Spice Up Your Life

The Windy City is typically known for its deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, but if you’re cravin’ some Cajun, head South—to the Chicago Southland, that is! Swing by these local spots that bring Southern heat straight to the heart of the Midwest. Y’all won’t be disappointed!

Chuck’s Southern Comforts Cafe (6501 West 79th Street, Burbank) – Let Chuck’s Southern Comforts Cafe bring the bayou to you with their bold, comforting dishes. Start things off with Cajun cakes or smoked boudin balls before moving on to a savory second course, with options including Cajun buttermilk chicken sandwiches and the Southern catfish dinners. Mouthwatering breakfast dishes like Cajun omelets and skillets are also available.

Dixie Kitchen and Bait Shop (17940 Torrence Avenue, Lansing) – Take a culinary trip down South at Dixie Kitchen and Bait Shop. Enjoy a large selection of Southern specialty bowls, including gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, crawfish étouffée and shrimp étouffée, or dig into some Big Easy pasta, such as Cajun chicken or seafood. Polish it off with a slice of homemade Southern peach cobbler or Southern pecan pie for the full NOLA experience.

Maple Tree Inn (18849 Dixie Highway, Homewood) – Described as a “Louisiana brasserie with all the comforts of New Orleans, just a little closer to home,” Maple Tree Inn is a Chicago Southland staple. Last year, the restaurant celebrated its 50th anniversary, and it’s no mystery why generations of diners keep coming back for more. Fried green tomatoes, oysters and fried chicken are just a few options on this menu alongside classics such as jambalaya, gumbo and étouffée.

Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar (4029 167th Street, Country Club Hills & 4949 Cal Sag Road, Crestwood) – Taking inspiration from traditions born in the South, Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar has two Chicago Southland-area locations. Take advantage of a classic seafood boil by choosing your “catch,” such as crawfish, lobster or king crab legs, followed by your choice of sauce, spice level and sides. Diners can also enjoy po’boys, wings and pasta. 

Hidden Manna Cafe (3613 216th Street, Matteson) – In addition to traditional lunch and dinner options, Hidden Manna Cafe goes the extra mile with Southern-inspired breakfasts like bananas foster French toast and butter pecan pancakes, just to name a couple. For lunch or dinner, try the Cajun mac and cheese or the Creole catfish. And don’t forget dessert! Finish up with a slice of peach cobbler or carrot cake.

Tillys PoBoys (1455 Ring Road, Calumet City) - Tillys PoBoys serves up hearty, New Orleans–style sandwiches packed with bold flavors and made to order. Known for its generous portions and welcoming, down-to-earth vibe, it’s a local favorite for comfort food done right.