Menu

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.

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.

How this ranking works

Before ranking this guide we review each business's track record, what its customers say and how clearly it explains its work. The result is an editorial selection that we update as things change.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3Full rankingMapTips for choosing

Our 16 local picks compared

Little Goat Diner, Chicago#1
What sets it apart
  • Friendly service and delicious food

  • Generous portion sizes and tasty signature items

  • Perfect for any meal of the day

Little Goat Diner

4.66,422 reviews
3325 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657, United States

Little Goat Diner is a beloved spot in Chicago known for its delectable diner-style offerings and cozy atmosphere. The diner offers a variety of services options like outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers rave about the fast service, great coffee, delicious desserts, and wide tea selection.

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.

Lou Mitchell's, Chicago#2
What sets it apart
  • 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.

Lou Mitchell's

4.63,691 reviews
565 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60661, United States

Lou Mitchell's is a beloved breakfast restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of delicious dishes in a cozy and historic atmosphere. The restaurant provides several service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeout, and dine-in. Guests can enjoy fast service and a great selection of coffee and desserts.

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.

Roux, Chicago#3
What sets it apart
  • 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.

Roux

4.6657 reviews
1055 E 55th St, Chicago, IL 60615, United States

Roux is a beloved Southern restaurant in the heart of Chicago, offering a delightful array of dishes that capture the essence of Southern cuisine. With a stellar rating of 4.6 stars from 657 reviews, it's clear that customers are enamored with the flavors and atmosphere of this establishment.

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.

The Publican, Chicago#4
What sets it apart
  • 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.

The Publican

4.52,687 reviews
837 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

The Publican is a renowned American restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. With a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5, it is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant offers a variety of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, and takeaway. Customers can enjoy great cocktails, coffee, and desserts in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

Eppel's Restaurant, Chicago#5
What sets it apart
  • 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

Eppel's Restaurant

4.51,278 reviews
554 Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, IL 60607, United States

Eppel's Restaurant is a cozy breakfast restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. Known for its inviting ambiance, delightful food, and friendly service, Eppel's has become a favorite spot for many. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features, including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options.

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.

Experience the charm of Eppel's Restaurant for yourself and indulge in a memorable dining experience that feels like a comforting hug.

Brass Tack, Chicago#6
What sets it apart
  • 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.

Brass Tack

4.5413 reviews
11 E Walton St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Brass Tack is an upscale restaurant located in Chicago that offers a variety of dining options and amenities to its customers. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great beer selection, cocktails, coffee, dessert, and wine list. Customers can enjoy various dining options such as breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert, and catering in a cozy and trendy atmosphere.

Wishbone, Chicago#7
What sets it apart
  • 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.

Wishbone

4.42,149 reviews
161 N Jefferson St, Chicago, IL 60661, United States

Wishbone is a beloved restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The establishment is known for its fast service, great cocktails, great coffee, and great dessert. Customers frequently praise the diverse selection of food and beverages, including alcohol, cocktails, comfort food, and more. The atmosphere is described as casual, cosy, and trendy, attracting a diverse crowd that includes families, groups, tourists, and university students.

Luella's Southern Kitchen, Chicago#8
What sets it apart
  • 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.

Luella's Southern Kitchen

4.41,461 reviews
4609 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625, United States

Luella's Southern Kitchen is a charming Southern restaurant located in Chicago, offering a delightful selection of comforting dishes. Known for its fast service and great coffee, Luella's is a popular spot for lunch and dinner, as well as solo dining. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, catering to a diverse crowd, including groups and tourists.

Customers rave about the delicious food and exceptional service at Luella's. Here are some key points from their reviews:

Visit Luella's Southern Kitchen for a taste of the South in a delightful setting. You won't be disappointed!

RLocal pick
#9
What sets it apart
  • 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

Roy's Soul Food

4.4632 reviews
403 E 71st St, Chicago, IL 60619, United States

Roy's Soul Food is a beloved soul food restaurant located in Chicago, IL. The restaurant offers a variety of options including delivery and takeaway, making it convenient for customers to enjoy their favorite dishes at home. Roy's Soul Food is popular for its delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as its cozy and casual atmosphere.

Customers have left glowing reviews for Roy's Soul Food, highlighting the following key points:

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.

Big Jones, Chicago#10
What sets it apart
  • Beautiful space and friendly staff

  • Crispy and juicy fried chicken

  • Ambiance adds to the charm

  • Delicious cocktails and creative food

Big Jones

4.31,528 reviews
5347 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640, United States

Big Jones is a popular Southern restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of services like Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Known for its fast service and great cocktails, the restaurant is a favorite spot for those looking for a taste of the South in the heart of the city.

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.

Yardbird Table & Bar, Chicago#11
What sets it apart
  • 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.

Yardbird Table & Bar

4.2740 reviews
530 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Yardbird Table & Bar is a bustling American restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. Known for its fast service and great dessert, this restaurant offers a range of dining options, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in services. Customers rave about their experiences, with a 4.2-star rating based on 740 reviews.

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.

Atwood, Chicago#12
What sets it apart
  • 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.

Atwood

4.2725 reviews
1 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Atwood - New American restaurant in Chicago offers a variety of services from takeaway, dine-in, to an array of dining options including breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert. Customers can enjoy the great coffee, desserts, and an excellent tea selection in a cozy, historic, trendy, and upmarket atmosphere. The restaurant is known for being popular for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining with wheelchair-accessible facilities. Atwood provides vegetarian options, comfort food, and an extensive range of alcohol, beer, cocktails, spirits, wine, and of course, coffee.

Customers have praised Atwood with a 4.2 rating based on 725 reviews. Some key points from customer reviews:

Pearl's Place Restaurant, Chicago#13
What sets it apart
  • 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

Pearl's Place Restaurant

4.13,366 reviews
3901 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60653, United States

Pearl's Place Restaurant is a beloved soul food restaurant in Chicago that offers a variety of service options including no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great coffee, great dessert, and great tea selection. Customers appreciate the generous servings and the country cooking and soul food cuisine at its best.

Overall, customers have shared positive experiences at Pearl's Place Restaurant, highlighting:

Oooh Wee It Is, Chicago#14
What sets it apart
  • 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.

Oooh Wee It Is

4.01,948 reviews
33 E 83rd St, Chicago, IL 60619, United States

Oooh Wee It Is is a beloved soul food restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers rave about the great dessert options and the restaurant's popularity for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining. The accessibility features including wheelchair-accessible amenities make the establishment welcoming to all guests.

Miss Ricky's, Chicago#15
What sets it apart
  • Consistently well-prepared and tasty dishes

  • Friendly service, although a strict seating policy

  • Modern and chic atmosphere

  • Great for solo diners or groups

Miss Ricky's

4.0330 reviews
203 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Miss Ricky's is renowned for its delectable selection of authentic Italian dishes served in a casual dining setting. The menu offers a broad range of options, from breakfast to dinner, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. Customers appreciate the generous food portions offered at fair prices, making it a great spot for any meal of the day.

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.

Josephine's Southern Cooking, Chicago#16
What sets it apart
  • 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.

Josephine's Southern Cooking

3.8619 reviews
436 E 79th St, Chicago, IL 60619, United States

Josephine's Southern Cooking is a beloved soul food restaurant in Chicago that offers a diverse range of services to suit every customer. From delivery to dine-in and takeaway options, they ensure a convenient dining experience for all. The restaurant is also highlighted for its fast service and great dessert options, attracting customers looking for a quick and delicious meal.

Customer reviews praise Josephine's for its delicious food and friendly staff. Some key points from reviews include:

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.

The comparison in brief

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Little Goat Diner 4.66,422
#2Lou Mitchell's 4.63,691
#3Roux 4.6657
#4The Publican 4.52,687
#5Eppel's Restaurant 4.51,278
#6Brass Tack 4.5413
#7Wishbone 4.42,149
#8Luella's Southern Kitchen 4.41,461
#9Roy's Soul Food 4.4632
#10Big Jones 4.31,528
#11Yardbird Table & Bar 4.2740
#12Atwood 4.2725
#13Pearl's Place Restaurant 4.13,366
#14Oooh Wee It Is 4.01,948
#15Miss Ricky's 4.0330
#16Josephine's Southern Cooking 3.8619

Is your business listed here?

Claim or add my business

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.

Tips for choosing Shrimp and Grits in Chicago

  1. Locations throughout Chicago.
  2. Various styles and flavors to choose from.
  3. Price range to fit every budget.
  4. Quality of ingredients.
  5. Atmosphere and ambiance.

More guides like this