accompaniments, the biscuits and cornbread are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauces and gravies.

Location and Atmosphere: Revitalizing Paradise Valley

Fixins Soul Kitchen is strategically located in Detroit's historic Paradise Valley, an area once known as the heart of African American business and entertainment in the city. By choosing this location at 1435 Randolph Street, Kevin Johnson is doing more than just opening a restaurant; he is participating in the revitalization and celebration of a culturally significant neighborhood.

The restaurant’s atmosphere matches its mission. The interior features "Motown inspired décor," creating a vibrant and welcoming environment that pays homage to Detroit's rich musical and cultural history. The full-service dining experience is designed to be inclusive, welcoming students from nearby campuses, local residents, and visitors alike. This focus on an authentic, welcoming setting enhances the overall quality of the food, proving that the environment is just as important as the meal itself.

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The grand opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, signaling the restaurant's commitment to becoming a community fixture. Whether you are stopping by for a full dinner, a casual lunch, or a weekend brunch, Fixins Soul Kitchen offers an authentic taste of soul food that is rooted in tradition and delivered with modern excellence. The combination of a powerful owner, a historic location, and critically praised classic dishes makes Fixins a genuine culinary powerhouse in the heart of Downtown Detroit.