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I found this place off Tik Tok it was highly suggested especially since Keith Lee visited. This location is tiny it's really an order and go spot. I ordered and waited about 35 minutes for my food to be ready. The fried chicken was really delicious but nothing special. The catfish I've had much better and it tasted like the grease was bad. Candied yams were just okay, and the Mac was just ok. Definitely hyped up because of social media but worth the try to support a black owned business:
Customer service was amazing... Walked in and got seated.. Dining area is small so first come first serve... Put my order in and it came out like 15 mins or so.. I ordered much food, really good and big portions.. Black owned establishment.. I really enjoyed it so much! Had this for lunch and i was full for the rest of the day.
Stopped by Cleo's! This was a great soul food restaurant. Definitely have to go if you were in the area. We tried the Keith Lee special and the Mac & Cheese. The Mac & Cheese was fire! The fish and yams were amazing too. Service was good! The lady who took our order was really nice. It's small inside so be prepared to wait (possibly outside) depending on how crowded. We went at lunch time so it got super busy!
Rolled up to Cleo's on a business road trip to Chicago because apparently, every cool spot gets its 15 minutes of social media fame, and Cleo's is basically Beyoncé right now. First things first: if you're driving in Chicago, you'd better bring the patience of a saint and the parking skills of a stunt driver. Trust me, I circled that block more times than a confused pigeon (and I consider myself a pro). If you fear parallel parking (or value your sanity), just park in Indiana, call a rideshare, or hop a train and walk. Your blood pressure will thank you. Once inside, I realized this place is cozier than my grandma's living room, just a few tables, but carry-out orders were flying out like they were giving away free Beyoncé tickets. For a second, I thought I was in the middle of a Black Friday sale. LOL! The menu? Absolutely overwhelming. I stared at it like I was trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. Eventually, a super-friendly guy at the counter took pity on me and offered up some stellar recommendations. Pro tip: if you're hunting for a bargain, this isn't your spot, honey! But let me tell you, the portions are generous enough to feed a small army. I had leftovers for my drive home, dinner, and a midnight snack. (Confession: I eat like a bird, so your mileage may vary.) And the food? Seasoned like someone's auntie was back there blessing each dish. That mac and cheese had a cheese pull worthy of a slow motion replay. I'll absolutely be back for more soul food on my next Chicago adventure. My only wish? A meal with just one piece of fish and two sides. But hey, with a menu full of a la carte options, you can basically live your best "choose your own adventure" life. Bottom line: Cleo's is a vibe, the staff is as warm as fresh cornbread, and if you haven't been, what are you waiting for? Go treat yourself!
There's a few locations. This one was small and there was a wait because there was limited seating. I really enjoyed the catfish.
Tried Cleo's while visiting Chicago and really enjoyed it overall. I had the catfish, yams, mac and cheese, and a cornbread muffin. Everything was flavorful. The catfish was a little on the salty side, but still enjoyable. Service was good. Seating was very limited, so I took it back to my hotel. Solid 4/5.
Last time I was in Chicago I went to Cleo's and the food was very good. The place was really busy for the late lunch rush. The atmosphere was great. The staff in the back were singing along to the music which made the atmosphere really fun. The catfish was good. The chicken wings were good and cornbread with the honey on. It was really tasty. Definitely go back next time. I'm in Chicago.
9.5/10!!! BEST CATFISH no debate, and I'm not just talking in Chicago, I mean period! I'm born and raised in North Carolina and I've never had catfish this good!!! Not even at the family reunion. I should've known this would be my favorite stop in the city this visit when I saw the yams had pineapple in them, and they didn't disappoint. The yams were YAMMIN, with the perfect texture, sweetness, and syrup ratio. My Lord I should've saved some for the flight home. I had the Shanikky which came with a good portion of fish, crab, and chicken, enough to take back to the hotel. The breading of the wings had a great flavor but I don't feel like the seasonings translated all the way through to the meat in my opinion. I also left with a bottle of the Mississippi Sunshine and it was the perfect pairing with the comfort food. Every trip to Chicago going forward has to include some Cleo yams, mandatory. If you're looking for some southern comfort inside the The Loop please do yourself a favor and check out Cleo's.
Wonderful customer service, the restaurant was small but quaint. The food was outstanding! I'm from another state and the catfish was some of the best I'd ever had. All of the dishes were delicious.
Alright so boom! I get off the plane, take the train check into my hotel and come straight here after.... Anddd baby let me tell you this place didn't miss! We ordered "the 10" and the "Fly over" with a "Mississippi sunshine" for the drink, with a side of mac and cheese! They have three tables and a total of 7 chairs for them. There's also a high top area with bar stools for sitting as well, this is not a place for large parties.. it's really more like a grab and go or sit and lunch type deal. They do play music along with the music videos on the TV.. it gave me that 200's nostalgia and mainly because the songs were 90's - mid 2000's! The service was perfect, they were very nice and friendly and helpful with the menu of needed. The 10 was good. I'm not a fan of candied sweet potatoes, but that wasn't bad either.. The fly over had some crunchy fish and chicken.. I'm honestly not sure of what's in the sauce on the corn bread but that mf was good.. I'm not sure what they fry their catfish in, being from New Orleans I'm use to the corn meal fish fry. But this wasn't bad. It was a lil too salty for me though but I was able to push through. The drink is huge and big enough to share if needed. The Mac and cheese wasn't bad but I was looking for more flavor and for it to have a cheese pull. Overall the best thing I had was that mfn cornbread! I wouldn't say they have the BEST CATFISH. But it wasn't bad.
The mural on the wall says "Taste the Hype". I'm so glad that I did, as it definitely lived up to its reputation. I visited the location in the loop and they first impressed me with their transparency. I called in my order on a Thursday around 3:45pm and they said it would be ready at 4:30pm. I had to make sure that I heard them correctly, but this tells me that the food is fresh and the restaurant is busy. My order was ready right on time. There are 3 tables and some stools at the window if you choose to dine-in (no restroom). I ordered the "Ten" meal. 5 (maybe 6) pieces of catfish, pineapple sweet potatoes and cornbread. I also added my own side of Mac n cheese. CATFISH - Pieces were very generously sized. Fried crispy to perfection. I had to really think about this, but it was the best catfish I have ever tasted. It's a little spicy, but fortunately I like spice. My wife ate it cold and raved about it. My mother-in-law also said that this was some of the best fish she has ever tasted. Finally, my kids had some the next afternoon and also raved about it. This fish is special. SWEET POTATOES - Also amazing although I didn't taste the pineapple flavor. It was most likely a glaze that was mixed in with the potatoes. CORNBREAD - I loved it. It's glazed with Cleo's 24 karat good sauce. I'm glad that I purchased extra. MAC N CHEESE - I will give an 8 out of 10. It was definitely above average. Cleo's was great and I will definitely return when in Chicago. Can't wait to try more selections and get this delicious catfish again.
Well I can confirm the reputation for this place is well deserved! A New Yorker was the first person to place Cleo's on my radar as he raved about the awesome soul food here! Said it was some of the best he's had! I was like ok, let me order via DoorDash and see whats up. Food was really good as I got the classic creole fried 6 wings, mac & cheese, and pineapple candied sweet potatoes along with the corn muffin dipped in 24 carat gold sauce! While it was good ordered, I knew the true test would be to show up in person to try. Came by last week to see if it was even better in person! The restaurant itself isnt the biggest as it has about 4 dining tables and the rest is window seating which seats about 6. You can of course order and pickup. I ran back my doordash order from months prior, but was convinced by the young lady at the counter I should add on Mississippi Sunshine sweet tea. She was right...drink was very good and a nice size. The seasoning on the wings is very much on point and some of the best I've had! Mac & Cheese and sweet potatoes are a must and goes well with the wings. That muffin is something else! Woooo! I joked with the staff that everything was made with crack as everything I ate/drank is addictive. Staff is very nice and attentive! You can tell they take pleasure in providing a great experience at Cleo's
FOOD IS 10/10. probably the best catfish I've had in my life and I'm from Louisiana! That sweet sauce set it off!!! The sides were perfection. The cornbread was moist like cake. I loved it!!! Service was good. We accidentally walked in 4 minutes before opening and they made us go back outside lol. It's fine, it was just freezing outside and we took an Uber here. It's cramped in here. So be prepared to be squished!! Not a place for large groups in my opinion. Took some time for the food to come out but well worth it. Honestly the food makes up for everything!! I would 10/10 recommend and I'm definitely stopping by again next time I'm in Chicago.
Ordered on Grubhub and was quoted a 55 min wait, but it was already ready when I got there 20 minutes early. They had no customers on a Tuesday at lunchtime, which was surprising. The fish and wings were room temp so I had to reheat them. The wings had a nice layer of breading with Creole seasoning that seeped into the chicken. 7/10. Catfish had a nice crust with flavorful seasoning while staying soft inside. 7/10. Solid fried chicken and fish, and I'm glad they weren't soggy, but they could've been crispier. The muffin was soft with a cupcake-like texture and the honey on top was perfect. 7/10. The hot honey was on point and reminded me of the hot honey from Atlanta wing spots. 9/10. read more
3 months ago
Everything we tried was an absolute hit! I loved the Flyover, it had a little bit of everything. Fried catfish, fried chicken wings, and the catfish was topped with lobster. Plus the cornbread and a side of Mac (added) . My husband got the hot honey chicken sandwich and he was not disappointed. We'll definitely be back again soon! read more
Walked past this today and ended up picking it up for a late lunch because I've always wanted to try it (thank you Keith Lee) They have a few tables so you could eat there, but this is definitely a takeout type place. They were playing this really static filled the TV and I have no idea how they can work with that in the background all day lol But the service was friendly and kind! We tried the hot honey, chicken sandwich, waffle, fries, mac & cheese, and the chicken tenders with the corn muffin. OK, first of all, the mac & cheese is outstanding?? Genuinely so flavorful and had that great crispy cheese char on top- loved it. I would go back just for that. The cornbread??? I don't know what they are putting on top of that, but they are absolutely drenching it in some insanely good honey?? I could swim in it and I want it again The chicken tenders were super flavorful and very well seasoned. Everything here is really well seasoned OK you can tell that this isn't made by white people lol. The meat was really tender, and the outside was crispy. I didn't have the sandwich, but it looked tasty and very spicy. The waffle fries were fine, but honestly a skip. Overall, really glad I tried it! I can see why people love it and I'm excited to check out the Lakeview location! read more
I found this place off Tik Tok it was highly suggested especially since Keith Lee visited. This location is tiny it's really an order and go spot. I ordered and waited about 35 minutes for my food to be ready. The fried chicken was really delicious but nothing special. The catfish I've had much better and it tasted like the grease was bad. Candied yams were just okay, and the Mac was just ok. Definitely hyped up because of social media but worth the try to support a black owned business: read more
3 months ago
Customer service was amazing... Walked in and got seated.. Dining area is small so first come first serve... Put my order in and it came out like 15 mins or so.. I ordered much food, really good and big portions.. Black owned establishment.. I really enjoyed it so much! Had this for lunch and i was full for the rest of the day. read more
6 months ago
Stopped by Cleo's! This was a great soul food restaurant. Definitely have to go if you were in the area. We tried the Keith Lee special and the Mac & Cheese. The Mac & Cheese was fire! The fish and yams were amazing too. Service was good! The lady who took our order was really nice. It's small inside so be prepared to wait (possibly outside) depending on how crowded. We went at lunch time so it got super busy! read more
Rolled up to Cleo's on a business road trip to Chicago because apparently, every cool spot gets its 15 minutes of social media fame, and Cleo's is basically Beyoncé right now. First things first: if you're driving in Chicago, you'd better bring the patience of a saint and the parking skills of a stunt driver. Trust me, I circled that block more times than a confused pigeon (and I consider myself a pro). If you fear parallel parking (or value your sanity), just park in Indiana, call a rideshare, or hop a train and walk. Your blood pressure will thank you. Once inside, I realized this place is cozier than my grandma's living room, just a few tables, but carry-out orders were flying out like they were giving away free Beyoncé tickets. For a second, I thought I was in the middle of a Black Friday sale. LOL! The menu? Absolutely overwhelming. I stared at it like I was trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. Eventually, a super-friendly guy at the counter took pity on me and offered up some stellar recommendations. Pro tip: if you're hunting for a bargain, this isn't your spot, honey! But let me tell you, the portions are generous enough to feed a small army. I had leftovers for my drive home, dinner, and a midnight snack. (Confession: I eat like a bird, so your mileage may vary.) And the food? Seasoned like someone's auntie was back there blessing each dish. That mac and cheese had a cheese pull worthy of a slow motion replay. I'll absolutely be back for more soul food on my next Chicago adventure. My only wish? A meal with just one piece of fish and two sides. But hey, with a menu full of a la carte options, you can basically live your best "choose your own adventure" life. Bottom line: Cleo's is a vibe, the staff is as warm as fresh cornbread, and if you haven't been, what are you waiting for? Go treat yourself! read more
2 months ago
Tried Cleo's while visiting Chicago and really enjoyed it overall. I had the catfish, yams, mac and cheese, and a cornbread muffin. Everything was flavorful. The catfish was a little on the salty side, but still enjoyable. Service was good. Seating was very limited, so I took it back to my hotel. Solid 4/5. read more
2 months ago
Last time I was in Chicago I went to Cleo's and the food was very good. The place was really busy for the late lunch rush. The atmosphere was great. The staff in the back were singing along to the music which made the atmosphere really fun. The catfish was good. The chicken wings were good and cornbread with the honey on. It was really tasty. Definitely go back next time. I'm in Chicago. read more
9.5/10!!! BEST CATFISH no debate, and I'm not just talking in Chicago, I mean period! I'm born and raised in North Carolina and I've never had catfish this good!!! Not even at the family reunion. I should've known this would be my favorite stop in the city this visit when I saw the yams had pineapple in them, and they didn't disappoint. The yams were YAMMIN, with the perfect texture, sweetness, and syrup ratio. My Lord I should've saved some for the flight home. I had the Shanikky which came with a good portion of fish, crab, and chicken, enough to take back to the hotel. The breading of the wings had a great flavor but I don't feel like the seasonings translated all the way through to the meat in my opinion. I also left with a bottle of the Mississippi Sunshine and it was the perfect pairing with the comfort food. Every trip to Chicago going forward has to include some Cleo yams, mandatory. If you're looking for some southern comfort inside the The Loop please do yourself a favor and check out Cleo's. read more
11 months ago
Alright so boom! I get off the plane, take the train check into my hotel and come straight here after.... Anddd baby let me tell you this place didn't miss! We ordered "the 10" and the "Fly over" with a "Mississippi sunshine" for the drink, with a side of mac and cheese! They have three tables and a total of 7 chairs for them. There's also a high top area with bar stools for sitting as well, this is not a place for large parties.. it's really more like a grab and go or sit and lunch type deal. They do play music along with the music videos on the TV.. it gave me that 200's nostalgia and mainly because the songs were 90's - mid 2000's! The service was perfect, they were very nice and friendly and helpful with the menu of needed. The 10 was good. I'm not a fan of candied sweet potatoes, but that wasn't bad either.. The fly over had some crunchy fish and chicken.. I'm honestly not sure of what's in the sauce on the corn bread but that mf was good.. I'm not sure what they fry their catfish in, being from New Orleans I'm use to the corn meal fish fry. But this wasn't bad. It was a lil too salty for me though but I was able to push through. The drink is huge and big enough to share if needed. The Mac and cheese wasn't bad but I was looking for more flavor and for it to have a cheese pull. Overall the best thing I had was that mfn cornbread! I wouldn't say they have the BEST CATFISH. But it wasn't bad. read more
11 months ago
The mural on the wall says "Taste the Hype". I'm so glad that I did, as it definitely lived up to its reputation. I visited the location in the loop and they first impressed me with their transparency. I called in my order on a Thursday around 3:45pm and they said it would be ready at 4:30pm. I had to make sure that I heard them correctly, but this tells me that the food is fresh and the restaurant is busy. My order was ready right on time. There are 3 tables and some stools at the window if you choose to dine-in (no restroom). I ordered the "Ten" meal. 5 (maybe 6) pieces of catfish, pineapple sweet potatoes and cornbread. I also added my own side of Mac n cheese. CATFISH - Pieces were very generously sized. Fried crispy to perfection. I had to really think about this, but it was the best catfish I have ever tasted. It's a little spicy, but fortunately I like spice. My wife ate it cold and raved about it. My mother-in-law also said that this was some of the best fish she has ever tasted. Finally, my kids had some the next afternoon and also raved about it. This fish is special. SWEET POTATOES - Also amazing although I didn't taste the pineapple flavor. It was most likely a glaze that was mixed in with the potatoes. CORNBREAD - I loved it. It's glazed with Cleo's 24 karat good sauce. I'm glad that I purchased extra. MAC N CHEESE - I will give an 8 out of 10. It was definitely above average. Cleo's was great and I will definitely return when in Chicago. Can't wait to try more selections and get this delicious catfish again. read more
Well I can confirm the reputation for this place is well deserved! A New Yorker was the first person to place Cleo's on my radar as he raved about the awesome soul food here! Said it was some of the best he's had! I was like ok, let me order via DoorDash and see whats up. Food was really good as I got the classic creole fried 6 wings, mac & cheese, and pineapple candied sweet potatoes along with the corn muffin dipped in 24 carat gold sauce! While it was good ordered, I knew the true test would be to show up in person to try. Came by last week to see if it was even better in person! The restaurant itself isnt the biggest as it has about 4 dining tables and the rest is window seating which seats about 6. You can of course order and pickup. I ran back my doordash order from months prior, but was convinced by the young lady at the counter I should add on Mississippi Sunshine sweet tea. She was right...drink was very good and a nice size. The seasoning on the wings is very much on point and some of the best I've had! Mac & Cheese and sweet potatoes are a must and goes well with the wings. That muffin is something else! Woooo! I joked with the staff that everything was made with crack as everything I ate/drank is addictive. Staff is very nice and attentive! You can tell they take pleasure in providing a great experience at Cleo's read more
FOOD IS 10/10. probably the best catfish I've had in my life and I'm from Louisiana! That sweet sauce set it off!!! The sides were perfection. The cornbread was moist like cake. I loved it!!! Service was good. We accidentally walked in 4 minutes before opening and they made us go back outside lol. It's fine, it was just freezing outside and we took an Uber here. It's cramped in here. So be prepared to be squished!! Not a place for large groups in my opinion. Took some time for the food to come out but well worth it. Honestly the food makes up for everything!! I would 10/10 recommend and I'm definitely stopping by again next time I'm in Chicago. read more
I tried Cleos based on viral reviews online. I ordered online and it was ready upon arrival. Parking in the area is not likely from what I saw. I got the Shanikky with catchfish ,crab, cornbread and chicken wings. I also got a side of mac and cheese. The fish was really salty and I didnt enjoy it to be honest. Its probably not the norm, but mine was just way too heavily salted. The chicken, muffin and mac were delicious though! My favorite was the chicken and corn muffin. I would go back for sure though read more
1 year ago
While visiting Chicago, I wanted to try Cleo's based on Keith Lee's review. The location in The Loop is small, so plan accordingly. I am a Southerner through and through who knows soul food from some of the best cooks you'll never get to experience unless you're invited into their home. Keep this in mind with my review. I don't have a "love" section for this one. Like: catfish (seasoned well; fresh, cooked to order; didn't come with a dipping sauce) candied sweet potatoes (not as sweet as everyone described; love the pineapples); mac & cheese (not as creamy as I liked but fine); muffin (crumbly, moist, topped with a glaze) read more
7 months ago
Probably my favorite place to grab lunch on a longer lunch break in the Loop! Service takes a while, but when the food comes out, it's absolutely worth it. Everything fried to perfection. Both the fried chicken and fried catfish are so crispy, so flavorful. Pieces are substantial and make sure to get sauce (which is extra). The Hot Honey sauce is phenomenal and pairs so well with the catfish. Seating is limited in the shop, but we've always been able to find a spot during lunch. read more
I decided to try Cleo's Southern Cuisine , which has been highlighted a lot through Tik Tok and food critic Keith Lee . Let me just say, he did not miss with this ! Soul food and great customer service. Everything was seasoned just right, and the pineapple sweet potatoes . So good ! I highly recommend this place read more
Service was great, everyone behind the counter was welcoming and friendly. I've read comments that the staff was singing and not "working" but everyone I observed was in motion! Why not 5 stars? The wait. We just happened to walk by so decided to order food, clearly everyone else already knew to order ahead so that was my bad. We waited 60 minutes at peak lunch time for food, which is not unheard of but typically at a more traditional restaurant you at least get some bread or crackers or something small to nibble on. Also, no public restrooms (even dine in customers). Not a big deal but as a mid-40s female, I need to plan these things out lol. Food was great, my friend and I shared the Flyover and a side of fries. I would definitely go again if in the area but would order ahead! read more
1 year ago
A black owned soul food establishment in Chicago. This food hit on ALL CYLINDERS and left no crumbs... literally and figuratively. This place was featured by Kieth Lee Food Reviews. He gave it high marks. I give it 10 across the board. This is what we shared: Honey Butter Glazed cornbread muffin: 10 Light, fluffy, sweet, buttery, unique buttery honey glaze on top Float and Fly catfish and chicken wing combo: 10 Arguably the best catfish I have ever had or at least top 2... besides my own..soooo flavorful, fried to perfection, juicy I tried two sauces with the fish and chicken : a hot sauce base and a butter based sauce. I preferred the hot sauce base. I should have inquired about a tartar sauce or roumelade sauce. Pineapple candies sweet potatoes: 10 The pineapples add such a unique twist and flavor elevation to this southern dish. Well seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, butter... sweet and packs a punch. The pineapple actually balances the sweetness out. I am going to have to try this method the next time I make candy yams. Crab Mac and cheese: 10 My favorite! I am a Mac and cheese connoisseur. They do have traditional but why be basic when it can be elevated... the crab is so plump and juicy. They don't skimp on it. The crab paired with the creamy, gooey, cheesy, definitely a béchamel sauce and not basic melted velveeta paired with perfectly baked pasta is such a decadent treat. Purple Rain drink: 10 I have not had kool aid in soooooo many years. This is not the regular one... it is an elevated sophisticated version with lemon, cane sugar, and other minimal ingredients. I really enjoyed this cool refreshment with the meal. There is also an elevated tea as well. Waffle fries: 8 Crispy, tender on the inside, well seasoned. read more
2 months ago
1 year ago
This place is a hidden gem!!! I'm soooo happy I went there!!! The best soul food on the planet!!! ( No they do not sell ribs!!) My friend had The Ten mac and cheese he never looked up!!!! Just keep giving me thumbs up!!! lol it looked delicious I had the crab over catfish and I swear it changed my life lol for the better it was sooo seasoned you don't need hot sauce tartar nothing!! Served hot!! read more
1 year ago
Don't walk... RUN!! We went while there for Beyonce in May and they were packed (it's pretty small) but we were able to have a seat and the wait wasn't crazy (45 mins). Trust, it was worth it! Fish fried to perfection! Sides were soooo good! I even took some fish fry home and have been using it to fry fish, shrimp, and fried green tomatoes. At home I do cut it with corn meal as it's a little spicy for me. Give this place a try! read more
8 months ago
Stopped by this spot to try it with a friend from out of town and I was impressed! First of all, the service was amazing -- the workers were kind, helpful, and it wasn't too bad of a wait. It's such a cute, dainty spot with not too much sit down space -- but that doesn't change anything about the flow of business. Now let's get to the good part: the food! I personally had the creole crab mac and cheese -- something I've never tried before and don't regret giving a chance! The meat was flavorful and so was the macaroni. They actually complimented each other well, and were even delicious when warmed up the next day. The chicken tenders were seasoned and fried to a crisp of perfection!!! So juicy and good, I almost ate them all even though they weren't mine lol. I didn't personally have the sweet potatoes, but I was told that they were good, even though the sweetness was different and nothing like what was expected. Overall, I enjoyed this spot and I can't wait to visit their other location. read more
WOULD DEFINITELY recommend. Decided to stop by after a long day of studying and grab me up a plate after hearing the hype behind this place. Upon entry, the servers were welcoming despite how busy they with many people waiting on their food. The inside isn't too big so if you have a big party I suggest ordering take out. I ordered the Float and Fly (Keith Lee Fav) with side of Spicy Bourbon sauce, recommended by the cashier. I was hoping to get a side of mac & cheese with the order but unfortunately it was a 45 min wait and I was pretty inpatient at the moment. Either way, after I placed my order, the food took about 20-25 mins, which isn't bad for authentic quality food. Immediately upon opening the box, the aroma filled the vicinity, as the catfish and chicken weren't over seasoned, but seasoned just right. I am not a fried catfish type of person but when I tell you I was salivating over the catfish, I am serious. Not to exaggerate, but I see why this food has such high ratings, it is probably the best soul food fried chicken that I have ever tasted. It was hot, tender with the skin falling right off the bone, paired with a spicy bourbon sauce. The fried catfish was amazing as well, seasoned to perfection with tenderness filling every bite. Lastly, that cornbread was soft and glazed, which is the opposite at some other soul food spots that be hard and dry. Overall, I am glad that I believed the hype and decided to give them a try. If you are around the Loop and is looking for a nice plate to compliment the great day you are having, definitely stop by. I just wish the Mac & Cheese didn't take so long, I reckon that it would be just as good as everything else. Also wish that they had collared greens as well, that would make this place even more perfect. read more
6 months ago
2 years ago
I think I want to write a love letter to the food that I had from Cleo's because it was just that good! The creole flair to added to the soul food goodness is just chefs kiss! First of all - PREPARE TO WAIT BECAUSE ITS COOKED TO ORDER. If you want food that's been sitting out all day just say det!!! I tried "The Flyover" which came with three catfish fillets along with three wings, both creole fried! And the catfish fillets came with a creole buttered lump crab on top and it was REAL LUMP CRAB MEAT; not imitation! From the way the meat was seasoned, it only makes sense that it's now a proprietary blend. The 24k gold muffin was GOOD!!! It was as shiny as my mom used to make my face with Vaseline when I was 7! But that sauce is literally like liquid gold; it's so delicious and you can get a side of it. That purple rain drink was too!!! If this spot has been on your list to visit, hurry up and make that trip and tell em that Bri from Planes and Plates sent you! Enjoy! read more
2 years ago
10/10, someone's grandma from the south had to be back there cooking up those recipes!!! The hype is deserved. We dined in, so our wait was 45 mins. I would suggest calling ahead or placing an order for pick up if you don't have time. I went to the one on Cottage, it's nice and homey inside. It's a few places to sit and enjoy, but I think most people grab and go. Good food and good service, they'll be seeing me again. read more
2 years ago
The staff are top notch! They work well together and under pressure they still give smiles, while preparing delicious cooked to order food. Bring your patience, they are a small family business that is still overwhelmed by Keith Lee's visit. The staff do a stellar job hustling, so be kind and thank them when you go. Good to know: Precedence is given to in person orders, so take a stroll and order in the store. #OldSchoolPracticesF When the orders are at extreme wait times they will pause receiving orders to allow them to catch up. They do a wonderful job updating the crowd and keeping calm in the storm. Float and Fly Everything was fried perfectly and seasoned well. Plenty of food. #ThisFeedsMySoulStatusConferred You just visit as everything was absolutely delicious. Totally worth the wait! read more
2 months ago
8 months ago
I was on a work trip from LA and Ive been meaning to trying this place for a while. First off all the service was amazing, employees were attentive and helpful if you are indecisive. I got the float and fly which was the wing and fish plate, it was seasoned beautifully. Chicken was crispy and not dry at all. Fish was flavorful and moist, with great texture. The Mac and cheese was okay to me I can do with or without it. Now... the pineapple candied yams were delicious! Funny thing is that I hate pineapple and yet I decided to try it and so glad I did. They weren't too sweet, perfect bite to them and wasnt too much liquid in them if thats what your prefer. They played some good music while you wait for your meal. Seating was limited, but mostly people took to go. I prefer a smaller restaurant setting, it gives off a comfortable type of vibe. read more
I heard about Cleo's from my partner who heard about it from Keith Lee on TikTok. It's the famed 10/10 given by Keith, so it was a big deal. Well, I feel extremely lucky this is in Chicago because after eating it once I think I can't live without more of it!! We got the Float and Fly which was fried catfish and chicken wings. My first bite into the catfish made me transcend a little bit. The perfect fry and seasoning in the batter was not something I've ever had with fried catfish before. That was seriously a 10/10. The fried chicken wings were equally as good and beautifully crispy without being hard and dense. We also got the Creole Crab Mac and Cheese which was divine. It was PACKED full with crab meat and the flavors were savory and delicious but not overly rich. Finally, the 24-Karat Muffins. They have the most delicious glaze on top and the muffin was so moist and tasty. The glaze was sweet and golden and tasted strongly of butter and sugar, like a light and thinner caramel sauce. These were so good, we had 3 with our meal and then I got 2 more to go (and immediately ate one when I got home). Seriously some of the best food you can get in the Loop and maybe in the wider Chicago area too. The restaurant is pretty small but had tables and counter seating along the window. Most orders seemed to be for to go and they had a constant stream of orders coming in. There's no bathroom, just something to keep in mind. read more
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Cleo’s - southern - Updated September 2026
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