The L Station
The L Station — honest soul food in River North. The noise level tells you everything you need to know. Plating that reflects real attention to detail. "The fried chicken was perfectly seasoned, mac and cheese was good" — Suvondal Taylor
What 1,443 diners keep saying
What 1,443 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Great food great service great staff, funny staff, very mindful and whoever back there cooking need to a episode on Master Chef”

“The food was amazing the drinks were great the only bad thing was the service. We had reservations scheduled for 12:00 and our food didn’t come till 1:20. I will definitely come back because the food was so freaking good. They just need to improve on their service.”

“This place has a chill and welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and enjoy your time. The employees were friendly and made us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. The overall vibe was comfortable, inviting, and perfect for a casual meal or a night out. The food was delicious and came in generous portions, offering great value for the price. Everything was flavorful and well prepared. The cocktails were also excellent and clearly made with care, balancing flavor and presentation perfectly. Between the tasty food, great drinks, and warm service, this is definitely a spot worth visiting again.”

“Bobbie and Chris took good care of us. Great vibe and relaxed setting. The drinks and food were delicious and plentiful. Got three drinks between 2 people. We ordered lamb chops appetizer, fried catfish and shrimp w/2 sides and 1/2 garden salad. Hubby and I shared all food. Everything was super fresh and tasty. Loved the jerk and hot honey sauces. Peach cobbler for dessert. About $200 including tip. Large portions. Would return again.”

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Christian at L Station was AMAZING! From the moment I sat at the bar, he made me feel welcomed and taken care of. He’s truly a jack of all trades — he made my drink perfectly, gave great recommendations, and checked on me promptly without ever being overbearing. He kept the energy at the bar great and made sure every guest was good. Best service I’ve had in a long time. I would recommend Christian to anybody — give him a raise ASAP! 👏🏽🍸”

“Visited The L Station for lunch today and we really enjoyed it. Our server, Malik, was incredibly sweet and attentive, and every recommendation he made was a hit. The bartender was just as amazing—yasss, keep her and Malik! The vibe was very relaxing (maybe because it was a Friday afternoon), but overall it was such a great experience. We’ll definitely be back on a weekend for brunch.”

“Malik was super cool, his energy and recommendations were top tier. Thank you for a positive experience as a first timer. Food was good!!”

“Such a nice vibe and the food is good (coming from a vegetarian). Jada and Bobbi are quite the team and made me feel so so comfortable. The subtle R & B playing in the background was also a nice touch. Can’t wait to come back!”

“Was visiting chi town from cali & heard about this restaurant in downtown chicago. Jerk lamb chops were super yummy, Mac & cheese was super good. Yams were good but im use to mine. Service was great! Ill definitely be back”

“L Station has a small, intimate feel when you first walk in, but there’s more space than expected toward the back. The staff was very friendly, and the bartender gave great drink recommendations. Our server, Malik, was exceptional. The menu can be a bit tricky with brunch vs. dinner options, but he explained everything clearly and helped us make great choices—his service alone is a reason I’ll return. Drinks are on the pricey side but worth it. The fried chicken was perfectly seasoned, mac and cheese was good, and the greens were flavorful (slightly salty for me). My friend loved the lamb chops, and my chicken & strawberry waffles were delicious. Total was about $180 with tip. Worth it. I’ll definitely be back to try the catfish and grits. Parking garage nearby if street parking isn’t available.”

“Overall the food and our server Malik made our first experience here GREAT! We initially were a little uncomfortable with the seating and atmosphere, however Malik noticed and provided a more comfortable location. Food is on point ! Very well seasoned! Served hot !”
Sounds like your kind of place?
Star it — your hit list is where dinner decisions get made.
One email a month — new openings, hidden gems, and where locals are actually eating.
More Soul Food in Downtown & River North
See the ranking →In the same lane · Soul Food
If it's packed, walk to…



More good rooms in River North, minutes away.




