The 7 Must-Try Dishes At Selby's Grab And Go: Why Chef Kendall Selby's Soul Food Is Taking Over Waldorf, MD

Selby's Grab and Go has rapidly established itself as a premier destination for authentic, heart-warming Southern cuisine and American comfort food in the Southern Maryland region. As of December 15, 2025, this family-owned, Black-owned restaurant, spearheaded by the culinary vision of Chef Kendall Selby, continues to draw crowds with its commitment to fresh ingredients, flavorful dishes, and a welcoming, home-like atmosphere. Located in Waldorf, MD, Selby's is more than just a quick stop; it's a culinary experience that blends traditional soul food recipes with a modern, convenient service model, making it a staple for locals and a must-visit for travelers. The restaurant, situated in the Saint Charles area of Waldorf, has garnered significant praise for delivering high-quality, made-with-heart meals, proving that "grab and go" doesn't have to mean a compromise on taste or freshness. From their renowned breakfast options featuring real, well-seasoned grits to their legendary lunch and dinner plates, Selby’s has successfully carved out a niche in Charles County's competitive dining scene. The popularity of the establishment is a testament to the passion and culinary skill of its leadership, offering a vital taste of home-cooked goodness to the community.

The Masterminds: Chef Kendall Selby and the Selby Family Profile

Selby's Grab and Go is a powerful example of local entrepreneurship and culinary passion, driven by the Selby family. The restaurant’s success is intrinsically linked to the dedication and skill of its primary figures.

Chef Kendall Selby

• Role: Mastermind Chef and Culinary Visionary.
• Specialty: Southern Cuisine, Soul Food, and Elevated American Comfort Dishes.
• Background: Chef Kendall Selby is the driving force behind the menu's deliciousness and authenticity. He has been featured in local media, showcasing his expertise and commitment to quality cooking.
• Community Involvement: Selby is known to have graduated from a local community entrepreneurship program, which further fueled his motivation and business acumen in launching Selby's Grab and Go.
• Signature Style: Blending traditional, scratch-made soul food techniques with a modern "grab and go" convenience, ensuring every plate is full of flavor and care.

Karen Selby

• Role: Owner and Local Entrepreneur.
• Involvement: Karen Selby is a key figure in the ownership and business operations of Selby's Grab and Go.
• Impact: Her entrepreneurial spirit and local roots have helped establish the restaurant as a minority-owned business deeply connected to the Waldorf community.

The family's combined efforts have created a warm, welcoming environment where customer service is as highly praised as the food itself, making it a true family dining experience.

7 Essential Dishes You Must Grab at Selby's

The menu at Selby's Grab and Go is a celebration of Southern food traditions, but with several unique, standout items that have become local legends. If you are a first-time visitor or a long-time fan looking for your next meal, these seven dishes represent the best of what Chef Kendall Selby has to offer.

1. The Legendary Salmon Cheesesteak

This is arguably the most talked-about item on the Selby's menu. Moving beyond the traditional beef or chicken, the Salmon Cheesesteak is a gourmet sandwich offering a fresh, flaky salmon fillet, perfectly seasoned and topped with melted cheese and fresh vegetables. It's an innovative twist on a classic Philly Cheesesteak and a must-try for seafood lovers.

2. Big Mama's Fried Chicken

A true soul food staple, the Big Mama's Fried Chicken is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to authentic, home-cooked flavor. The chicken is consistently praised for its crispy, perfectly seasoned skin and juicy, tender meat. This dish embodies the "soul food feels like home" philosophy of Selby's.

3. The Real Deal Grits

Often overlooked, Selby's breakfast menu features grits that reviewers rave about. They are not the instant variety; they are fully cooked, well-seasoned, and not gritty, served with classic sides like Scrapple or your choice of meat. This commitment to quality even in a simple side dish showcases the restaurant's high standards.

4. Perfectly Fried Catfish and Whiting

For those who prefer a fish plate, the Fried Catfish and Fried Whiting are excellent choices. Served as lunch or dinner plates, the fish is cooked to a perfect crispness on the outside while remaining moist inside. It's often paired with classic sides like Mac and Cheese or String Beans.

5. Decadent Macaroni and Cheese

No soul food experience is complete without a stellar macaroni and cheese, and Selby's delivers. Their Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection, serving as the ultimate comfort food side dish. It is consistently listed among the favorite sides by regular diners.

6. The Southern Side Trio: Collard Greens, Yams, and String Beans

The side dishes at Selby's are entities in themselves. The Collard Greens and Yams are cooked with the deep, savory flavors expected from genuine Southern cooking, while the String Beans offer a fresh, seasoned counterpoint to the richer main courses. Ordering a plate with a combination of these sides is the best way to experience the full flavor profile.

7. The 28th Street Philly Cheesesteak

While the Salmon Cheesesteak gets the buzz, the 28th Street Philly Cheesesteak offers a traditional, hearty option for beef lovers. It is a substantial and satisfying sandwich that rounds out their impressive sandwich selection, proving their versatility beyond just soul food plates.

Beyond the Counter: Catering and Event Services in Charles County

Selby's Grab and Go has expanded its operations to become a full-service culinary solution for the greater Charles County area, extending its reach far beyond its Waldorf location. This expansion into catering and event services allows the restaurant to bring its signature soul food and American cuisine to a larger audience.

Full-Service Catering for Any Occasion

Selby's provides freshly prepared, professionally delivered catering for a wide range of functions. Whether you are planning a large-scale corporate event, an intimate private party, or a wedding reception, the team at Selby's can customize a menu to suit your needs. Their catering menu features all the beloved favorites, from their Fried Chicken and Catfish to their famous sides, ensuring a memorable and flavorful spread.

The Dedicated Event Space

A significant feature that sets Selby's apart is the availability of an on-site event room or space. This dedicated area allows customers to host gatherings directly at the restaurant, offering a warm, laid-back, and welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. This service is a major asset for residents in Waldorf, Saint Charles, White Plains, Fort Washington, and Accokeek, Maryland, looking for a convenient and delicious venue. By offering both a quick-service restaurant and comprehensive catering and event solutions, Selby's Grab and Go has firmly established its topical authority as a cornerstone of Southern Maryland's food scene. The combination of Chef Kendall Selby's culinary expertise and the family's commitment to the community ensures that Selby's will remain a beloved establishment for years to come.