If you want to enjoy delicious soul food AND support an amazing small business owner -- don't sleep on C & E Southern Bites! It may be hidden away in Data Alley, but it's well worth the drive. Owned by a sweet Black American couple who deeply understand the ins and outs of Southern cuisine, you will feel the warmth of home at this simple storefront restaurant. They feature a menu replete with St Louis Ribs, gumbo, catfish, whiting, Mac n Cheese, Greens w Smoked Turkey, candied yams, banana pudding, homemade sweet potato pie and more! This was such a find. We had the 1/2 pound catfish platters and the batter was seasoned so perfectly. Additionally, the candied yams were cooked with just the right mix of sweet and savory and I could have had second. Greens are difficult to nail, and C & E nailed the texture and flavor. So good -- just add a little hot sauce and you're ready to eat! The potato salad and fried okra are also tasty options. Next time, we'll try the Mac n cheese. To finish the meal, we really enjoyed the special dessert: peach cobbler cinnamon roll. My spouse loved the banana pudding as well. 10/10 recommend! Spread the word and support small businesses. There are a lot of chain soul food restaurants out there, but Southern Bites deserves its flowers. Total class of its own! read more

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When the whole menu looks good, just get everything!! Mr. Evan's' cookout worthy entrees are prepared with passion and southern sensibilities and range from seafood platters with catfish to pork smoked ribs. The banana pudding and sweet potato pie are definitely the exclamation point on this meal. read more

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I got a Soul Food spot out in Sterling Virginia that a good friend got me hip too. Yeah I know, it's a hump, but, I'll say this...the folks that own this spot were a special kind of KIND. Just genuinely nice people that just so happen to have good food!! GET THERE!! Where I am: @cesouthernbites . Location Reviewed: 23520 no.124 Overland Drive Sterling Virginia . Items Reviewed: STAMP!! Their NC Pulled Pork Sandwich (with slow cooked pork, slaw, & NC bbq sauced). Thick, smoky, well flavored, & tasty!! STAMP!! Their Whiting, & Shrimp Platter ($28.50 with 2 pieces of fries whiting, six large shrimp, red skin potato salad, cornbread, & hush puppies). Crispy, thick, & well seasoned whiting, & shrimp!! Fulfilling hush puppies, & STAMPED red skinned potato salad with DELICIOUS cornbread!! STAMP!! Their Ribs Platter ($28 for a half a rack of pork ribs drizzled in their homemade bbq sauce, fried okra, & yams). Meaty well dry rubbed, & savory bbq sauced up ribs, sweet yams, & LIKE THAT okra!! STAMP!! Their 4 Piece Combo ($20.50 for 4 whole wings, Mac n cheese, cornbread, & collard greens). Nice crispy whole wings with tangy sweet Mumbo sauce. The collards were well flavored...LIKE THAT, & the mac was a tad bit dry...DELICIOUS. STAMP!! Their Catfish ($10 for 2 pieces of fried catfish). Hands down some of the best catfish in the area!!! Use that hot sauce it wasn't super hot!! STAMP!! Their Banana Pudding ($5 with Nilla wafers, & real bananas). Classic, real bananas in banana pudding get me every time!! . Customer Service: On Point. . Parking: Decent. . Recommendations: Just GO!! Good Food, Good People!! Accessibility: This spot is wheelchair friendly, & differently abled persons friendly. 5 Stars=STAMP 4 1/2 Stars=LIKE THAT 4 Stars=DELICIOUS 3 Stars=DECENT 2 Stars=PASS 1 Star=NAH #Bigschlimsreviews read more

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First Visit -- Delicious Food and Wonderful Hospitality MOM and I made an impromptu first-time visit to C & E Southern Bites in Sterling, VA while exploring menu options for an upcoming Black History Month program at her retirement community and we are so glad we stopped in. We were quickly greeted, and three young staff members answered questions, promptly took our order and served us with friendliness and efficiency. Everything came out hot and fresh, and the fish was clearly cooked to order. The swai catfish and whiting were perfectly seasoned and fried hard just as requested; crispy, flavorful, and satisfying. We also enjoyed a wonderful variety of Southern comfort favorites, including collard greens with smoked turkey, crispy fried okra, delicious cornbread, and classic southern candied yams. The mac & cheese was especially memorable; made with multiple types of cheese, enriched with chicken broth, and prepared without egg, resulting in a creamy, savory, perfectly balanced dish. The hush puppies with onions were a standout, and the jumbo fried shrimp were cooked just right. And the gumbo deserves special recognition. It was beautifully crafted from a deeply developed dark roux and finished with tender chicken, hickory-smoked CONECUH sausage, aromatic vegetables, and traditional Cajun spices. Rich, hearty, and full of authentic flavor. Before leaving, we were especially grateful to Evans, one of the owners, who engaged us in a pleasant conversation for about 20 minutes. His warmth, kindness, and genuine hospitality made our visit even more memorable. This was more than just a meal. It was a welcoming experience filled with great food and community spirit. MOM is excited to consider C & E Southern Bites as part of her meaningful celebration during Black History Month and will definitely be back. read more

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Unique family owner southern eatery, not a chain. Not like all the usual in the area. Tasty southern fish, shrimp, BBQ and more. Owned by a retired Navy type-all you sailors muster here NOW! read more

We ordered through Uber Eats in the food was good, but not so great. I ordered the fried white fish sandwich and my friend ordered the fried whiting platter with a half pound of shrimp. It was only OK. nothing great nothing spectacular. have had better at other places. We also ordered some collard greens and a side of coleslaw, which were the best part of the dish because the collard greens came with turkey in it. That was the only saving grace. Will never order from here again! read more

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I've tried both their fish and the wings on 2 separate occasions....and the only flavor that I tasted was BURNT GREASE! I've talked to the owner about this one several occasions and let him know that I had thrown the wings away because they were so disgusting! Even showed him the picture of the wings. He recognized his food and said "That's what happens when his workers over batter the chicken". But then made "0" attempt at making it right! (See the pictures) That shouldn't have even been allowed to leave the kitchen! It was BAD! read more

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This was actually pretty tasty. I ordered delivery for a Friday evening meal and was not disappointed. I ordered two whiting plates with greens, one had fries, the other with shrimp, hush puppies and cornbread. Portion sizes are nice, not too small but also not gluttonous sized. The whiting and shrimp were nicely seasoned, not too salty, and weren't heavily breaded. Cornbread was moist and not too sweet; hush puppies were good but a bit dense. The greens were tasty and not overly salty or soft, they still had a nice crunch. read more

C & E Southern Bites Restaurant - Fried Whiting Fish Platter 1/2 lb with Shrimp, Cornbread, Hush Puppies, Collard Greens - Southern Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

First time stepping into this establishment. I was craving fried catfish, did a simple search, and this place did not disappoint. The plaza it was located in was kind of quiet. It had some great stores, but not too busy of an area. As I reached the front door the left door was locked, I thought the place was closed at first. Then my boyfriend tried the right door and it was unlocked. Boy am I glad he did! The place was not as aesthetically pleasing on the inside, seemed more of a catering spot. However, staff were very nice and helpful. I believe we met the chef who made some really good lemon cookies he was giving out as free samples. My boyfriend and I loved the fry seasoning used on the fish and wings. The collard greens did not disappoint. All the food was very yummy. Will definitely be telling my friends about this spot and will be back. It's hard to find authentic soul food the further you get away from the city (DC), I'd give this place a try! read more

C & E Southern Bites Restaurant - Fried SWAI Catfish Platter 1/2 lb with Shrimp, Wings, Mac n Cheese, Collard Greens, NC Pulled Pork 1/2 lb. Sandwich Platter - Southern Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

So my wife recommended trying this place out and I am glad she did. All of the food had great flavor and was what you'd expect. The NC bbq was vinegary, the smoked ribs, were smoked and tender. The collard greens, banana pudding , and sweet potato pie all not pictured were especially delicious- and we ate them before pictures could be taken. Service was great. Counter man smiled, knew the menu, could tell I was a new customer, and explained the choices. The owner even made a sweet potato waffle for me to try while I waited- from their chicken and waffles dish- which I will try next time! This is a small business and this was the weekend so I couldn't tell about the flow of business. read more

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Food was very good and freshly made. Service was great. Young lady taking orders was extremely friendly. Hated the fact that most of the sides had an up charge. Just price it so you know what how much you're paying. Also, pricing for drinks are crazy high and selections were limited. $3.50 for a 20oz drink is crazy work. Need a fountain drink machine. read more

Excellent food that goes really well with Ocelot's beer! I had the whiting and catfish platter with hush puppies and collards. So good! read more

While my fiancé was in a rehab center down the street we both had a "hankering" for some soul food. I was happy to find this location nearby and that seemed to have some decent selections. Upon arriving I was quickly greeted by staff. As it was my first time they were happy to go through items on their menu and answer any/all of my questions. I decided to go with 2 fried fish platters did one with catfish and shrimp and the other one with whiting. I got the collard greens and mac and cheese for mine while he got okra and candied yams. For dessert I got one sweet potatoes pie and one sweet potatoes cheesecake. As for mine i thought the fish could of been fried a little longer (personal preference) as my fiancé likes it on the softer side. The collard greens and mac and cheese were really good. However, he did not like the okra and the candied yams he said lacked flavor from what you expect from a soul food restaurant. However, the dessert was amazing and probably some of the best sweet potatoe pie we have had especially from a public establishment. This by no means is a fast food type of place there will be a wait as most items are cooked to order. But it is a clean place with TVs for your enjoy while you await your meal. If I am ever back in the area I would definitely return to try other menu items as well. read more

C & E Southern Bites Restaurant - Southern Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

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Would have rated this place higher based on the food alone, but the service and exterior cleanliness brought my experience down to 2 stars. Service: The young lady answering the phone could benefit from more training in both customer service and menu knowledge. When I asked questions, the responses were minimal and lacked any helpful detail or engagement. It felt transactional rather than welcoming or informative. Exterior cleanliness: The area directly outside the storefront had noticeable trash and a significant number of cigarette butts. For a food establishment, that level of upkeep is concerning and impacts first impressions. I visited with a group of four, and it stood out to all of us. I was hoping for a more polished and attentive overall experience. read more

I would love to give this business a higher rating; however, I cannot at this time. I truly believe they have the potential to be great. Pros: The restaurant was extremely clean, the food came out in a timely manner, and the fried shrimp were delicious. Cons: The mac and cheese was somewhat dry, the ribs were lacking flavor , and the cashier was not very personable (not rude, just not very engaging). With a little more seasoning and customer engagement, this restaurant could easily reach a four- or five-star experience. read more

I really wish I could give a better review to a new restaurant hoping to make it, but I unfortunately have to give 2 stars. The interior is barren. Just a grid of tables, the front counter, and an ordering kiosk. Behind the counter almost looks like a storeroom and not a restaurant. Bathrooms are hidden down a back hallway, and surprisingly clean. They had a TV which was VERY loud and playing some violent show. Not sure why, seeing as it was facing the customers only so the employees couldn't even watch. Had to ask the cashier to turn it down, which they only did slightly (still too loud for a restaurant with no music or noise apart from the TV). If you do decide to eat here (which I wouldn't recommend), you should definitely get it to-go. We ordered there and ate there, and food took maybe 20-25 minutes to come out. Quite a long time when they were mostly empty. I ordered a 1/3 rack of smoked ribs. These were INCREDIBLY inconsistent. Some bites were tough as a rock. Some bites (like, 3) were extremely tender and delicious. Most were just slightly tough and not that enjoyable to eat. It came with hush puppies and fries. Compared to the fries, the portion of hush puppies seemed small. Both sides were good but nothing special. My Mom got the fried whiting fish with mac n cheese & coleslaw. She said all of it was just ok. My Dad got the fried chicken sandwich, which I tried a bit of. The bun was cold! Like not just room temp, cold like it came out of the freezer! The chicken itself was juicy, but bland. Half the taste of Popeye's but double the price. I will definitely not be back at C & E Southern Bites unless they make some drastic changes. Food is acceptable, bordering on bad; service is slow and not very attentive; the interior is cheap and empty. read more

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Had the fried catfish with hush puppies and cornbread and it definitely hit the spot. The catfish was crispy on the outside and tender inside, with good flavor and not overly greasy. Hush puppies were fresh and had that perfect golden crunch, and the cornbread was warm, slightly sweet, and a great side to round everything out. Solid comfort food and good portion size was good left full and satisfied. Would come back again when I'm craving classic Southern food. read more

C & E Southern Bites Restaurant - I got the 1/2lb catfish and hush puppies with cornbread - Southern Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

More people should be visiting, dining in, ordering carry-outs from here! Food was delicious. Down right, home cooked & comfort food vibes. Tried the fried fish and the ribs with their North Carolina style sauce and they were good! Collards and Banana Pudding were amazing. Gotta try more and get back more. read more

Based on the strong yelp rating, I stopped in and was not disappointed. Seriously good BBQ ribs. Sides were excellent too. Prices were reasonable because you aren't paying for the ambiance. read more

C & E Southern Bites Restaurant - Ribs, Collards, Cornbread, Coleslaw - Southern Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

Genuinely disappointed. Fish was not the best. 2 pieces was not very filling. Mac and cheese were very bland. Season your food

I came across this place on a whim while I was in the area working, I ordered my go to order for Southern food, a two piece white with the side of yams and collard greens...babyyyyy! Seriously amazing food. Seasoned perfectly, fried perfectly, the sides were cooked perfectly as well. I'm picky when it comes to greens and this really hit the spot. The customer service was good, too. The young man at the front desk was very respectful and professional. Priced reasonably as well!! Def would be a regular spot for me if I lived in the area. read more

C & E Southern Bites Restaurant - Fried Whiting Fish A la carte 1/2 lb - Southern Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

I ALWAYS leave a review, everyone's time and gas is invaluable!!!! The parking is optimal and safe, handicap directly at front with no steps. The atmosphere, has TV, comfy like big eat in kitchen many tables, windows for sunshine and vitamin D. Extremely clean, OMG!!! You can literally eat off the bathroom floor!!! Staff are ole school respectful and charming. Okay, lastly, but not least, the food is stellar, you will not be disappointed. I'm talking real sweet potatoes, not that crap in a can, real greens I'm talking Whole Foods, real homemade potato salad not store bought, you better get you some, fresh fish, chicken, ribs just chefs kiss! I literally drive an hour for the best! And they even give you points that add up quickly! It's worth every single dollar, you'll thank me later!!!! read more

I was a little scared to try them because I didn't see reviews on maps that but I went to them anyways. I gave three stars because I think it id expensive and I dnt like that certain sides are extra. I think the food was good, but I do feel like the fish and shrimp needed more seasoning. I would definitely go back again. Also I advise to order online or bring cash read more

We got the fried shrimp platter that was delicately fried, nice pieces of shrimp and not oily like some places. The chicken wings were fried the same and very meaty. Some wings look like they've been found in a dumpster. Not these! The yams made me feel like I was having Thanksgiving in September. The Mac and cheese was lighter than most. Not overly cheesy which actually worked out because sometimes it takes over the meal. The hush puppies were slightly sweet with bits of corn inside. The coleslaw was the absolute best I've ever had. The collards were a bit salty yet tender. The gentleman taking our order was very patient and kind. His mom is from NC and they know how to throw down some good eats! As for ambiance it's your typical fast food type vibe. I'd definitely come back! read more

C & E Southern Bites Restaurant - Wings - Southern Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

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Came here tonight for the first time and I'm so glad I did. The food is fantastic. I got the catfish and whiting platter with mac and cheese, corn bread, Cajun fries since they were out of collard greens, and a side of fried shrimp. The fish was fried perfectly, the fries were the perfect texture, and the mac and cheese was super creamy. Hopefully next time they have collard greens, because I can just tell they're good by how everything else tastes! There are many tables inside to sit at as well as a tv to watch. I believe the food is made to order so it tastes very fresh. The employees and owner were also all incredibly kind and friendly. I would suggest that they do more marketing on Instagram and start a TikTok, as well as updating their yelp page. I really want to see this business boom, especially since there are are little to no good soul food places in the area. Can't wait to come back and try something new! read more

Authentic and as good or better than any barbecue I've had in the Carolinas or Georgia. If you want southern food instead of chain restaurant barbecue, come here it's better. Sides are really good too, most places mess up collards but theirs are great. I got the pulled pork, potato salad and collards. read more

This place is a hidden gem...why am I just finding out about them after living in this area for a few years now??? I ordered the whiting platter with Mac and cheese and greens and everything was fresh, hot and delicious. I think this establishment is family owned and operated and I wish there were more places like this. Interior was very clean, service fast and friendly and I can't wait to come back and try more things from the menu. The breading on the fish stuck well and was crunchy and well seasoned. The greens were so, so good - just like my grandma used to make. They also made sure to pack the condiments I requested, napkins and cutlery which oddly is something a lot a places miss the mark on post-COVID when ordering takeout. I believe they are also veteran owned. Please give this place a shot, you won't be disappointed and you'll be supporting a locally owned family business. I'll be back C&E to try more food soon! Thank you for the absolutely delicious lunch that brought back memories of the soul food I enjoyed eating growing up. read more

C & E Southern Bites Restaurant - Fried Whiting Fish Platter 1/2 lb - Southern Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

I stumbled upon this hidden gem and have finally found a soul food restaurant in town that actually serves authentic flavorful southern dishes! Every item I ordered was made from scratch.... Whiting and shrimp platter with Mac-n-cheese, collard greens, candied yams, cornbread and banana pudding! Please make sure you visit Mr. Evans and family for their delicious menu items, you WILL NOT be disappointed read more

Simply the best fried fish and sides in the Northern Virginia area. Reminds me of my childhood family reunion fish fries. Excellent customer service provided. Absolutely no complaints in with this establishment. Please give C & E a try. If you love true soul food you will not be disappointed!!!! read more