The 16 Best Southern Food Restaurants in Chicago

Exploring the rich and flavorful world of southern food in Chicago is a delightful adventure for those looking to indulge in comfort cuisine. From classic fried chicken to savory barbecue, the Windy City offers a variety of options to satisfy any craving for traditional southern fare.
Whether you're in the mood for some mouthwatering shrimp and grits or a hearty plate of biscuits and gravy, Chicago's southern food scene has something for everyone. Dive into this list of the 16 best southern food restaurants in Chicago to discover the top spots for delicious comfort food in the city.
- Variety of traditional southern dishes
- Cozy and welcoming ambiance
- Excellent service and friendly staff
- Convenient locations across Chicago
- Great value for money
Indulge in the flavors of the South right here in the heart of Chicago. Explore the top southern food restaurants in the city and treat yourself to a culinary journey you won't soon forget.
- 1. Luella's Southern Kitchen
- 2. Big Jones
- 3. Pearl's Place Restaurant
- 4. Roy's Soul Food
- 5. Soul Prime
- 6. Soulé
- 7. Feed
- 8. Chef Daddy's
- 9. Oooh Wee It Is
- 10. Authentic Cooking Soul Food Kitchen
- 11. Bronzeville Soul
- 12. 6978 Soul Food
- 13. Chicago Food On The Run
- 14. Soule To Soule
- 15. Josephine's Southern Cooking
- 16. Dan's Soul Food and Cafe

- 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
1. Luella's Southern Kitchen
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about the delicious menu items at Luella's Southern Kitchen. Here are some key points from the reviews:
- This hidden gem offers a cozy ambiance and friendly staff, with tasty selections of southern cooking.
- The chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and mac and cheese are highly recommended.
- The service is exceptional, with quick order taking and attentive waitstaff.
- Customers appreciate the consistency in quality, flavors, and portion sizes of the dishes.
With a rating of 4.4 stars, Luella's Southern Kitchen continues to impress guests with their delectable cuisine and top-notch service. If you're in the mood for authentic Southern comfort food, this restaurant is a must-visit destination in the bustling city of Chicago.

- 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
2. Big Jones
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Beautiful space with friendly staff and delicious fried chicken
- Amazing drinks and fried chicken, but some side dishes were average
- Delicious food and creative drinks, warm atmosphere, and knowledgeable servers
- Authentic Southern cuisine with a twist, delightful breakfast experience
With a rating of 4.3 and over 1500 reviews, Big Jones continues to impress guests with its unique Southern flavors and warm hospitality. Visit them at 5347 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640, or check out their website for more information.

- 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
3. Pearl's Place Restaurant
Information and Reviews
- Great food and excellent service, perfect for gatherings and small meals.
- Delicious variety of soul food options, generous servings, and top-notch desserts.
- Warm and welcoming atmosphere, attentive staff, and reasonable prices.
- 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
4. Roy's Soul Food
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about the authenticity of the soul food served at Roy's. Some key points from customers include:
- "The food is so good, I wish they had seating."
- "Real soul food from momma’s kitchen."
- "Friendly staff and a very down-home feel."
With a solid rating of 4.4 out of 5, Roy's Soul Food continues to impress patrons with their flavorful offerings. If you're in the mood for some delicious soul food, be sure to give Roy's a try!

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 5–10 PM
- Wednesday: 5–10 PM
- Thursday: 5–10 PM
- Friday: 5–10 PM
- Saturday: 5–10 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–3 PM
5. Soul Prime
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about the exceptional experience provided by Soul Prime. Here are some key points from the reviews:
- Sunday Brunch offers a unique menu with a 90-min table limit once seated, with a friendly and personable chef/owner present.
- Portion sizes are generous, flavors are exceptional, and the staff is incredibly nice, making it well worth the price.
- Amazing food, ambience, and drinks, with impeccable service and a beautiful atmosphere that offers love in every dish.
- Phenomenal food with great flavors and portions, though service improvement in terms of timing and coordination is noted.
Visitors have praised Soul Prime for its delicious dishes, cozy atmosphere, and friendly staff, making it a must-visit destination for soul food enthusiasts.

- 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
6. Soulé
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with excellent customer service.
- Portions are appropriate for the price, and the fish and grits are highly recommended.
- The food is good quality, with favorites including Mac and cheese, cream corn, and blackened catfish.
- The rum pound cake with caramel drizzle is heavenly and a must-try dessert.
Visit their website or call +1 773-696-9485 to experience the delicious offerings at Soulé for yourself!

- 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
7. Feed
Information and Reviews
The atmosphere at Feed is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it a great spot for families, groups, and LGBTQ+ friendly individuals. The restaurant offers various amenities such as gender-neutral toilets and regular toilets for customer convenience.
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Delicious food made from scratch with a strong selection of side dishes, desserts, and beverages.
- Cozy and welcoming environment with standard quality dishes at great prices.
- Good food, especially the roast chicken, in a cozy setting with fast service.
- Tasty, simple, and honest food with generous portions at affordable prices.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–7 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–7 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–7 PM
- Sunday: 12–6 PM
8. Chef Daddy's
Information and Reviews
Customers have praised Chef Daddy's for several reasons:
- The food is exceptional with generous portions and authentic flavors.
- The chitterlings have been highlighted as some of the best ever tasted.
- The restaurant offers a cozy and welcoming environment for solo diners, families, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Overall, Chef Daddy's combines delicious soul food with a warm atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts looking for a genuine culinary 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
9. Oooh Wee It Is
Information and Reviews
Customers have left positive reviews highlighting exceptional experiences at Oooh Wee It Is:
- The food and service were really good, with standout dishes like the fried fish and macaroni and cheese.
- Visitors praise the attentive service, large portions, and delicious flavors, with the pot roast cupcake highly recommended.
- For special occasions, guests highly recommend the upscale dining experience at Maxine's, an iteration of Oooh Wee It Is, featuring impressive dishes, live music, and complimentary valet.
- Customers rave about the warm hospitality, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse menu that caters to both soul food classics and creative comfort dishes.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: Closed
10. Authentic Cooking Soul Food Kitchen
Information and Reviews
- Customers love the tender chicken and unique flavors.
- The quality ingredients and portion sizes satisfy every customer.
- Many customers highly recommend this spot for a quick meal.
Whether you're craving a comfort food fix, a quick bite, or a delicious meal for lunch or dinner, Authentic Cooking Soul Food Kitchen has got you covered. The restaurant also offers catering services and mouth-watering desserts to complete your dining experience. With a casual atmosphere and multiple payment options available, including credit cards and NFC mobile payments, this restaurant provides a convenient and satisfying dining experience for all. So, if you're in the mood for some flavorful and hearty soul food, make sure to stop by Authentic Cooking Soul Food Kitchen and treat yourself to a delicious meal.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 12–7 PM
- Wednesday: 12–7 PM
- Thursday: 12–7 PM
- Friday: 12–7 PM
- Saturday: 12–7 PM
- Sunday: 12–7 PM
11. Bronzeville Soul
Information and Reviews
- A customer mentioned that the food was fresh and delicious, with perfectly seasoned lamb chops and catfish, as well as mouthwatering sweet potatoes and cabbage.
- Another patron highlighted the flavorful fried catfish, jerk lamb chops, and comforting mac & cheese and yams.
- One review praised the attentive service and engaging staff, along with the great food that received a perfect 10/10 rating.
The restaurant offers a range of service options such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, making it convenient for customers. Additionally, it is a popular spot for lunch and dinner, attracting both locals and tourists. The cosy atmosphere and live music enhance the overall dining experience. So, if you're in the mood for some top-notch soul food, Bronzeville Soul is the place to be!

- 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
12. 6978 Soul Food
Information and Reviews
- Soul food is a specialty and 6978 Soul Food does it right. The atmosphere might seem outdated, but the food is fresh, hot, and delicious.
- Some customers find the food bland and not truly representative of soul food.
- While some dishes could be improved, the overall experience is cozy and enjoyable. Customers look forward to returning for another taste of soul food.
The restaurant offers a range of popular dishes for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. It is known for its comforting and filling meals. Customer reviews highlight the quick service and friendly staff. So, if you're in the mood for some tasty soul food, check out 6978 Soul Food!

- 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
One of the highlights of Chicago Food On The Run is its popularity for solo dining, making it a great spot for individuals looking to enjoy a meal on their own. The restaurant is also known for its sport atmosphere, adding a fun and lively touch to the dining experience.
Customer reviews rave about the quality of the food and the friendly service provided at Chicago Food On The Run. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:
- Delicious and flavorful soul food dishes
- Quick and efficient service for pickup and delivery orders
- Cozy and casual atmosphere for a relaxed dining experience
Overall, Chicago Food On The Run is a must-try spot for those craving authentic soul food in a welcoming and enjoyable setting.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 3–10 PM
- Wednesday: 3–10 PM
- Thursday: 3–10 PM
- Friday: 3–10 PM
- Saturday: 3–10 PM
- Sunday: 3–10 PM
14. Soule To Soule
Information and Reviews
- Customers appreciate the flavorful dishes like jerk wings, fried catfish, and salmon with shrimp.
- The ambiance is described as intimate and perfect for a date night.
- Service is friendly and attentive, ensuring a great dining experience for all guests.
With services like delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, Soule To Soule caters to a variety of preferences. The restaurant is known for its fast service and popular for both lunch and dinner options. Furthermore, it offers amenities like high chairs for children and a casual yet trendy atmosphere.
Overall, Soule To Soule promises a delightful soul food experience, drawing customers with its delicious food and welcoming environment.

- 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
15. Josephine's Southern Cooking
Information and Reviews
- This place has awesome food, delicious and friendly staff. Highly recommend visiting.
- Hospitality was awesome, with good food overall, especially the fried chicken.
- Food was disappointing, with cold, processed dishes, and poor service.
- Food quality has declined, but friendly service and nice atmosphere are noted.
If you find yourself in Chicago and craving authentic soul food, Josephine's Southern Cooking is definitely worth a visit!

- Monday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
16. Dan's Soul Food and Cafe
Information and Reviews
Customer Reviews:
- Disappointed by the dry and bland dishes, missing items, and stale muffin.
- Poor portion sizes, unseasoned food, and canned greens highlighted in a negative review.
- A customer shared disappointment in the lack of authentic soul food flavors and disorganized pricing.
- Unpleasant experience due to rude service, lack of seasoning, and watery, bland dishes.
Map of Southern Food Restaurants in Chicago
Are you craving some authentic southern food in Chicago? Look no further! This map showcases a variety of restaurants and eateries that serve up all the comfort food favorites from the South. From fried chicken to barbecue to shrimp and grits, you'll find everything you're looking for to satisfy your cravings. Check out the map below to discover the best spots for delicious southern cuisine in the Windy City.

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