27 Best Southern Restaurants in Chicago

Ina Mae Southern • $$
1415 N Wood St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Chargrilled Oysters Creole Butter 6 pcs
Hushpuppies and Pimento Honey Butter
New Orleans Hot Sausage PO' Boys
Fried Shrimp PO Boy with Fries
Nola Hot Sausage Sliders
Powdered Sugar Beignets
Fried Catfish PO' Boy
Hurricane Punch Bowl
Blackened Cauliflower
Chicken Tenders 4 PC

“This spot is PHENOMENAL! Customer service and the food was TOP TIER! Traveled from Memphis, Tn just for this restaurant. And also because I also have the same name. It’s a must to stop here and enjoy the atmosphere. The prices for the food wasn’t bad at all.“

4 Good280 Reviews
2

Roux

Roux Southern • $$
1055 E 55th St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Green Tomato Tartine
Spicy Chicken and Waffles
Hot Chicken and Waffle
Chicken Fried Steak
Fully Loaded Grits
Biscuits and Gravy
Catfish and Fries
Crystal Hot Sauce
Three Egg Omelet
Shrimp and Grits

“Food was delicious“

4.5 Superb250 Reviews
Big Jones Southern • $$
5347 N Clark St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Roasted Mushrooms and Grits with a Sunny Duck Egg
Award-Winning Fried Chicken
A Simple Southern Breakfast
House-Cured & Smoked Bacon
Fried Chicken Dark Meat
Duck & Oyster Etouffee
Bourbon Bread Pudding
Tres Leches Pancakes
Buttermilk Biscuits
Fried Green Tomatoes

“Stopped in for lunch. The salads were excellent, gumbo delicious, and the corn bread is out-if-this-world amazing!“

4.3 Superb253 Reviews
Dove's Luncheonette Diner • $$
1545 N Damen Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Burnt Ends Hash & Chicken Fried Chicken
Smoked Brisket Taco Norteno
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Biscuits and Gravy
Buttermilk Pancake
Al Pastor Fries
Smoked Brisket
Broccoli Salad
Masa Pancakes
Dove's Deluxe

“Great service and delicious food;)“

4.6 Superb143 Reviews
Virtue Restaurant Southern • $$$
1462 E 53rd St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Green Tomatoes with Shrimp Remoulade
Collard Greens \u0026 Smoked Turkey
Collard Greens & Smoked Turkey
Biscuits \u0026 Pimento Cheese
Cornbread \u0026 Honey Butter
Biscuits & Pimento Cheese
Cornbread & Honey Butter
Macaroni and Cheese
Biscuits and Gravy
RW Millies Pudding

“Joe was a great waiter. Informative and service oriented. I had a great dining experience. Fresh Pea Salad; with a sparkling Rose; chicken and banana pudding were my guilty pleasures. And it was all well worth it.“

4.6 Superb474 Reviews
Chef Art Smith’s Reunion American • $$
Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken with Hot Sauce by Chef Art Smith
Cheddar Hush Puppies with Red Pepper Jelly
Goat Cheese Buttermilk Drop Biscuits
Chef Art's Famous Fried Chicken
Chef Art's Chicken Wings
Braised Southern Greens
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Shrimp & Grits Entree
Pimento Cheese Grits
Fried Green Tomatoes

“January 25, 2024. Dinner with Moxie. Incredible fried chicken & mashed potatoes. Moxie had the kid’s cheeseburger & mashed potatoes. Friendly staff!! 💞“

3.9 Good459 Reviews
Yardbird Table & Bar Southern • $$$
530 N Wabash Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Louisiana Jumbo Shrimp & Grits Brunch
Sweet Tea Braised Short Rib
Classic Buttermilk Biscuits
Fried Green Tomato blt
Yardbird Chicken Wings
Yardbird Cinnamon Roll
Yardbird Hash Browns
Lobster Mac & Cheese
Mac and Cheese Side
Macaroni and Cheese

“Always top notch great tasting food. Cannot complain about anything. Staff is great and friendly. Food is delicious and great atmosphere.“

4.2 Good477 Reviews
Cleo's Southern Cuisine Southern • $$
4248 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Green Beans and Smoked Turkey Salty Corn Muffins Fried Catfish Sauteed Crab and Remoulade Sauce
Southern Gent Six Fried Chicken Wings Served with One Belgium Waffle and a One Signature Side
6 Fried Wings Green Beans Pineapple Sweet Potatoes
Float and Fly Friend Catfish and Chicken
Pineapple Candied Sweet Potatoes
Classic Baked Mac & Cheese
Honey Butter Corn Muffins
24 Karat Gold Corn Muffin
Garlic and Herb Salmon
Southern Fried Chicken

“Divinely Delicious! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. 😋 👍🏾 👌🏻 💯 👏 👏 👏 👏“

4.2 Good192 Reviews
Reclaimed Bar & Restaurant Southern • $$
Recommended
3655 N Western Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and a Reuben
Applewood Smoked Wings
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Glasses of Wine
Chicken Wings
Deviled Eggs
Cajun Burger
Lamb Burger

“The bartender Rob made a lovely old fashioned for my first drink and then I switched to beer. The local selection was on point! Ordered the smoked wings, will come back for just those alone. Live music by summer of George was awesome as well. Had a great 90’s alternative sing along vibe. Strongly recommend checking this place out especially if you live in the neighborhood.“

4.7 Superb67 Reviews
Lillie's Q Barbecue • $$
417 N Ashland Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Prime Brisket Sandwich
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Smoked Chicken Wings
Mac N Cheese
Potato Salad

“It's been a long while since I've been at this District Brew Yards location and I don't remember Lillie's Q. Pictured here is a Pimento Cheese Sausage Link ($8 and a style I've never tasted before 5/5), half a pound of Brisket ($17, probably one of the best I've had 5/5), both come with a side of onions and pickles, and ordered sides of Coleslaw ($4, dry, not creamy 3/5) and Mac & Cheese ($6, which was average 2.5/5). Not a huge fan of how the BBQ sauce packets came, pictured here - opted for Hot Smoky and Smoky Barbecue Sauce. A bit pricey but was filling. Would like to try the Tri-Tip, Hot Link, and Chicken Wings next visit.

Parking: Street Parking - mix of free and paid. Pay attention to signage.“

3.7 Good19 Reviews
Big Boss Spicy Fried Chicken Chicken • $
2520 S Halsted St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Big Boss Chicken Sandwich
1 4 Dark Spicy Chicken
Hot Fried Chicken
Big Boss Sandwich
Popcorn Chicken
Waffle Fries
Curly Fries
Spicy Fried
Coleslaw
Tenders

“The Xtra hot flavor on the chicken sandwich is blazing hot 🥵 but still full of flavour. Loved it.“

4 Good105 Reviews
Boxcar Betty's Southern • $
500 W Madison St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Boxcar with Sweet Potato Fries
Buffalo Sandwich
Chicken Sandwich
Waffle Sandwich
Boxcar Sandwich
Chicken Tenders
Buffalo Chicken
Hand-Cut Fries
Fried Chicken
The Betty

“Great food and affordable. Guilty pleasure when riding the Metra.“

4.7 Superb26 Reviews
Roost Chicken & Biscuits Southern • $
2011 W Roscoe St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding
House Style Sandwich Meal
Original Chicken Sandwich
Chips and Mac and Cheese
Sunrise Chicken Sandwich
Hand Cut French Fries
Creamy Mac & Cheese
Macaroni and Cheese
Buttermilk Biscuit
Chicken & Waffles

“Got the chicken tender family meal- delicious!! My only feedback is that the coleslaw should be bigger. It was like a tiny 4oz individual container. If I’m ordering a meal intended for 3-4 people there should be enough to share with all. But I love roost!“

3.9 Good106 Reviews
Dawn A.M. Eatery American • $$
1642 E 56th St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Vegan Blueberry Waffle and Fried Chick'n
Corn Bread French Toast & Fried Chicken
Chicken and Cornbread French Toast
Deviled Eggs with Smoked Salmon
Salmon Deviled Eggs with Capers
Pot Roast with Jalapeño Grits
Pot Roast with Jalapeno Grits
Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs
Fried Chicken and Waffles
French Toast Corn Bread

“My sisters and Aunt took me here to celebrate my 60th Birthday and we had an amazing time. Food was hot and delicious. Our server, Que, who was actually one of the managers, took care of us personally and he made my birthday dinner absolutely amazing. He interacted with us and checked on us multiple times to make sure we were good. Can't wait to go back and take more friends.“

4.2 Good342 Reviews
Lizzy J Cafe Southern • $$
916 W Fulton Market, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Chicken and Waffles
Salmon Croquettes
Pancakes and Eggs
Biscuits and Gravy
Shrimp and Grits
Scrambled Eggs

“Definitely has potential...chicken fried to perfection but no seasoning...fried tomatoes need to be crisper...no seasoning in the batter...shrimp and Grits has spicy flavor but NO SEASONING...needs basic salt, pepper, onion and garlic powder. Ordered a mimosa and was told it could only be by the gallon and was $60 and that if I wanted a cocktail I'd have to go to one of the bars upstairs or downstairs which was inconvenient.“

3.9 Good46 Reviews
Sweet Maple Cafe American • $
1339 W Taylor St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Sweet Maple Special Dine in: Yes Outdoor seating: Yes Takeout: Yes Delivery: No Curbside pickup: Yes
Holiday French Toast and Blueberry Pancakes
Hot American Cheese Grits
Chicken Livers and Onions
Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Apple Spice Pancakes
Creamy Hot Chocolate
Hot Cheddar Grits
Biscuits and Gravy

“I had the pleasure of dining at Sweet Maple Cafe in the 9th District, and I couldn't be more thrilled to share my experience! The food was absolutely incredible—each bite was a delightful treat. A special shoutout to Twilla, the manager, and her wonderful staff, who made us feel right at home with their warm hospitality. Supporting our local businesses is so important, and Sweet Maple Cafe is a shining example of the quality and care we have in our community. I highly recommend stopping by for a meal—you won’t be disappointed!“

4.4 Superb128 Reviews
Roost Chicken & Biscuits Southern • $
457 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken Sandwiches - Family Style
Nashville Hot Chicken Breast Sandwich
Original Fried Chicken Sandwich
Chicken Sandwich on a Biscuit
Creamy Mac and Cheese
Carolina Style Meal
Macaroni and Cheese
Buttermilk Biscuit
Cucumber Coleslaw
Tenders with Fries

“Good food for anytime of day!!!“

3.6 Good140 Reviews
MacArthur's Restaurant Southern • $
5412 W Madison St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Smothered Pork Chops \u0026 Macaroni and Cheese and Dressing
Smothered Pork Chops & Macaroni and Cheese and Dressing
Meatloaf Greens Cornbread Sweet Corn
Collard Greens Macaroni and Cheese
Fried Chicken Dinner
Smothered Chicken
Barbecue Chicken
Beef Short Ribs
Black Eyed Peas
Meatloaf Dinner

“Me and my wife Ginger enjoy the amazing customer service. Not only the services are great. MacArthur’s allows you to feel like family. My experiences has always been great and, it’s been like that since I was 16 years old. Now I’m 41 married with a child. I love me some good soul food. Keep up the good work MacArthur’s….“

3.5 Good118 Reviews
Bourbon on Division Bar • $$
2050 W Division St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Brisket Mac and Cheese

“Bourbon on Division is the heart of Division Street. Beyond its gruff exterior (metaphorically), it boasts some of the most eclectic variety of live music and amazing DJ's in all of Chicago. I've met some of the best people in my life there. Management all the way down to security create a fun safe environment. Also 5 stars for the bartending tonight on Emo night. Chris and Krue were great!“

4 Good67 Reviews
The Budlong Southern Chicken American • $
1008 W Armitage Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

The Budlong Original Chicken Sandwich
Xtra Hot Chicken Sandwich
Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Nashville Hot Chicken
Hot Chicken Plates
Hot Chicken Strips
Chicken Tenders
Comeback Sauce
Banana Pudding

“Excellent food! Excellent service! DON’T MISS THIS PLACE WHEN YOU’RE IN CHICAGO!“

3.7 Good67 Reviews
The Angry Crab Seafood • $$
1308 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Half Pound of Shrimp and Crawfish Potato Corn Sausage with Garlic Cajun Sauce
Dozen Louisiana Char Grilled Oysters
Half Dozen of Oysters
Grilled Calamari
Crawfish Hot Dog
Crab Garlic Rice
King Crab Legs
Snow Crab Legs
Garlic Butter
Build Your Bag

“The crab & shrimp boil bag was good, it’s nice they have a variety is spice levels and sauces. However we didn’t receive the sides we ordered. The waiter was happy to remove them from the bill, but still a little disappointing to not receive the items. Our waiter was friendly and nice but they seemed a little understaffed.

Parking: Free parking lot across the street at Jewel Osco/Lowes & metered parking along Milwaukee“

3.6 Good145 Reviews
Doll's Kitchen And Catering Southern • $
1014 S Western Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Garlic Parm Dipped Wings DK Mild Sauce Wings Salmon Philly and Philly Cheesesteak on Texas Toast
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Nann's Strawberry Pudding
Nae Nae's Chicken Philly
Baked Macaroni & Cheese
Fried Chicken Dinner
Philly Cheesesteak W
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Banana Pudding
Catfish Dinner

“Food was AMAZING! Service was excellent owner was nice and friendly even though she laughed at my order and couldn’t believe I was that PICKY 10/10 I definitely have to stop in on a Sunday for SoulFood Sunday“

4.4 Superb53 Reviews
Two Fish Crab Shack Seafood • $$
641 E 47th St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Shrimp and Snow Crab Legs in 3 the Chi Way Sauce
Fried Chicken Wings with Fries
Fried Shrimp Basket of Fries
Fried Lobster Tail Basket
Jumbo Fried Shrimp
King Crab Legs
Red Potatoes
Seafood Gumbo
Seafood Boil
Seafood Bag

“The Music was on point and FOOD DELICIOUS. I gladly recommend. 🦀🥰“

3.1 Average159 Reviews
Wishbone Southern • $$
161 N Jefferson St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Catfish with Mashed Potatoes Greens and a Corn Muffin
Wishbone Pancakes Brunch
Cajun Shrimp & Grits
Crunchy French Toast
Smoked Brisket Hash
Louisiana Breakfast
Chicken & Waffles
Blackened Catfish
Chicken Sandwich
Sautéed Spinach

““What do you recommend about Wishbone Restaurant?” Absolutely everything. My first visit (from Baltimore) in 2022 was perfect. Everything from the food to the service to the drinks. My second visit in 2025 managed to top the previous trip. Such a fantastic experience and great conversation. The *N.C. Style crab cake* was impressive ~ this coming from a Marylander 🤓 Keep up the great food & atmosphere!“

4.6 Superb172 Reviews
St Rest #2 Country Kitchen Soul Food • $$
727 E 87th St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Turkey Wings Yams Greens Corn Muffin Strawberry Lemonade Pineapple Cake Slice
Fried Chicken Wings Yams Macaroni and Cheese and Corn Bread
Black Eyed Peas Roast Beef and Mash Potatoes
Slick Mustard Greens w Smoked Turkey
Nashville Hot Chicken Wings Dinner
Neck Bones Yams and Macaroni Cheese
Short Ribs Yams Dressing Muffins
Fried Chicken Wings 4 pcs
Smothered Pork Chops
Turkey Wings Greens

“Family friendly restaurant. I had the half chicken dressing, greens. Chicken was not hot, and it was in a warmer, greens was okay, dressing was good, and everybody knows, cranberry sauce goes with dressing, the cup, was so small (1/2 teaspoon) extra one is quarter (they don't tell you when ask for it). pet peeve with restaurants stingy with condiments, food not being hot.Try it for yourself.“

4.5 Superb176 Reviews
Bourbon Street Birds Asian Fusion • $
2057 E 95th St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Southwest Chicken Egg Roll
Jumbo Shrimp Fried Rice
Jumbo Shrimp Noodles
Vegetable Fried Rice
Vegetable Egg Roll
Chicken Fried Rice
Sweet Chili Shrimp
Spicey Dirty Rice
Vegetable Noodles
Buttered Cabbage

“The food here really taste like it’s made with love. The dirty rice and bourbon chicken were amazing. I highly recommend this place. Especially if you want something delicious and healthy.“

4.4 Superb136 Reviews
The Budlong Southern Chicken American • $
4619 N Western Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

The Budlong Original Chicken Sandwich
Famous Homemade Banana Pudding
It's a Damn Chicken Sandwich
Nashville Hot Chicken
Budlong Tenders Combo
Hot Chicken Sandwich
Hot Chicken Plates
Mac \u0026 Cheese
Chicken Tenders
Fried Cornbread

“Delicious huge chicken sandwich!“

4.4 Superb116 Reviews