There’s nothing quite like the smell of soul food wafting into your nostrils around lunchtime in Lubbock–and today I found myself at Doc’s Cafeteria at 4919 34th St. . I walked in hungry and left fat–or maybe I should say ‘fatter’—and happy!
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Doc’s, which runs a “one-trip buffet / full plate” system, is known for giving you more than your eyes can handle–in a good way. You choose a meat and up to five sides, then follow with bread, dessert, and drink. It’s basically a “one-stop buffet.”
From the moment I walked through the door, the staff greeted me with genuine smiles and quick service. The kind where you feel seen, like you’re not just another tray in line. In fact, I’ll confess: the friendly energy made me want to stay longer, just to soak it in.
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It’s one thing to serve good food. But serving it graciously? That’s what makes a place REALLY memorable!
A Plate Worth the Trip
So what did I eat? I went with the beef tips with rice, double collard greens that are LOADED with tender pork, broccoli & rice casserole, green beans, and sweet yams. Let me tell you — that plate was exceptional. I’ve had essentially the same thing every time I’ve been and it always ‘slaps’–as the kids would say.
The beef tips were tender and well seasoned, the gravy had depth without drowning the meat, and the rice soaked it up just right. The collards had that slight edge of smoky bitterness balanced by whatever magic Doc’s put in there. (I always add a whole bunch of that sweet pepper sauce) The casserole was creamy, comforting, full of broccoli and soft rice and cheese. And the yams — a deliciously lightly sweet, warm hug for your taste buds! I went with the strawberry cake for dessert.
Oh, and I had a half sweet & half unsweet tea to wash it all down with. Sorry, fellow Texans, I’ve never been into the super sweet teas.
It wasn’t a fancy, haute cuisine lunch. But it was honest, soulful, and exactly what I needed today!
Local Love & Community Roots
Doc’s isn’t some chain trying to be everything to everybody. The ownership behind it — the same family behind Lee’s, Royal Seafood, and Bucket of Love — built this concept as a hometown buffet spot that hits home. In doing so, they’re filling a niche: big plates, fair price, that feeling you get when your grandma serves dinner.
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According to Yelp, Doc’s has a 4.1 star rating after 20+ reviews, thanks to those hearty portions and community feel. They get a 5 rating from me. If I could go higher, I certainly would!
And for those who don’t want to head out? Doc’s is on DoorDash, making it easy to get their food delivered to your door in Lubbock.
So, if you’re craving a hearty, no-fuss plate of soul food with folks who treat you like a neighbor — Doc’s is a solid bet. I left with leftovers (classic move) and a full stomach… and I’ll absolutely be back again and again!
If you could bring back one restaurant or biz that closed in Lubbock, what would it be?Gallery Credit: Landon King 
