The 16 Best Comfort Food in Chicago

For those in search of satisfying and delicious comfort food in Chicago, look no further. Whether it's a cold winter day or you simply need some food to warm your soul, Chicago has a variety of options to choose from. From classic dishes to modern twists, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to find the best comfort food spot in Chicago. That's why we have compiled a list of the 16 best places to indulge in comforting and hearty meals in the Windy City. Dive in and discover your new favorite spot for comfort food in Chicago!
- Cozy atmosphere for a relaxing dining experience
- Large portion sizes perfect for sharing or leftovers
- Varied menu featuring classic and innovative comfort food options
- Convenient locations across Chicago for easy access
- 1. The Soul Food Lounge
- 2. Luella's Southern Kitchen
- 3. Big Jones
- 4. Roost Chicken & Biscuits
- 5. Roy's Soul Food
- 6. Cleo's Southern Cuisine
- 7. The Foodie's Spot
- 8. Soulé
- 9. Feed
- 10. Comfort Fried Chicken and BBQ
- 11. 6978 Soul Food
- 12. Splyt N/ Half Kitchen (Soul Food Everyday)
- 13. Chicago Food On The Run
- 14. Cleo’s Southern Cuisine
- 15. Kathryn's Soul
- 16. Exceptional Flavour

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 4–8:30 PM
- Thursday: 4–8:30 PM
- Friday: 4–8:30 PM
- Saturday: 12–8 PM
- Sunday: 12–8 PM
1. The Soul Food Lounge
Information and Reviews
Key customer reviews highlight the following:
- An exciting mix of flavors with some minor disappointments, including unexpected bacon in the fish and grits dish.
- Rave reviews for the grand tasting experience featuring dishes like Louisiana blackened salmon and truffle mac and cheese.
- Praise for exceptional service, live music, and a warm ambiance, with some suggestions for portion sharing and menu updates.
- Highly recommended for its cozy setting, live music, friendly staff, and generous portion sizes, making it a standout dining spot.
Overall, The Soul Food Lounge promises a memorable dining experience with a fusion of delectable dishes, welcoming ambiance, and top-notch service.

- 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
2. Luella's Southern Kitchen
Information and Reviews
One happy customer mentioned that the ambiance at Luella's was cozy and welcoming, with friendly and attentive staff. They highly recommended the sweet potatoes and fried chicken, praising the delicious flavors. Another customer raved about the buttermilk fried chicken and waffles, stating that the crispy chicken and melting waffles were a perfect combination.
Overall, the customer reviews highlight the quality of food and service at Luella's Southern Kitchen. From the incredible biscuits to the scrumptious shrimp and grits, patrons are consistently pleased with their dining experience. If you're in the area, be sure to stop by for a taste of southern hospitality at Luella's.

- 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
3. Big Jones
Information and Reviews
Big Jones is a renowned Southern restaurant located in Chicago, offering a delightful experience of Southern cuisine with a twist. With a rating of 4.3 stars and a total of 1528 reviews, this restaurant has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The restaurant offers a range of service options including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in facilities, ensuring that customers can enjoy their meals in the most convenient way possible.
Some of the highlights of Big Jones include fast service, great cocktails, coffee, dessert, and a fantastic tea selection. The restaurant is popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it an ideal spot for solo dining or gatherings.
Customers admire the beautiful space and friendly staff at Big Jones, highlighting the crispy and juicy fried chicken as a must-try dish. The beignets, fried chicken, and main dishes receive praise for their taste and quality. Although some side dishes were average, the main dishes impressed with their flavors and textures.
- Beautiful space and friendly staff
- Crispy and juicy fried chicken
- Delicious food and creative drinks
- Warm atmosphere reminiscent of NOLA
Experience the warmth and hospitality of the South at Big Jones in Chicago!

- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–7 PM
4. Roost Chicken & Biscuits
Information and Reviews
The atmosphere at Roost Chicken & Biscuits is described as casual, cosy, and trendy, providing a welcoming environment for solo diners, families, and university students. Customers appreciate the fast service and the range of service options available, including takeaway, delivery, and outdoor seating.
Here are some key points from recent customer reviews:
- The fried chicken sandwich is good, but the buns could be improved by toasting them. The coleslaw dressing was a bit overwhelming (Amy)
- Amazing food and sweet tea, with decent service on a cold Saturday. The bread pudding was a nice addition (CJ Ingalls)
- The Nashville chicken is super spicy, but very moist and delicious. Opt for takeout to avoid issues with outdoor seating (lisA fRosT)
- Delicious chicken tenders with friendly and helpful staff. Great food for a reasonable price. Make sure to stop by in the area (Kymberly Traveler)
Choose Roost Chicken & Biscuits for a taste of the South in the heart of Chicago.
- 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
5. Roy's Soul Food
Information and Reviews
Customers rave about the comfort food and healthy options available at Roy's Soul Food. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service are also highlighted in reviews. Here are some key points summarizing what customers have to say:
- The service is impeccable and friendly, giving a vibe of home-cooked goodness.
- The food is described as satisfying, delicious, and true to its soul food roots.
- Although the atmosphere is small and close, it adds to the charm and familiarity of the place.
- Some customers noted minor issues with certain dishes, such as dry macaroni or overcooked chicken, but overall, Roy's Soul Food is highly praised for its offerings.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: 12–8 PM
- Saturday: 12–8 PM
- Sunday: 12–6 PM
6. Cleo's Southern Cuisine
Information and Reviews
- Delicious comfort food with flavorful catfish, pineapple yams, and creamy mac and cheese.
- Top-notch customer service with friendly staff despite occasional waits.
- Warm and welcoming atmosphere for a cozy dining experience.
- Highly recommended for those seeking authentic Southern flavors in Chicago.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 12–6 PM
7. The Foodie's Spot
Information and Reviews
With a rating of 4.5 stars, The Foodie's Spot has received positive reviews from many customers. Here are some key points summarized from a few reviews:
- The fish sandwich lacked flavor, the jerk chicken gyro was dry, but the fries were the standout dish.
- A customer was disappointed with the lack of beans in the navy bean soup and the quality of the chicken bowl.
- Another customer faced issues with online orders but appreciated the typically fresh and flavorful food.
- A satisfied customer recommended the chicken with rice dish for its generous portion size and delicious flavors.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 2–9 PM
- Wednesday: 2–9 PM
- Thursday: 2–9 PM
- Friday: 2–9 PM
- Saturday: 2–9 PM
- Sunday: 2–9 PM
8. Soulé
Information and Reviews
- The atmosphere is described as very nice, cute, cozy, and phenomenal, with excellent customer service.
- The food is highly praised for being delicious, like homemade, and amazing.
- The staff is attentive, accommodating, and the portions are appropriate for the price.
- The favorites include the fish and grits, Mac and cheese, cream corn, blackened catfish, and red beans and rice with smoked turkey.

- Monday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–3 PM
9. Feed
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Great food made from scratch with a strong selection of side dishes and desserts.
- Cozy and welcoming environment with standard quality dishes at great prices.
- Authentic and delicious food served in generous portions at affordable prices.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 12–9:30 PM
- Thursday: 12–9:30 PM
- Friday: 12–11 PM
- Saturday: 12–11 PM
- Sunday: 12–8 PM
10. Comfort Fried Chicken and BBQ
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Best Korean Chicken wings ever, on par with top competitors like Crisp and DelSol.
- Chicken sandwich with a beautiful crust and moist chicken inside, unique and flavorful wings, and hand-cut fries with light seasoning.
- Huge portions, great flavors, and easy pick up, especially loved are the wings, shrimp, and pork chops.
- Lemon pepper wings and soy shrimp are standout favorites, and the kids' menu is highly recommended.
Don't miss out on the mouthwatering Comfort food and Quick bite options available for kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, and takeaway from Comfort Fried Chicken and BBQ!

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 12–8 PM
- Wednesday: 12–8 PM
- Thursday: 12–8 PM
- Friday: 12–8 PM
- Saturday: 12–8 PM
- Sunday: 12–6 PM
11. 6978 Soul Food
Information and Reviews
- Authentic soul food flavors
- Great customer service
- Generous portion sizes
- Cozy and welcoming atmosphere
With a rating of 3.9 stars based on 1371 reviews, it's clear that 6978 Soul Food is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a comforting meal, or a special dining experience, 6978 Soul Food has something for everyone. Visit their website for more information and to place an order.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
12. Splyt N/ Half Kitchen (Soul Food Everyday)
Information and Reviews
The restaurant has received positive feedback from customers, with an average rating of 4.3 stars. Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Food tastes just like grandma's cooking, especially the mac & cheese.
- Excellent customer service and fresh, delicious food.
- Spotless restaurant with inclusive and amazing menu offerings.
- Unbelievable food and phenomenal soul food experience.
With a welcoming atmosphere, diverse menu offerings, and top-notch customer service, Splyt N/ Half Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of authentic soul food in Chicago.

- Monday: 12–8 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 12–8 PM
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: 12–8 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: 12–7 PM
13. Chicago Food On The Run
Information and Reviews
Customers rave about their experience at Chicago Food On The Run. Some key points from reviews include:
- Dressing, greens, and yams are delicious.
- Reasonable prices for generous portions, however, temperatures of the dishes could be more consistent.
- Despite some errors in orders, the customer service and overall experience were exceptional.
With a rating of 4.1 and over 300 reviews, it's clear that this restaurant has made a mark on its customers. So if you're in the mood for Comfort food, a Quick bite, or some Small plates, head over to Chicago Food On The Run for a culinary experience you won't forget.

- Monday: 11 AM–6 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–6 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
14. Cleo’s Southern Cuisine
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Top two catfish ever tasted, crab macaroni and cheese top tier, cornbread amazing!
- Perfectly cooked dishes, generous portions, good music, and sweet Kool-Aid.
- Seasoned catfish and chicken, must-try spot, crispy and juicy!
- Delicious catfish, well-spiced wings, and a bit pricey for lunch.

- Monday: 11 AM–3:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–3:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–3:30 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–3:30 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–3:30 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–3:30 PM
- Sunday: Closed
15. Kathryn's Soul
Information and Reviews
- Customers praise the delicious shrimp and grits, Mac and cheese, roasted chicken, and loaded baked potato.
- They appreciate the generous portions and great value for the price.
- The flavorful meatloaf, fried cabbage with bacon, and 4-cheese mac are highlighted as standout dishes.
Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for lunch, dinner, or a tasty dessert, Kathryn's Soul has got you covered. Don't miss out on this popular spot and treat yourself to some fantastic comfort food and a welcoming atmosphere.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 3–8 PM
- Wednesday: 3–8 PM
- Thursday: 3–8 PM
- Friday: 3–8 PM
- Saturday: 3–8 PM
- Sunday: 12–8 PM
16. Exceptional Flavour
Information and Reviews
Recent reviews from customers highlight a few key points:
- The ordering process was complicated, with issues surrounding communication and wait times.
- Customers found the portion sizes to be small for the cost and some dishes lacked accompaniments.
- The food quality was satisfactory but not described as exceptional as the name suggests.
- Despite some setbacks, customers enjoyed specific dishes like peach cobbler and found the service welcoming.
With a rating of 3.4, Exceptional Flavour continues to attract customers looking for a taste of delicious soul food in a casual and cozy atmosphere.
Map of Comfort Food in Chicago
Craving some comfort food in the Windy City? Look no further! Chicago is filled with an array of delicious and satisfying dishes that will warm your soul. From deep-dish pizza to Chicago-style hot dogs, this vibrant city is a foodie's paradise. Check out the map below to discover some of the best spots to indulge in your favorite comfort foods. Enjoy!
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