Best Soul Food Restaurants in South Side

Price

££
£££
££££

Regions

ChicagoDallas SuburbsDetroitDistrict of ColumbiaDowntownEast London

Areas

AvondaleBronzevilleBucktown / Wicker ParkCapitol HillCedar HillCentral Los Angeles

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

James Beard AwardMICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral toiletWheelchair access

40 restaurants available nearby

1. Soul Prime

4.4

Awesome(501)

££££Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Lincoln Park

Booked 32 times today

A new concept created by Chef Royce. It's soul food restaurant offering an elevated experience. We are located in the historic Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. Join us for lunch and dinner Tuesday-Saturday, and brunch on Sunday. If you don't see the seat you want available online, please give us a call. We will be happy to make you a reservation.

A photo of Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - Hyde Park restaurant

2. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - Hyde Park

3.7

Very Good(214)

££££Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Hyde Park

Booked 25 times today

Jordyn’s Soul Cafe in Hyde Park, Chicago, offers an exceptional American dining experience that combines the heartiness of traditional soul food with the warmth of genuine hospitality. The restaurant has received rave reviews for its "absolutely delicious" dishes, including standout items like the beef short ribs and smothered chicken. Customers frequently praise the "great food and service" and describe the atmosphere as a "complete vibe," making it a must-visit spot for American cuisine enthusiasts. With generous portions and a BYOB policy, Jordyn’s Soul Cafe is a delicious and welcoming destination that leaves diners eager to return.

3. Virtue

4.9

Exceptional(757)

££££Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Hyde Park

Booked 68 times today

Virtue, nestled in Chicago's vibrant Hyde Park, exemplifies exceptional Southern American cuisine with a dedication to hospitality and authenticity. The restaurant's commitment to "unpretentious service" and "great value" shines through each carefully crafted dish. Diners rave about the "best Mac and Cheese" they've ever tasted and the "incredible" short ribs, which are always "cooked and sauced to perfection." This Michelin-rated gem brings "rich flavors" to life using heritage techniques, making every meal a memorable experience. Virtue's warm ambiance and attentive staff ensure guests feel like they're dining with "a hip, understanding friend," making it a must-visit destination.

4. The L Station

4.0

Excellent(128)

££££Price: Expensive

• Soul food • River North (Chicago)

Booked 27 times today

The L Station, nestled in the vibrant River North neighborhood of Chicago, is an exemplary showcase of authentic American cuisine. With a passion for hospitality rooted in family traditions, this restaurant delivers an experience that "feels like someone's grandma is in the kitchen," whipping up comfort food that's both soulful and satisfying. Diners rave about their perfectly seasoned jerk and BBQ turkey tips and delectable mac and cheese, describing it as "food made with love." The ambiance, combining cozy vibes with great music, makes The L Station a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a genuine taste of American culinary delights.

A photo of Bronzeville Winery restaurant

5. Bronzeville Winery

4.3

Awesome(111)

££££Price: Very Expensive

• Soul food • Bronzeville

Booked 29 times today

Bronzeville Winery in Chicago's vibrant Bronzeville neighborhood offers an extraordinary Cocktail Bar experience that is simply unmatched. With an ambiance that's both "chill" and "pleasant," this establishment has become a favorite for those seeking top-tier drinks and service. Guests rave about the "delicious drinks" and "great wine flight," highlighting the creativity and expertise behind each cocktail. The bar's dedication to quality is evident in every sip, making it a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts. With lively music and a "fantastic atmosphere," Bronzeville Winery promises a memorable night out, perfectly blending its rich cultural heritage with modern mixology flair.

A photo of Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern restaurant

6. Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern

4.3

Awesome(235)

££££Price: Moderate

• Soul food • River North (Chicago)

Booked 16 times today

Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern in Chicago's River North neighborhood offers an authentic taste of American barbeque with a unique flair. Guests rave about the "outstanding service" and the "delicious" variety of BBQ platters that showcase traditional American flavors. The Fried Platter and Turkey Tips are particular favorites, with patrons describing them as "something wonderful" and "extremely tender and delicious." The lively atmosphere, coupled with friendly and professional staff like Lex and Q, makes dining an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Wilma's promises a genuine American BBQ experience that's sure to satisfy and impress.

7. ETC.

4.5

Awesome(94)

££££Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Downtown / Loop

Booked 16 times today

ETC. in Chicago's Downtown Loop is a must-visit for anyone craving exceptional Contemporary American cuisine. Chef Lamar J. Moore delivers a "phenomenal" dining experience, bringing elevated Southern flavors to the heart of the North. Guests rave about the "fresh, flavorful dishes beautifully presented," creating an enticing blend of familiar and adventurous tastes. The restaurant's ambiance is described as "the perfect blend of cozy and elegant," making it an ideal spot for any occasion. ETC.'s commitment to quality extends to its inventive cocktails, which are a "10/10." If you're seeking a memorable meal, this "true gem" will not disappoint.

8. Nafsi

4.6

Exceptional(46)

££££Price: Expensive

• Soul food • South Side

Booked 14 times today

Nafsi South Shore is the newest iconic destination on the south side, boasting stunning vistas and delectable cuisine where locals can relax, socialize, and rejuvenate. Situated within the South Shore Cultural Center, NAFSI provides residents of South Shore with a refined yet accessible dining option that elevates traditional favorites like shrimp & grits, fried green tomatoes, surf & turf, beignets, chicken & waffles, and other delectable dishes. The well-stocked bar features a selection of wine, beer, and spirits, highlighting local and minority-owned labels.

A photo of Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - West Loop restaurant

9. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - West Loop

4.3

Awesome(303)

££££Price: Very Expensive

• Soul food • West Town

Booked 12 times today

The recipes served all have been passed down by her mother to daughter for generations. Angel, Jordyn's daughter, is dedicated to providing her customers with delicious food, made from scratch daily. She uses only the freshest ingredients and takes pride providing customers with quality service and ensuring that all dishes served are prepared with care and love. We are committed to making the best soul food around, with only the freshest ingredients and the highest level of service. Providing great food served to our guests with dignity, respect, and compassion while working hard to provide an experience they will never forget. Our grilled salmon is the best you'll ever have, while our fried chicken is so crunchy and delicious that you'll want to order some to-go! Our smothered wings are made of only the finest cuts of chicken, and our pork chops are full of flavor. We also offer delicious catfish and much more.We have a passion for what we do, and we do it w

10. Soulé to Soulé

4.5

Awesome(439)

££££Price: Moderate

• Soul food • West Town

Booked 25 times today

Soulé to Soulé in West Town, Chicago, stands out as a haven for authentic Creole cuisine, offering a delightful tapestry of flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Creole culture. Renowned for its “wonderfully fresh, perfectly seasoned” dishes, this soul food tapas restaurant invites diners to indulge in a variety of exquisite Creole staples. The menu is brimming with crowd favorites like “crispy and juicy fried chicken” and “seasoned to perfection lamb chops.” With a focus on creating an intimate and cozy atmosphere, Soulé to Soulé promises a memorable dining experience that's "amazing" and "a must-try" for any food enthusiast.

‘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

B
Biancia
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
The food was amazing and the staff efficient, nice and really cool ambiance.
More info
The L StationPrice: Expensive• Soul food• River North (Chicago)
•
4
OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
My food was hot. It was delicious. Everything was fresh. The service was great. They handled the crowd really well. The alcohol beverages were amazing. I will be returning.
More info
Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - West LoopPrice: Very Expensive• Soul food• West Town
•
4.3
T
Titia
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Great vibe, good customer service, and amazing food!
More info
Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - Hyde ParkPrice: Moderate• Soul food• Hyde Park
•
3.7
L
Lori
Chicago / Illinois •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
I was shocked at how fast my food came, the waiters were very pleasant, my macaroni was cool but they corrected it with no problem. The food was delicious, the Hennessy Sidecar was delicious and I liked the ambience
More info
Wilma's Famous BBQ & TavernPrice: Moderate• Barbecue• River North (Chicago)
•
4.3
A
Andre
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined on 2 Mar 2025
As a first timer I was highly impressed by the Customer Service, we were seated right away, and the wait staff wasted no time with getting water to the table and then asked if we wanted appetizers right off the bat. Once we made our order the food was prepared and brought to the table faster than I expected. The Food was outstanding, I was pleasantly surprised at how good the entrees where and then the main meal was THE BOMB!!! We'll definitely be back.
More info
Soulé to SouléPrice: Moderate• Soul food• West Town
•
4.5

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