Josephine's Southern Cooking, nestled at 436 E 79th St in Chicago, has quickly captured the hearts—and appetites—of locals and visitors alike. A beloved staple in the soul food scene, this restaurant blends nostalgia with modern charm, boasting a retro bistro aesthetic that appeals to both traditional and contemporary sensibilities. The menu is a celebration of classic Southern fare, featuring dishes like the signature Chicken and Waffles and baked chicken, all executed with astonishing authenticity. Patrons rave about the fried chicken, likening it to their grandmother’s home-cooked meals—the highest compliment one can pay in the realm of comfort food. The breakfast offerings, such as the Belgium Waffle with strawberry toppings and Catfish Steak with grits, promise a delightful start to the day, available until 2 PM. The reviews highlight not just the culinary excellence but also the warm, welcoming atmosphere, with many customers noting the friendly staff and the inviting environment that has stood the test of time. Whether indulging in a peach cobbler for dessert or enjoying the buffet-style dining on one side of the establishment, Josephine's Southern Cooking is not just a meal; it's a cherished experience reflecting the rich tapestry of Southern culinary tradition. If you find yourself in the area, this gem is not to be missed!
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Serves great dessert
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Planning
Brunch reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts cheques
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Josephine's Southern Cooking
Lyle Wilson
May 17,2025
Had a great experience today,facility remodeled retro bistro look new menue, food was excellent. Im going back to try everything on the menue.
Mary Datcher
May 11,2025
This restaurant is formerly known as Captain Hard Times and one of Chicago's oldest Soul food restaurants. Located on the Southside, the food is awesome! If you love real fried chicken, the way your Southern grandma prepares it, this spot is for you. They serve breakfast until 2pm and then the dinner menu kicks in. The restaurant side went through a make over so don't get turned off when you first enter the lobby part which is a flashback from the 1970's. Swing through the left door and into 2019. It's worth the visit!
Glenn Riggs
Apr 28,2025
I grew up in Chicago and this was one of my favorite restaurants in Chi-Town! It was Aretha Franklin's favorite too!
Stacey “Big Fella” Dials
Apr 21,2025
This place has awesome food ... it's a huge establishment with 2 separate sides. On 1 side its treated as a regular sit down restaurant. On the other side, it's buffet style. U can get the lunch buffet for 25.00 & get 2 plates of whatever they have that particular day or you can pay 40.00 & do all you can eat ... as I stated, the food is delicious & the staff super friendly ... they are a black owned & run establishment that's been there for 42 years. We're from Detroit Michigan & they made us very comfortable. If you're ever in the area, I HIGHLY recommend you go here
Shantai Roberson
Apr 12,2025
The food was delicious Hot and fresh. The gumbo was very delicious ...
Eriela Favors
Mar 28,2025
Happy Day it was at Captain's Hardtimes with coworkers from CHA Chicago Housing Authority. We celebrate lovely ladies birthday. Thanks for your joyous lovely hearts. Yet in all to hear how Mrs Josephine being blessed by our living God from other agency. Hallelujah Amen. The Food was delicious thanks Liz Elizabeth for taking our orders. Also the cake German Chocolate homemade from this blessed woman. We hope to see you all again staying before God in all things.
Cassandra Ray
Mar 22,2025
Last night after getting off work from working a very busy night as a server I went to experience a late night soul brunch, the French toast, gumbo, and the salmon croquettes were amazing. My server Demont was amazing and the chef was kind and sweet now I know why her food is so good.
Skyboxx Men's Spa, Incorporated
Feb 25,2025
Katrena is making waves with her new choice of menu options and they are Amazing. If you haven’t been I suggest you get there. I tried do b many things from the tomato basil soup, squash soup that was both savory and sweet, shrimp tacos on point, the salmon in the salmon and wild rice was cooked to perfection, the kale salad AHMAZINGGGG, and she will make you fall in love with Quinoa with her Quinoa salad. I’m going back for the Gumbo Grits. I can’t wait.
Reviews For Josephine's Southern Cooking