Natural Start

Exceptional Soul Food and Fresh Juices on Springdale

Located at 390 Springdale Avenue, Natural Start is an East Orange gem that seamlessly blends incredibly hearty, home-cooked soul food with a menu of fresh, healthy juices and smoothies. This Halal and pork-free establishment has built a fiercely loyal following for its spectacular, perfectly seasoned dishes and exceptional customer service. Whether you are grabbing a quick breakfast sandwich on your commute or ordering a massive catering tray of wings for a weekend party, the team at Natural Start consistently delivers food that tastes like it was cooked in a family kitchen.

The menu is incredibly extensive, featuring everything from Caribbean-style jerk chicken to Southern classics like turkey wings and collard greens. However, the true stars of the show are the fried chicken wings and the baked macaroni and cheese, which locals repeatedly declare as "unmatched" and "to die for." It’s the kind of comfort food that leaves you fully satisfied, making it a must-visit spot in Essex County.

Beyond the rich soul food platters, Natural Start offers a refreshing contrast with a dedicated juice bar. Whether you need a quick "Energy Boost" smoothie or a potent ginger shot when you're feeling under the weather, their freshly squeezed blends are the perfect, healthy accompaniment to your meal. Given its popularity, locals highly recommend calling your order in ahead of time, especially on weekends!

Iconic Menu Highlights

Fried Chicken Wings

Highly acclaimed as some of the best in the area, perfectly crispy, and seasoned to absolute perfection.

Large Oxtail Platter

A massive, satisfying Caribbean classic, highly recommended when paired with candied yams and mac 'n cheese.

Turkey Wing Platter

A generous serving of tender turkey wings that pair perfectly with their spectacular, cheesy macaroni and cheese.

Catfish Nuggets & Wings

A savory, perfectly fried combination platter that offers the best of both land and sea.

Strawberry Paradise Smoothie

A refreshing, healthy blend that is perfect for balancing out a rich, hearty lunch.

Chicken and Waffles

A breakfast favorite that locals describe as absolutely heavenly and made with real butter.

Customer reviews

Reviewers constantly highlight the spectacular flavor of the fried chicken, the healthy juice options, and the incredibly warm customer service.

Get the large oxtail w/ candied yams and mac n cheese. You wont regret it. Their jerk chicken is also spicy as hell but delicious.

- Abdulhamid

You are playing yourself by not coming here... The service was absolutely amazing. Food was fresh and healthier for you!

- Kyle H Williams

★★★★★

★★★★★

Map & Direction

Located at 390 Springdale Ave in East Orange, NJ, making it an easy and essential stop for incredible takeout soul food.