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Best of Chicago

Cornbread and mac and cheese

A meal where the cornbread and mac and cheese are both main events, not just sides fighting for space on the plate.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated April 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.

Cornbread melts in the mouth with a soft texture and rich flavor. The cornbread muffin pairs well with apple slaw, adding a nice balance.

Creamy and cheesy, the mac and cheese offers a comfort food experience with a carefully crafted blend. Portions feel reasonable and the dish pairs well with sides like rib tips and corn muffins.

People are saying

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

"The patio space overlooks the river and has seating."

"The cornbread here is so moist and melts in your mouth."

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
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.

Cornbread comes in large portions and stays moist to the max. It pairs well with dishes like mac and cheese and chicken and waffles.

Baked mac and cheese features a crispy golden top with perfectly cooked shells. The roux and seasoning balance lets the cheese flavors shine clearly.

People are saying

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

"The cornbread here is so moist and perfect."

"I thought their Mac And Cheese was possibly the best."

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.

03
Blackwood BBQ - Adams Street image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers strong brisket sandwiches and homemade sides like mac and cheese and cornbread. The dining room feels clean and not overcrowded with a good vibe despite limited hours and menu variety. The place draws a crowded lunch crowd and focuses on quality over quantity.

Piping hot and perfectly structured, the cornbread tastes buttery and comforting. It pairs well with brisket and comes as a popular side alongside mac and cheese and beans.

Sides include homemade mac and cheese served in a small container about the size of a cupcake tin. It pairs with other sides like cornbread, baked beans, and housemade pickles to round out meals.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is amazing."

"The smoked meats here are flavorful and a must-try."

"I considered the cornbread the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts card payments and does not take cash.

2

Portions are small for the price, so manage your expectations.

3

Parking is difficult and expensive near the restaurant.

04
Mr. B's Caribbean Grill image 1

Cozy restaurant with Jamaican decor and authentic Caribbean cuisine creates a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Wonderful smells fill the air, enhancing the relaxed vibe. Occasional loud background noise can disrupt the otherwise calm setting.

Cornbread shows real corn kernels and balances sweetness with softness. It pairs well with meals and sides, often ordered extra for leftovers.

Creamy and rich, the Mac and cheese pairs well with hearty sides like collard greens and plantains. It holds up well as leftovers, making it a satisfying choice for both meals and snacks.

People are saying

"I experienced the best oxtail I've had since Jamaica."

"You have to get the cornbread; it's moist and sweet."

"I found the mac and cheese to be pretty average."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of paid parking along Lawrence.

2

The lunch special costs $10.40 and includes a leg, thigh, plantains, and rice.

3

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

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.

Cornbread comes out phenomenal and pairs well with dishes like blackened catfish, jerk chicken, and lamb chops. It holds its own alongside classic soul food sides like greens and mac and cheese.

Baked to perfection with real cheese and seasoning, the mac and cheese stands out as savory and well-prepared.

People are saying

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

"The mac and cheese with yams was a hit."

"I enjoyed the cornbread and other dishes at Soul Vibez."

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
Blackwood BBQ - Northwestern Memorial Hospital image 1

Tiny barbecue spot inside a hospital offers generous portions and varied sauce options with a cashless setup. The atmosphere is casual and efficient, catering to quick lunches with outstanding brisket and flavorful sandwiches. It stands out by supporting community causes through meal funding.

Cornbread comes fresh and pairs well with dishes like pulled chicken and South Carolina BBQ sauce. It has a sweet, soft texture and often accompanies sides like mac and cheese and sweet tea.

Buttery and full of flavor, the mac and cheese stands out with its rich texture. Staff often encourage trying this creamy side, which pairs well with BBQ dishes.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is moist and flavorful."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot were super friendly and served the food quickly."

"The cornbread here was excellent."

Good to know

1

This restaurant is cashless, so bring a credit card or mobile payment.

2

The lunch special offers great value for a filling meal.

3

Expect generous portions that make the meal worth the price.

07
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.

Moist and flavorful cornbread muffins stand out here, especially with the brown butter version that adds a rich taste. The cornbread pairs well with hearty dishes like brisket sandwiches.

Creamy texture and well-seasoned cheese define the Mac and cheese here. It carries a hint of smoke that pairs well with sandwiches and stands out as an exceptional side dish.

People are saying

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

"The Mac and Cheese is seasoned really well and the cheese was creamy."

"The cornbread muffin was moist and flavorful."

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.

08
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.

Complimentary cornbread arrives warm and delicious. It pairs well with fried chicken and rib eye, making it a notable side here.

Baked mac and cheese comes with a well-seasoned cheese flavor and a nice melted cheese texture. It has some bite that adds to the overall taste.

People are saying

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

"The cornbread was a definite smash."

"The Mac And Cheese was delicious."

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.

09
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.

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 cornbread muffins were fluffy and flavorful."

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.

10
Queen K's image 1
Restaurant

Small family-owned restaurant offers cozy neighborhood atmosphere with friendly, down-home vibes. Soul food includes well-seasoned catfish and crispy fried okra, alongside dishes like Philly cheesesteak egg rolls and rice bowls. Prices remain affordable, attracting a happy-go-lucky crowd.

Cornbread comes out crumbly with great flavor. It pairs well with collard greens and mac and cheese.

Mac and cheese features a balanced cheese flavor that is not overpowering but rich. It pairs well with smoked turkey greens and cornbread, creating a tasty, comforting meal.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the chicken, is amazing and perfectly cooked."

"The Mac and Cheese here is delicious and amazingly flavored."

"I thought the cornbread was one of the best I've eaten."

Good to know

1

Queen K's offers a BYOB policy.

2

The total cost for two dinners was $30.

3

Queen K's does not have a public bathroom.

11
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 comes as moist muffins with a slightly sweet touch. It pairs well with dishes like beef short rib and sautéed cabbage, offering a rich, comforting flavor.

Mac and cheese tastes like holiday mac and cheese made by family, with a mild spicy kick. It pairs well with dishes like beef patty and jerk chicken tacos.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"The Mac and Cheese here is so tasty, I'm coming back for it."

"The cornbread muffins are so soft they melt in your mouth."

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.

12
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.

Cornbread varies in quality here. It stands out as the best item in some orders but needs serious improvement alongside other dishes in others.

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."

"I haven't had cornbread this good in years."

"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.

13
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.

Extremely moist cornbread pairs well with dishes like shrimp and grits. It complements savory sides such as greens, yams, and salmon bites.

Mac and cheese comes as a side dish with fried chicken and greens. It tastes good and complements the perfectly seasoned fried chicken well.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was amazing."

"I'll return for the chicken alone; it's amazing."

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.

14
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.

Cornbread stands out with its 24 karat quality and amazing flavor. Cornbread muffins also deliver excellent taste even for those who usually avoid cornbread.

Lump crab mac and cheese stands out with its rich, creamy texture and generous crab chunks. Classic baked mac and cheese arrives hot and fresh, served with care alongside other 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."

"You have to try the cornbread with Cleo's 24 karat good sauce."

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.

15
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.

Cornbread comes as muffins that are consistently hot and fresh. It stands out as a perfect 10 and often the best thing on the plate alongside fried catfish and yams.

Creamy texture defines the mac and cheese here, making it rich and satisfying. It pairs well with corn muffins and greens, creating a balanced side trio.

People are saying

"The food here is hot and delicious."

"The Mac And Cheese was just ok, I didn't see any noodles."

"The cornbread muffins were excellent, especially with the honey on top."

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.

16
Jerk Sou’lay image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers outdoor seating with a family-friendly atmosphere and inviting vibe. The air carries an amazing aroma that welcomes guests immediately. The environment feels lively and comfortable, encouraging social gatherings and casual dining.

Cornbread costs $4.95 for a small piece and is served cold. It pairs well with the peach cobbler and is worth ordering.

Mac and cheese varies here, with some finding it very good and others not as much. It pairs well with cabbage and stands out as a notable dish.

People are saying

"The jerk chicken dinners here are so flavorful."

"I ordered the Mac and Cheese as a side with my jerk chicken."

"The cornbread here is flavorful but not too spicy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for online orders; show credit card and ID upon arrival.

2

Expect longer wait times for food, especially if ordering ahead.

3

The dinner prices are around $30 per person, which some find steep.

17
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.

Cornbread comes out very good and pairs well with dishes like fried chicken and mac and cheese. It holds its own alongside fried green tomatoes and jerk chicken.

People are saying

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

"The mac and cheese had a fine flavor but felt like an attempt at upscale."

"The cornbread here was very good."

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.

18
Soul Shack Express image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with laid-back vibe and soul gospel music playing creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Food features tender, well-seasoned meats and flavorful sides, though some items vary in quality. Limited seating and no air conditioning shape a casual, fast-food style experience.

Sweet potato cornbread stands out with its dense texture and lovely sweetness. Warming the cornbread takes it to the next level, making it a meal by itself.

Rich flavor stands out in the mac and cheese, which pairs well with the smoked turkey meat in the greens. Sides like mac and cheese, greens, and soul rolls all deliver delicious taste.

People are saying

"The American Food, especially the mac and cheese, is so cheesy and flavorful."

"The mac and cheese here is really good."

"The sweet potato cornbread is delicious, especially when warmed up."

Good to know

1

The place is primarily a carry-out establishment with limited seating for dining in.

2

Expect long wait times for delivery orders, especially during busy hours.

3

Prices are higher than average for soul food, with many items around $30.

19
Dirty Tiff's Cafe image 1

Small, family-owned restaurant with a homey atmosphere and casual dining setup. The vibe is warm and welcoming, with a mix of take-out and dine-in options. Known for authentic soul food with standout dishes like jerk chicken and collard greens.

Cornbread comes as a side with meals like fried catfish and greens. It pairs well with candied yams and mac and cheese, adding a classic touch to the plate.

Mac and cheese stands out with a rich, creamy texture that impresses even those who usually avoid it. Sides like candied yams and dirty rice complement it well, making the overall experience satisfying.

People are saying

"You can taste all the love Ms. Tiffany puts into her Fried Catfish."

"You can taste the love and hard work in Ms. Tiffany's cornbread."

"I found the Mac and Cheese to be amazing."

Good to know

1

They close early on Sundays, with last orders at 6 pm.

2

The jerk chicken dinner costs about $20 with tax included.

3

The meals are reasonably priced and provide generous portions.

20
Truffle Restaurant & Bar image 1

Space feels very small and intimate, with dim lighting and black walls creating a cozy but sometimes crowded atmosphere. Music plays a smooth 90s R&B playlist, adding to the vibe. The setting suits small groups but can feel tight during busy times.

Creamy and cheesy textures define the mac and cheese here, making it comforting and rich. It pairs well with dishes like lamb chops and red snapper, complementing the meal perfectly.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The cornbread was one of the only decent items."

"The Mac And Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and comforting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant is BYOB for a small fee.

3

A $12 service fee is applied for carry-out orders.

21
Kisha’s kitchen 2 image 1

Small seating area offers a calm, comfortable vibe with well-organized space. Background music sometimes plays loudly with a vulgar style, contrasting the otherwise warm atmosphere. Food features soul food classics with mixed reviews on seasoning and quality.

Soft and cakey texture defines the cornbread here. It offers a sweet and moist bite that complements savory dishes well.

Mac and cheese comes with various meals like chicken wings, lamb chops, and catfish dinners. It features sweet potatoes and pairs well with greens and cornbread.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The American food here is delicious and always fresh."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was definitely worth coming back for."

Good to know

1

Only takeout is available at this restaurant.

2

The restaurant is relocating to a new location with ample parking.

3

Menu prices may not reflect current costs; check before ordering.

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