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Best Modern Southern American Restaurants in River North (Chicago)

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4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Yardbird Table & Bar - Chicago restaurant
1. Yardbird Table & Bar - Chicago
4.6
Exceptional(1296)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary southern • River North (Chicago)
Booked 22 times today
Yardbird Table & Bar in Chicago's vibrant River North is a beacon of authentic American Southern cuisine, celebrated by giants like James Beard and Bon Appétit. The restaurant's core, its famous fried chicken, embodies the soul of Southern hospitality. Diners rave about the "best chicken and waffles I have ever had" and praise the "spectacular" ambiance and service. Each dish, from the deviled eggs to the Bourbon Maple Syrup, is steeped in cherished family recipes, offering a taste of genuine warmth and charm. Yardbird consistently delivers an "amazing" dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving elevated American classics in a beautifully curated setting.
A photo of Blue Door Kitchen & Garden restaurant
2. Blue Door Kitchen & Garden
4.7
Exceptional(2374)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary southern • Gold Coast / Streeterville
Booked 32 times today
Nestled in the vibrant Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago, Blue Door Kitchen & Garden offers a delightful escape with its chef-driven comfort food menu. Celebrated Chef Art Smith brings heartwarming dishes to life, using fresh, local ingredients sourced from Midwest farms. The restaurant has been lauded for its "iconic fried chicken," a crowd-pleaser, and the homely yet elegant ambiance of its garden patio. Patrons rave about the "best shrimp and grits I’ve ever had" and the irresistible "hummingbird cake." Each dish is crafted to reflect the authenticity and soul of true comfort food, making Blue Door Kitchen a must-visit for a taste of home in the heart of Chicago.
A photo of Soulé to Soulé restaurant
3. Soulé to Soulé
4.6
Exceptional(424)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary southern • West Town
Booked 4 times today
Soulé to Soulé in West Town, Chicago, is a beacon of authentic Creole cuisine, delighting diners with its unique soul food tapas and vibrant atmosphere. Praised for its "phenomenal food" and "exceptional service," this intimate spot stands out with dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in Creole tradition. Guests rave about the "delicious and flavorful" offerings, including standout dishes like the jerk chicken, BBQ chicken appetizers, catfish macaroni and cheese, and the lamb chops, which are described as "hands down the best." The restaurant's BYOB policy enhances the dining experience, allowing guests to pair their favorite drinks with "perfectly seasoned" meals. Visitors consistently celebrate Soulé to Soulé as one of the best soul food restaurants in Chicago, making it a must-visit for an unforgettable Creole meal.
A photo of Virtue restaurant
4. Virtue
4.8
Exceptional(551)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary southern • Hyde Park
Booked 49 times today
Nestled in the vibrant Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, Virtue stands out as a beacon of Southern American cuisine. Renowned for its genuine hospitality and exceptional service, Virtue has crafted a space that embodies warmth and kindness. With a focus on heritage culinary techniques, the menu offers both familiar and innovative flavors that resonate deeply with diners. Glowing reviews often highlight not just the flavorful, authentic dishes like the "perfectly seasoned short ribs" and the "delicious blackened catfish," but also the impeccable service and inviting ambiance. As one reviewer raves, "The food was phenomenal and is worth every penny." Whether it’s the carefully crafted drinks, the beautifully presented plates, or the overall dining experience, Virtue consistently delivers top-quality Southern comfort food that truly stands out in Chicago's culinary scene.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • samuelvip
    Chicago / Illinois •44 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    fantastic food! Great place, especially if you want to converse without loud people and bangingg music
    More info
    Blue Door Kitchen & GardenPrice: Moderate• American• Gold Coast / Streeterville
    •
    4.7
  • Angela
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    This was my first time dining here and it was amazing. I ordered the short rib and it was so tender, you could cut through it with a fork. The macaroni and cheese was absolutely delicious. The BEST Mac I’ve had from any restaurant hands down!! Tastes like what your grandma would make for Thanksgiving dinner. The cornbread was so moist and super delicious. I started to order more lol. My friend and I shared the red velvet cake because we were too full to get one to ourselves and it was the perfect balance. Not too sweet at all which was great!! I will definitely be back!
    More info
    VirtuePrice: Expensive• Southern• Hyde Park
    •
    4.8
  • Toni
    Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The food and service were both excellent. If you like large portions, this is not your place. We were thoroughly satisfied and full. The shrimp and grits, steak and eggs and all American breakfast were all delicious. The bottomless mimosas were very tasty. The service was excellent from hostess to wait staff. Leni was great! They have valet, however, they're slow, as there was only one person on duty on Saturday during the brunch rush.
    More info
    Yardbird Table & Bar - ChicagoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Southern• River North (Chicago)
    •
    4.6
  • Emence
    Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 16, 2024
    The was good, service was good, not hard to find street parking, and will return!👍🏽
    More info
    Soulé to SouléPrice: Moderate• Soul food• West Town
    •
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary Southern restaurants in River North (Chicago)

Discover the vibrant flavors of contemporary Southern cuisine in Chicago's bustling River North area. This location is renowned for its rich culinary diversity, and the restaurants serving contemporary Southern dishes exemplify this with their innovative approaches to traditional recipes. These eateries skillfully blend time-honored Southern comforts with modern culinary techniques, offering a unique dining experience that captivates both locals and visitors. The atmosphere in these establishments typically combines rustic charm with a chic, modern aesthetic, providing an inviting ambiance perfect for dining occasions ranging from casual to special. Each menu is thoughtfully curated to include both classic Southern favorites and inventive new creations, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate. Complementing the culinary delights, these restaurants often feature an impressive selection of cocktails and wines, enhancing the overall dining experience. River North itself is a dynamic dining destination, known for its wide array of restaurants that cater to every taste and occasion.

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