Best Southern American Restaurants in South Side

272 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant

1. The Walnut Room - Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(7374)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 329 times today

Nestled in the bustling heart of Downtown Chicago, The Walnut Room offers a truly authentic Vegetarian dining experience that captivates both the palate and the heart. Celebrated as a local tradition since 1907, this iconic venue inside Macy's on State Street shines with its commitment to quality and service. Patrons frequently praise its "delicious" offerings and the "wonderful atmosphere" that make every dining experience memorable. Highlights from the Vegetarian menu include creatively crafted dishes that emphasize freshness and flavor, making it a prime destination for those seeking a culinary delight. As one reviewer enthusiastically noted, "The food is always delicious. The service is always great. And just a lovely place to dine." Whether it’s the charm of the historic setting or the exquisite Vegetarian cuisine, The Walnut Room is a must-visit for those seeking exceptional dining in Chicago.

2. Virtue

4.9

Exceptional(600)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Hyde Park

Booked 39 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, Virtue stands out as a beacon of Southern American cuisine. Renowned for its genuine hospitality and exceptional service, Virtue has crafted a space that embodies warmth and kindness. With a focus on heritage culinary techniques, the menu offers both familiar and innovative flavors that resonate deeply with diners. Glowing reviews often highlight not just the flavorful, authentic dishes like the "perfectly seasoned short ribs" and the "delicious blackened catfish," but also the impeccable service and inviting ambiance. As one reviewer raves, "The food was phenomenal and is worth every penny." Whether it’s the carefully crafted drinks, the beautifully presented plates, or the overall dining experience, Virtue consistently delivers top-quality Southern comfort food that truly stands out in Chicago's culinary scene.

3. Chemistry

4.4

Awesome(1586)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Hyde Park

Booked 102 times today

Chicago's premier black-owned steakhouse. Located in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood! Enjoy the finest steak while experiencing excellent white glove service. Chemistry exemplifies black excellence at its finest.**Please Note** We are not open for dinner service on Friday night. ALL RESERVATIONS ARE 90 MINUTES WITH A 15 MINUTE GRACE PERIODLarge Parties over 12: Are unable to make an online reservation. Please Email your request to reservations@chemistrychicago.com

A photo of Bronzeville Winery restaurant

4. Bronzeville Winery

4.5

Awesome(54)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Bronzeville

Booked 11 times today

Bronzeville Winery, located in the vibrant South Side of Chicago, stands out as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts seeking authenticity and quality. This unique establishment not only showcases a rotating wine list from Women, Minority, and African American-owned labels but also pairs these exquisite selections with a dynamic, seasonal menu. Guests rave about the "immaculate vibes" and "elevated" dining experience, emphasizing the perfect marriage of fine wines and reimagined comfort foods. One diner highlighted, "The wine flights were excellent! There wasn't a single glass we didn't enjoy!" making it clear that Bronzeville Winery is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the finer nuances of a well-curated wine bar.

5. The Gage

4.7

Exceptional(11999)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 98 times today

The Gage in Downtown Chicago is a haven for comfort food enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic and innovative flavors. Praised for its "terrific service and amazing food," this restaurant offers a menu that delights with dishes such as the indulgent chicken fried lobster and perfectly cooked Scotch eggs, which one patron from England described as "cooked to perfection." The Gage's ability to maintain high standards, even on busy days like St. Patrick's Day, speaks volumes, with reviews highlighting their "phenomenal food" and seamless service. This spot is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary experience where every meal is crafted with care and served in a lively, welcoming atmosphere, making it a "must visit" in Chicago's dining scene.

A photo of Moody Tongue Brewing Company restaurant

6. Moody Tongue Brewing Company

4.8

Exceptional(0)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • South Loop

Booked 26 times today

Moody Tongue Brewing Company in Chicago's South Loop is a beacon of brewery excellence, celebrated for its inventive "culinary brewing" approach. Brewmaster Jared Rouben, with his rich culinary background, crafts beers that are not just drinks but an integral part of the dining experience, often described as "exquisite works of art" by patrons. This philosophy has earned Moody Tongue two prestigious Michelin Stars consecutively in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Guests rave about the harmonious beer pairings that enhance each dish, with comments like "the beer pairing amplified it" underscoring the meticulous attention to how beverages complement the food. Whether it's the lively atmosphere of THE BAR or the refined elegance of THE DINING ROOM, Moody Tongue promises an exceptional journey through flavors, making it a must-visit for those seeking a unique dining and drinking experience.

7. avec West Loop

4.8

Exceptional(841)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 72 times today

Avec West Loop in Chicago's vibrant West Loop neighborhood captures the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful Midwestern twist on Mediterranean classics. Celebrating over 20 years of culinary excellence, avec is renowned for its wine-focused dining and communal seating, fostering an intimate and interactive atmosphere. Customers rave about the uniquely inventive dishes, with one diner exclaiming, "The food is excellent but the quarters a bit cramped in this location. Don’t miss the short rib hummus and the chorizo dates." Another highlights the exceptional service and unforgettable flavors, stating, "Incredible food and service. Easy going service with loads of knowledge and great direction for first-time diners." Avec continues to impress with its consistent quality and innovative menu, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Contemporary American dining experience in Chicago.

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

8. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - Hyde Park

4.0

Excellent(159)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Hyde Park

Booked 16 times today

At Jordyn's Soul Cafe in Hyde Park, Chicago, the essence of authentic American soul food is celebrated with every dish served. Since its opening in 2022, this upscale restaurant has captured the hearts of diners with its "perfect blend of soul food and fine dining." Patrons rave about the "amazing" food, highlighting favorites like smothered turkey wings and pot roast empanadas, which are described as "stellar." The authenticity of the cuisine shines, with one guest noting the food "reminded me of my grandmother’s southern cooking," underscoring its genuine, comforting appeal. The restaurant consistently earns high praise for both its delightful dishes and the warm, attentive service, making every meal an experience to remember. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe is indeed a gem for those seeking a taste of true American soul in Chicago.

9. Roanoke

4.3

Awesome(1447)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 59 times today

Discover the essence of Contemporary American cuisine at Roanoke, nestled in the vibrant Downtown / Loop area of Chicago. Celebrated for its luxurious setting and a culinary showcase featuring a rotisserie and brick oven, Roanoke delivers an unforgettable dining experience. Patrons rave about the diverse menu, highlighting dishes like the "outrageously huge and delicious turkey club" and the "rotisserie chicken - so delicious!" The ambiance, complemented by copper accents and warm lighting, creates the perfect backdrop for any occasion. Whether it's a cozy dinner by the fireplace or a lively gathering with friends, Roanoke promises an excellent service and a menu that has "something fresh for everyone." Join us for a meal where each dish is a testament to refined American cooking.

10. Lips - Chicago

4.9

Exceptional(973)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • South Loop

Booked 6 times today

JOIN US AT LIPS CHICAGO FOR THE #1 DRAG SHOW CHICAGO'S ONLY TRUE LA CAGE DRAG SHOW PALACE EXPERIENCELips is the Ultimate in Drag Dining! Dinner, Drinks, and Fabulous Entertainment!SHOW SCHEDULEThursdays - Dinner with the DivasFridays & Saturdays - Glitz & Glam La Cage ShowSaturday Afternoon - Dragalicious BrunchSunday Afternoon - Dragalicious Gospel BrunchPER PERSONThursday - $36.95(3 Course Dinner & Show Package)Saturday Brunch - $42.95(Includes All-You-Can-Drink Mimosas, Champagne, or Bloody Mary's and Entrée)Friday & Saturday - $49.95(3 Course Dinner & Show Package)Sunday Brunch - $42.95(Includes All-You-Can-Drink Mimosas, Champagne, or Bloody Mary's and Entrée)*Pricing above does not include drinks, tax, or tip.

‘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

K
Keith
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
From the moment I walked in, until in moment I left it was all professional. The food came out on time. It was hot. It was amazing. I walked in open minded. It was my anniversary for me and my wife. Our 21st. So it was a very important occasion. So I trusted the environment to celebrate that monumental occasion. And it did just that. I’ll recommend a friend and I’m going again.
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ETC.Price: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.8
J
Janet
Chicago / Illinois •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Virtue's food is superb and their servers always know the menu backwards and forward and can explain any things you ask about. The servers are prompt and service is great. It has been a wonderful experience every time we have been to Virtue and this time was the same. Great Southern cuisine!
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VirtuePrice: Expensive• Southern• Hyde Park
•
4.9
G
Gail
Virginia •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We enjoyed our experience and food and looking forward to going back. We went for a birthday brunch with the family on Saturday afternoon. This was our first time dining at Nafsi. I believe this was the third week of the restaurant being opened for brunch. There was a djj setting a very nice vibe. Dominique was our waitress, and she was very attentive and pleasant. Overall, no complaints about the food, we had the shrimp and grits, the lavender/poppyseed waffles and chicken, and biscuits. Everything was good. Would totally recommend for brunch.
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NafsiPrice: Expensive• American• South Side
•
5
E
ErnieVIP
Baltimore / Maryland •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
What a lovely experience! It was my first time there, and it exceeded any expectations I had. We enjoyed the fried green tomato BLT as an appetizer; I ordered shrimp and grits; my husband ordered the short ribs. Both were divine! Flavorful and presented beautifully. The service was excellent. Our server was attentive and most pleasant. He didn’t miss a beat. Two different managers came to our table to introduce themselves and check on our experience. They even treated us to a banana pudding cheesecake. That was above and beyond. We left feeling totally content. The food was delish and the service utterly delightful. We can’t wait to try the Yard Bird location in Miami, where we live.
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Yardbird Table & Bar - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• River North (Chicago)
•
4.6
C
Curastine
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
This is such a great place to eat at all the workers are so nice including the manger I really enjoy the guy that work at the bar this is a very nice laid back place
More info
Dawn EateryPrice: Moderate• Southern• Hyde Park
•
4.5

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Best Southern American Restaurants in South Side

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272 restaurants available nearby

1. The Walnut Room - Chicago

2. Virtue

3. Chemistry

4. Bronzeville Winery

5. The Gage

6. Moody Tongue Brewing Company

7. avec West Loop

8. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - Hyde Park

9. Roanoke

10. Lips - Chicago

See what locals rave about

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