Best Modern Southern American Restaurants in Gold Coast / Streeterville

My recent visit to this celebrated establishment was nothing short of exceptional, from the food to the service and overall ambiance. From the moment we were seated, the hospitality was evident. Our waiter was a standout—a consummate professional who exuded warmth and friendliness. He not only made us feel at home but also demonstrated an impressive knowledge of the menu, offering recommendations that turned out to be some of the best dishes of the evening. His attention to detail and genuine enthusiasm elevated our dining experience, setting a high bar for service. We began our meal with three outstanding appetizers. The biscuits with pimento cheese were a revelation—flaky, buttery, and paired perfectly with the creamy, tangy cheese spread. The salad with crispy pig ears was a bold and delightful contrast of textures, combining the crunch of the pig ears with the freshness of greens. The chicken liver pâté was rich, velvety, and perfectly complemented by its accompanying garnishes. Each dish demonstrated a balance of flavors and a deep respect for traditional Southern ingredients. For our main courses, we chose a variety of dishes to sample the breadth of Virtue’s offerings. The salmon was cooked to perfection, its flaky texture enhanced by a flavorful glaze. The short ribs were tender beyond belief, practically melting in the mouth and paired with sides that accentuated their richness. Finally, the fish and grits was a standout—a creamy, comforting dish that showcased the restaurant’s ability to elevate a Southern staple. We couldn’t resist sampling Virtue’s desserts, and we were so glad we did. The banana pudding was a nostalgic treat, executed with a refined twist that elevated this Southern staple. Meanwhile, the red velvet cake was everything you want from this classic dessert—moist, flavorful, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. A very special shoutout to Chef Damarr of Top Chef fame who stopped by our table to chat briefly.

Our Server was AMAZING! 10/10! He was a pleasure as well as the energy of the entire restaurant was highly enjoyable!

Highly recommend for brunch...creative comfort foods, fresh and delicious! We all loved our meals and the service was lovely and we were not rushed.

Everything we had was amazing. The lamb chops were seasoned perfectly. The greens, creamed corn, and yams were some of the best I have ever tasted. The fried chicken was crispy and juicy on the inside. The best soul food meal I have had out in a while. Service was great too!