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Pasta and fried chicken in Illinois

A plate of pasta paired with fried chicken is the ultimate indulgence for a serious hunger.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
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Restaurant

Converted church space features mosaic tiles and a massive Last Supper mural, creating a stylish and intimate setting. Atmosphere blends old school Italian-American charm with a cozy, lively vibe and unpretentious comfort. Seating mixes bar, booths, and tables, with art on the walls adding visual interest.

Homemade pasta shines in the Spaghetti Uh-Oh's with a red sauce that stands out. Lasagna offers a unique twist and pairs well with dishes like polenta and chicken parm, all served family-style with distinct flavors.

Marsala fried chicken comes with a crispy, salty, sweet crust and tender meat, served in a paper bag with buttermilk dressing. The dish features a homemade creamy Italian dressing that adds extra flavor.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the polenta and focaccia, was amazing."

"The spaghetti o's are homemade and decadent."

"The fried chicken here is sublime, especially the Marsala."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, but the restaurant accommodates large groups.

2

The menu changes frequently, so expect different offerings each visit.

3

Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available for those with dietary restrictions.

02
Gallo's Pizza & Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy updated decor with a welcoming atmosphere. Food arrives quickly, featuring thin, crispy crust pizza loaded with generous toppings. Carry-out and delivery dominate, with no dine-in option available.

Classic sauce defines the spaghetti here, delivering a traditional taste. The pasta dishes come with incredible flavor and pair well with other items like garlic bread and Italian beef.

Fried chicken comes served in a pizza box and stands out for its great flavor. The dinner portion pairs well with beef and leaves a strong impression.

People are saying

"I thought the thin crust pizza here was amazing."

"The pasta here is bomb with generous portions."

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

Good to know

1

There is no dine-in option; only carry-out and delivery are available.

2

Delivery usually takes less than an hour.

3

They offer pizza by the slice all day.

03
PassionEats Express image 1

Cozy soul food spot with carry-out only and a small ordering area. Energy feels refreshing and lively, attracting those who appreciate authentic, flavorful dishes like catfish and macaroni & cheese. Prices lean higher but match the generous portions and quality.

Spaghetti tastes homemade and hits the mark with simple, familiar flavors. Macaroni leans heavily on cheesy, chewy textures and can taste like a bag of shredded cheese.

Fried chicken comes with sides like mac n cheese and red beans and rice. The fried chicken wings and catfish are consistently flavorful and a solid choice for dinner.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the fried catfish and mac and cheese, was phenomenal."

"I found the fried chicken and catfish to be delicious."

"The pasta here is the best I've ever had from a restaurant."

Good to know

1

They serve soul food from Wednesday through Sunday.

2

The restaurant is carry-out only with no seating available.

3

Expect longer wait times as food is prepared fresh.

04
Danny's Italian Pizza & Beef image 1

Pickup-style Italian eatery with freshly made dishes and a large menu beyond pizza. Atmosphere feels inviting despite a worn-down, dirty look and limited seating. Known for standout items like Italian Beef, fried chicken, and tacos, while pizza slices vary in quality.

Pasta Paisano offers a hearty portion suitable for lunch and dinner. The lasagna stands out, especially on Wednesdays when it comes as a special for $10.

Fried chicken comes with potato wedges instead of fries. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The chicken is a favorite dish and often described as very good.

People are saying

"I tried their carnitas and barbacoa; it was the best Mexican food."

"I loved their fried chicken; it's the best."

"The Pasta Paisano was delicious and filling."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is a pickup-your-food-and-go type of place.

2

Expect a wait time of about 30 minutes for pizza orders.

3

Prices for menu items range from $10 to $21.

05
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 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 fried chicken is perfectly crispy and juicy."

"Chef Royce personally talked about her pasta with us."

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.

06
Smoke’s Bistro image 1

Dining space offers a light and airy feel with modern decor and a large bar for happy hour. Music plays at a pleasant volume, creating a cozy vibe with an old soul atmosphere. The setting suits business lunches and casual breaks, blending clean, spacious areas with a grown and sexy soundtrack.

Chicken pasta comes with a cream sauce that pairs well with salmon. Various pasta dishes consistently meet expectations alongside other menu items.

Fried chicken wings arrive piping hot and are consistently amazing. The menu includes fried chicken balls in a salad with lettuce and raisins, plus chicken tips that stand out.

People are saying

"The soulfood here is delicious, especially the green beans."

"You have to try their pizza; it's their best offering."

"I thought the fried chicken wings were amazing and piping hot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has inconsistent opening hours, so check before visiting.

2

BYOB is allowed, so bring your favorite drinks to enjoy with your meal.

3

A $10 special on chicken tips is available every Tuesday.

07
Fritz's Pour House Bar image 1

Small, packed space with a classic old pub and dive bar feel creates a relaxed, chill atmosphere. Music and games add to the friendly, comforting vibe. Known for great Bloody Marys and a nostalgic Chicago-style pub experience.

Short rib shines in several dishes like stuffed ravioli in vodka sauce, braised short rib ravioli, and short rib lasagna. Lobster ravioli and spaghetti also appear on the menu.

Large portions of fried chicken come alongside wings and other fried favorites. The fried chicken stands out as tasty and highly regarded among the menu options.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the steak and shrimp, is excellent."

"I thought the fried chicken here was the best I've ever eaten."

"You have to try the short rib ravioli in vodka sauce."

Good to know

1

Wine Wednesday offers special deals for ladies every week.

2

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

The kitchen is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.

08
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.

V Lasagna stands out with its perfect seasoning. The Vibez Alfredo Pasta offers a rich, creamy flavor. Pasta dishes with salmon and lamb provide hearty options.

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 chicken pasta here is amazing with generous portions."

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

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.

09
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.

Spaghetti comes with a meat sauce and tastes like Mama's cooking. Sides include mac and cheese and corn muffins.

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 pasta here is seasoned well and fried to perfection."

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.

10
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.

Spaghetti stands out as a very good option here. It often comes alongside sides like macaroni & cheese and green beans, making for a hearty meal.

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."

"I tried the pasta and it was delicious and seasoned with perfection."

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.

11
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.

Baked macaroni stands out with its perfect seasoning and a rich, super cheesy blend. Macaroni paired with salmon bites adds a tasty twist to the classic dish.

Fried chicken comes with a delicious dry rub and is perfectly seasoned. The wings stand out as exceptional, paired well with mac and cheese and flavorful greens.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The fried chicken here is perfectly seasoned and delicious."

"The macaroni pasta here is so cheesy and rich, I couldn't stop eating it."

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.

12
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.

Creamy pasta dishes come loaded with shrimp and often feature a fried salmon topping. The Surf & Turf Pasta combines shrimp and lamb chops for a rich, flavorful meal.

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 surf and turf pasta was amazing, packed with shrimp."

"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.

13
Brown's & Family BBQ & Soul image 1

Small take-out only spot offers best barbecue with tender turkey tips and fried chicken reminiscent of home cooking. The atmosphere is casual and unhurried, with food preparation requiring time and occasional inconsistency. Customers expect generous portions and a focus on flavorful, meaty dishes.

Spaghetti comes perfectly cooked and not too saucy, though it sometimes has a slight metallic taste. Macaroni noodles also cook well, complementing sides like potato salad and string beans.

Crispy fried chicken wings come with or without sauce and have a homestyle flavor that reminds of home cooking. The fried chicken pairs well with sides like spaghetti and greens, offering a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The pasta here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The fried chicken here reminds me of mom's cooking."

Good to know

1

This is a take-out only spot with no dine-in available.

2

Expect a 1-1.5 hour wait during busy times.

3

They were out of all tips during my visit.

14
Nu Way Grill image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a homely atmosphere with friendly energy and a clean environment. Regulars enjoy unique dishes like turkey tenders and pita-style burgers, alongside standout wings and rib tips. The vibe feels warm and inviting, making it a favored spot for comfort food.

Spaghetti here tastes almost homemade with a lot of soul, not just the usual pasta and sauce. The macaroni also stands out as a highly recommended dish.

Fried chicken comes with perfect seasoning that stands out. Catfish and fried chicken do not share the same appeal here.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, hot, and fresh."

"The spaghetti here has a homemade flavor that's surprisingly good."

"I loved the fried chicken because it was perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The meal costs about $12 for a large portion.

2

Nu Way Grill is Black owned and operated.

3

They give large portions, which is uncommon at most restaurants.

15
Southern Chicago image 1

Elegant space features beautiful décor and a warm, comfortable atmosphere with great music enhancing the vibe. Guests enjoy thoughtfully crafted cocktails and high-quality Southern-inspired dishes in a setting that feels both inviting and refined.

Cajun pasta stands out with good flavor and seasoning, often paired with chicken. The caviar pasta offers a rich, incredible taste that complements the menu's variety.

Honey Glazed Fried Chicken stands out with its perfectly crisp texture and balanced sweetness. The fried chicken pairs well with chive biscuits and sides like mac & cheese and collards.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and thoughtfully prepared."

"The chicken pasta here is really good."

"The fried chicken here is perfectly crisp and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on food and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Valet parking is available for guests.

16
West 52 BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers a family-run atmosphere with chill vibes and a welcoming, relaxed setting. Customers often try free samples before ordering, creating a casual and friendly experience. The place feels like stopping by a friend's house, focusing on great big flavors in its barbecue.

Jerk chicken pasta and jerk shrimp pasta stand out with bold flavors. The mac and cheese is dense, made hours ahead and formed into a large pasta blob.

Fried Chicken Wings come out crispy and flavorful. The Rib Tips also stand out with a good smoky taste.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was the best I'd ever tasted."

"The fried chicken wings were awesome and came with sauce."

"The pasta here is exceptional and worth asking about."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

The ribs are often sold out, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

3

The restaurant closes at 10:15pm on Fridays, not 2am as advertised.

17
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.

Rich and creamy macaroni and cheese stands out with well-seasoned sauce and pasta shells that add texture.

Chicken offers a juicy, crunchy texture with a buttery melt-in-your-mouth quality. It pairs well with waffles that carry a strong Southern flavor.

People are saying

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

"The fried chicken here is so juicy and delicious."

"The macaroni and cheese here is rich, creamy, and a standout."

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.

18
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.

Turkey leg stuffed with Cajun pasta stands out with its perfect seasoning. Macaroni comes with cheese throughout, making the pasta dishes really good.

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 Cajun pasta stuffed turkey leg was flavorful and satisfying."

"The fried chicken here has a great 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.

19
Ravanelli's Italian Steakhouse & Wine Bar image 1

Newly remodeled dining area shows a fresh contemporary style with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Lighting tends to be dark and quiet in the bar area, contrasting with loud, bright conditions in the main dining room. Accessibility features accommodate guests with disabilities.

Toasted ravioli comes with marinara sauce and stands out for its flavor. The King pasta pie mixes rigatoni, pepperoni, Italian sausage, peppers, onions, red sauce, and mozzarella with meatballs. Lasagna also appears as a popular choice.

Fried chicken stands out with its great flavor and satisfying texture. Many enjoy the Sunday Fried Chicken, which consistently hits the spot alongside other dishes like ribeye and chops.

People are saying

"The Italian food's salads are soggy and wilted."

"The chocolate cake here is to die for!"

"The toasted ravioli and marinara sauce were delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations for private events require at least 50 people and cost $20 per person.

2

The restaurant is handicap accessible, making it suitable for disabled visitors.

3

Expect average portion sizes with prices comparable to other restaurants.

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