4 Best Modern Southern American Restaurants In Little Italy / University Village

4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Yardbird Table & Bar - Chicago restaurant

1. Yardbird Table & Bar - Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(1292)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary southern • River North (Chicago)

Booked 86 times today

Yardbird Table & Bar in Chicago's vibrant River North is a beacon of authentic American Southern cuisine, celebrated by giants like James Beard and Bon Appétit. The restaurant's core, its famous fried chicken, embodies the soul of Southern hospitality. Diners rave about the "best chicken and waffles I have ever had" and praise the "spectacular" ambiance and service. Each dish, from the deviled eggs to the Bourbon Maple Syrup, is steeped in cherished family recipes, offering a taste of genuine warmth and charm. Yardbird consistently delivers an "amazing" dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving elevated American classics in a beautifully curated setting.

A photo of Blue Door Kitchen & Garden restaurant

2. Blue Door Kitchen & Garden

4.6

Exceptional(2371)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary southern • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 44 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago, Blue Door Kitchen & Garden offers a delightful escape with its chef-driven comfort food menu. Celebrated Chef Art Smith brings heartwarming dishes to life, using fresh, local ingredients sourced from Midwest farms. The restaurant has been lauded for its "iconic fried chicken," a crowd-pleaser, and the homely yet elegant ambiance of its garden patio. Patrons rave about the "best shrimp and grits I’ve ever had" and the irresistible "hummingbird cake." Each dish is crafted to reflect the authenticity and soul of true comfort food, making Blue Door Kitchen a must-visit for a taste of home in the heart of Chicago.

3. Soulé to Soulé

4.5

Awesome(424)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary southern • West Town

Booked 13 times today

Soulé to Soulé in West Town, Chicago, is a beacon of authentic Creole cuisine, delighting diners with its unique soul food tapas and vibrant atmosphere. Praised for its "phenomenal food" and "exceptional service," this intimate spot stands out with dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in Creole tradition. Guests rave about the "delicious and flavorful" offerings, including standout dishes like the jerk chicken, BBQ chicken appetizers, catfish macaroni and cheese, and the lamb chops, which are described as "hands down the best." The restaurant's BYOB policy enhances the dining experience, allowing guests to pair their favorite drinks with "perfectly seasoned" meals. Visitors consistently celebrate Soulé to Soulé as one of the best soul food restaurants in Chicago, making it a must-visit for an unforgettable Creole meal.

4. Virtue

4.8

Exceptional(547)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary southern • Hyde Park

Booked 41 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.

‘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.

Best Modern Southern American Restaurants in Little Italy / University Village

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

4 restaurants available nearby

1. Yardbird Table & Bar - Chicago

2. Blue Door Kitchen & Garden

3. Soulé to Soulé

4. Virtue

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable