Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in North Lawndale

Food spots

A meal that brings something fresh to the table instead of forcing you to settle for the same tired options.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Ma Dear’s Kitchen image 1
Ma Dear’s Kitchen image 2
Ma Dear’s Kitchen image 3
View all
Soul food restaurant

Tiny soul food spot feels like grandmother's kitchen with a welcoming atmosphere. Dishes are well-seasoned and served in generous portions. Prices stay reasonable, making it perfect for those craving home-cooked flavors.

Food here is old school soul food cooked with a lot of love, served hot and in generous portions. Every dish bursts with flavor and shows exceptional quality and freshness.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and the portions generous."

"I loved the seasoned catfish and hot, fresh breakfast food."

"The cake here tastes like grandma's cooking."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20 to 25 minutes during busy periods.

2

Prices are very reasonable, with meals typically around $20.

3

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes, often enough for leftovers.

02
The Soul Food Lounge image 1
American restaurant

Small, contemporary space offers an intimate vibe with live jazz saxophone and beautiful decor. Chef Quentin’s fantastic dishes deliver a soulful dining experience. Guests enjoy a relaxed setting perfect for savoring well-crafted soul food.

Food quality stands out with consistently fantastic dishes across the menu. Chef Quentin’s cooking delivers an exceptional dining experience that leaves guests very satisfied.

People are saying

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

"I loved the Creole Seafood Dressing; it was very good."

"I found the food here to be delicious and cooked to perfection."

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.

03
JJ FISH AND CHICKEN image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot serves crispy fries and fried catfish with a greasy taste. Prices stay cheap and food is always fresh and hot. Atmosphere is quiet and service is quick, perfect for dine-in or carry out.

Food stays consistently fresh and hot with every order. Prices remain great while the taste is absolutely delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and hot."

"I scored the catfish and perch a perfect 10 out of 10."

"I found the chicken wings to be very good."

Good to know

1

Food is prepared quickly for both dine-in and carry-out options.

2

Desserts are available for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth.

3

The restaurant attracts a large number of customers, indicating popularity.

04
Jus Chick-Hen Inc image 1

Offers well seasoned jerk chicken and buffalo chicken egg rolls with affordable prices and easy parking. Food is hot, fresh, and not greasy, with a variety of barbecue sauces. Family-owned, black-owned vibe shines in a clean, fresh atmosphere.

Food comes out hot and fresh with well-flavored seasoning and a variety of barbecue sauces. The style is unique, consistently delicious, and not greasy, offering great taste at good prices.

People are saying

"The fried chicken here is so juicy and perfectly seasoned."

"You've got to try the buffalo chicken egg rolls."

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

Good to know

1

Jus Chick-Hen Inc only offers takeout and does not have a dine-in option.

2

Calling ahead helps to beat the wait time.

3

The establishment was clean and sanitary.

05
Dave's Red Hots image 1
American restaurant

Tiny space with vintage decor offers a no-frills vibe and fast-paced energy. Long lines form for hot dogs and fries, known for their fresh, authentic flavors. Limited seating and no air conditioning make it perfect for quick, tasty takeout.

Food stays hot and fresh with a focus on delicious, authentic flavors. French fries stand out as a popular choice alongside consistently great fast food offerings.

People are saying

"I thought the hot dogs and Polish dogs were the best in Chicago."

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

"The fries at this Lunch Spot are hot, fresh, and still the bomb."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so plan to take your meal to go.

2

Expect long wait times, especially during busy hours.

3

They accept credit and debit cards for payment.

06
La Catedral Cafe - North Lawndale image 1

Space blends Catholic church-inspired decor with a modern vibe and loud hip-hop music, creating a lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican breakfast like chilaquiles and cafe de olla served with friendly service. Cleanliness and an inviting setting make it a great spot for food lovers.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavor with delicious dishes and generous portions. Service is friendly and the environment stays clean and welcoming.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious."

"There's plenty of street parking available."

"It's a cozy escape with a colorful, charming vibe."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait time, but it can extend to an hour on weekends.

2

Parking is available in a rear lot and on the street.

3

All members of your party must be present before being seated.

07
Sanchez Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco spot offers generous taco sizes with standout steak and chicken options topped with American cheese. Food comes fast and stays fresh, paired with prompt service. Parking is easy but area feels less safe at night.

Food arrives quickly and maintains great quality over time. Service complements the good food with promptness and care.

People are saying

"I found the steak tacos here to be the best."

"I loved the food here; it was excellent."

"I thought the burritos here were the best ever."

Good to know

1

There is a public parking lot across the street.

2

The prices at Sanchez Tacos are reasonable.

3

Avoid hanging out in the area at night for safety.

08
the beelove cafe image 1

Bright space with comfy chairs and free wifi suits work and socializing. Quality snacks and drinks refresh in a clean, welcoming setting. Unique touches like a free bookshelf and local honey add charm.

Bright setting offers delicious food and drinks with a limited selection of snacks. The menu focuses on quality over quantity, making it a good spot to eat and recharge.

People are saying

"The Cafe's honey latte and Sloppy Moe sandwich are amazing."

"It's a great work-friendly spot with comfy chairs and strong wifi."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers free books for visitors to take.

2

Prices are reasonable for coffee and snacks.

3

The cafe has strong wifi connectivity for working or studying.

09
Barney’s New Life Health Foods image 1

Small storefront offers an impressive variety of organic products and healthy food options. Staff share deep knowledge and passion, creating an inviting, peaceful atmosphere with a refreshing peppermint scent. Supports a Black-owned, family-run community business.

Wide variety of natural products and healthy food options fill the shelves. Staff are helpful and friendly, making shopping easy and pleasant. EBT/SNAP is accepted for all food items.

People are saying

"I found amazing healthy food options and a wide variety."

"This place has everything you need to be healthy."

"The staff here are so welcoming and helpful."

Good to know

1

They accepted EBT/SNAP for all food items.

2

The store is a historic Black business serving the community for decades.

3

The staff provides education and resources on natural herbs.

10
City gyros image 1
Restaurant

Small spot offers quick pickup and affordable prices in a cozy atmosphere. Food is fresh and flavorful, cooked to order with fast service. Friendly crowd stays late, enjoying clean, tasty gyros and more.

Food comes out fresh and cooked to order, served hot with quick service that does not sacrifice quality. Dishes are full of flavor and perfectly seasoned at good prices.

People are saying

"I loved the food here; it was always so fresh."

"The Greek food here is amazing and very tasty."

"I found the gyro to be delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

City Gyros is a quick pickup location, not a sit-down restaurant.

2

The restaurant is open until 4 am, making it a late-night option.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

11
Peoria Packing Butcher Shop image 1

Huge space splits into cold meat cooler and checkout with spices. Butchers offer custom cuts at fair prices. Narrow aisles get chaotic but strong bags help with big carts.

Variety of fresh meats and food products stands out here. Butchers cut food exactly as requested without extra charge, and prices stay reasonable.

People are saying

"You'll love this meat market for its vast variety of fresh meats."

"I found great prices on fish here."

"The food here is fresh with so many great options."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a wide variety of meats, seafood, and grocery items.

2

Prices on meats and fish are generally lower than at local grocery stores.

3

Parking is ample at the new location, making access easier.

12
Fisherman's Island image 1
Seafood market

Seafood market offers large portions with fresh, tasty dishes like crab legs packed with meat. Friendly staff create a chill atmosphere that feels casual and welcoming. Affordable prices make it a great spot for quality seafood and fried favorites.

Food comes out fresh to order and tastes consistently good. Cooking costs just a dollar, making it a tasty and affordable option.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and tasty."

"I thought the seafood here was some of the best."

"The American Food, especially the fried chicken, is excellent."

Good to know

1

EBT cards are accepted for payment at Fisherman's Island.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of seafood options including baked and fried fish.

3

Portions are large and satisfying, ensuring good value for your meal.

13
Green Tomato Cafe image 1

Outdoor enclosed patio creates a peaceful atmosphere perfect for work or chill. Food shines with fresh ingredients and careful prep. Community vibe is strong, with regulars enjoying unique pancake flavors and excellent bakery items.

Food comes fresh with high quality ingredients and careful preparation. Dishes show consistent flavor and appealing presentation.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and made fresh."

"I found this cafe to be a nice community spot."

"You have to try the peanut butter and oatmeal smoothie."

Good to know

1

Breakfast service ends at 10:30 am daily.

2

The cafe often runs out of ingredients for menu items.

3

Expect limited smoothie options due to ingredient shortages.

14
Star Gyros image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot buzzes with busy fires and late hours, drawing many inside. Food stays consistently fresh with standout grilled meats and flavorful tenders. Lobby presence of panhandlers affects comfort but adds to the raw city vibe.

Food stays consistently fresh and really good with a strong focus on quality. The dishes deliver great flavor and maintain high standards every time.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and well seasoned."

"I found the gyro rice bowls here to be the best in the city."

"You have to try the gyros; they're the best in the city."

Good to know

1

There is ample parking available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant stays open late for late-night diners.

3

Ordering ahead is convenient and recommended.

15
Soulé image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food shines with delicious dishes and great service. Lively vibe comes from soulful R&B music and a swanky upstairs area. Friendly staff keep energy high and atmosphere stylish.

Food features great soul food with consistently great service. The menu offers delicious dishes that make dining here a solid choice.

People are saying

"The catfish and grits here are outstanding."

"The American Food here is great, and the staff is so attentive."

"The food here is amazing and always delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features $1 jerk wings and $6 lemon drops.

2

Happy hour drinks are half off in the bar area.

3

Reservations are recommended from Friday to Sunday.

16
Chinese Kitchen on Kedzie and Roosevelt image 1

Offers cheap prices and a casual atmosphere with over 20 years of history. Menu features classic dishes like fried rice and egg foo young. Food is mostly very good but can be inconsistent with wait times over 10 minutes.

Food here is consistently very good with a menu offering some great Chinese dishes. Waiting times can exceed 10 minutes, and occasionally food quality issues occur.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really great."

"I enjoyed the fried rice; it was the best I've ever had."

"I found the Chinese food here pretty good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is closed on Wednesdays.

2

It opens at 11am, but may not be open on time.

3

The lunch special offers good value for money.

Discover more

North Lawndale, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...