If you are searching for authentic Southern comfort food in Chicago, look no further than Luella’s Southern Kitchen. Nestled in the heart of Lincoln Square, this local favorite serves up soulful dishes made with tradition, care, and flavor. Whether you are craving shrimp and grits, buttermilk fried chicken, or a satisfying weekend brunch, Luella’s delivers a memorable experience every time.
Let’s explore why this spot is considered one of the best Southern restaurants in Chicago.
Why Luella’s Southern Kitchen Chicago Is So Special
Luella’s Southern Kitchen shines because of its deep roots in family tradition. Chef Darnell Reed, the mind behind the menu, honors his great-grandmother Luella’s legacy with recipes that have been passed down through generations. His goal? To create honest, Southern cooking that feels like home.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is just as warm as its food. Expect friendly service, cozy décor, and an inviting space that welcomes everyone, from solo diners to families.
Must-Try Southern Dishes at Luella’s Kitchen Chicago
You will find no shortage of delicious dishes at Luella’s Southern Kitchen. Here are some of the most recommended items:
Shrimp and Grits
Creamy, cheesy grits topped with juicy shrimp and savory gravy. It is often hailed as the best shrimp and grits in Chicago.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Golden brown and full of flavor. The fried chicken is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with classic Southern sides.
Chicken Gumbo
A rich, hearty bowl filled with chicken, sausage, and dark roux. This gumbo is as comforting as it is flavorful.
Fried Green Tomatoes
A Southern classic. These tomatoes are breaded, fried, and served with a tangy house-made sauce.
Each dish is made fresh to order and reflects the passion Chef Darnell puts into his kitchen.
Luella’s Southern Kitchen Menu With Prices (2025)
The Luella’s Southern Kitchen menu & prices offer something for everyone. From comforting classics to lighter options, all dishes are priced fairly.
Main Dishes
| Item | Price | Description |
| Chicken and Sausage Gumbo | $14.56 | Dark Roux, Rich Stock and Creole Seasoned Filé gumbo |
| Shrimp & Grits | $23.92 | New Orleans BBQ shrimp with house-milled cream cheese grits |
| Buttermilk Fried Chicken | $23.92 | Crispy fried chicken with smoked honey and collard greens |
| Nashville Chicken | $23.92 | Crispy fried chicken with Nashville hot sauce and collard greens |
| Chicken & Waffle | $23.92 | Buttermilk fried chicken with liege waffle and maple syrup |
| Nashville Chicken and Waffle | $23.92 | |
| Shrimp Andouille Mac Cheese | $20.80 | Baked Mac and Cheese topped with Creole Spiced Shrimp and Andouille Sausage |
| Crab Cake | $23.92 | 6 ounce Crab Cake with Andouille Hash, Green Peas and Mustard Aioli |
| Creole Crab Pasta | $23.92 | Creole Cream, Romano Cheese, Dandelion Greens and Buttered Dill Bread Crumbs |
Desserts
| Item | Price | Description |
| Beignets | $7.28 | New Orleans French Style Donuts with a Generous Dusting of Powdered Sugar |
| Banana Pudding Donut | $8.32 | Brioche Donut with Fresh Bananas, Banana Mousseline and Vanilla Wafers |
Beverages
| Item | Price |
| Sprite | $3.12 |
| Crush | $3.12 |
| Pepsi | $3.12 |
| Bottled Water | $3.12 |
| Iced Tea | $3.12 |
| Sweet Tea | $3.12 |
| Coffee | $3.12 |
Sides
| Item | Price | Description |
| Buttermilk Biscuits | $8.32 | Housemade Biscuits with seasonal jam |
| Cornbread | $11.44 | Baked to order buttermilk cornbread |
| Collard Greens | $11.44 | Smoked Pork, Creole Seasoning and Pot Liquor |
| Cream Cheese Grits | $8.32 | House Milled Cream Cheese Grits |
| Mac & Cheese | $11.44 | Baked to order with moray sauce |
| Waffle | $8.32 | |
| Candied Yams | $10.40 |
There are also vegetarian and gluten-friendly options available. For the latest offerings, check the official menu page.
Dining Experience at Luella’s Southern Kitchen
The dining space is warm, casual, and inviting. Whether you come for brunch or a weeknight dinner, you will enjoy a relaxed vibe and welcoming staff. It is one of the most family-friendly spots in Lincoln Square, and the upbeat energy makes every meal feel like a celebration.
Online Ordering and Delivery Options
Prefer to eat at home? Luella’s makes it easy. You can place orders for pickup or delivery through their online ordering page. They are also available on Uber Eats and DoorDash.
Enjoy your favorite Southern comfort food without leaving your couch.
Quick Guide About Luella’s Southern Kitchen
| Attribute | Details |
| Google Rating | 4.4 (⭐⭐⭐⭐) (1,610 reviews) |
| Price Range | $20–$30 per person |
| Cuisine | Southern (US) |
| Overview | Traditional Southern favorites served in a simple storefront space with a weekend brunch menu. |
| Service Options | Dine-in, Takeaway, No-contact delivery |
| Address | 4609 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625, United States |
| Place an Order | For Luella’s Southern Kitchen menu with prices, visit the official website here. |
| Phone | +1 773-961-8196 |
| Location Code | X887+3G Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Ownership | Identifies as Black-owned |
Quick Guide About Luella’s Southern Kitchen
| Day | Hours |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 5–9 pm |
| Thursday | 5–9 pm |
| Friday | 5–9 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–3 pm, 5–9 pm |
| Sunday | 10 am–3 pm, 5–9 pm |
| Monday | Closed |
Where to Find Luella’s Southern Kitchen in Chicago
📍 4609 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625
Located in Lincoln Square, Luella’s is just a short walk from the CTA Brown Line (Western stop). There is also metered parking nearby. The neighborhood is full of charm, with local shops and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Location on Map:
📅 Check opening hours and plan your visit at their official website.
Luella’s Southern Kitchen Reviews
Overall Rating: 4.4 / 5.0 (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) Total Reviews: 1,610
i) Ebony Campbell: 5/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐) (02-29-2025)
Dine-in | Brunch | $50–$100
I absolutely loved the food—especially the French toast, which was hands-down the best I’ve ever had. I’ve tried many restaurants, including Honey Bear, and none have matched this. The French toast was thick, yet soft and fluffy—not dry at all. The flavor wasn’t just on top, but infused throughout the bread.
The mac & cheese and candied yams were also standouts—easily the best I’ve had in my 34 years of dining out. Despite ordering a lot of food, my bill stayed under $100, which was a pleasant surprise considering the exceptional quality. A 10/10 experience. Highly recommend!
Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Recommended Dishes:
French Toast
Mac & Cheese
Candied Yams
- Williams: 4/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐) (03-29-2025)
I found this spot after reading about it in the Chicago Reader as one of the best places for soul food—and it caught my interest. The setup reminded me of a few neighborhood joints where you pay before eating, which felt nostalgic.
The chicken was moist and tasty, though I felt it could’ve used a bit more seasoning. I wasn’t a fan of the mac & cheese—it was runny and made with shell pasta instead of elbows, which is a no-go for me. However, the cornbread was absolutely fantastic—perfectly moist. The collard greens, unfortunately, missed the mark and lacked flavor.
Despite some hits and misses, the service was warm and welcoming. I’ll definitely be coming back to try more of the menu.
Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
For more reviews and ratings, visit Google Reviews.
Private Dining and Catering Options
Planning a party or event? Luella’s offers Southern catering services perfect for any occasion. From large family gatherings to business lunches, you can bring your favorite dishes to the table.
Want to host a private event at the restaurant? Contact them through the official contact form for availability and custom options.
FAQs
Is Luella’s kid-friendly?
Yes. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the menu has options that kids enjoy.
Do they offer vegetarian options?
Yes. Options include fried green tomatoes, mac and cheese, collard greens, and more.
What are Luella’s most popular dishes?
Top favorites are shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and chicken and waffles.
Do they take reservations?
Luella’s is first-come, first-served. Arrive early during peak hours.
How can I get there by public transit?
Take the CTA Brown Line to Western Station. It is a short walk from there.
Final Thoughts: Experience the Best of Southern Food in Chicago
If you want a true taste of the South in Chicago, Luella’s Southern Kitchen is the place to be. From soulful dishes to warm service, every visit is worth the trip. Whether you are dining in or ordering out, you will enjoy flavorful, comforting meals made with care.
📲 Ready to try it? Order now or visit them in Lincoln Square Chicago for a meal you will not forget.
Discover Luella’s Southern Kitchen in Lincoln Square, Chicago – a must-visit spot for authentic Southern comfort food. Enjoy favorites like shrimp and grits, buttermilk fried chicken, and chicken and waffles in a cozy, welcoming setting. Created by Chef Darnell Reed, Luella’s blends tradition with bold flavor. Dine in, take out, or order online. Explore the best of Southern cuisine in Chicago at Luella’s Southern Kitchen today.
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I’m Sada, the founder of TripGuiderz.com. Since 2019, I’ve been crafting travel guides and blog posts to help readers plan smarter adventures. Let’s explore the world together!
