27 Best Southern Restaurants in Chicago

Big Jones Southern • $$
5347 N Clark St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Roasted Mushrooms and Grits with a Sunny Duck Egg
Catfish and Sweet Potato Biscuits
Roasted Mushrooms \u0026 Grits
Award-Winning Fried Chicken
A Simple Southern Breakfast
House-Cured & Smoked Bacon
House-Cured Bacon Omelet
Fried Chicken Dark Meat
Duck & Oyster Etouffee
Bourbon Bread Pudding

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

4.4 Superb294 Reviews
Virtue Restaurant Southern • $$$
1462 E 53rd St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Green Tomatoes with Shrimp Remoulade
Collard Greens \u0026 Smoked Turkey
Biscuits \u0026 Pimento Cheese
Collard Greens & Smoked Turkey
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 Superb557 Reviews
3

Roux

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

Customers` Favorites

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

“Food was delicious“

4.5 Superb241 Reviews
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
Half Fried Chicken with 2 Sides
Fried Shrimp PO Boy with Fries
Nola Hot Sausage Sliders
Powdered Sugar Beignets
Fried Catfish PO' Boy
Blackened Cauliflower
Hurricane Punch Bowl

“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 Good315 Reviews
Cleo's - Bronzeville 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
Peach Cobbler Cheesecake
Garlic and Herb Salmon

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

4.2 Good285 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

“Had food and drinks while at a conference and wonderful experience. Our bartender Ryan was excellent, very friendly and welcoming. Thanks for a good time.“

4 Good809 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
Nann's Banana Pudding
Fried Chicken Dinner
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Philly Cheesesteak W
Stuffed Salmon

“Food was very delicious and well prepared!! Also the owner was very polite to me and my wife💯💯“

4.6 Superb92 Reviews
Roost Chicken & Biscuits Southern • $
2011 W Roscoe St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Sunrise Sandwich with Peach Cobbler and Mac \u0026 Cheese
Buttermilk Biscuit Fried Chicken Sandwich
Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding
House Style Sandwich Meal
Chips and Mac and Cheese
Original Chicken Sandwich
Sunrise Chicken Sandwich
Hand Cut French Fries
Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy Mac & Cheese

“This place is seriously so good. Finally tried the Caesar salad and it did not disappoint! Good service and love the drink deals — $2 beer $4 cocktails, every day…..And schlitz on draft…….even better! They have trivia on tuesdays at 7 (info I struggled to find online). I wish I lived closer; I would genuinely come here every day if I could! Yum yum yum“

4.1 Good149 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

“I’m going to be so honest and say I’ve never been there but we can’t wait to. The owners and their family saved Thanksgiving when they donated food, resources and a kitchen to prepare food for 400-500 people (free of charge) at the 28th annual Thanksgiving Dinner at St. Benedict’s when the church’s kitchen became unusable. We met Halsted personally while volunteering and we were just take aback at how generous, kind and lovely these folks were to take on this challenge and on a holiday. I hope our community will continue to remember this and support these fantastic folks for a long, long time.“

4.7 Superb70 Reviews
Dove's Luncheonette Diner • $$
1545 N Damen Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Burnt Ends Hash \u0026 Chicken Fried Chicken
Burnt Ends Hash & Chicken Fried Chicken
Smoked Brisket Taco Norteno
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Biscuits and Gravy
Buttermilk Pancake
Al Pastor Fries
Broccoli Salad
Smoked Brisket
Dove's Deluxe

“Great service and delicious food;)“

4.7 Superb188 Reviews
DixiePura Kitchen Southern •
325 E Pershing Rd, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Pancakes with Fried Chicken Wings
Creamy Mac and Cheese

“Wow what a hidden little gem in the middle of bronzeville! I celebrated my birthday here Saturday night and we’re still talking about the food. Everything was cooked so well, all of the food was incredibly flavorful, and the menu is so creative. Definitely check this place out if you’re looking for something a little different but absolutely delicious!“

4.9 Superb43 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
Fried Green Tomatoes and Chicken Skins
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

“Stopped in for a salad and the Cajun Cobb Salad. Deliciousness😋😋“

4.3 Superb677 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!!!“

3.7 Good167 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!“

4.5 Superb179 Reviews
Wishbone Southern • $$
161 N Jefferson St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Catfish with Mashed Potatoes Greens and a Corn Muffin
Southern Fried Catfish Brunch
Wishbone Pancakes Brunch
Cajun Shrimp & Grits
Smoked Brisket Hash
Shrimp \u0026 Grits
Crunchy French Toast
Louisiana Breakfast
Chicken & Waffles
Blackened Catfish

““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 Superb205 Reviews
Chef Daddy's Soul Food • $
5944 W Lake St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Chiterling Dinner with Greens \u0026 Potato Salad
Chiterling Dinner with Greens & Potato Salad
Smothered Pork Chops
Baked Chicken Dinner
Banana Pudding Cake
Beef Short Ribs
Peach Cobbler
Mac N Cheese
Caramel Cake
String Beans

“They have great customer service. Those chittlings are the best around. Will be back again.“

3.9 Good195 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
Shrimp \u0026 Grits Entree
Chef Art's Chicken Wings
Braised Southern Greens
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Shrimp & Grits Entree
Pimento Cheese Grits

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

3.9 Good697 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
Neck Bones Yams and Macaroni Cheese
Nashville Hot Chicken Wings Dinner
Short Ribs Yams Dressing Muffins
Fried Chicken Wings 4 pcs
Smother Pork Chops Dinner
German Chocolate Cake

“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 Superb219 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

“THE WOMAN AT THE REGISTER IS RUDE SHE ACTEC AS IF SHE DIDN’T WANT TO TAKE CARE OF ME I ASK HER FOR A CAN OF RC SHE ACTED AD IF SHE DID’NT HEAR ME I HAD TO REPEAT MYSELF MULTIPLE TIMES I ASKED HER IF THE HOT SAUCE WAS ON THE TABLE SHE IGNORED ME SHE SHE ANSWERED HER PHONE TWICE AS IF SHE WASN’T THERE TRYING TO PAY IM ASSUMING BECAUSE I LOOK HISPANIC WHICH I FIND DISTURBING & A SENSE OF RACISM SHE SHOULDN’T BE WORKING AT REGISTER IF PPL OF DIFFERENT RACES BOTHER HER. DON’T JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER JUST UNACCEPTABLE IF YOU ASK ME IM A PAYING CUSTOMER.. IM CREOLE (Louisiana) & PUERTO RICAN.. DON’T JUDGE A PERSON BECAUSE OF THEIR COLOR JUST RUDE & DISTRIBUTING
BUT THE FOOD IS DELICIOUS REMINDS ME OF LOUISIANA“

3.3 Good171 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

“Best hot chicken in Chicago“

4.4 Superb157 Reviews
Chicago's Home of Chicken & Waffles Chicken • $$
3947 S King Dr, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Catfish Collard Greens Yams Mac&Cheese and Chicken & Waffles
Grandma’S Peach Cobbler a La Mode
Nia Kay's Buffalo Catfish Strips
Ken N' Jen's Catfish N' Grits
Fried Chicken Wings Waffle
Kev's Lemon Pepper Wings
Bern's Biscuits N' Gravy
Chicken \u0026 Waffles
Chicken and Waffles
Macaroni and Cheese

“I love my black own business, doing such a great job, taking care of their customers. And catering service is great five ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ restaurant loved and recommended anyone from Chicago and out of towners to come.“

4.1 Good326 Reviews
House of Blues Chicago American • $$
329 N Dearborn St, Chicago

“Cancels performances by Jewish artists like it's 1930s Germany.“

4 Good503 Reviews
King Soul Food Gallery Soul Food • $
8103 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Strawberry and Lemon Parfaits
1 Entrée 2 Sides Rib Tips
Baked Mac \u0026 Cheese
Peanut Butter Cookies
3 Layer Cakes Slices
Strawberry Parfait
Baked Mac & Cheese
Red Velvet Cake
Mashed Potatoes
Black Eyed Peas

“I would like to rate this restaurant with 2 stars. The customer service was great. I traveled from Holland, Michigan in search of a good soul food restaurant. I won't go into detail, but I will mention some areas for improvement. The catfish was delicious. The sweet potato had a nice flavor. The Mac N Cheese was tasty. However, the potato salad could use some improvement. The greens tasted like they came from a can and had a lot of stems.“

3.9 Good95 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
Mashed Potatoes
Budlong Biscuit

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

3.8 Good93 Reviews
Lillie's Q Barbecue • $$
417 N Ashland Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

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

“Came in almost before closing time! The location was easily findable and had a very nice atmosphere! Super good vibe and feel! Once we got to the counter a nice gentleman named Jose was the one that helped us! That guy is the MVP! You can tell he enjoys his job and does it pretty well! He recommended us some good sauces and the salsa macha! Definitely will come back just because of the good service we had! The food was insanely good! Brisket was beyond fire! The tacos were the best in my opinion! Totally unexpected it! 100/10“

3.8 Good30 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!“

3.8 Good69 Reviews
Pine Street Kitchen Southern • $
Equitable Building, 401 N Michigan Ave, Chicago

“I can only assume this place had a change in management because the reviews from years back seem very off to me— never my experience.The food is reasonably priced for a casual downtown spot and the service has always been pleasant— especially the guy who’s always on the grill, he’s so friendly!Give it a try if you’re in the area!“

4.3 Superb3 Reviews