Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Chicago

Shrimp and grits for breakfast

Made for those who start their day with a savory, Southern-inspired breakfast rather than a sweet one.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Chef Sara's Cafe image 1
Chef Sara's Cafe image 2
Chef Sara's Cafe image 3
View all

Cozy space with warm, hearty aesthetics and a black theme creates an intimate, home-like vibe. Music selection lifts the mood while energy stays joyful and welcoming, resembling a mix of Auntie's house and Starbucks. Regulars and staff share a familiar, friendly atmosphere that feels like a warm hug.

Shrimp and grits come with a spicy kick that hits just right. The dish balances zing and flavor perfectly, making it a delicious choice.

Breakfast offers a homestyle feel with dishes that remind of grandmother's cooking. The menu serves comforting classics that appeal across generations.

People are saying

"The coffee here is always strong and delicious."

"Chef Sara's Shrimp And Grits felt like home, so welcoming."

"I found Chef Sara's Cafe to be the best breakfast place I had in Chicago."

Good to know

1

Valentine's Day event is scheduled for February 14th, 2026.

2

Everything is made to order, including the soup.

3

The food is very reasonably priced.

02
Perfect Brunch Bros image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Cozy space with authentic tile floors and natural sunlight creates a chill diner vibe. Atmosphere stays casual and inviting, often quiet despite affordability. Music ranges from country to classic rock, adding a fun soundtrack to the experience.

Shrimp and grits here stand out as phenomenal and unforgettable dishes. They consistently receive praise for their quality and flavor.

Guatemalan breakfast features eggs, beans, rice, cheese, plantains, and homemade tortillas. The house skillet with French toast and shrimp and grits stand out as memorable breakfast dishes.

People are saying

"The American Food here, like the country fried chicken, is cooked to perfection."

"The breakfast here is delicious and beautifully presented."

"I thought the Shrimp And Grits were the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens early at 7:45 AM on Sundays.

2

Cocktails will be added to the menu this summer.

3

Kids' meals cost $12 each, which may be considered high for the portion size.

03
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.

Breakfast features authentic Filipino dishes alongside American options. The Manilla breakfast stands out with perfectly over easy eggs, Logganisa sausage, and flavorful garlic rice.

People are saying

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

"This family owned spot makes incredible food from scratch."

"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.

04
The Lawn Breakfast Bar image 1

Cozy, intimate space with bright, cheerful decor and fresh flowers on tables creates a warm, family-like atmosphere. Music plays softly, adding to the super chill vibe without overwhelming conversation. Small size limits large groups but offers ample seating for breakfast and brunch crowds.

Shrimp and grits come with extremely flavorful shrimp and are paired with mini cornbread muffins. The dish is consistently fantastic and well complemented.

Breakfast eggrolls stand out as a delicious choice. Quick service and a community-rooted vibe make it a solid spot for a morning meal with good energy.

People are saying

"You have to try the Grit Flight for breakfast; the pot roast grits were amazing."

"I thought the pancakes and bacon were delicious."

"I thought the shrimp and grits were extremely flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 2:30 PM, making it a breakfast and brunch spot.

2

The restaurant only accepts card payments, no cash.

3

Expect a wait if visiting with more than two people, as the kitchen may get overwhelmed.

05
Bayan Ko Diner image 1

Diner offers a cozy, homey vibe with charming decor featuring dark wood and plant motifs. Seating is close together, creating an intimate but sometimes cramped atmosphere, with an upstairs patio providing outdoor, dog-friendly space. Music leans toward fabulous R&B, enhancing the relaxed, casual mood.

Shrimp and grits come with a mix of sweet and savory flavors. Some servings are notably greasy while others are simply scrumptious.

Breakfast features a Pinoy breakfast burrito with a perfect salsa and a tapsilog made from short rib. The longanisa sausage, fluffy rice, and runny egg yolk stand out as well.

People are saying

"I thought the brunch here was amazing, especially the Cubano burrito."

"The ube pancakes for breakfast were light, fluffy, and had good ube flavor."

"The Shrimp and Grits were scrumptious, a taste of sweet and savory."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekends.

2

The diner is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

3

Brunch is served daily from 9am to 3pm, except on Tuesdays.

06
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.

Breakfast features a classic Michigan Ave plate with crispy bacon, soft buttery biscuit topped with honey butter, and well-cooked eggs. House potatoes come flavorful and well-seasoned, making portions big and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"The chicken and biscuits breakfast is a solid 10/10."

"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.

07
Spot Bistro image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a calming atmosphere with adult R&B music setting a relaxed tone. Decor is beautiful and clean, complementing the classy food presentation on black and gold dinnerware. Plenty of free parking supports easy access for guests.

Shrimp and grits stand out as a popular dish here. They pair well with French toast and consistently receive positive feedback.

Breakfast features a steak skillet with eggs seasoned to perfection. The meal lacks the advertised fried green tomatoes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and freshly prepared."

"The Seafood Alfredo here is so creamy and delicious."

"The shrimp and grits were a hit."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free parking available.

2

Breakfast is only served on weekends, not during weekday lunch hours.

3

They have Taco Tuesday, Bingo Wednesday, and karaoke Thursday events.

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.

Breakfast features a charcuterie spread and a brunch board with a variety of options. The breakfast wings come hot and well-seasoned, and the All American Breakfast includes pancakes.

People are saying

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

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

"The French toast flight for breakfast was really good."

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
Truth Chicago image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with intimate seating and a covered patio offers a chill vibe filled with live soul and jazz music. Atmosphere feels like a close-knit family gathering with diverse, pleasant energy. Outdoor space provides a unique setting for eating and relaxing under music.

Jerk shrimp and grits feature tender melt-in-your-mouth shrimp with a well-balanced sauce. Portions are generous enough to take some home.

Breakfast features Cajun dishes like shrimp and grits, a Cajun omelet, and a French toast flight. The Jerk Chicken Alfredo Omelette and catfish executive stand out for their flavor and consistency.

People are saying

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

"I found the breakfast dishes here to be super exceptional."

"The jerk shrimp and grits were exceptionally good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the space is limited and gets packed quickly.

2

Truth Chicago is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

3

The restaurant offers large portion sizes at reasonable prices.

10
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.

Coffee and Cinnamon roll French toast stand out on the breakfast menu. Eggs and sausage come alongside, served with friendly service in a great atmosphere.

People are saying

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

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

"The breakfast bacon here is smoky, sweet, and meaty."

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.

11
Mesler Kitchen | Bar | Lounge image 1

Upscale American restaurant with classy ambiance and modern fireplace creates a cozy, elegant atmosphere. Live music and a DJ playing Old School R&B add to the vibrant yet relaxed vibe. Decor emphasizes black excellence and culture, enhancing the distinctive setting.

Shrimp and grits feature New Orleans staple flavors with a delicious, satisfying taste. The dish pairs well with light buttermilk pancakes and complements drinks nicely.

Breakfast offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere ideal for starting the day. Arriving early is common, and the food is consistently delicious.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing and on point."

"I thought the Shrimp And Grits were a must-have."

"The breakfast atmosphere here is so quiet and peaceful."

Good to know

1

On Wednesdays, Mesler Kitchen has a DJ playing house music.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekends.

3

Parking can be tricky, so arrive early to find a spot.

Discover more

Chicago, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...