From Farm to Fame: Adolf Dulan's Culinary Odyssey

Our History

During his life, Adolf Dulan, known within circles as the 'King of Soul Food,' embarked on his culinary journey in a humble log cabin on a farm in Luther, Oklahoma. It was there that he worked alongside his mother, observing her as she skillfully prepared the family's meals. In this nurturing environment, Adolf developed a deep appreciation for the art of cooking, observing his mother's cherished recipes that included farm-raised fried chicken, flavorful collard greens, and an array of delectable southern dishes. The invaluable lessons learned from his mother laid the foundation for Adolf's lifelong passion and expertise in the world of soul food.

At the age of sixty-five, in 2001, he accomplished just that by opening Dulan's Soul Food Kitchen. What started as a new idea blossomed into a thriving establishment with two locations, one in Inglewood and the other in Los Angeles. These eateries have become renowned for their generous portions, down-home service, and food that evokes the nostalgic flavors of a grandmother's Sunday dinner. Dulan's Soul Food Kitchen stands as a testament to Adolf Dulan's entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to bringing the warmth and comfort of soul food to the hearts and palates of countless patrons." During his lifetime, the restaurant received numerous accolades and awards. 

Adolf left us in 2017, leaving a remarkable legacy for his five children. To continue into the next generation, Adolf handed the reins to his son Terry Dulan to lead the family businesses in 2014. Terry took charge of the Dulan's Soul Food Kitchen locations in Inglewood and Los Angeles. As the impetus for the success of the Dulan family, Terry's dedication and commitment have carried forward the legacy. In Terry's words, "my father's spirit is alive and well and continues to preside over this business." 

Over the past decade, under Terry's stewardship, Dulan's has remained dedicated to its mission of crafting some of the most delectable Soul Food in the United States. The restaurant has garnered awards such as the top 10 Soul Food restaurants in the USA by Thrillist Magazine, Top 38 restaurants in Los Angeles according to Eater Magazine, and recognition as a Top 101 Los Angeles Restaurant in both 2021, 2022, and 2023 by the LA Times. Dulan's was also featured on Good Morning America, Spectrum News, NBC, and several other local TV and print publications. We have been selected as the favorite restaurant in Inglewood by our customers. Moreover, Dulan's has received numerous other prestigious awards, including an honorable mention from the James Beard Awards, affirming its commitment to exceptional food made the right way. 

Notably, the third location includes the affiliated restaurant, Dulan's on Crenshaw, which has been delighting patrons for an impressive 35+ years under the skilled leadership of Greg Dulan. Greg has also garnered numerous awards over his career and has deep roots in the Los Angeles community. 

Additionally, the Dulan family has also continued the legacy of giving back. They have contributed over $15,000 in scholarships, generously donated over $50,000 of food and service towards cancer research, actively participated numerous times in feeding the homeless, and made numerous charitable contributions to churches, organizations, and charities. They have also hired over two thousand people from minority communities over the 45-year span. We continue the legacy of giving back.