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Local picks

Banana pudding and mac and cheese in Chicago

A comforting plate of mac and cheese paired with a serving of banana pudding.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
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Updated May 2026
01
TriBecca’s Sandwich Shop image 1
TriBecca’s Sandwich Shop image 2
TriBecca’s Sandwich Shop image 3
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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.

02
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.

03
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.

04
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.

05
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.

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.

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.

07
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.

08
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.

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