Great potential with excellent customer service. We stumbled across this restaurant after finding it on Yelp on the way back home from Nevada. The tall, male person (presumably the owner) was very friendly and also looked to be the chef behind the delicious BBQ ribs - we observed him checking on the smoker outside the restaurant. The restaurant opened about 2 months ago and appeared to have previously been a Chinese establishment (my wife saw some Chinese symbols in the women's bathroom). We were quite excited to try out the food, and when we arrived at about 7:30pm on Memorial Day (Monday), we weren't sure it was open as no interior lights were visible from the outside. It actually was. The unlit room we saw was an unused expansion with a bar and lots of wood logs nearby (likely used for the smoker). We were greeted when we entered, and struck a nice, short conversation with the tall man. We tried the oxtail over rice, beef ribs, and corn, Jasmine rice, Mac and cheese, and mashed potatoes. The kids loved the food, the ribs in particular. My wife did not enjoy the ribs as much as she found them a bit too dry, but my mom, kids, and I liked the flavor and texture. The gravy over the rice was very good. Oxtails were cooked perfectly where the meat easily came off the bone. A man was playing music on a portable piano and also sang at times. With all that said, this restaurant has some work to do. I felt the interior was a bit too dark for my liking, and only one other customer was dining in. He appeared to be a regular. Mind you, we came to eat during off-peak hours and nearly every guest took their food to go. Most of the clientele we saw during our stay were African American - before you consider this racist, let me explain. When I enter an Asian restaurant and see lots of Asians eating there, I usually find that a good indicator of good food for that type of food. For southern cuisine, likewise, I had generally found it to be true too: soul food enjoyed by lots of African Americans likely is a good indicator. For the food to stay fresh and warm in catering-style offerings, the restaurant needs to have lots of customers to come through. Otherwise, the food will slowly either turn cool or dry. Until then, coming in at peak hours may be your best bet for the best experience and taste. This restaurant has good promise and growth potential and we look forward to visiting again. We liked the beef ribs the most. read more

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This is a hidden gem! The food and the staff are amazing! [[HIGHLIGHT]]I love the music and the vibe.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I definitely recommend it. read more

Amazing food! Staff very friendly and helpful. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Quite place to eat and talk while listening to music playing in the background.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

10/10! I came in hoping for pork chops but there were no pork chops that day. Chef came out and offered to make me some to order and really made my night! And this was right before closing.They were so good!! My partner had a plate with oxtail and macaroni and cheese. Everything was amazing! Plus, there's a giant Tesla charging station right outside of the restaurant. read more

This is a nice little hidden restaurant that serves authentic southern soul food. The beef rib is huge and delicious, fried wings are large and flavorful, the greens have a nice flavor to them, the yams are sweet tender and fresh, and the seasoned carrots with cauliflower is slightly sweet and savory. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area. read more

Damn this place was good! We were supercharging and stopped in to get some food and use the bathrooms. First off, the bathrooms were clean which is a huge plus. The food was served cafeteria style with the cashier playing it for you. We got too much food to try all of it and left feeling so full! We got 1 of each rib options. The beef rib was massive. I couldn't even finish half of it. The pork ribs were smaller but super flavorful and both were so soft. For sides we got the yams, Mac and cheese, baked beans, collared greens, white rice, dirty rice (see too much food lol!). The yams were sooooooo good and in a sweet syrup. Very sweet but delicious with the other salty options. Dirty rice and Mac and cheese was spicy! But so good still. Baked beans were sweet as well but tasty. Collared greens had some smoked meat in them and were sooo good. We already decided this would be our charging and food spot moving forward lol. read more

What a great find! The food was excellent and tasted genuinely homemade and never frozen. They must change their menu often as it seems the offerings are different than other reviews. Good ambiance and service as well. read more

Great food, great service, what more could you want? Also a big plus that food is ready-to-eat so we could more quickly get back on the road to Laughlin. My bf got the cubed steak and I got turkey wings. Both were tender and moist. Yum. read more

Southern Twist - I've already dug in on my turkey wings, they are fall-off-the-bone tender. - Southern Near Me - Barstow, California

It looked somewhat lonely so we were not sure if it was open but we went ahead and we were so glad we did!! The food was delicious and the guy at the front was so friendly and attentive!! I'm surprised this place is not full to the brim with people but at least that meant it was a quiet lunch! I am looking forward to going back already!!! read more

Southern Twist - Ox tail, rice, cabbage, Mac and Cheese, corn bread - Southern Near Me - Barstow, California

Driving through Barstow, California led us to an unexpected find. The stand-out aspect of @southerntwistt was the exceptional service we received upon entering. Kudos to EDDIKA for her hospitality! The menu offered a variety of delicious Southern comfort food options, making it hard to pick just one. We tried the meatloaf with mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, dirty rice, fried chicken and last, but not least Black Eyed Peas. read more

Southern Twist - Southern Near Me - Barstow, California

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I love supporting smail businesses walking in it was pretty much empty other then a couple sitting and eating customer service was good, I wanted to love it but it wasn't it for me the 1 entree plate w/ 2 sides was $23.70 I got the pork ribs w/ Mac n cheese and baked beans. the ribs weren't a falls off the bone type of rib more on the dry side wasn't enough sauce for me personally and they weren't that hot not sure how long they were sitting in the warmers the beans were good it was the hottest thing on the plate and the mac n cheese was disappointing for me it lacked a lot of flavor and were also hard pieces in it was also luke warm not sure if I'd go back decent bbq spot for Barstow ( please don't take my criticism as hate) just my opinion and tastebuds . I hope it's taken as constructive criticism and really hope that your business continues to grow. read more

Southern Twist - 1 entree 2 sides pork ribs w/ Mac n cheese n baked beans - Southern Near Me - Barstow, California

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I wish this was a good review because the food was good, however I drove an hour from Victorville to come here only for it to be closed at 7 PM. The hours on yelp and maps say they close at 10 PM and I get here with my kids and it's closed. I couldn't be more disappointed! read more

The food and service was amazing the staff was so kind the atmosphere of the place was extremely welcoming I got the baked Mac and cheese chicken and turkey the turkey and chicken were so amazing they practically melted off of the bone the music was so nice and it was very chill definitely recommend and go next time read more

Southern Twist - Baked Chicken Mac and Cheese Rice and Gravy Turkey Wings - Southern Near Me - Barstow, California

We ordered cube steak, ribs and smothered chicken, everything was delicious! Side dishes were good too! We're definitely going back, [[HIGHLIGHT]]the restaurant was very clean[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] and the service was great. Very friendly and patient while we decided what we wanted. read more

I'm mad that I've been driving past this diamond in barstow right behind the tesla chargers for 2 years now. Amazing f9lood and friendly service. I had chicken, greens, cabbage and the cheesy broccoli. 10/10 all day. I'll be back a lot. read more

Southern Twist - Sign out front - Southern Near Me - Barstow, California

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If you miss home cook or just want a home cooked meal this is the place you feel the love put in the food , if your visiting it's a must

Coming home from Vegas we were hungry, exited Main in Barstow and we usually get fast food , however we werent craving fast food, yelp'd other restaurants in area and seen this place which seemed to stand out, not your usual type of diner and food was Southern which I love and hard to find here in Socal. Place empty but we did get them 1hr before closing so we must've missed the rush. Right away we were greeted by the owner, very nice gentleman who after a short conversation he was from Georgia which explained the nice Hospitality lol Service was great, servers/employees very tentative and nice Food awesome, practically tried everything, nothing overly salted but just right. Mac n cheese had the perfect amount of cheese. Ribs were fall off the bone, gave us complimentary trial of the Oxtail and that was actually my favorite Too bad we are 90mi away otherwise we would probably be regulars read more

Great service food was great had the meatloaf white rice collard greens and mac and cheese you gotta try this

Southern hospitality first and foremost, the food was delicious, great customer service. I truly believe this restaurant should be on your to do list's. It's better than eating fast food when passing through Barstow,Ca Directly across from Tesla supercharger station. read more

As soon as you walk in you are hit with the smell of fresh souther cooking! The staff were super friendly and helpful. We would definitely come back! Turkey wing dinner with black eyed peas and collard greens is a must! read more

Stopped here on my way from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. Amazing service the ribs are to die for. stop in next time you're passing through Barstow. read more

Southern Twist - Pork ribs - Southern Near Me - Barstow, California

Food was fresh, hot and tasty. Service was 10 out of 10. Highly recommend if you are in the area.

Very good eats in Barstow!!! Great customer service. Please try the smothered turkey, macaroni & cheese, and catfish. I love this place.

The food was amazing! Best ox tails I've had with green beans and dirty rice. Service was very quick and the gentleman helping us was helpful in our choices. I highly recommend! read more

Solid spot near the 40 & 15 interchange serving southern / soul food. Service was fast - you choose what you want for your platter down the line, pay, and sit - similar to a fast casual set-up. There are about five proteins to choose from including ribs and chicken. There are about a dozen sides. The ribs, collards, black-eyed peas, and mac 'n cheese were really solid. (IMO the dino beef rib might not be worth it given the large amount of fat. Note that the cost of the platter depends on the protein you choose.) read more

I just left from Southern Twist tonight It was my first time there. The service is great and so is the food. I don't usually eat catfish unless my cousin cooks it but it was fried great and the hot water cornbread is great as well. I'm very satisfied. I'll be back. read more

We found this restaurant by accident while charging our Tesla. Probably the best restaurant in Barstow in terms of value and quality of the food. Comfort southern food! Employees were super friendly and kid friendly food too read more

Lovely staff and amazing food . The dining area has a nice southern vibe. Great experience. 5/5 Definitely will stop by again. read more

Stumbled upon this gem while stopping to super charge. Excellent service, and food was so tasty we wanted to order seconds. Relaxed chill atmosphere with plenty of seating. Keep up the great work, and please consider accepting Bitcoin on your Square terminal! read more

The drive to/from Vegas got a serious upgrade. Delicious. Friendly folks with excellent service. Man, this is some good barbecue. Had the ribs and catfish. Both were great. Will be back. read more

Please treat yourself to an awesome dine-in experience. If you're local to Barstow you're very lucky to have such a wonderful soul food restaurant nearby. The manager and chef are very helpful and talented, providing the BEST service to your party. Whether you're dining solo or in a large group there's so much variety that's definitely going to please. In addition to the food you always have the chance to stop in for a night of karaoke or some sort of really nice entertainment. Keep it up Southern Twist family. read more

Wow. I didn't expect to find one of the best soul food meals of my life in Barstow, but here we are. From the moment I walked in, the aroma told me I was in for something special. I ordered the fried chicken, mac & cheese, collard greens, and cornbread--and every single bite tasted like it was made with love and tradition. The chicken was perfectly seasoned, the mac creamy and rich, the greens had just the right kick, and that cornbread? Soft, warm, and slightly sweet--just the way it should be. The staff was welcoming and warm, making the whole experience feel like a home-cooked Sunday meal. If you're driving through or anywhere near Barstow, make the detour. This place is the real deal. read more

Delicious southern food! We were a bit concerned walking into an almost empty restaurant on a Saturday night. The ambiance was a bit like a nicer Denny's, with some quirky decor. Didn't matter, though. The staff quickly came over, explained how the service worked (cafeteria-style). You pick one entree and two sides. At least 8 different entrees: Pulled pork, chicken, ribs, etc. Same with sides. Choices looked and smelled great! We had roasted chicken, BBQ pork ribs, mac and cheese, collard greens, cornbread stuffing, and an extra courtesy spoonful of sweet potatoes. The meat was fall-off-the-bone perfect. The greens were bright and vinegary. Mac and cheese was super-cheesy. The stuffing was savory and flavorful (and I'm not even a fan of cornbread stuffing!). Drinks were bottled: sodas, tea, water. Service was sweet and attentive. By the time we left, there were a few more diners and we know they were in for a treat. If you are passing through Barstow (or especially local!), don't miss this hidden gem! read more

Southern Twist is by far the best restaurant I have been to in YEARS!!! The service and professionalism was a 12 out of 10!!! I felt like family as soon as I walked through the doors. The owner and stuff are so friendly. The food was amazing and the portions served was top tier...!!! We took food home they served us so well... I can tell you this, there is no restaurant within a 100 miles on this level. If I'm passing through Barstow this is the ONLY place I'm stopping!!! Also if you are driving an electric car they are building a charging station rite in front of the place. Lastly The ambiance was so amazing my GF and I had such a great time eating here. Thank You Southern Twist for making us feel like family read more

Southern Twist - They have a map where you can pin where you are from!!! VERY COOL - Southern Near Me - Barstow, California

The food is incredible, the service is impeccable, and the hospitality will have you thinking you're at a family barbecue cookout. This gem in Barstow needs to be your go to spot when you're traveling up and down the California north south corridor. BUFFALO SOLDIERS MC East Bay It's all GOOD! read more

Southern Twist - Southern Near Me - Barstow, California

Food is always fresh and delicious! Just had a fresh fried catfish meal with Mac n cheese and yams. Hubby had turkey legs with gravy over rice with greens and Mac n cheese. There's no better soul food within a 100 mile radius. We drive in from Victorville heading to Vegas and drop in for the best southern hospitality and food. The menu is so expansive and the prices are great too. The portions are amazing. read more

Excellent food, welcoming people, would highly recommend, had the steak and mac and collard greens

What a hidden gem! And it is a little tucked away, but worth finding. Real scratch-made food! Meals set up with one entree and two sides. If you're hungry at the end of the meal you've got a bigger appetite than me! Clean restaurant, friendly service. The only reason I didn't go 5 stars is the soft drinks already run over $3.00 and refills cost $1.00. We're dining in, free refills are not really that much to ask. read more

Southern Twist - Salisbury steak, mac & cheese, cabbage and dirty rice. - Southern Near Me - Barstow, California

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Hours listed are inaccurate, we drove out here to give it a try and it's closed, at 530 on a Saturday night? Looks like it's out of business but from the other reviews I guess that's just how it looks. read more

Walking into this established I felt like I was walking into a bad episode of "Do the Right Thing". If you haven't seen the movie check out the scene where Sal had a slice looking at the pictures on the wall. As soon as you walk in, you oddly greeted by a wall of fame of characters that have zero soul. Kind of ironic for an establishment that has soul food in the name. This should have been my first clue to turn back around but I am always in search of a place to circulate my dollars. Despite the subliminal greeting I proceed to order. The layout is cafeteria style with protein options and side. You pick one protein and two sides. Bam 30 bucks for a single plate of food that may have been on the line for some unknown time. I cautiously moved down the line ordering ribs, mac and cheese and beans. Also order the ox tails, mac and cheese and greens and two drinks. Grand total $71 bucks. Proceeded to take my first bite and immediately knew everything needed mama seasoning it seemed as if everything was under seasoned by design and wasn't cook for the people who might walk into the establishment. I was struggling to get through the plate when I got up to get a drink refill and noticed a random shoe (political) on the counter that represented a party that doesn't necessarily represent the people. When I asked about the shoe. One of the waitress confirmed what I thought. The owner of this establishment was not trying to attract people who build soul food but everyone else. Lesson learned. Do your homework before walking into a random place in the middle of nowhere where. Do the right thing and skip this place. They don't want our dollars. read more