Soul Food Restaurants near Oak Park, IL

“Was my first time walking in had beef, short ribs, mac & cheese Candi yam and a set of cabbage and it was absolutely delicious. The portions were just right, and I will be back again.“

“Chicago Chicken and Waffles offers excellent cuisine, and the customer service was exemplary. Ms. Alicia, the young lady serving, demonstrated exceptional patience and kindness.“

“Very tasty sundubu, delicious sides, and good service.“

“Good food, good variety. R&B classics playing in the background. What more could you ask?“

“Found this delectable gem on the west side of Chicago and let me tell you, I was soooo glad we found it! Kitchen n Kocktails canceled our reservation because someone famous came to their establishment and turned us away at the door!!!!! We were greeted at Soul’e with a pleasant smile, clean building, nice music and was seated right away (even though he suggested making a reservation). Our waitress Mya was so sweet and attentive. She made recommendations for almost everything on the menu lol. We ordered the catfish, dirty rice, sweet potatoes, fried chicken, greens and cream corn (I know a lot but wanted to sample), let me tell you everything was FIYA! Even with the crowd they had, we didn’t wait long for our food. We got a chance to talk to the owner to let her know about our experience and she was the absolute sweetest. If you’re ever in Chi check them out, you will not be disappointed!“

“My family and I had such a wonderful experience here! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt warm, inviting, and comfortable—exactly the kind of place you want to unwind after a long day. Our bartender was absolutely fantastic: friendly, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable. She made great drink and food recommendations and mixed everything perfectly. It really added to the whole experience. The food was just as impressive. Every dish was savory, flavorful, and clearly made with care. You can tell the kitchen takes pride in what they serve—everything came out fresh, delicious, and the portions were just right! Overall, this place checks every box: great service, amazing food, and a welcoming vibe. We’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great meal!“

“Phenomenal food, that’s arguably the best in the north shore.“

“Ma Dear's Kitchen is definitely Well named. The food sure taste like food out of your granny's kitchen! The ambiance is there and the behind the counter the personalities are like family. I will be back!!“

“Definitely a must try ...well a add to rotation of places to frequent. Went on a Friday night and the owner came out to tell us about a few items/ samples. Not only was the turkey tips tender and flavorful, the sides were definitely a costar. Greens and Mac were 10/10. Oh and let's not forget about the cornbread, chef's kiss. Next trip I make that way , the pizza selection will be a next try and I'm pretty sure I won't be disappointed.“

“Great Food! Also, a very friendly staff.“

“The food and service is fantastic“

“The Unitarian Universalist Multiracial Unity Action Council (UUMUAC) condemns the racial defacement on January 5,,2023, against the Cook it Mama Café’ in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago. We strongly support well-integrated neighborhoods, both for residents and businesses, communities which practice the Multiracial Unity of Martin Luther King, Jr. (the solidarity of the rank and file of all racial and ethnic groups). We encourage area residents to keep on eye out to protect this valued business, to dine there, to assist the investigation of this attack when they can, and to show public support for multiracial unity.“

“I had high hopes since this company was referred by a trusted caterer that I used many times, but my experience with Outside the Box was horrible. We hired this company for a repass immediately following the funeral. They finally showed an hour and an half late to the funeral home. Which means my grieving family didn't eat and waited for over 40mins after final viewing. I received no heads up and if we hadn't reached out to see what was going on, they never would have let me know that my order would not be arriving on time. I missed portions of the service worried about if we would receive our delivery for the repass. When we contacted the drivers to see why they hadn't arrived they were supposed to be 15mins away which turned into approx 40mins after the funeral services had ended. I asked to speak with the owner and was connected right away. She apologized for the inconvenience, said she would refund the delivery fee, and continued to ensure me this situation was not my fault. This response confused me on how my order not being delivered could be my fault in the first place. Also, I am still not sure exactly what the real issue was as I received conflicting stories from the owner and the delivery guys. The food was luke warm by the time it arrived,was set up, and ready to serve to the family. Some of my family did not even get to eat since the food had not arrived. The food was just ok. I will say that when the delivery guys showed up they were apologetic, set up right away, and were polite. 5 days after the funeral I still had not received a follow up phone call or communication to confirm my refund or just to express a sincere apology/thank you. I called today to follow up, speak with the owner and reiterate our experience. I was again told this was not my fault and she apologized again. When I asked next steps and time frame for refund, she said I would receive an email once she processed the refund. She was driving at that moment and couldn't give any specific information. Unfortunately, I do not recommend Outside The Box Catering and Events. I hope this helps even one family not go through the horrible experience.“

“I love the food! My favorite are the wraps! And me and my guy swear by the detox tea! It's healthy and delicious! I highly recommend it! ❤️“

“Truffle has and very clean and aesthetic environment, service was a decent time and food is hot and fresh , the server torey is very nice and attentive, makes sure you’re good and your meal is as well ,overall good experience would recommend!“

“I love this restaurant!! Perfect place to go to sample many Polish favorites, or to have a group meal (shower, birthday party, family gathering etc.) in the semi-private back room. All the food is really fresh and well prepared, just like Grandma used to make at home. It Is a buffet, so there are many choices to please every taste level. Desserts are in small portions, which I find very thoughtful, so you can sample more than one item without over doing it. You can also prepare a to-go box of favorites to take home, for an additional 'per pound' charge. The wait staff is welcoming, kind and efficient as well. Adult beverages of cocktails, wine and beer are available, in addition to coffee, tea, milk, and sodas. I enjoy 6-7 visits per year, and am never disappointed.“

“This is the place to get the best tasting fried catfish!!! O goodness, I got home and took a small piece for taste, I wanted to eat right away, but bought it for dinner. I promise you it took everything within me not to eat for lunch. Soo delicious. Also, I bout the last strawberry banana pudding knowing I have to share with my adult daughter😇. She and I loved it the last time I bought it. Anyway, the food is worth every dollar.“

“Phenomenal food, that’s arguably the best in the north shore.“

“Great food for a reasonable price👌🏽 Barilla tacos 🌮 are highly Recommended.“

“The food at Vari’s is simply delicious! The chicken is cooked to perfection and I love the greens and sweet potatoes. I definitely recommend Vari’s for lunch or dinner.“

“They catered my entire Thanksgiving dinner and desserts and everything was delicious. I want to try what else is on the menu.“

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

“Gourmet Soul Food and Delightful Desserts has the best food in this town. It has a diverse amount of foods, desserts, chocolates that makes you coke back for more! And their beverages are so unique, fresh, and creative. I've recently tried their large stromboli, and man it packs a taste like no other. All the recipes and my ingredient of choice (chicken) makes it feel amd taste like it was fresh out of the oven. It was moist the bread is satisfying to eat and it has the perfect amount of cheese. And the best part? Their menu is gluten-free! In fact, the menu can comes in dairy-free, and its allergy friendly so if you're allergic or have an intolerance to certain foods, then Gourmet Soul Foods and Delightful Desserts got your back. 10/10! Highly recommend! Would order again! :)“

“Ordered from here through doordash. I had never heard of this place but had a taste for some soul food. I had been let down by some many restaurants in my area but this food was delicious. Chicken was fresh & seasoned well & macaroni was sooo good!“

“Fatso's Last Stand, always rated among the top 10 hot dogs stands in Chicago by various food critics, has its flagship restaurant at 2258 West Chicago Avenue in Ukrainian Village and a newer location, which is much more convenient to me, at 1982 North Clybourn, at Armitage, in Clybourn Commons, in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. Open from 11 to 8 daily for pickup or delivery, it is a neighborhood snack bar that advertises Chicago's best char-grilled hot dogs and other delicious comfort food items that keeps customers coming back for more and more, like chili dogs, char grilled or griddled smashed Fatso burgers, Cleo's home-made chili with onions, sour cream and cheddar cheese, Maxwell Street style Polish sausage with mustard and grilled onions, Fatso's jumbo fried shrimp, mac and cheese and milk shakes with such flavors as chocolate, banana, Oreo, strawberry, vanilla, mint chip and Reese's peanut butter. But have you tried theSuper Ooey Gooey, Fatso's latest two-fisted creation? It is two smash beef patties stuffed with applewood smoked bacon, Merkt's cheddar cheese and giardiniera topped with Fatso sauce, tomato, lettuce and onion. Of course, you can't pass up Fatso's signature item, the char dog, served Chicago-style with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, sport peppers and celery salt. And the char-grilled Fatso burger served on a toasted bun with Fatso sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion and applewood smoked bacon. With home-made fresh cut fries. Wash it all down with a chocolate milk shake. Or two of them.“

“looks as tho everything is done in house. the fries are fresh cut potatoes. the patties are hand made. the chicken is I think the best fried chicken I've ever had. texture of the frying and pinch of lemon pepper balances extremely well. prices are dirt cheap. if this exact item was at a downtown gastro pub it be selling for $12.99 which people would gladly pay and it be famous like Au Cheval with a line and not the $2.99 I paid. a lot of care of actual not taking shortcuts goes into the food preparation. I even saw the guy put on a brand new pair of vinyl gloves to prepare and cook the food. they are moving locations next week glad I came across them while here on business. I'm super critical and knitpicky and rarely think a good item is something pretty amazing even their house hotsauce very vinegary and balanced. Former chef. I even criticize my own failed attempts at perfection that others think are amazing. He could probably beat Bobby Flay but that doesn't seem to be an exclusive accomplishment anymore Lol.. go try this places chicken. not expensive nothing to lose well worth it.“

“Love the jerk chicken Taco and egg rolls“

“I love this place my co workers and I often have lunch here … the chicken Philly is awesome the loaded potatoes are ????? The soul food is is delicious …“

“I ordered the honey drizzled chicken for delivery and it was so good finger licking good and crispy. Normally, I use hot sauce when I eat fried chicken this did not need it. The mac & cheese and greens were outstanding. This is my new favorite spot.“

“The best! 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰😍“

“Layover at O'Hare was long enough to get a quick bite for lunch before a 4 1/2 flight to LAX. I ordered an Italian Beef sandwich. My expectations were not high, but I was happily surprised by the sandwich. The meat was tender, the bun was soft, peppers and onions were properly sauteed and the hot pickled vegetables had a nice kick. Service was as expected at an airport fast food place, but the food was good and fairly priced. Definitely worth a try. The included spicy BBQ chips were very good too!“

“My mom Shelly went here today with my auntie and sister they brought the food back home it was so delicious.I’m heading there soon“

“Its a ok place their food is really good , it’s just when
I spent dam near almost $30 on some chicken tips it doesn’t come with a side of fries of anything

I wonder how much taxes they putting on this food and the wait time is crazy smdh

Other then that everything is ok“

“I eat plant based and can only have their salads and veggie sub sandwiches, but they are always on point.

Went to an event held at their venue space in the back of the restaurant and it is beautifully decorated. Considering having my next big birthday dinner party here.“

“Service was great. Food is well seasoned. My favorite is the catfish dinner. This was my 2nd visit and I must say everything was on point both occasions. I definitely recommend and will be back.“

“When you need an good location,great food worth the cost,and down home atmosphere. You have our word that the customers come first... Be ready to check out an amazing yet simple place The five stars represent the direction the team [staff] is going in“

“My Fraternity Brother Anthony Williams and partner Byron Diggs when not bringing great joy as a part of the Our Lady of Our Lady of Africa Parish, Chicago Eucharistic Ensemble have a great Cafe in Maywood right off of I 290. It is called Meal of the Day and has some great southern cuisine in an establishment on the 4th floor of a business complex overlooking I 290. It is appointed with some great art from notable black artists . There is also a banner from Hales Franciscan Class of 1979 , not sure what that’ s all about .. lol! They also do on site catering and have fed the masses after masses at their home church . Check them out ! My fraternity brother has been telling me for years to make the drive and wifey and I finally did and it was so worth it ! .“

“Saturday July 3, 2021 come Laff with Chevy Debbie & friends showtime 7:30pm Free admission 2 drink minimum Bar star Keshia Headliner Tiny Thick Em Host Chevy Debbie“

“Hot fast and fresh! Get the wings fried hard, salt and pepper and mild sauce.“

“I’m on keto, but always find great options here. For example; Stuffed Salmon (with spinach & cheese), Lamb Chops, Shrimp, Greens with smoked Turkey necks. All delicious, all keto.“

“completely fresh . awesome staff . delicious food . Jimmy's best earns it's name“

“Surfs Up Maywood made my day! 😊 The food was made fresh to order. I had their shrimp 🍤 and Hennessy Chicken Wings. The customer service was really good. The Hennessy sauce was absolutely amazing I'm chicken drunk lol 😂 Seriously tho such a great a pleasant and great experience. Love the heathy alternative options too. I will definitely be coming back.“

“I've gone back three times this week. I feel the food was exquisite.
I got to enjoy the small tip and hot link. They did not have the pork hot link but they settled to do for a chicken. One chef's kiss It was delicious. But I will have to say, the winner for me is the jerk sauce. I really enjoyed that sauce. It was a 10 out of 10 on flavor the perfect balance of salty and spicy. It was magnificent to say the least. And then I did try the caramel cake, which was divine. It was a heavy pound cake with a delicious caramel sauce on top, and I also got to go and try the jerk. Egg rolls which was very delightful.

The service was nice, didn't have any complaints there.
And as far as the atmosphere goes is pleasant as simple.It's clean airy, and you don't feel like you.And some hole in the wall spot.

Pricing was appropriate for the quality of the food you received as well as the portion size.You will really get filled up for an affordable price.
I do plan to visit again this week as I really do.Enjoy their jerk chicken.That was the first dish I had there.And that jerk sauce, i'm telling y'all is amazing.In my opinion, I would just encourage you to go try it for yourself.Well worth the trip.“

“Delicious“

“Best barbecue in da city!!! Do y’all s***“

“This Smothered Red Snapper is fye!! Fast service, friendly atmosphere“