Best Southern American Restaurants in South Side

287 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Walnut Room - Chicago restaurant

1. The Walnut Room - Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(6855)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 347 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

4.8

Exceptional(562)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Hyde Park

Booked 34 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(1556)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Hyde Park

Booked 88 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

4.4

Awesome(51)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Bronzeville

Booked 8 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(11938)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Loop

Booked 165 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 White Castle - Chicago - S King Dr restaurant

6. White Castle - Chicago - S King Dr

5.0

Exceptional(1)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • South Side

Fine dining is back at White Castle this Valentine’s Day and craviiiier than ever! From steamy Sliders to decadent desserts you’re guaranteed to impress that special someone (or crew) you love so much! So step up your game and dine with us a la carte or dig into The Love Clutch Collection full of delicious delights. Give the special Cravers in your life the royal treatment at White Castle on February 14th. Because everyone wants to hear those three little words: We’re. Getting. Sliders. P.S. Here are a few lines to help set the mood—FREE OF CHARGE: I only have fries for you Mozzstix & chill? You’re my crave-orite I’d put a Chicken Ring on it

A photo of Moody Tongue Brewing Company restaurant

7. Moody Tongue Brewing Company

4.8

Exceptional(0)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • South Loop

Booked 15 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.

8. avec West Loop

4.8

Exceptional(827)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • West Loop

Booked 91 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

9. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - Hyde Park

3.9

Excellent(148)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Hyde Park

Booked 5 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.

10. Dawn Eatery

4.5

Awesome(206)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Hyde Park

Booked 9 times today

Dawn Eatery in Hyde Park, Chicago, is a café that has quickly become a cherished spot for those seeking authentic and high-quality café cuisine. Patrons rave about the "delicious and strong" drinks and the "amazing" food which includes southern-inspired dishes like shrimp and grits and salmon croquettes that are "made to perfection." The inviting ambiance coupled with "prompt and friendly service" enhances the dining experience, making it a must-visit. As one reviewer put it, Dawn Eatery is a "total gem," where the atmosphere is "not overstimulated" and the menu offers a diverse range of options that are consistently spectacular. Whether it's for a hearty breakfast or a leisurely brunch, Dawn Eatery promises an exceptional café experience that will make you want to return.

‘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

M
Marilyn
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
It was amazing Jala served us well. Very attentive with 2 little guys sges 2and4 . We are from Texas and make it a point to visit each time we’re here. My husband is vegan and enjoys blueberry waffles.
More info
Dawn EateryPrice: Moderate• Southern• Hyde Park
•
4.5
K
Kendria
Atlanta Metro •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Food was 10/10, so hot and fresh, plus it came out super fast!!!!! Waiter was on point as well. I love when management walks around and check on each table too! The food was so so good! If I visit Chicago again, I will definitely revisit. I went at 11:30 am, but I feel it’s more of 6:00pm vibe.
More info
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Southern• River North (Chicago)
•
4.1
D
Dvip
St. Louis •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
An outstanding experience. A disciplined, friendly & attentive staff. Excellent food and cocktails. A hands-down wonderful dining experience. I look forward to going back.
More info
VirtuePrice: Expensive• Southern• Hyde Park
•
4.8
T
Tanya
Wisconsin •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
The food is absolutely fantastic! Their chicken just cannot be beat. Their Brussels sprouts are outrageously delicious. Yes, these Brussels are that good. The deep fry them and then glaze them in a spiced honey glaze. I honestly could just sit there and eat those all evening. The service is top notch. Our waiter was attentive and knowledgeable about the food. Our food came out quickly and was on point. This was our second time there and will be going back for sure.
More info
Yardbird Table & Bar - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• River North (Chicago)
•
4.6
A
Annavip
Chicago / Illinois •9 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 24, 2024
Food was amazing. Chef Lamar had a wonderful selection available for the soft opening. We had the beef tartare with chicken skins (highly recommend), the fried green tomato with burrata, the half chicken, and salmon. We each had two cocktails, one of which had fat washed mezcal to mellow out the after sting. My only note is we realized in hindsight our drinks were not that strong. Overall, amazing experience!
More info
ETC.Price: Expensive• American• Downtown / Loop
•
4.9

Explore OpenTable

South Side

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in South Side

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

287 restaurants available nearby

1. The Walnut Room - Chicago

2. Virtue

3. Chemistry

4. Bronzeville Winery

5. The Gage

6. White Castle - Chicago - S King Dr

7. Moody Tongue Brewing Company

8. avec West Loop

9. Jordyn’s Soul Cafe - Hyde Park

10. Dawn Eatery

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable