11 Illinois Soul Food Restaurants That Locals Swear By (And Keep Going Back To)
Soul food in Illinois runs deeper than crispy chicken and buttery cornbread. Generations of families have perfected recipes that warm hearts and fill bellies across the state.
Local regulars know exactly where to find the best mac and cheese, the most tender ribs, and those unforgettable Sunday dinner vibes any day of the week.
It is time you, too, discover these culinary spots that mean so much to the locals.
1. MacArthur’s Restaurant – Austin (Chicago)
Cafeteria-style soul food never looked so good as it does behind MacArthur’s steaming counter displays. This West Side institution has mastered the art of comfort food assembly lines, where smothered chicken and turkey legs reign supreme.
I still remember my first visit here, watching regulars navigate the counter with the confidence of seasoned pros. The fried chicken paired with mac and cheese plus candied yams creates the ultimate trifecta of satisfaction.
Counter service moves at lightning speed, so come hungry and ready to decide quickly. Daily hours run 11 am to 9 pm.
2. BJ’s Market & Bakery – Calumet Heights (Chicago)
Three decades of “Food for the Soul®” expertise shine through every plate at BJ’s Market & Bakery. Their reputation for perfectly baked chicken, savory dressing, and flaky fried catfish has kept Calumet Heights residents coming back since the early 1990s.
The catfish dinner with fresh cornbread represents everything right about this neighborhood staple. Save room for their legendary peach cobbler or grab a slice of cake for later indulgence.
Located on 95th Street with lunch through dinner service, BJ’s also handles catering for special occasions and family gatherings.
3. Josephine’s Southern Cooking – Chatham (Chicago)
Mother Josephine Wade built more than a restaurant; she created a Sunday gathering place that happens to serve incredible gumbo and chicken & waffles every day of the week. Her legacy continues to draw families seeking authentic Southern hospitality.
The gumbo here tastes like someone’s grandmother spent all morning perfecting the roux, while salmon croquettes offer a delightful alternative to typical fried fare. Two sides complete any meal beautifully.
Currently active with events and menu updates throughout 2025, though confirming hours before your visit ensures the best experience possible.
4. Chicago’s Home of Chicken & Waffles – Oak Park
Breakfast meets dinner in the most delicious way possible at this Oak Park favorite, where chicken and waffles receive the royal treatment they deserve. All-day soul breakfast means you can satisfy those morning cravings whenever they strike.
Wings paired with a golden waffle create the perfect sweet and savory balance. Adding a side of creamy grits transforms this combination into a complete Southern comfort experience.
Open daily with weekend morning crowds that pack the place, so reservations become your best friend for avoiding lengthy waits during peak brunch hours.
5. Soulé – Lawndale (Chicago)
Chef Bridgette Flagg transforms a larger North Lawndale space into something magical, where Creole influences elevate traditional soul food to new heights.
Her chic approach includes standout dishes like perfectly seasoned shrimp & grits and tender lamb chops.
The Cajun shrimp & grits showcase Chef Flagg’s expertise with bold flavors, while fried green tomatoes provide a crispy, tangy appetizer that sets the tone perfectly.
Dine-in typically runs 2 to 9 pm with takeout available from 1 pm; check same-day updates before you go.
6. Soul Veg City – Chatham (Chicago)
Plant-based soul food might sound like an oxymoron, but Soul Veg City proves that vegetables can satisfy even the most devoted carnivores.
Long-running success stems from creative dishes like BBQ seitan and vegan mac that fool your taste buds completely.
During my last visit, I watched skeptical first-timers become instant converts after trying their vegan mac with BBQ “drumsticks” and fresh cornbread. House juices provide the perfect healthy accompaniment.
Weekday hours run 11 am to 6 pm, with weekend service starting at 10 am for those early plant-based cravings.
7. Luella’s Southern Kitchen – Albany Park (Chicago)
Beloved chef brings daytime Southern comfort to Albany Park, where beignets and Nashville hot chicken & waffles create morning magic. The reopened location on North Kedzie continues serving favorites that made Luella’s a Chicago institution.
Nashville hot chicken delivers serious heat, balanced perfectly by fluffy waffles, while finishing with warm beignets feels like the right choice every single time. Shrimp & grits round out the must-try options.
Currently operating Wednesday through Sunday with morning to early afternoon hours, making weekend brunch visits particularly rewarding for soul food enthusiasts.
8. Cleo’s Southern Cuisine – Bronzeville & Loop (Chicago)
Modern soul food gets the royal treatment at Cleo’s two strategic locations, where butter-pecan waffles and honey hot wings represent innovative takes on classic comfort food.
The unique scheduling system splits operations between Bronzeville weekends and downtown Wells Street weekdays.
Fried chicken paired with those signature butter-pecan waffles creates an unforgettable combination of crispy, sweet, and savory elements working in perfect harmony.
Check which location operates on your planned visit day, as the split schedule ensures fresh options throughout the week across both neighborhoods.
9. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe – West Town & Hyde Park (Chicago)
Big-plate soul food meets loungey vibes at Jordyn’s two Chicago locations, where smothered pork chops and short ribs share menu space with creative touches like salmon egg rolls. The atmosphere encourages lingering over generous portions.
Short ribs fall off the bone beautifully, while smothered chicken with greens and yams represents classic comfort done right. Both locations maintain the same high standards and welcoming environment.
Lunch through late dinner service most days, with reservations available for groups wanting to guarantee seating during popular evening hours.
10. Virtue Restaurant & Bar – Hyde Park (Chicago)
James Beard recognition doesn’t happen by accident, and Virtue’s refined Southern staples in their warm, art-filled dining room prove why critics and locals alike sing their praises. Gumbo, green tomatoes, and fish & grits receive elevated treatment here.
Fried green tomatoes with remoulade start meals perfectly, while blackened catfish showcases how traditional dishes benefit from skilled technique. Fresh cornbread completes the experience beautifully.
Dinner-only service Tuesday through Sunday requires reservations, especially for weekend visits when Hyde Park residents pack this neighborhood treasure.
11. Aunt Lou’s Soul Food – Downtown (Springfield, IL)
Springfield’s newest soul food sensation opened in 2024 and immediately won over downtown diners with their approach to fried green tomatoes, tender oxtails, and classic comfort plates. Hometown pride shows in every carefully prepared dish.
Fried chicken paired with mac & cheese and greens represents the holy trinity of soul food satisfaction. The downtown Monroe Street location makes it perfect for lunch breaks or dinner outings.
Online ordering keeps service moving smoothly, though checking current hours before visiting ensures you don’t miss out on Springfield’s hottest new comfort food destination.