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Local picks in Chicago

Shrimp and grits date spots

Shrimp and grits that feel special enough for a date without the stiff, white-tablecloth pretension.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Perfect Brunch Bros image 1
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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.

Shrimp and grits and the Queen’s Breakfast offer memorable meals for couples. The Guatemalan breakfast brings a taste of home with eggs, beans, rice, cheese, and plantains.

People are saying

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

"The brunch food here is delicious and expertly prepared."

"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.

02
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.

Under-table hooks offer a thoughtful spot for purses, adding convenience. The shrimp and grits dish stands out as a flavorful choice appreciated by southern palates.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here is flavorful and exceptionally well-prepared."

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.

03
Taste 222 image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers an elegant yet cozy atmosphere with old school R&B music and an open floor plan that suits large groups and events. Spaces include a private room, bar, and breezy patio, creating a versatile and inviting setup. The vibe balances charming decor with a relaxed, stylish energy.

Shrimp and grits come in a decent-sized, well-presented portion with savory seasoning. The dish is served hot but not scalding, offering a flavorful experience.

Offers a relaxed vibe for casual dates and unwinding after work. Serves bites and drinks that fit a low-key evening.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful during Happy Hour."

"The American Food here, especially the peanut butter mousse cake, is amazing."

"The staff here are so attentive and friendly for your date spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with 13 food options and 9 drink options.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid waiting during peak hours.

3

The happy hour menu offers good value for money with reasonably priced items.

04
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.

Shrimp come out tasty and well seasoned, paired with creamy grits. The dish stands out alongside other well-seasoned Southern classics like collard green dip and hot chicken.

Offers a memorable experience with a menu guided by knowledgeable staff. Suitable for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays despite being a bit pricey.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The servers here are so knowledgeable and attentive for your date night."

"The Shrimp And Grits here were seasoned really well."

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.

05
The Soul Food Lounge image 1
American restaurant

Small, contemporary space combines live jazz saxophone with beautiful decor to create an inviting atmosphere. The vibe feels intimate and soulful, drawing a crowd that appreciates well-crafted soul food and a relaxed setting.

Creamy grits come with plump shrimp, crispy bacon, and garlic butter. The dish offers a flavorful Carolina style that stands out among other Southern classics.

Jazz music fills the room softly, letting conversations flow easily. Dishes like the Creole Soulfood Dressing and Sweet Sriracha Southern Fried Steak offer bold flavors for sharing.

People are saying

"The American Food here is phenomenal, especially the perfectly seasoned yams."

"The seafood dressing and salmon cakes here are amazing date spots."

"The Creamy Carolina Shrimp & Grits were so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Restaurant Week 2024 offers a $59 deal for three entrees of your choice.

2

The lounge does not serve liquor, but customers can BYOB with a corkage fee.

3

Reservations are recommended, but tables are often available without one.

06
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.

Shrimp come perfectly cooked with the dish. The grits pair well, making the shrimp and grits absolutely delicious and outstanding overall.

Shrimp and grits stand out as a rich, flavorful dish that impresses. Southern chopped salad offers a fresh, crisp option for a lighter bite.

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 Date Spots here are delicious, especially the smoky brisket sandwich."

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.

07
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.

Service stays friendly and attentive, even at the bar. The setting suits intimate dates with options like Shrimp & Grits with Cajun sauce adding a flavorful touch.

People are saying

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

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

"The service here makes it a great spot for a date."

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.

08
Trino Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Cozy blend of industrial and mid-century modern speakeasy styles with exposed brick, murals, and velvety colors creates a romantic, intimate atmosphere. Soft classic salsa and bachata music sets a warm, inviting vibe. Creative space design and curated cocktail offerings distinguish it from typical steakhouses.

Shrimp & Grits come with Hawaiian bread and show careful preparation. The dish stands out alongside items like octopus and ceviche, highlighting its quality.

Romantic ambiance sets the tone with tasting-sized bubbly to start. Service from Travis and Norma stands out, making it ideal for a date night.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the steaks cooked to perfection."

"The Date Spots here have amazing flavors and a great dining experience."

"The Shrimp & Grits were packed with flavor and impressively prepared."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially weekends.

3

Trino Steakhouse is closed on Mondays but available for private events.

09
Soul & Smoke - Avondale at Rockwell on the River image 1

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.

Shrimp and grits offer a flavorful southern flair with a rich, satisfying taste. The dish pairs well with greens and corn muffins, creating a hearty meal.

Setting offers a great place to vibe with a date or friends. Mac n cheese stands out as a popular dish that looks and tastes good. Quick bites here come across as really good for casual dining.

People are saying

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

"The smoked food here is really good for date spots."

"The Shrimp And Grits here are delicious and flavorful."

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.

10
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 dates work well here with walkable location and accommodating service. Conversations flow despite some noise, and vegetarian options are available.

People are saying

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

"The food here is incredible and clearly made 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.

11
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.

Reservations happen smoothly with quick seating. The atmosphere feels intimate and comfortable, fitting for couples and close friends celebrating special moments.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful for Date Spots."

"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.

12
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.

Good food and a welcoming atmosphere create a solid spot for dates. The tapsilog breakfast with short rib stands out, and seating is available even during busy weekend brunch hours.

People are saying

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

"This place has great date spots with phenomenal food and atmosphere."

"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.

13
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.

Large portions like chicken and waffles, cornbread, and mac and cheese make sharing easy. Free beignets add a sweet touch that can lighten the mood during brunch.

People are saying

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

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

"These date spots have beignets so good they stop fights."

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.

14
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.

Shrimp and grits come with small shrimp, usually three or four per serving. Some dishes include sausage not listed on the menu. The dish is generally described as good to great in flavor.

Welcoming atmosphere starts the evening with a warm greeting and helpful recommendations. Sharing lamp chops adds a unique touch to date nights, making meals memorable.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The food here is amazing, well-seasoned, and thoughtfully prepared."

"I thought the shrimp and grits were good."

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.

15
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.

Setting feels high-class and nice for a local date. Margaritas use Casadores tequila. Beef short ribs are tender enough to eat without a knife.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing and on point."

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

"The pasta dishes at these Date Spots are outstanding."

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.

16
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.

Ideal for a dinner or late brunch date, it offers a shrimp alfredo omelette with added chicken that stands out. Suitable for couples, family, or friends, the food is consistently delicious.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious, especially for date spots."

"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.

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