Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Chicago / Illinois

Best Southern American Restaurants in Oak Park

Price
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating options
Award-winning
Accessibility

320 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Citrine Cafe restaurant
1. Citrine Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(1280)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Oak Park
Booked 23 times today
Citrine Cafe in the vibrant neighborhood of Oak Park, IL, is a gem for lovers of authentic American cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. This restaurant stands out for its masterfully crafted dishes that echo the richness of American flavors while incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients. Guests rave about their experiences, highlighting the "delicious and exquisitely presented food" and the "stellar brunch menu." The atmosphere is consistently praised as "welcoming" and "lively but not loud," making it a perfect spot for any occasion. With accolades like "one of my favorite restaurants in Oak Park" and dishes that leave patrons "licking their plates clean," Citrine Cafe is a culinary delight not to be missed. Whether it's the "pillowy gnocchi" or the "outstanding whitefish," every dish promises a celebration of taste, cementing its place as a top destination for discerning diners.
A photo of Hemmingway's Bistro restaurant
2. Hemmingway's Bistro
4.6
Exceptional(1247)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Oak Park
Booked 16 times today
Hemmingway's Bistro in Oak Park flawlessly merges the essence of French cuisine with American flair, offering a menu that highlights the freshest Midwest ingredients alongside classic French dishes. The chef's passion for fresh seafood is evident, with daily specials featuring East-coast seafood flown in from Boston, like the praised wild mushroom-crusted halibut and roasted sea bass. Patrons rave about the authentic French American dining experience, noting it's "a slice of Europe in Oak Park!" and celebrating the "superb" rabbit and halibut dishes. The Parisian seafood bar and selection of French and American wines further authenticate the bistro's European vibe, making every dining experience here not just a meal, but a culinary journey.
A photo of Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Oak Park, IL restaurant
3. Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant - Oak Park, IL
4.4
Awesome(4101)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Oak Park
Booked 126 times today
At Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Oak Park, the Wine Bar experience is unmatched, offering a perfect fusion of award-winning wines and a Napa-style tasting room. This venue stands out for its "delicious and great service every time," as noted by several glowing reviews. Patrons particularly enjoy the pre- or post-dinner wine adventures, which perfectly complement the modern casual dining experience. The extensive wine selection is thoughtfully paired with each dish, ensuring an exceptional food and wine match. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a casual diner, Cooper's Hawk in Oak Park provides a memorable experience that "always hits the spot," making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Wine Bar cuisine.
A photo of The Little Gem Restaurant restaurant
4. The Little Gem Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1146)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Oak Park
Booked 17 times today
The Little Gem Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Oak Park, epitomizes the essence of European cuisine with its intimate and stylish setting. This cozy establishment has garnered glowing reviews for its authentic European dishes, making it a beloved neighborhood favorite. Diners rave about their experiences, with one guest mentioning, "The food was delicious and my guest was a first-time diner who was very impressed and left with a FULL BELLY!" Another diner highlighted the quality of specific dishes, exclaiming, "The French onion soup and Fig & Honey Crostini were amazing!" From the warm, inviting ambiance to the carefully curated menu that features everything from Mussels to Burrata, The Little Gem offers an unparalleled dining experience that celebrates the best of European culinary traditions. Whether you're enjoying a casual brunch or a romantic dinner, The Little Gem ensures a memorable meal with exceptional service and a touch of European flair.
A photo of Lou Malnati's - Oak Park restaurant
5. Lou Malnati's - Oak Park
4.0
Excellent(23)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Oak Park
Booked 14 times today
Lou Malnati's in Oak Park is a must-visit gem for anyone craving authentic American cuisine with a Chicago twist. Renowned for its deep-dish pizza, Lou Malnati's has mastered the art of combining rich, tangy sauce and lush, gooey cheese with perfectly seasoned toppings that create a true taste sensation. Reviews consistently praise the quality, with one diner exclaiming, "The combination of sauce, cheese, and sweet sausage felt like it was destined to be!" Set in a vibrant location that's perfect for a day out, the restaurant's atmosphere and exemplary service only enhance its appeal. As another happy customer puts it, "Don't skip it!!" Lou Malnati's epitomizes the best of American culinary tradition, making it a beloved destination in Oak Park.
A photo of Encore! by Little Gem restaurant
6. Encore! by Little Gem
4.1
Excellent(8)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Oak Park
Booked 2 times today
Encore! by Little Gem in Oak Park, Chicago, is a delightful treasure where the essence of authentic Bistro cuisine comes to life. This charming spot is celebrated for its "tasty and the service great" offerings, from the "juicy and tasty" scallops to the perfectly cooked hanger steak and "amazing" French onion soup, as noted in glowing reviews. Patrons rave about the "perfectly seasoned" Brussels sprouts and the "magical" Salted caramel cookie skillet. The speakeasy vibe, coupled with live jazz, enhances the dining experience, making it a perfect blend of culinary excellence and cozy ambiance. Whether it's for a romantic date or a casual outing, Encore! by Little Gem guarantees a memorable meal with its impeccable service and top-notch Bistro fare.
A photo of Chicago's Home of Chicken & Waffles restaurant
7. Chicago's Home of Chicken & Waffles
5.0
Exceptional(3)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Oak Park
Booked 1 time today
At Chicago's Home of Chicken & Waffles in Oak Park, the essence of Comfort Food is celebrated with every dish served. Renowned for its soul-warming Southern specialties, this restaurant offers a culinary retreat with its perfectly fried chicken, savory fried catfish, and heavenly peach cobbler. Patrons consistently praise the authenticity and quality of the food, describing it as "delicious, familiar flavors" and celebrating the fried chicken that is "fried to the gods." Another diner raved, "The mac and cheese? TOP TIER." It's not just the food that makes this spot a gem; the glowing reviews highlight exceptional customer service and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of genuine Comfort Food in Oak Park.
A photo of Donny G's Ristorante restaurant
8. Donny G's Ristorante
4.7
Exceptional(151)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Elmwood Park
Booked 3 times today
Step into the heart of Elmwood Park and discover the authentic Italian charm of Donny G’s Ristorante! Known for its commitment to quality, Donny G’s sources fresh ingredients from local farmers' markets, ensuring every dish is a burst of genuine Italian flavor. Guests rave about the "excellent food" and the "warm, welcoming vibes," with standout dishes like Pasta, Peas, and Prosciutto, and the grilled calamari. One diner celebrated, "The food is outstanding, and the service was even better!" Whether it's a lively date night with live music or a cozy family dinner, Donny G’s consistently delivers a stellar Italian dining experience that keeps locals coming back for more.
A photo of TNT Rooftop Restaurant restaurant
9. TNT Rooftop Restaurant
4.3
Awesome(29)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Cicero
Booked 3 times today
Nestled in the bustling Cicero neighborhood of Chicago, TNT Rooftop Restaurant is a haven for Vegetarian / Vegan cuisine lovers seeking an upscale dining experience. The restaurant's vegan options are crafted with precision, ensuring that each dish not only meets but exceeds the culinary expectations of its guests. Patrons rave about the quality and presentation, with one guest exclaiming, “The food and ambiance was amazing! Will definitely come again!” The rooftop setting adds a touch of elegance, making it a perfect spot for diners who appreciate great food paired with a stunning view. Whether it's the buffalo cauliflower or the array of handcrafted vegan cocktails, TNT Rooftop Restaurant is committed to delivering a memorable dining experience that makes every visitor want to return.
A photo of Famous Dave's - Riverside restaurant
10. Famous Dave's - Riverside
5.0
Exceptional(0)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Berwyn
Famous Dave's - Riverside in Berwyn is where barbecue lovers' dreams come true. Customers rave about their authentic BBQ, noting, "the smokey aroma hits you as soon as you walk in." The secret lies in their live-wood smoker stoked with genuine hickory logs and the meats hand-rubbed with a custom blend of spices, ensuring flavors that are both deep and delightful. Diners are consistently impressed, one mentioning, "Food was amazing love the brisket and cornbread especially." The restaurant's dedication to quality is clear as they prepare meats "like we’re in a competition," promising a top-tier dining experience every time. Whether it's the ribs, pulled pork, or their variety of house-made sauces, every bite is a testament to their commitment to authentic, mouthwatering BBQ.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Restaurant Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Impressum
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable International Ltd. Alphabeta Building, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo