Best Southern American Restaurants in South Side

Great food great service. Southern but not too heavy. Don’t miss the muffins!

My recent visit to this celebrated establishment was nothing short of exceptional, from the food to the service and overall ambiance. From the moment we were seated, the hospitality was evident. Our waiter was a standout—a consummate professional who exuded warmth and friendliness. He not only made us feel at home but also demonstrated an impressive knowledge of the menu, offering recommendations that turned out to be some of the best dishes of the evening. His attention to detail and genuine enthusiasm elevated our dining experience, setting a high bar for service. We began our meal with three outstanding appetizers. The biscuits with pimento cheese were a revelation—flaky, buttery, and paired perfectly with the creamy, tangy cheese spread. The salad with crispy pig ears was a bold and delightful contrast of textures, combining the crunch of the pig ears with the freshness of greens. The chicken liver pâté was rich, velvety, and perfectly complemented by its accompanying garnishes. Each dish demonstrated a balance of flavors and a deep respect for traditional Southern ingredients. For our main courses, we chose a variety of dishes to sample the breadth of Virtue’s offerings. The salmon was cooked to perfection, its flaky texture enhanced by a flavorful glaze. The short ribs were tender beyond belief, practically melting in the mouth and paired with sides that accentuated their richness. Finally, the fish and grits was a standout—a creamy, comforting dish that showcased the restaurant’s ability to elevate a Southern staple. We couldn’t resist sampling Virtue’s desserts, and we were so glad we did. The banana pudding was a nostalgic treat, executed with a refined twist that elevated this Southern staple. Meanwhile, the red velvet cake was everything you want from this classic dessert—moist, flavorful, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. A very special shoutout to Chef Damarr of Top Chef fame who stopped by our table to chat briefly.

Our Server was AMAZING! 10/10! He was a pleasure as well as the energy of the entire restaurant was highly enjoyable!

My experience at ETC was incredible! I love the ambiance of the place, as well as the decor and lighting! The food, drinks, and music made for an incredible dining experience! Looking forward to returning sooner rather than later!

Very good experience. Food and service was top notch. Our server was amazing I recommend this restaurant to anyone that love amazing food and ambiance! The sidecar drink was amazing. Only downfall is the parking and the restroom in which they don’t have control of because that’s ran by the park district