The 16 Best Shrimp and Grits in Chicago

For those craving a taste of the South in the Windy City, shrimp and grits have become a popular dish in many restaurants throughout Chicago. Whether you prefer this classic Southern comfort food with a spicy Creole twist or a contemporary Chicago flair, there are plenty of options to choose from.
From cozy neighborhood diners to upscale restaurants, Chicago offers a variety of shrimp and grits variations to satisfy every craving. Whether you're looking for a casual weekday lunch or a special weekend brunch, let this list guide you to some of the best spots in the city for this mouthwatering dish.
- Locations throughout Chicago
- Various styles and flavors to choose from
- Price range to fit every budget
- Quality of ingredients
- Atmosphere and ambiance
Explore the list below to find your perfect spot for shrimp and grits in Chicago. Enjoy the flavors of the South right here in the heart of the Midwest.

- Monday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–8 PM
1. Little Goat Diner
Information and Reviews
- Friendly service and delicious food
- Generous portion sizes and tasty signature items
- Perfect for any meal of the day
Customers find the staff to be welcoming and accommodating, whether it's for a solo dining experience or a meal with family and friends. The diner's blend of American and Japanese influences creates a unique menu that appeals to both traditional and adventurous diners. With a high rating of 4.6, Little Goat Diner is a must-visit for those seeking a memorable dining experience in Chicago.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 6 AM–2 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–2 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–2 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–2 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–2 PM
2. Lou Mitchell's
Information and Reviews
This iconic establishment is popular for its hearty breakfast options and is ideal for solo diners. They offer amenities like wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating, making it inclusive for all customers. Additionally, Lou Mitchell's provides beer, cocktails, coffee, comfort food, and quick bites for a satisfying dining experience.
- Customers praise the large portions of food that taste great and are served quickly.
- Many guests appreciate the friendly and personable service provided by the staff.
- The restaurant's rich history and inviting atmosphere create a memorable dining experience for all visitors.

- Monday: 4–10 PM
- Tuesday: 4–10 PM
- Wednesday: 4–10 PM
- Thursday: 4–10 PM
- Friday: 4–10:30 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–2 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–2 PM
3. The Publican
Information and Reviews
- Incredible food, great service, and unique dishes sourced from local farms.
- Family-style dining experience with an extensive menu selection.
- High-quality food portions, with standout items like bacon, shrimp, and grits.
- Some customers find the prices high but believe the quality and experience justify the cost.

- Monday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Tuesday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Saturday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: 6 AM–4 PM
4. Eppel's Restaurant
Information and Reviews
At Eppel's, guests can enjoy great coffee, great dessert, and a great tea selection. The extensive menu caters to a range of tastes, with options for vegetarians and those seeking comfort food or healthy choices. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Eppel's has something for everyone.
Customers have praised Eppel's Restaurant for its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and attentive staff. Some key points from reviews include:
- A cozy spot for a Saturday morning breakfast
- Specialty coffee and amazing food
- Great service in a classic vibe setting
- Delicious home-cooked meals with friendly staff
Experience the charm of Eppel's Restaurant for yourself and indulge in a memorable dining experience that feels like a comforting hug.

- Monday: 8 AM–3 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–3 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–3 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–3 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–3 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–3:30 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–3:30 PM
5. Wishbone
Information and Reviews
Some key points from customer reviews:
- Food is always fresh and delicious, with standout dishes like shrimp and grits, fried catfish, and biscuits.
- Southern comfort food with Cajun flavors that transport diners to New Orleans.
- Unique and delicious menu items like chorizo omelette, cornbread, French toast with corn flakes, and more.
- Exceptional service provided by friendly and attentive staff, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 7 AM–2:30 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–2:30 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–2:30 PM
6. Roux
Information and Reviews
- Customers rave about the flavorful and hearty southern dishes that are well-seasoned and delicious.
- The friendly and helpful staff make the dining experience even more enjoyable, despite the possibility of a wait due to the restaurant's popularity.
- The mix of modern and vintage decor adds to the charm of the large open seating area, creating a pleasant ambiance for guests.
- While the food options tend to be carb and calorie-heavy, the menu boasts a variety of mouthwatering dishes including shrimp and grits, breakfast sandwiches, and buttermilk yogurt.
Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Roux is the perfect spot to savor Southern flavors and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere. Don't miss out on their popular dishes like fish and grits, beignets, chicken and waffles, or the decadent cinnamon roll. The combination of fast service and great coffee make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. So, next time you're in Chicago, be sure to stop by Roux for an unforgettable dining experience.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 5–9 PM
- Thursday: 5–9 PM
- Friday: 5–9 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–3 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–3 PM
7. Luella's Southern Kitchen
Information and Reviews
Customers rave about the delicious food and exceptional service at Luella's. Here are some key points from their reviews:
- The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, with friendly and attentive staff.
- Popular menu items include the sweet potatoes, fried chicken, chicken and waffles, and shrimp and grits.
- The food is consistently delicious, hot, and fresh, with generous portions.
- Guests appreciate the complimentary biscuits with jam and the standout bacon.
Visit Luella's Southern Kitchen for a taste of the South in a delightful setting. You won't be disappointed!

- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–9 PM
8. Big Jones
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about the beautiful space and friendly staff, although some mention that the service can be a bit slow at times. Dishes like the crispy fried chicken and juicy half chicken have received high praise for their flavors and tenderness.
- Beautiful space and friendly staff
- Crispy and juicy fried chicken
- Ambiance adds to the charm
- Delicious cocktails and creative food

- Monday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–10 PM
9. Brass Tack
Information and Reviews
- Customers have praised the impeccable service and lovely ambiance of Brass Tack.
- The food is high-quality and delicious, with favorites like the turkey club and lobster toast receiving special mentions.
- Guests appreciate the friendly and responsive staff, recommending dishes like the Lobster Benedict toast and the truffle fries.
- Some patrons have mentioned that while the food is good, prices can be high for basic dishes and that certain items lacked seasoning.

- Monday: 8 AM–7 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–7 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–7 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–7 PM
10. Pearl's Place Restaurant
Information and Reviews
Overall, customers have shared positive experiences at Pearl's Place Restaurant, highlighting:
- Great place for a gathering or small meal with excellent food
- Wonderful service and delicious dishes, especially the fried chicken
- Generous servings and a variety of menu options
- Warm atmosphere with welcoming staff and mouth-watering dishes like the melt-in-your-mouth meat
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Saturday: 6 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: Closed
11. Roy's Soul Food
Information and Reviews
Customers have left glowing reviews for Roy's Soul Food, highlighting the following key points:
- The food quality is consistent and satisfying, with a homey feel
- Friendly and attentive service that makes customers feel welcome
- Despite the small space and lack of seating, the delicious soul food offerings make it worth the visit
One customer raved, "If you want REAL SOUL FOOD and great service...come to Roy's. It's like going to my sister's house to pick up a plate, you will not regret coming here." Another customer praised the staff for being friendly and the food for being consistently enjoyable. Roy's Soul Food is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious and comforting soul food in Chicago.

- Monday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–10:30 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–9 PM
12. Yardbird Table & Bar
Information and Reviews
- Boisterous establishment with southern American dishes with fun twists.
- Chicken and waffles were quite good, especially the apple cobbler.
- Elegant ambiance, flavorful chicken dishes, and must-try chicken and waffles.
- Top-notch service, delicious food bursting with flavor, and gluten-free chicken and waffles.
If you're looking for a top-notch dining experience in Chicago, Yardbird Table & Bar is a must-visit spot. With a lively atmosphere, delicious food offerings, and exceptional service, this restaurant is sure to impress.

- Monday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–10 PM
13. Atwood
Information and Reviews
Customers have praised Atwood with a 4.2 rating based on 725 reviews. Some key points from customer reviews:
- Lovely breakfast ambiance with great food, large portions, and fantastic service.
- Good quality food with enormous portions, friendly staff, and pleasant atmosphere.
- Mixed experience with server attitude and food expectations not fully met.
- Delicious meals with good flavors, though management issues slightly dampened the experience.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–8 PM
14. Oooh Wee It Is
Information and Reviews
- Customers appreciate the delicious fried fish and macaroni and cheese, but note some dishes like the oxtail grits fell short.
- The pot roast cupcake is a standout dish that many are eager to try.
- Visitors enjoy the large portions, well-seasoned dishes, and attentive service that makes every dining experience memorable.
- Some customers mention long wait times but overall find the food, hospitality, and ambiance worth the visit.

- Monday: 7 AM–2 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–2 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–2 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–2 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–2 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–3 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–3 PM
15. Miss Ricky's
Information and Reviews
- Consistently well-prepared and tasty dishes
- Friendly service, although a strict seating policy
- Modern and chic atmosphere
- Great for solo diners or groups
With Miss Ricky's convenient location within the Virgin Hotel in Chicago, customers can expect a cozy and trendy atmosphere perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Whether you're in the mood for classic Italian comfort food, happy-hour drinks, or a glass of wine, this Italian restaurant has it all. Visit Miss Ricky's for a satisfying dining experience that won't disappoint.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 9 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM–6 PM
- Friday: 9 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM–6 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM–6 PM
16. Josephine's Southern Cooking
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews praise Josephine's for its delicious food and friendly staff. Some key points from reviews include:
- This place has awesome food with a huge establishment offering both sit-down and buffet options.
- The hospitality at Josephine's is top-notch, with delicious fried chicken being a standout.
- While some customers find the food disappointing in terms of taste and quality, the service and atmosphere receive positive mentions.
Whether you're looking for a hearty meal to enjoy at the restaurant or want to savor their dishes at home, Josephine's Southern Cooking is a go-to spot for soulful Southern cuisine in the heart of Chicago.
Map of Shrimp and Grits in Chicago
Craving shrimp and grits in Chicago? Look no further! This map provides a comprehensive guide to all the best restaurants in the city where you can indulge in this classic Southern dish. From cozy diners to upscale eateries, Chicago has something to offer every fan of this delectable combination. Check out the map below to start planning your next delicious meal.

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