Southern Chicago
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About
Southern Chicago — solid, no-fuss food in South Loop. Contemporary look with thoughtful details. Strong bar program alongside the food. "Their fried chicken is perfectly seasoned and crispy" — Jazmin Garcia
Experience Breakdown
Gee Riley
255 reviews
“I had the fried chicken( seasoned to perfection) and the baked macaroni”
Highlights
What Diners Are Saying
Diners loved
Some noted
Went to Southern Chicago with friends on the Saturday after Christmas and was really looking forward to it.
I had such high hopes for The Southern. I’d seen a clip or two of others experiences on Instagram.
Over 3-Hour Birthday Dinner, Cold Food, Misrepresented Menu Items, and Hostile Owner 7:15 PM reservation; seated at 7:56 PM despite arriving early • ~30 minutes before our server took orders • 20 minutes later, informed that a key appetizer was out of stock • Drinks took ~40 minutes to arrive; appetizers followed shortly after • By 9:00 PM, no entrees had been served • Complimentary drinks were provided only after we complained • “Filet Medallions” were actually skirt steak (confirmed by management) and were overcooked • Manager arrived ~25 minutes later, offered no apology • Refired steak returned raw • Owner acknowledged menu misprint but offered only a ~15% discount, while 18% gratuity remained • Cake brought for birthday was not cut or served despite policy allowing it • When we questioned the bill, the owner became hostile, used obscenities, and told us to “get out” • After we left, our friends reported the doors were locked and they were intimidated until payment We support Black-owned businesses and understand restaurant challenges, but this experience crossed the line into intimidation and disrespect.
Location
2000 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
What 701+ diners say about Southern Chicago
“Came for Restaurant week 2026.”
Came for Restaurant week 2026. Our server Rich was amazingly hilarious and very truthful about the menu. Those buttermilk biscuits were slammin’ and the prawn although one piece for restaurant week, was very good and had me wanting more! Everything was delicious and I loved the music that was playing! Definitely have to come back.
Deja Chester
Feb 2026
“I really enjoyed this place.”
I really enjoyed this place. Make a reservation to be sure you get seated. We were a party of 10 with kids. Everything is really good. The service was too notch. There’s also great music and valet available.
Ar Monsanto
Jan 2026
“This was our first time at Southern Chicago and it did not disappoint: the food, the music, but especially the service.”
This was our first time at Southern Chicago and it did not disappoint: the food, the music, but especially the service! Even though it was extremely busy (and a bit of a snowstorm outside), our server, Malik, was incredibly professional, responsive, and attentive. He helped us decide what we wanted to try as first timers and we ultimately chose the Restaurant Week experience. It was all so tasty, and Malik was refreshingly thoughtful and kind. He made sure our first experience was unforgettable. He’s exactly who you’d want as your waiter, so if you’re due or overdue for a visit you won’t regret being placed in Malik’s section. Listed below: Kale Caesar Salad Collard Greens Garlic Prawn Brown Butter Ice Cream (I literally need an endless supply of this! Best ice cream I’ve ever had OMG! Mouth watering just thinking about it!)
Michaela Foreman
Jan 2026
“This place was amazing.”
This place was amazing. From the curb to the end of the meal. I made a reservation for my husbands birthday and it was an excellent choice. I can't wait to return.
Ebony Roberts
Jan 2026
“First off this is the only review I’ve ever left, that’s how good this place is.”
First off this is the only review I’ve ever left, that’s how good this place is. This restaurant is a MUST try and amazing! I got a chance to speak with the owner / head chef one on one and he is such a genuine person you can tell food and hosting is his passion! Every employee is extremely professional and personable! I enjoyed a complementary birthday dessert as well! Everything was perfect and I would recommend this beautiful restaurant to anyone looking for a luxury but affordable meal in Chicago!
Hannah ligon
Jan 2026
“Fantastic birthday dinner experience.”
Fantastic birthday dinner experience! Huge thank you to Rich for curating delicious cocktails and mocktails to pair with our meal.
Mimi Y
Jan 2026
“Let me start by telling you, My wife and I enjoyed every second at Southern Chicago.”
Let me start by telling you, My wife and I enjoyed every second at Southern Chicago. Rich was a phenomenal host. He was very knowledgeable of the menu, funny, and charismatic. We both have food allergies and he pointed out what the safest option would be and the food was amazinggggggg. Food came out promptly and looked outstanding. Cooked to perfection. Thank you Rich 😁 The ribeye was great 10/10 Amazing atmosphere, We will be back!!!
Gyasi Walker
Jan 2026
“Came here with some friends to celebrate NYE..10/10 experience.”
Came here with some friends to celebrate NYE..10/10 experience! Food was incredible, drinks were great and the service was above and beyond. Rich was our server and he was attentive, knowledgeable on the menu, and made our dinner even better! Ask for him when you go! Won’t be disappointed. Thank you Southern Chicago for having us.
Rose Filipas
Jan 2026
“Our waiter Rich was TOP NOTCH.”
Our waiter Rich was TOP NOTCH. If you want all the best recommendations on top of personality and energy.. he is your guy! Food and cocktails were amazing. Don’t walk RUN.
Define U Mentoring Program
Dec 2025
“Our server Rich was an amazing person.”
Our server Rich was an amazing person! He was so accommodating and helpful. Patient and friendly. Took time explaining the menu, kind and supportive with conversation. Food was amazing, would definitely recommend this place!
Leyah Swayzer
Dec 2025
“My children celebrated my birthday at Southern Chicago and it was our first experience.”
My children celebrated my birthday at Southern Chicago and it was our first experience. We can’t wait to go again! Everyone we encountered was pleasant and professional. Our waiter was very attentive and the food was scrumptious! A very upscale establishment that is Black-owned. 💜
Melody Seaton
Nov 2025
“Absolutely love this place for birthdays, casual and even happy hour .”
Absolutely love this place for birthdays, casual and even happy hour . The staff is amazing and knowledgeable of the menu. Took my best friend for her birthday and she loved it. Passionate about the quality of food and I thank you Chef Xavier
Neemz Travels To
Nov 2025
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