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312 Eats
Little Village · Soul Food · $$

The Soul Food Lounge

4.7839 reviews ·Opens at 11AM tomorrow
We went with the recommendation by our server who was so freaking nice (I can't remember her name) and patient with us
Deidre M WilliamsDeidre M Williams · 139 Google reviews
Read the reviews on Google →

The Soul Food Lounge — high-caliber soul food in Little Village. Friendly without hovering, and BYOB. "The Lake Michigan Perch was hot, flaky, and perfectly fried, and the vodka sauce spaghetti was rich and creamy" — Emily Green [$$]

🍷BYOB — grab a bottle next door, they'll open it.

What 839 diners keep saying

Huge portionsFamily runRomanticCozyFamily friendlyQuick bite
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3804 W 16th St, Chicago, IL 60623
Little Village
TodayClosed
Sun11AM-8PM
Mon–TueClosed
Wed–Fri11AM-8:30PM
Sat11AM-8PM
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What 839 diners keep saying

verbatim, from Google
Review photo by Jackie Edwards
Jul 2026

A great experience, great service, great food! We took a chance on Saturday around 525pm without a reservation for the 4 of us. We went without expectations, but were able to be accommodated. Food came out fast, was flavorful, and worth the money as a foodie. The lemonade was refreshing, our server was pleasant. We're from Wisconsin and are always seeking out Black-owned establishments. I'm happy we were able to experience this place and highly recommend!

Jackie Edwards

Jackie Edwards

185 reviews on Google

Review photo by Sandra Bronson
Jun 2026

Me and 6 of my high school friends of 46 years went here for dinner not knowing what to expect but oh my God what an experience. The food was exceptional so much that I called several other friends and family to let them know that they need to patronize this fabulous place. Service was prompt and efficient. The portions were huge. Even the beverages tasted good. They have two locations and we’re looking forward to visiting the other one but will return to this one as well. The jazz player was off the chain. I gave it a 5 star rating but could’ve gone way higher. Last but not least, I’d like to give a special shout to our servers (I’m sorry I can’t remember your names) both of you gave us such a warm experience from the time we walked in up to leaving. Including taking pictures for us Kudos to you both.

Sandra Bronson

Sandra Bronson

11 reviews on Google

Review photo by angela walker
Jun 2026

Well this is a hidden local gem. Great service.. William was so friendly and had great customer service. The guy in the kitchen seemed a little grumpy but the food was really good seasoned well without being too salty. Nice lunch menu Decor was so cute. I'll definitely be returning.

angela walker

angela walker

82 reviews on Google

Review photo by Latyra Smith
Jun 2026

I had the birria roast beef tacos at Soul Food Lounge, and they were absolutely delicious. The meat was tender, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. Every bite was packed with flavor, and the tacos were fresh and satisfying. What really made the experience stand out was the customer service. William provided outstanding service from start to finish. He was friendly, attentive, welcoming, and made sure everything was perfect throughout my visit. His positive attitude and professionalism truly elevated the entire dining experience. Great food, excellent atmosphere, and exceptional customer service. I’ll definitely be back for those tacos—and William’s top-notch hospitality made the visit even more memorable!

Latyra Smith

Latyra Smith

42 reviews on Google

Review photo by O. K. Little-Payne
Jun 2026

I was able to get a last minute reservation for this location after the South Side location was booked. Everyone was very nice and welcoming. I forgot my purse hook and they had a complimentary one (nice touch). And the owner gave the dads a complimentary cigar. Even better touch! I was told that the menu at both locations is different. I have to go to the South location now. I had the pound cake French toast and it was amazing. My husband ordered the blackened salmon and it was very good and not salty! We did the tastings and I think it’s a great way to sample the food. Definitely make a reservation. The space is very intimate.

O. K. Little-Payne

O. K. Little-Payne

18 reviews on Google

Review photo by Martha Morales
Jun 2026

My partner and I visited Soul Food Lounge for Juneteenth, and we had an amazing experience from start to finish. The atmosphere was warm, vibrant, and welcoming, and everyone we encountered was incredibly friendly and hospitable. The food was definitely the highlight of our visit. We tried the Glazed Korean Short Rib, the Salmon & Shrimp, and the Chicken with sweet potatoes, potatoes, and broccoli. Every dish was flavorful, perfectly prepared, and absolutely delicious. We also enjoyed champagne and a few of the house-made drinks, which paired wonderfully with our meal. To top it all off, we ended with the cheesecake for dessert, rich, creamy, and the perfect sweet ending to a fantastic meal. We truly enjoyed everything about our visit and look forward to coming back. Highly recommend for great food, excellent service, and an inviting atmosphere! ❤️🥂✨

Martha Morales

Martha Morales

11 reviews on Google

Review photo by Ebonie W
Jun 2026

My daughters and I stopped by the West side location for a bite to eat and were blown away by the food, service and atmosphere!

Ebonie W

Ebonie W

13 reviews on Google

Review photo by Paige Etheridge
Jun 2026

We went for my husband’s birthday on a Wednesday at 6:30! It wasn’t super busy, which was nice. The service was very nice, quick, and the food was very good. My husband got the short ribs and ate the whole thing. I got the lobster mac and cheese, the portion size was huge which makes good for leftovers. It was sooo good! The restaurant was very small, but intimate. It was storming so the music wasn’t working, but it didn’t matter. I wish eventually they would have an outside patio. But overall very good!

Paige Etheridge

Paige Etheridge

11 reviews on Google

Review photo by Tiwana Jones
Jun 2026

The food was great I had the fried shimp and salmon. My husband had roast beef taco very good. My auntie had short ribs, all must have. Will be back, and it byob 😉

Tiwana Jones

Tiwana Jones

85 reviews on Google

Review photo by BrunchMommy
May 2026

It’s always a pleasure and a personal treat to stop by The Soul Food Lounge. The grand tasting on the dinner menu is worth the price, as the portions are out of this world. I stopped by for lunch a second time this month because the Asian Short Rib Grilled Cheese is just to die for. The owner and the chef are quality people and the service is unmatched. Thank you for placing this gem in the heart of North Lawndale, and I hope anyone contemplating a visit decides to stop by.

BrunchMommy

BrunchMommy

28 reviews on Google

Review photo by Coraazy
Feb 2026

Traveling from Baltimore, Maryland this was the first stop from the airport. When I tell you the food was amazing, please believe me. Our waitress was Maria and she took well care of us. Very hospitable and accommodating, pleasant and fun. She even gave us an introduction, backstory and current workings of the owner Chef Quentin Love. (Maria is the MVP) Our group had such a great time there. I definitely have to make this a stop during any trip to Chicago.✌🏾 Thanks for everything! I will be back!

Coraazy

Coraazy

126 reviews on Google

Review photo by Rebecca Oliver
Feb 2026

CANNOT RECOMMEND ENOUGH!!!!! The Grand Tasting Menu was such a fun way to try different entrees and they were all AMAZING! The staff were so so kind and made the experience that much better!

Rebecca Oliver

Rebecca Oliver

2 reviews on Google

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