Heading south for the winter? Warmer temperatures are a perfect excuse to escape the chill and indulge in some superb Southern food.

When planning a vacation or getaway, let your palate be your guide and head to one of these seven culinary destinations, where unique renditions of soul food classics and longstanding local favorites are sure to warm you right up.

Making the list is...

Employees meet inside Nellie’s Southern Kitchen on Main Street in Belmont on Sept. 10, 2020. (Mike Hensdill/The Gaston Gazette / TNS)

Nellie’s Southern Kitchen

Before there were the Jonas Brothers, there was Nellie Jonas, the namesake for the restaurant founded by her grandson — and father to the famous Kevin, Nick and Joe — Kevin Jonas Sr. The restaurant is an homage to Nellie’s love of delicious food, warm Southern hospitality and great music. Live music plays most nights in the elegantly revamped pre-World War II building, which also features a rooftop terrace. Standout dishes include chicken swimming in broth with house-made dumplings; a platter of pecan-smoked pulled pork with four-cheese mac; and a burger topped with melted pimento. Heading to Vegas in 2022? Keep an eye out for a second Nellie’s, opening in Sin City early next year.

36 N. Main St., Belmont, North Carolina; 704-396-7169; nelliessouthernkitchen.com

In the News Story at Chicago Tribune

Story by: 455 Dauphin St., Mobile, Alabama; 251-287-6766; socumobile.com

Leslie E. Royal is a freelance writer.