Wishbone
Ali P · 136 Google reviewsWishbone — honest soul food in West Loop. No frills and no gimmicks, just a solid honest room. The drinks match the food in quality. "The chicken sandwich is grilled perfectly after being apparently fried, tender, moist and juicy" — John newquist [$$, patio]
What 2,432 diners keep saying
What 2,432 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“I could eat Wishbone every day. Solid, reliable menu. Great service. Laid-back atmosphere. All of that is true and has been true for a long time, so let’s get my positive bias out of the way early. I am only writing a review today because the seasonal crawfish & shrimp beignet bowl knocked my socks all the way off and I need everyone to know how delicious this entree is. The crawfish beignet bites, even without the spicy shrimp sauce, have a faint kick to them that is balanced perfectly by the bed of cheesy grits they are served on. It reminds me of something like takoyaki with a little more structure and a little more panache. The brunch specials are so consistently interesting & delicious. If you’ve never been to Wishbone, this is your sign.”
“Plenty of southern breakfast staples such as shrimp and grits, catfish, and red beans and rice. Definitely recommend if you’re in the mood for some good comfort food.”
“I want to dive into the Cajun Shrimp & Grits and live there forever. Between the folk art decorating the walls to the warm and helpful staff, this space is a must stop in your tour de cuisine in Chicago.”
“Wishbone has been a West Loop fixture for decades, and even after moving locations a few years back, it kept the same colorful, folk-art-covered walls and the same warm, slightly funky energy that regulars have loved since the original spot opened. We went for a weekend brunch and the room was already buzzing by the time we sat down, families, couples, a long table of friends clearly out for a celebratory meal. The shrimp and grits are the dish most people come back for, and ours arrived with bacon, mushrooms, and scallions in a white wine cream sauce that coated the cheese grits underneath just right, rich without tipping into heavy. We also got the fried chicken, which on Wednesdays apparently turns into the whole reason people show up, pan-fried and crispy with sides that felt genuinely homemade rather than rushed out of a kitchen trying to keep up with brunch rush. A side of cornbread came to the table early and didn't last long, slightly sweet with a good crumb. Someone in our group got the catfish, cornmeal battered and fried, paired with a tangy remoulade that cut through the richness nicely. The Bootsy Collins cocktail, tequila with lemon, blackberry, and ginger beer, was a fun, slightly unexpected drink that worked well with the Southern menu. The patio is a great option when the weather cooperates, and parking nearby can be tight, so street parking or one of the self-park lots within a block is the way to go.”
“Awesome brunch experience. The Cajun flavors, bright decor, friendly service and menu selections are all excellent. Highly recommend the Cajun Shrimp and Grits, Crunchy French Toast (must try) and Blackened Catfish with home fries.”
“Amazing food and service! Cajun shrimp and grits is a must!!”
“Everything was wonderful. The food was seasoned and cooked to perfection (i had the blackened catfish which is how it was cooked) And the Service, atmosphere & hospitality were great!”
“The service was a 10/10. My waitress was Nicole. She was warm, inviting, friendly, & attentive. The food presentation passed the eye test. The taste was on point! No extra salt or pepper required. The stuffed French toast did not need syrup! I will return to this restaurant.”
“Absolutely a must visit in Chicago for Cajun flavors! We booked a reservation for a Friday breakfast. I recommend booking a reservation because although it was pretty empty when we got there it was full with a wait by the time we left. We came in & we were promptly seated. There’s a counter for takeout orders and both indoor and outdoor seating. For drinks we ordered the uncles breakfast and the hurricane. Absolutely recommend the uncles breakfast it was amazing! For food we ordered the spicy shrimp & grits, chicken andouille hash, and southern fried catfish. Everything was absolutely amazing! Great flavor & portion size and came out fast. Only critique would be too much onion in chicken andouille hash. The service was great! From the host seating to our waitress to those bringing us the food everyone was friendly, fast, and efficient. The combo of tasty food, good portion size, and great staff in a time when a lot of restaurants are struggling with one of the 3 makes this place a gem. We’ll definitely be back!”
“Went here about an hour before closing (our mistake) bc holy cow we could've stayed longer and ordered more! The food was SO good. Spiced to perfection and delicious. Will definitely be back to try more. Had the Cajun shrimp and grits and salmon cakes. Sides of rice,beans, and sweet potatoes and well as THE most moist cornbread muffins and vanilla lattes with oatmilk 🤤”
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