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Local picks in Illinois

Shrimp and grits and chicken and waffles

You shouldn't have to pick between shrimp and grits or chicken and waffles when you can find a spot that respects both staples of the menu.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Tab's Cafe image 1
Tab's Cafe image 2
Tab's Cafe image 3
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Cozy cafe with a blues theme and walls adorned by portraits of music legends creates a warm, homey atmosphere filled with soft R&B, jazz, and soul music. Vintage music flyers and arcade games add a nostalgic touch while live performances enhance the inviting vibe. The space feels like a mom-and-pop spot where comfort and music blend seamlessly.

Shrimp and grits here stand out for their rich flavor and satisfying texture. Many find them so good they want to slap their momma, making this dish a clear favorite for those who try it.

Decadent chicken pairs with crispy waffles for a rich, satisfying dish. The combination stands out for its delicious flavor and texture.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and amazing."

"I thought the chicken and waffles were the best I ever had."

"I found the shrimp and grits to be exceptional."

Good to know

1

Tab's Cafe is one of the few places serving food after 3pm on a Friday.

2

The cafe has a decent takeout business for those on the go.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for small purchases.

02
Yours Cafe and Bistro image 1
Brunch restaurant

Cozy brunch spot with beautiful outdoor patio and top-notch decor creates an inviting atmosphere. Space suits private events and casual dining with a smooth, enjoyable vibe. Energetic ambiance includes lively music and engaging entertainment.

Shrimp and grits come with rich flavor and a generous portion. They pair well with sides like pancakes and are priced around $10 to $22.

Chicken & Waffles arrive quickly and taste absolutely delicious. This dish ranks among the top favorites alongside Shrimp & Grits and Buffalo Chicken Sandwich.

People are saying

"It's a great place for a party with nice decor."

"The Chicken And Waffles staff were phenomenal and truly stood out."

"I thought the shrimp and grits were delicious."

Good to know

1

They host weekly activities and events that make every visit enjoyable.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere with RnB music on Sundays.

3

The establishment often has inconsistent hours, so check before visiting.

03
Brûlée image 1
Restaurant

Warm, modern space with thoughtful decor and a spacious bar and waiting area creates a welcoming atmosphere. Music ranges from R&B at moderate volume to occasionally loud, influencing the energy. Tables are closely arranged, balancing elegance with a busy, lively vibe.

Shrimp and grits come with pieces of chicken sausage that add a savory touch. The dish is consistently great and well-prepared.

Chicken and waffles here get a lot of praise for their flavor and appeal. Multiple people find them a solid choice and enjoy the dish thoroughly.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"I thought the Chicken And Waffles here were the best I ever had."

"The Shrimp And Grits were great, especially the chicken sausage."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups or after 10 PM on weekends.

2

Expect a wait for tables, especially during peak brunch hours.

3

Brûlée enforces a strict 90-minute table limit for diners.

04
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.

Shrimp come out tasty and well seasoned, paired with creamy grits. The dish stands out alongside other well-seasoned Southern classics like collard green dip and hot chicken.

Offers chicken and waffles that stand out from the usual. Combines the dish with Peach Dusse shots for a unique pairing.

People are saying

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

"The Shrimp And Grits here were seasoned really well."

"The Chicken And Waffles here have phenomenal flavor."

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.

05
Sun Rey Cafe image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Small, cozy cafe with warm, bright decor and a family-run, welcoming atmosphere. Space feels crowded but inviting, with great music and some outdoor seating. Offers a hidden gem vibe away from busy streets, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Shrimp and grits feature shell-on shrimp that can be messy. Some find them overpriced and lacking flavor, while others describe them as especially good and awesome.

Fried chicken comes juicy and crunchy, paired with a hearty waffle. The dish offers both dark and white chicken pieces, making it a standout.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is incredible, especially the garlic fried rice."

"The chicken and waffles here are juicy, crunchy, and hearty."

"I ate the best Shrimp And Grits I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the monthly Kamayan Filipino dinners.

2

Sun Rey Cafe is BYOB on Sundays, making it family-friendly.

3

Expect a wait of about 30 minutes before placing your order.

06
M&J's Breakfast House image 1

Small space with a mom and pop feel offers a cozy, calm atmosphere enhanced by old school R&B music. The environment is clean and casual, though it can feel cold and breezy near the door. Expect a friendly, unassuming vibe with occasional waits due to limited seating.

Shrimp and grits come with a side of pancakes and eggs. The dish has a phenomenal flavor but often needs extra salt, pepper, and butter to taste.

Large portions of fried chicken sit atop waffles, making the dish look very appealing. The combination offers a delicious mix of crispy chicken and soft waffles.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is magnificent, especially the pancakes."

"The chicken and waffles here are seasoned and fried perfectly."

"The Shrimp And Grits here were phenomenal and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait to be seated on a Tuesday around 11 a.m.

2

Prices are reasonable for the generous portion sizes offered.

3

The restaurant gets crowded, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

07
Luella's Southern Kitchen image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Small, packed space with cramped seating and a sunny outdoor patio creates a cozy, welcoming vibe. Vinyl records spin soulful tunes, adding a funky, friendly atmosphere that feels like dining with family. Loud environment fills with energy as guests enjoy classic Southern soul food.

Shrimp and grits come with perfectly seasoned, creamy grits and tender, flavorful shrimp. The dish features a velvety smooth, buttery texture that stands out.

Louisiana style brings bold flavor to the chicken and waffles. Portions come large, often shared with sides like mac and cheese and cornbread.

People are saying

"The Southern American food, especially the shrimp and grits, is outstanding."

"The Chicken And Waffles here are juicy, spicy, and crunchy."

"The crab-stuffed shrimp and grits were outstanding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for groups of 10 or more.

2

Brunch is served from 10 AM to 3 PM on Sundays.

3

Dinner service starts at 5 PM and runs until close.

08
Chalet image 1
American restaurant

Small, tight space with celebrity paintings and an upstairs bar vibe creates a unique setting. Energy shifts from great music and DJ performances to a late-night bottle service party after kitchen closes. Staff wear provocative attire, adding to the distinctive atmosphere.

Shrimp and grits come in a huge bowl of cheesy grits topped with andouille sausage. The dish is spicy and well seasoned, creamy and flavorful.

Crispy chicken tops the waffles, creating a satisfying texture contrast. The dish combines taste and crispness well, standing out among other options.

People are saying

"The brunch board was a stunner, hot and delicious."

"The shrimp and grits were creamy, flavorful, and really good."

"The Chicken And Waffles here have such crispy chicken."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 50% off drinks on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

2

Happy hour lasts for only 60 minutes, not the advertised 90 minutes.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy nights.

09
The L Station image 1
Restaurant

Small, beautifully decorated restaurant offers a cozy yet elegant atmosphere with an intimate feel. Live DJ spins strictly R&B music, creating an upbeat and fun vibe that keeps energy lively. Known for spectacular lamb chops, perfect margarita flights, and a warm, welcoming ambiance.

Shrimp and grits come with small shrimp, usually three or four per serving. Some dishes include sausage not listed on the menu. The dish is generally described as good to great in flavor.

Chicken and waffles come out very tasty and consistently well-liked. They pair well with brunch and stand out alongside other dishes like lamb chops and grits.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The chicken and waffles here are seasoned to perfection."

"I thought the shrimp and grits were good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for parties of 10 or more.

2

Expect a two-hour wait without a reservation.

3

The kitchen closes at 7pm, so arrive early.

10
The Barrel Club image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers gorgeous decor and small tables that require careful handling. Atmosphere stays clean and classy with photographers capturing moments and selling framed pictures. Cocktail flights and signature drinks add a distinctive touch to the menu.

Shrimp and grits here capture the authentic southern flavor perfectly. The dish matches the delicious taste found in Charlotte and New Orleans.

Chicken comes out moist and tender with a fried hard crust. Waffles pair well, described as magical and complement the chicken nicely.

People are saying

"The American Food, like the salmon and crab cakes, is seasoned to perfection."

"The Shrimp And Grits here taste just like they do in the South."

"The Chicken And Waffles here are moist and tender."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the venue can get crowded quickly.

2

An automatic 18% gratuity is added to all checks, including food and drinks.

3

Happy hour specials are only available in the bar area.

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