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Top picks in Illinois

Banana pudding and mac and cheese

A plate of mac and cheese followed by banana pudding is pure, uncomplicated comfort.

Based on 911 Opinions
+908
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Updated May 2026
01
JJ's Bar-B-Q & More image 1
JJ's Bar-B-Q & More image 2
JJ's Bar-B-Q & More image 3
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Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers St. Louis style BBQ with tender pork steaks and meaty ribs that draw strong praise. Atmosphere feels welcoming and family-style with relaxing music and a smoky aroma. Menu is limited but focuses on quality smoked meats and classic sides.

Banana pudding stands out as exceptionally creamy and flavorful. It pairs well with other desserts like peach cobbler and snoots, making it a memorable finish to any meal.

Creamy decadence with a perfect baked crust defines the Mac and Cheese here. It pairs well with brisket and baked beans, making it a solid side choice.

People are saying

"The American Food brisket is tender, juicy, and full of flavor."

"These ribs are so tender, they just fall off the bone."

"I found the banana pudding to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended as they close at 6pm.

2

Expect some menu items to run out by the end of the day.

3

Parking is available right in front, with additional options nearby.

02
Gourmet Butter Delights Soul Food and Bakery image 1

Small space with few tables and an impeccably clean environment offers authentic soul food with a drive-thru option. Atmosphere feels like family, creating a warm and welcoming vibe. Consistent quality and standout desserts add to the overall experience.

Thick and rich flavor defines the banana pudding here, served in a generous portion. It carries a homemade quality that evokes childhood memories.

A mix of cheeses creates a rich blend in the mac and cheese. It pairs well with dishes like catfish and greens, making it a solid side choice.

People are saying

"You have to try the mac and cheese; it's unreal."

"The Mac and Cheese here has a perfect blend of cheeses."

"This banana pudding is the best I ever ate."

Good to know

1

The drive-thru is available for quick service.

2

Parking is limited due to other businesses in the strip.

3

Desserts include a great selection of cakes and cookies.

03
TriBecca’s Sandwich Shop image 1

Tiny sandwich shop with limited seating and a Midwest kitsch atmosphere offers a warm, cozy vibe despite harsh fluorescent lighting. Music ranges from metal to karaoke, creating a lively and fun environment. The space feels comfortable and charming, with a casual, no-frills setup.

Creamy and velvety texture defines the banana pudding, paired with vanilla wafers and whipped topping. It carries a primal Midwestern flavor that stands out distinctly.

Loaded and pepper jack mac and cheese stand out with rich, creamy flavors. Sides like tots and broccoli salad complement the extremely good mac n cheese well.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be great."

"I found the loaded Mac and Cheese to be amazing."

"The Banana Pudding here is creamy and velvety."

Good to know

1

Seating is first come, first serve.

2

They only accept credit cards, so be prepared with one.

3

The shop includes tips in the price, no need to tip separately.

04
Puff Shack BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Bright, airy space with simple decor and handwritten menus creates a no-frills setting focused on food. Laid-back vibe welcomes guests with Southern charm and friendly hospitality. Small dining area includes indoor tables and an outdoor picnic table, offering a cozy, genuine barbecue experience.

Creamy, dreamy dessert with layers of fresh bananas, velvety custard, and a vanilla wafer crunch. Often recommended and considered a must-try dish.

Smoked Gouda shines in the mac and cheese, earning high praise for its rich flavor. Sides like the mac and cheese are seasoned well and consistently delicious.

People are saying

"The brisket here is tender, juicy, and the best I've had outside Texas."

"The smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese here is amazing."

"I found the Banana Pudding here to be great."

Good to know

1

Smoked jumbo chicken wings are $1 each on Wednesdays.

2

A slab of smoked ribs, cole slaw, and one side is available on Sundays.

3

Rib tip specials are offered on select days.

05
Doll's Kitchen And Catering image 1

Small lobby with bar stool tables sets an intimate scene. Atmosphere feels energetic and flavorful, with soul food drawing a loyal crowd. Limited parking and affordable prices distinguish the experience.

Banana pudding here is solid and pairs well with other desserts like strawberry banana pudding and peach cobbler that get high marks for taste.

Mac and cheese comes gooey and flavorful with a rich, creamy texture. It pairs well with other soul food staples like jerked lamb and yams.

People are saying

"The mac and cheese here is gooey, flavorful, and top tier."

"You have to try the Salmon Philly, it's loaded with salmon."

"The Mac and Cheese is top tier and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Special offerings include Taco Tuesday, Pasta Wednesday, and Soul Food Sunday.

2

Soul food is only available on Sundays.

3

The restaurant closes at 7 PM on Saturdays.

06
Jesse's Soul Cafe image 1

Family-run soul food restaurant offers huge portions and a homey cookout vibe with wall quotes and nice music playing. The atmosphere feels caring and welcoming, reflecting the owners' pride in their food. Expect a lively place where the food and environment create a memorable experience.

Banana pudding stands out with its rich flavor and creamy texture. It pairs well with savory dishes like the buffalo fish sandwich.

Homemade mac and cheese stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavor. It pairs well with dishes like smothered pork chops, oxtails, and shrimp dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and amazingly cooked."

"The mac and cheese was homemade, not a box blend."

"I had to finish with the banana pudding."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the side of the building.

2

Expect to wait an hour or more during busy times; calling ahead is recommended.

3

The portions are very large, often requiring a to-go box.

07
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 1

Elegant restaurant with stunning windows and Instagram-worthy décor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with perfectly curated music. The vibe is lively and friendly, enhanced by attentive service and a beautiful city view. The space balances upscale soul food dining with a fun, electric energy.

Banana pudding comes in different styles here, with one version being a birthday favorite. The chef sometimes presents it personally, adding a special touch to the dessert experience.

Mac and cheese comes as a rich, creamy side that pairs well with dishes like surf and turf or fried chicken. It stands out for its comforting texture and classic flavor that complements collard greens perfectly.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The mac and cheese here is creamy and comforting."

"The Banana Pudding here is amazing, with friendly and informative service."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs until 7 pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is available for guests at the restaurant.

08
Chubby’s Hot Chicken image 1
American restaurant

Small space with nostalgic brick wall portraits and nods to Chicago music history creates a relaxed, lively vibe filled with the scent of spices and crispy chicken. Music and old kung fu movies play loudly, adding to the friendly, community feel. Busy evenings bring a buzz of energy without overwhelming the atmosphere.

Homemade banana pudding stands out here, with a texture and flavor that draw strong enthusiasm. Limited quantities mean it can run out, so it's worth trying right after your meal.

Mac and cheese pairs well with chicken dishes and wings. It comes as a side option and consistently tastes delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is spicy, flavorful, and amazing."

"The Mac and Cheese is so cheesy and creamy."

"I thought the banana pudding here was the best in town."

Good to know

1

Chubby's Hot Chicken is not open on Sundays and Mondays.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 PM, limiting evening visits.

3

You can choose the level of heat: mild, medium, hot, or none.

09
B's Shrimp & Fish image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with warm family vibe and friendly atmosphere creates a welcoming space. Clean interior features flat-screen TVs for casual entertainment. Regulars enjoy fresh, well-seasoned seafood and a strong sense of community pride.

Banana pudding stands out with its rich flavor and creamy texture. It often comes highly praised and sometimes even served on the house.

Creamy and flavorful, the mac and cheese cooks perfectly every time. It pairs well with yams and collard greens for a classic combo.

People are saying

"The fried seafood here is perfectly golden and crunchy."

"I found the Banana Pudding to be astounding and creamy."

"The mac and cheese was perfection, creamy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Soul Food Sunday features special menu items every weekend.

2

B's Shrimp & Fish offers carry out only; no dine-in service available.

3

Soul Food Monday is also available for those who miss Sunday.

10
Brown's Soul Food image 1

Restaurant offers authentic soul food with dishes like fried catfish and baked chicken that stand out. Atmosphere feels homey and warm, enhanced by R&B and soul music and a family-style vibe. Open only on Sundays, it gets bustling around midday with a focus on carry-out service despite available seating.

Banana pudding is light on bananas and heavy on cookies, offering a nice balance. It tastes excellent and pairs well with other southern dishes.

Rich and creamy mac and cheese stands out with a smooth, comforting texture. It pairs well with hearty dishes like fried catfish and smothered pork chops.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful, made with love."

"The fried catfish had a light, crispy breading and meaty fillets."

"The mac and cheese here is divine, truly divine."

Good to know

1

Brown's Soul Food is only open on Sundays from 11am to 7pm.

2

Expect a 10-minute wait for the Mac n cheese.

3

They cater more to carry out, but there is seating available.

11
All That And A Touch of Soul image 1

Small dining room with only five tables creates a cozy, down-home vibe that feels like a family gathering. Music and board games add to the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The place stands out for its authentic soul food and friendly, intimate setting.

Traditional banana pudding tastes very delicious here. They also offer a banana pudding cake, which differs from the classic version.

Rich and creamy mac and cheese offers a comforting side with meals like ox tail and lemon pepper catfish. It pairs well with sweet potatoes and greens for a hearty plate.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the oxtails and jerk chicken."

"I had their Mac And Cheese with oxtails and it was delicious."

"I kept revisiting the banana pudding for seconds after I got home."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the meat is freshly made and takes time.

2

The restaurant closes at 7pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect larger portions than average, often enough for two meals.

12
Honey Bay's BBQ image 1
Soul food restaurant

Southern decor creates a sweet and inviting atmosphere with great music and friendly staff. The space feels renovated and clean but lacks dine-in seating. The vibe suits those seeking authentic soul food in a casual setting.

Summer-perfect banana pudding stands out with its creamy texture and balanced sweetness. It ranks highly compared to other banana puddings tried here.

Smoked Mac N Cheese offers a super cheesy and well-seasoned side dish. It pairs well with hearty meals like BBQ wings and turkey collard greens.

People are saying

"The barbecue rib tips here are sticky, savory, and the best I've ever had."

"The soul food dinner here is hearty, delicious, and memorable."

"I thought the Banana Pudding was a 10 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Honey Bay's BBQ only accepts cash, so bring cash for your meal.

2

Expect a wait time during peak hours, especially for fried foods.

3

The serving size is big, providing great value for the price.

13
CHI TEA - Hot Chicken, Burgers, & Wings image 1

Fast food restaurant with vibrant and cozy atmosphere and beautiful interior design. Space suits both social hangouts and quiet study sessions. Known for generous portions and flavorful chicken sandwiches.

Creamy and sweet textures define the banana pudding here, offering a light yet flavorful dessert option. It pairs well with bubble tea and stands out as a guilty pleasure for many.

Mac and cheese stands out for its cheesy, gooey texture and creamy flavor. It pairs well with chicken sliders and fries, making a popular combo at events.

People are saying

"This American food is so cheesy and creamy, pure comfort."

"I found the Banana Pudding to be creamy and a must-try."

"The mac and cheese here is so cheesy and creamy."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find in the area.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of food options, including halal choices.

3

Portion sizes are generous and reasonably priced.

14
Soul Vibez image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant with flower-themed decor and a tight dining area creates a beautiful, chill atmosphere. Loud old school R&B music fills the space, making conversation difficult but adding to the vibe. The place offers distinctive soul food dishes alongside a varied drink selection.

Banana pudding stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavor. It pairs well with pound cake and often finishes the meal on a sweet note.

Mac and cheese here matches a homemade style, similar to a mother's recipe. It pairs well with dishes like catfish po'boy and jerk wings, offering a comforting, classic side.

People are saying

"The food here is hot and delicious."

"The Mac and Cheese here is so flavorful and delicious."

"I tasted the banana pudding, and it was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.

2

Takeout is the preferred dining option; limited seating available.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

15
Soul Prime image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with modern contemporary design and soulful R&B music creates an intimate, joyful vibe. Music plays continuously, mixing gospel and 90s throwbacks, setting a family block party atmosphere. Spacious bar and warm hospitality add to the welcoming energy.

Homemade banana pudding stands out with a fresh, authentic taste unlike typical Snack Pack versions. Desserts like sweet potato pie also complement the rich, sweet flavors.

Rich, creamy texture defines the mac and cheese here. It pairs well with perfectly seasoned fried chicken and melt-in-your-mouth ribs.

People are saying

"The fried chicken and mac and cheese are soul-warming American food."

"The Mac And Cheese had the perfect cheesy blend."

"The Banana Pudding is comforting, nostalgic, and soul-warming."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for parties of three or more on weekends.

2

Happy Hour runs from Tuesday to Friday, 3-6 p.m., with $3-$9 food options.

3

The kitchen closes at 9:30 p.m., so arrive early for dinner.

16
Matt's Barbecue and Bourbon Bar image 1

Barbecue restaurant with outdoor patio featuring live music and picnic-style seating creates a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Smoky aroma and Texas-style barbecue set a distinctive atmosphere. Evenings bring a lively energy with music and social outdoor gatherings.

Banana pudding appears as a common dessert option alongside BBQ dishes and classic sides like mac and cheese and cornbread. It complements hearty meals featuring brisket, pulled pork, and burnt ends.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing barbecue; it was tender and full of flavor."

"The banana pudding here is super delicious and very tender."

"The Mac and Cheese was creamy and cheesy."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Thursday at Matt's Barbecue and Bourbon Bar.

2

Open mic night on Thursdays features local talent and is very popular.

3

The beef dino rib is only available on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

17
Ray's SoulFood & Turkey Legs image 1
Soul food restaurant

Old-fashioned soul food restaurant with jazz and R&B music playing and big screen TVs creating a lively vibe. Seating feels cramped and cluttered, but the atmosphere stays pleasant and family-oriented with no rush or attitude.

Banana pudding sells out fast due to its popularity. It pairs well with the Mac n Cheese and is worth saving room for.

People are saying

"The food here is seasoned to perfection and packed with flavor."

"The mac and cheese is so creamy and rich."

"The stuffed turkey leg was big and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect a 25-30 minute wait on Sundays after church.

2

The restaurant closes at 7:30 pm on Sundays.

3

There is a one-hour wait for to-go orders.

18
The Budlong Southern Chicken image 1

Casual chicken spot with tasteful music and an attractive decorative window showcasing food. Atmosphere feels just right, blending clean, inviting facilities with a great vibe. Known for fresh, hot southern-style fried chicken and carefully crafted sandwiches with balanced spice.

Banana pudding tastes like Jell-O with banana slices added. It is pretty good but not unique or special.

Creamy and decadent textures define the mac and cheese here, served in a large portion that satisfies. It offers a rich, cheesy flavor that feels like ultimate comfort food.

People are saying

"I found the chicken sandwich to be super crispy and juicy."

"I found the banana pudding to be great."

"You have to try their Banana Pudding; it's the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The combo meal with fries and a drink costs $14 after tax.

2

For approximately $16, you can get an 18-piece meal with sides.

3

There is plenty of parking available on Western.

19
Piggy's BBQ, Wings & Fish image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant combines casual and upscale elements with separate dining rooms and a lively bar. Atmosphere feels friendly and fun with live DJ music playing house and reggae tunes. Crowd enjoys a classic Chicago BBQ joint vibe with comfortable, clean surroundings.

Homemade banana pudding stands out with its rich flavor and creamy texture. It tastes consistently delicious and well-crafted.

Mac and cheese stands out with its well seasoned and phenomenal flavor. It consistently ranks as the best dish here, often recommended over other items.

People are saying

"I thought the mac and cheese was the best American Food I had ever had."

"I thought the mac and cheese was the best I had ever had."

"I found the banana pudding to be consistently great."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

2

On Fridays and Saturdays, DJs play R&B and house music.

3

Piggy's BBQ hosts Loteria nights for added fun.

20
Lexington Betty Smokehouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Open concept space with modern decoration and spacious seating creates a welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor dining adds variety, while fun music enhances the lively vibe. The environment feels comfortable and approachable, suited for casual barbecue meals.

Banana pudding stands out with its heavenly flavors and consistently hits the spot. It pairs well with other desserts like peach cobbler and is noted for being extremely good.

Pulled pork adds a rich, smoky flavor to the mac and cheese. The dish features creamy, cheesy pasta that stands out for its comforting texture.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is tender, juicy, and flavorful."

"I thought the banana pudding was great."

"I thought the banana pudding was great."

Good to know

1

All their meat is smoked, including chicken, pulled pork, and rib tips.

2

They offer fresh lemonade and bottled Pepsi products, but no fountain drinks.

3

Portion sizes are small compared to the price, which may affect value.

21
City Barbeque image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Spacious dining area with rustic and elegant decor creates a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with the strong smoky aroma of slow-cooked meats. Blues music plays softly, enhancing the calm and friendly vibe throughout the restaurant.

Banana pudding tastes decadent without being overly sweet and often comes as a complimentary treat. It pairs well with savory dishes like brisket and mac and cheese.

Creamy mac and cheese offers a perfect cheesy pull with a rich, hearty texture. It pairs well with sides like tangy coleslaw and cornbread, balancing richness with backyard cookout flavors.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be awesome and outstanding."

"I thought the banana pudding was decadent without being overly sweet."

"The mac and cheese is a rich, hearty must-try side."

Good to know

1

Expect limited menu items during special events like St. Patrick's Day.

2

Leftovers are common, so bring containers if you want to take food home.

3

Parking is easy and ample at the location.

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