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Best of Illinois

Fried catfish and fried chicken

You expect both the fried catfish and the fried chicken to be prepared to the same high standard.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Brown's Soul Food image 1
Brown's Soul Food image 2
Brown's Soul Food image 3
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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.

Two big, meaty fillets come with a light breading that crisps up well. The seasoning stands out, making the fried catfish a solid choice alongside classic sides.

Fried chicken wings come with classic sides like macaroni and cheese, greens, and sweet potatoes. The fried chicken dinner pairs well with green beans and dressing for a hearty meal.

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 fried chicken here is delicious and well-seasoned."

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.

02
Cleo’s - Loop image 1
American restaurant

Small space with just a few tables and stools creates an intimate setting. Music, including 90s RnB videos, adds to the chill vibes and welcoming atmosphere. The place feels like a cozy gathering spot with friendly energy.

Fried catfish comes with all the sides and matches the quality of Ms. T's. Options include a catfish po boy with crab meat, and the fried catfish pairs well with chicken wings or green beans.

Fried chicken comes fresh and juicy with a spicy kick and perfect seasoning. It pairs well with sides like golden muffins and stands out for its extra crunchy texture.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the catfish, is the best I've ever tasted."

"The fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and seasoned with a kick."

"The fried catfish here is seasoned perfectly."

Good to know

1

Order ahead for takeout as food is made to order and takes time.

2

Cleo’s does not accept cash; credit cards only.

3

Be prepared for a wait of over an hour on busy weekends.

03
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.

Freshly fried catfish filets come with a delicious aroma that stands out. Sides like flavorful collard greens and a cornbread muffin often accompany the dish.

Freshly made to order, the fried chicken features crispy wings with a hot, fresh finish. It pairs well with classic sides like baked macaroni and collard greens.

People are saying

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

"I tried the fried chicken, it was made fresh to order."

"I'd say this is the best fried catfish I've ever tasted."

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.

04
Soule To Soule image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with green velvet decor and 1990s Harlem vibe feels more like a bar or lounge than a traditional restaurant. Cozy, intimate atmosphere pairs with top-tier R&B music and lively energy. Tables are low and tiny, emphasizing a focus on cocktails and socializing over formal dining.

Fried catfish has a super crisp crust and stays light and fluffy inside. It pairs well with Louisiana hot sauce for a nice kick.

Well seasoned and juicy describes the fried chicken here. It comes with a honey glaze and cooks perfectly, often paired with collard greens and grits.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and amazing."

"The fried catfish has a super crisp, not oily crust."

"I thought the fried chicken was possibly the best I had."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended due to limited seating.

2

It's BYOB with a $10 fee for bringing your own bottle.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the price.

05
Soul Vibez - Chicago image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with only a few booths creates an intimate setting. Stylish decor and a bumping sound system set a great vibe with amazing music. Authentic soul food pairs with exceptional cocktails, making the atmosphere lively and distinctive.

Fried catfish comes with creamy grits and macaroni and cheese. It is mostly cooked well and often described as amazing or very good.

Wings come seasoned and fried to perfection with good size. Hot lemon pepper flavor stands out and delivers consistent taste. Fried chicken pairs well with sides like mac & cheese and collard greens.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"The fried chicken here is seasoned and fried to perfection."

"The fried catfish here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 pm to 6 pm with $10 drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended as wait times can exceed one hour.

3

Expect a 45-minute wait if arriving shortly after opening.

06
Faye & Joe's Southern Bowl image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers a welcoming family atmosphere with spacious seating and an organized chaotic vibe. The space features a photo wall that adds a casual, friendly touch. The energy is soothing and spiritual, reflecting southern hospitality without pretension.

Fried catfish comes out well seasoned and delicious without needing extra condiments. It pairs well with classic southern sides like collard greens and cornbread.

Seasoned to perfection fried chicken comes with classic southern sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and sweet potatoes. The wings and catfish also share that home cooked southern soul food vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is seasoned perfectly and tastes like home."

"The fried catfish here is cooked to perfection."

"The fried chicken here is so crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7 pm.

2

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends and holidays.

3

Some menu items may be unavailable due to time of day.

07
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.

Fried catfish comes fresh and delicious, often served alongside collard green dip or as part of the 290 Platter with wings, fries, and cornbread muffins.

Fried chicken comes perfectly seasoned with a crispy crust and juicy inside. It pairs well with creamy mac and cheese and collard greens for a classic Southern meal.

People are saying

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

"The owner and staff here are so friendly when you get Fried Catfish."

"The fried chicken is perfectly crispy and juicy."

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.

08
Cleo's - Bronzeville image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Compact space feels tight and cramped, with a warm, upbeat atmosphere that resembles a lively kitchen filled with music and conversation. The vibe is laid back and cozy, attracting those seeking authentic Southern soul food in a casual setting.

Fried catfish comes with 24-karat gold sauce and is cooked to perfection with great seasoning. It pairs well with 24k cornbread and southern fried wings.

Fried chicken comes crispy and juicy with a well-spiced flavor. It stays crunchy and moist even after getting home and reminds of homemade, classic recipes.

People are saying

"The food here is hot and delicious."

"The muffins here were delicious, seriously the best thing."

"The fried chicken here is seasoned well and has great flavor."

Good to know

1

Cleo's is an order-and-go restaurant, not suitable for dining in.

2

Call ahead for pick-up at least 30 minutes in advance.

3

Cleo's does not accept Apple Pay; credit cards are accepted.

09
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.

Golden fried catfish comes with a flavorful sauce and two sides for $14.99. The dish stands out for its amazing taste and phenomenal quality.

Wings come crispy outside and tender inside without any greasiness. Boxes lack ventilation, so the breading turns moist after packing.

People are saying

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

"The Jerk Honey Hennesey sauce makes the fried catfish even better."

"The fried chicken wings were perfectly crispy and tender."

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.

10
Vari’s Southern Cuisine image 1

Small, cozy space with a warm, chic ambiance and soulful music creates a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Guests enjoy southern style food with standout items like crispy fried ribs and magnificent mac and cheese. The vibe suits intimate groups and special occasions.

Seasoned well and cooked to perfection, the fried catfish stands out with its crispy texture and rich flavor. It pairs well with classic sides like mac and cheese and greens.

Crispy and juicy fried chicken stands out with seasoned to perfection flavor. Options include sweet Thai chili and original styles, both extremely flavorful.

People are saying

"I thought about the fried ribs and needed more."

"The fried chicken is juicy, crispy, and seasoned perfectly."

"The fried catfish here is seasoned well and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

2

The restaurant opens at 11:30 AM, not 11:00 AM as stated.

3

An automatic 10% gratuity is added for parties of two or more.

11
PassionEats Soul Food Restaurant and Catering image 1

Soul food restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with beautiful decor and a spacious banquet facility suitable for large family gatherings. Live entertainment like R&B and blues bands adds to the phenomenal vibe. The space feels clean and comfortable, blending a down-home feel with elegance.

Fried catfish comes with yams and cabbage and is paired with perfectly moist cornbread. The dish has a rich, savory taste that stands out alongside red beans and rice.

Fried chicken comes out perfectly seasoned and crunchy. Wings stand out, often paired with macaroni and cheese and greens.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the greens and mac & cheese, is delicious."

"The fried chicken here is seasoned just right and cooked to perfection."

"The fried catfish here is perfectly fried and delicious."

Good to know

1

The banquet room can accommodate up to 25 guests for events.

2

There is plenty of off-street parking available for visitors.

3

Food is served counter-style, so be prepared to order at the counter.

12
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.

Large portions of well-seasoned fried catfish come with classic Southern sides like mac and cheese, yams, and collard greens. The flavor often recalls traditional Southern cooking, delivering a home-style taste.

Fried chicken stands out with its crispy texture and rich flavor. It pairs well with mac and cheese and red beans and rice for a classic combo.

People are saying

"The food here is hot and delicious."

"The fried catfish here is perfection, seasoned and crispy."

"I thought the fried chicken 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.

13
Bronzeville Soul image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere with live band music that creates a lively vibe. Seating is roomy and comfortable, supporting a relaxed dining experience. Music volume can be high, sometimes overpowering conversation.

Fried catfish filets come out crispy and juicy with a pleasing look and taste. They often arrive with sides like green beans and mac and cheese that complement the dish well.

Crunchy exterior and juicy, tender meat define the fried chicken wings here. Perfect seasoning and cooking bring out bursting flavor and a satisfying texture.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are like grandma's cooking, made with love."

"The mac and cheese is cheesy, creamy, and comforting."

"The fried chicken wings are juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Live music occurs on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month.

2

Bring your own beverage for Wednesday night events.

3

A 15% gratuity is automatically added to dine-in bills.

14
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.

Crunchy texture and well seasoned flavor define the fried catfish here. It pairs well with sides like candy yams and mac and cheese, making it a solid choice among the specialties offered.

Crunchy texture stands out with a good crisp on the fried chicken. Seasoning is lighter compared to the fish, but it pairs well with baked macaroni and cheese and greens.

People are saying

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

"The fried chicken here has a great crunch."

"The fried catfish is excellent, with good flavor and crunch."

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.

15
Chicago's Home of Chicken & Waffles image 1

Upscale interior with beautiful decor and cool leather booths creates an inviting and lively atmosphere. Loud live music featuring gospel and Motown energizes the space, making conversation difficult. The vibe is welcoming and vibrant, attracting those who enjoy strong music and soul food.

Fried catfish here hits the spot with a flavor that keeps drawing you back. Eating it almost every week shows how addictive and satisfying it can be.

Golden brown and crispy fried chicken comes fresh and juicy. It features well seasoned flavors that taste great and often exceed expectations.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"I usually order the fried catfish meal here."

"The fried chicken is wonderfully seasoned and juicy."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Live music occurs on Fridays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

The restaurant allows BYOB, but check for corkage fees.

16
Dixie Kitchen and Bait Shop image 1

Nostalgic decor evokes an old-school New Orleans vibe with Cajun music playing softly in the background. The atmosphere blends southern old-time feel with a spacious outdoor seating area. Cocktails like Swamp Water stand out alongside classic southern dishes.

Fried catfish comes as filets with a crisp coating. It pairs well with fried green tomatoes and classic sides like green beans and mashed potatoes with brown gravy.

Half chicken portions come fried with a southern style that includes a notable saltiness. Fried chicken ranks alongside fried catfish and Red Beans and Rice as standout dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is packed with flavor and tastes like home."

"I loved the fried catfish filets."

"I found the fried chicken to be the best in the area."

Good to know

1

All dine-in checks incur an automatic 18% gratuity regardless of party size.

2

A 3.2% fee applies to credit card payments, adding to the total bill.

3

The bar has been closed since Covid, limiting drink options.

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