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Welcome to The Good Life Soul Food Cafe

At The Good Life Soul Food Cafe, located in the heart of Chicago, we celebrate the rich traditions of soul food with a commitment to community and quality. Our story is one of love, flavor, and empowerment, as we actively involve local youth in our operations. Patrons rave about our hearty portions and standout dishes like smothered pork chops and collard greens, crafted with soul and care. With a welcoming atmosphere that caters to families and groups, we offer a variety of vegetarian options and convenient services, including delivery and takeout. Join us for a taste of home-style cooking that feeds both body and spirit!

The Good Life Soul Food Cafe: Reviews & Ratings

Daniela H.
Daniela H.

The food is consistent and the mission of this place is commendable. Too often the plight of the youth on the south side is spoken about without consequence. It is refreshing to see action being taken to invest in the next generation. Any given day you will see high school student both serving and assisting in the back. Hats off to the Good Life Cafe!

Tray Y.
Tray Y.

The food is excellent and the staff has great customer service The Mac and cheese is delicious. The greens are perfect.

Scott L.
Scott L.

The food here is amazing! This is a place where you have to order the same thing twice because you definitely would not want to share. The portions are huge and can be easily spread out for two or three days and at a very reasonable price. I ordered the smothered pork chop that didn't need a knife to cut it. I wish I knew how they made it so tender.

Rosa B.
Rosa B.

So good.. I come here every few days and it is always so good.. The meatloaf, smothered pork chops are there sides the pot roast on Sundays it is just like home

Ava W.
Ava W.

It was a Saturday afternoon and I was heading home from visiting a friend in Chicago and I was in the mood for some good down home cooking and the Good Life Cafe was suggested by my sister. We ordered the jerk chicken, baked chicken, spaghetti collard greens and yams. Everything I tasted was seasoned well and delicious but the star of this show was the collard greens, candied yams and baked bone in chicken. Cornbread muffins came with the order and that cornbread was devoured instantly it was exceptional! I ordered my food to go because the inside of the restaurant was nothing to write home about so I kept it moving. They could improve on their customer service skills because when I sampled the food and asked for a spoon she pointed at the counter instead of communicating to me that they were on the other counter. I'm returning to try the fried catfish it wasn't on the menu at the time I ordered. Overall great food at a reasonable price.

Location

Welcome to The Good Life Soul Food Cafe, a hidden gem nestled at 11226 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL. This establishment takes pride in serving hearty soul food that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. With a focus on breakfast and brunch, their menu is crafted to satisfy your cravings and bring comfort to your soul.

This café stands out not only for its delicious offerings but also for its commitment to the community. Regular patrons often notice high school students hard at work, gaining valuable experience while contributing to a great cause—an initiative that strengthens the local youth and community. It's a rare blend of good food and a meaningful mission.

The Good Life Soul Food Cafe offers a wide variety of dishes that cater to everyone—whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian. The menu** highlights include:

  • Meatloaf - A classic comfort dish for just $14.99
  • Baked Chicken - Succulent and available in white or dark meat for $13.99
  • Jerk Chicken - A flavorful option that brings the heat for $15.99
  • Smothered Pork Chops - Tender and juicy, available for $14.99
  • Smothered Chicken - A dish that melts in your mouth, priced at $14.99

Each meal comes with options for sides such as luscious Macaroni Cheese, fragrant Greens, and sweet Candied Yams, all priced reasonably. Desserts such as Banana Pudding and Peach Cobbler provide the perfect ending to your meal for those with a sweet tooth.

Customers rave about the high-quality food at The Good Life. As one patron, Scott L., aptly stated, "The food here is amazing!" and emphasized the generous portions that can easily feed two or more. Rosa B. echoed this sentiment, saying she frequents the café because every dish “is just like home.”

While the food shines, the café does have room for improvement in customer service. Several reviews noted the need for better communication from staff, but the overall quality of the meals makes up for any minor service snags. It’s clear that the culinary experience at The Good Life outweighs these occasional hiccups.

With options ranging from outdoor seating to delivery and takeout, The Good Life Soul Food Cafe is versatile and convenient. It's an excellent choice for families, casual get-togethers, or a delightful brunch with friends. Plus, with happy hour specials and vegetarian options, there truly is something for everyone.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, make it a point to stop by The Good Life Soul Food Cafe. Indulge in their mouth-watering dishes and enjoy a dining experience that warms not just your stomach, but your heart.