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Local picks in Illinois

Muffin and seafood spots

You expect a seafood meal to be rounded out by a muffin, and you aren't willing to go to a place that can't handle both.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Soul & Smoke - Avondale at Rockwell on the River image 1
Soul & Smoke - Avondale at Rockwell on the River image 2
Soul & Smoke - Avondale at Rockwell on the River image 3
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Outdoor patio overlooks river with spacious seating and fire pit creating a relaxing vibe. Music blends 80's to 2000's R&B with live DJ enhancing the atmosphere. The setting combines beautiful views and a lively energy near water and wineries.

Corn muffins stand out as moist and delicious, often paired with classic BBQ sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. They bring a nostalgic touch, reminding of childhood flavors.

Shrimp and grits stand out with a flavorful southern flair and consistent deliciousness. The dish pairs well with sides like greens and corn muffins.

People are saying

"You have to try the brisket; it's outstanding."

"You have to try the cornbread muffin; it's moist and delicious."

"You have to try the shrimp and grits; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially on weekends.

2

Expect limited food options late in the day as they may run out.

3

The venue hosts events like bingo and DJ nights on specific days.

02
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.

Meals come with a muffin that tastes good. It pairs well with dishes like catfish and sides such as sweet potatoes and greens.

Fish comes out fried perfectly and seasoned well, standing out as the meal's highlight. The Seafood Lasagna impresses with rich layers, and the seafood gumbo offers a flavorful experience.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here serve truly satisfying, home-cooked tasting food."

"The catfish was fresh and seasoned very well."

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.

03
Gabe's Place image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Old fashioned diner style creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with a home-like vibe and quiet, relaxing energy. Large portions and inexpensive food attract a steady crowd, especially for breakfast and lunch. Signature hanging flowers and clean outdoor space add to the welcoming feel.

Homemade muffins stand out here, especially the cranberry orange variety. Muffins come alongside other bakery goods like pecan rolls and a few pastries.

Friday night features an all-you-can-eat fish fry with different kinds of fish and included sides. The fish fry is very popular and includes nice-sized shrimp.

People are saying

"I had an amazing breakfast here; it was simply extraordinary."

"You have to try the all-you-can-eat seafood on Friday nights."

"You have to try the homemade muffins; they're the best."

Good to know

1

All-you-can-eat fish fry is available on Fridays from 3:00 to 9:00.

2

All-you-can-eat is offered Monday through Thursday from 9:00 to 3:00.

3

Parking is available across the street from the restaurant.

04
Soul & Smoke - West Loop image 1

Small shop tucked in a food court offers savory brisket sandwiches and loaded mac and cheese with a comfort food vibe. Atmosphere feels casual and friendly, catering well to commuters and casual diners. Pricing leans high but matches the quality of food served.

Cornbread muffins stand out with their moist texture and buttery sweetness. They come in a large, fist-sized portion that pairs well with savory dishes.

Shrimp and grits feature perfectly cooked shrimp and deliver a consistently excellent flavor. The dish stands out as a delicious seafood option here.

People are saying

"The brisket sandwich here is top tier American food."

"The cornbread muffin was moist, buttery, and sweet."

"The shrimp and grits seafood here is outstanding."

Good to know

1

This location is inside of Time Out Market.

2

The restaurant operates on a self-serve model, where I order on a kiosk or tablet.

3

They may run out of your favorites, so it's advisable to get there early.

05
14 Parish image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Modern, stylish space with Caribbean bookshelf of bottles and Island vibes sets a lively tone. Music ranges from Afrobeats to House, often loud, creating an energetic atmosphere. Crowds enjoy spacious dining and a mix of casual and romantic moods.

Cornbread muffins stand out with their delicious and excellent flavor. They often accompany entrees like beef short rib with sautรฉed cabbage.

Shrimp features prominently in dishes like the fried rice and the wedge salad, adding a flavorful seafood touch. Both dishes highlight the shrimp well and complement the overall taste.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"The seafood artichoke dip is light, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

"These corn muffins are so moist and deliciously crunchy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

Happy hour runs until 6:00 PM, but extensions may not be honored.

3

Trivia night occurs weekly, providing a fun social atmosphere.

06
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.

Cornbread muffins come with meals like the 290 Platter and pair well with dishes such as fried catfish and wings. These corn muffins have a classic, hearty texture that complements the savory sides.

Buffalo shrimp stands out as very tasty and comforting. The seafood nachos offer a flavorful twist that adds variety to the seafood options.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is fresh, hot, and incredibly flavorful."

"The cornbread muffins are fluffy, flavorful, and to die for."

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.

07
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.

Corn muffins come with many meals like fried chicken, turkey with dressing, and red beans and rice. They have a cornbread texture and pair well with southern-style dishes.

Fish comes with great seasoning and a crunchy texture on healthy-sized fillets. Portions are large and the wings and fish taste like home-cooked dishes.

People are saying

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

"The fish here is perfectly seasoned and cooked to order."

"You have to try the corn muffins; they were really good."

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.

08
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.

Sweet potato cornbread muffins stand out with their rich flavor and are often ordered in extra portions. Orange muffins also appear as a popular choice, while cornbread muffins come in a small size compared to other places.

Fish dishes stand out with freshness and well-seasoned flavors. Catfish and fried fish come in generous portions and are cooked beautifully, making them more notable than the chicken options.

People are saying

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

"The fried catfish here is crunchy and seasoned well."

"The cornbread muffin was very small."

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.

09
Big Ed's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Huge, clean space with a cafeteria-style dining area creates a spacious, casual vibe. Live jazz and a full bar add to the lively atmosphere, while comfy couches offer spots to relax. Known for top-tier barbecue and a variety of sauces, it blends great food with a fun, family-like energy.

Cornbread muffins come with a crispy top and a moist, sweet flavor. The middle stays tender while the crust adds a nice crunch.

Shrimp and grits stand out as a solid choice. Wings and fried shrimp also deliver consistent flavor over barbecue options.

People are saying

"You have to try the brisket; it's some of the best American food around."

"The cornbread muffins here were awesome."

"I heard everyone recommending the delicious seafood dishes."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid missing out on menu items as they sell out quickly.

2

Free meals are offered on Thanksgiving Day, making it a popular time to visit.

3

Some menu items are only available on specific days, so check ahead.

10
Cleoโ€™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.

A 24 karat gold muffin shines with a soft, sweet texture that melts in your mouth. Corn muffins come super moist and flavorful, standing out as a delicious choice.

Fried fish comes out hot and fresh with a crispy texture. Remoulade sauce pairs well with both fish and crab, adding a flavorful kick. Pineapple sweet potatoes complement the soul food style dishes.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was awesome and uniquely seasoned."

"The fried fish is crispy, well-seasoned, and the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

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

2

Cleoโ€™s does not accept cash; credit cards only.

3

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

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