As usual, I enjoy searching for Black-owned restaurants and bars to frequent and this was a great addition to my list. I visited during a Saturday afternoon and was surprised with how empty it was. It was one other family that were in the middle of their meal so I was a little nervous. Luckily, the emptiness wasn't related to the quality of the food because it was good. The crawfish etouffee was well seasoned and had a bit of a kick to it if you enjoy spice. They do have a full service bar with cocktails; I ordered a mixed drink and while it tasted fine, I could hardly taste any alcohol in it. The service was also a bit slower than I'd imagine considering that it was empty when I dined. Despite those minor shortcomings, I enjoyed my dining and would keep it on my list of places to consider in the future. read more

Hidden Manna Cafe - Crawfish Etouffee - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Matteson, Illinois

We ordered lunch for pickup at Hidden Manna Cafe 3 of 4 in my party had catfish poboys with greens and beans and rice. They enjoyed the poboys and thought the fried green tomato on it was an interesting touch. I ordered the vegetarian jambalaya, fried green tomatoes, and fried buffalo mushroom. Overall, I feel like everything, I ordered, was lacking in seasoning. The fried green tomatoes were good with dipping sauce. The batter on the mushrooms were on the soggy side; they might do better to cut the mushrooms instead of serving them whole. The jambalaya was too soupy. Traditional jambalaya doesn't have a liquid/soup to it. The jambalaya was more like a veggie étouffée. I would visit again to try the vegetarian jambalaya and, maybe, have the fried green tomatoes again. read more

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Visited Hidden Manna with a party of nine and was pleasantly surprised by how smoothly the seating process went. We used the waitlist option and were seated promptly -- a huge plus when dining with a larger group. The staff was friendly and attentive, and you could tell they were working hard to make sure everyone had a good experience. The atmosphere gives off a warm, family-style vibe -- very laid-back and welcoming. It feels like a local spot where folks gather to enjoy a meal and good company. As for the food, it's advertised as Creole, but it leans more toward traditional soul food. The dishes were edible and satisfying, but not necessarily standout or rave-worthy. Everything we ordered was decent, but we've definitely had more memorable meals elsewhere. Still, it's a solid spot for comfort food if you're in the area. There's parking available, which is always a plus in the south suburbs. Can get crowded and looks like a local favorite--if you consider yourself a foodie that cooks and loves good cooks or from a family of good cooks maybe visited New Orleans on a food tour please lower the expectations and just go eat!! All in all, Hidden Manna is a nice place with great service and a chill atmosphere. While the food didn't blow us away, the hospitality and convenience made for a pleasant outing. read more

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I'm done. I've tried this place at least 3x's over several years, and each time I'm hopeful, and yet, each time im disappointed. I took my mom here for lunch yesterday, and after seeing some recent reviews, I thought things had improved, but yet again, i was disappointed and the food is still mid at best. My veggie omelet was greasy, hash browns were nothing special, pancakes were ok. Ordered the fried chicken wings for more protein, I only ate one as they lacked flavor and tasted old or like they were cooked in old grease. Mom had the perch plate. The fried fish was soggy, no crisp. The red beans and rice were really just bean paste over rice, and the flavor was odd, had me questioning whether they were spoiled. They offer 3 different cakes for dessert options, and they were all out of all 3!!! But besides the food, it was 83 degrees outside and they didn't have the air on. I asked about it and was told the air WAS on, but yet even their own staff was walking around fanning. It reached a point where the heat was unbearable and we left, I took absolutely nothing home. The only great thing about the experience was the staff, our server was super, duper friendly and I appreciated that, gave her a big tip. Yep, 3 strikes, I've learned my lesson, I won't be back. read more

I found out about this place on social media and decided to stop by while I was in the area. There was a minimal wait. You can scan the QR code at the door or near the entrance to add yourself to the waitlist. The food we entered was really good. The waitress was fantastic. She was the only waitress on staff this day and she handled the room with such grace. read more

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I was craving Fish & Grits with homestyle pancakes. I remembered Hidden Manna and realized I haven't been in years. So I went one afternoon and was 100% satisfied! The servicers were friendly and got our orders right. Since it was a weekday it wasn't crowded like the weekends lol. The pancakes were different than I remember, but were delicious like my grandma used to make with buttery fried crispy edges. The fish was clean, tender, crispy and well seasoned. The creamy grits with the spicy cajan gravy couldn't have hit the spot more. I got perch because I don't trust everyone's catfish lol. But next time I'll get the catfish because I trust them now. Best Arnold Palmer too. 10/10 definitely recommend. read more

Hidden Manna Cafe - Buttermilk Pancakes - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Matteson, Illinois

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First visit today I wasn't impressed. When you walk in it smells old. We were seated in bar area and there's a menu board with frozen drinks that they DONT create. I had chicken and waffles. Chicken fried nicely but no flavor waffle was tasteless. I thought the maple crème that was served with it would be sweet but it wasn't. The best part was our server he was really nice and tried to make sure we had a nice experience. I will give it one more try to see if the Cajun and creole dishes are any good read more

Good food and ambiance and feel a lot like New Orleans. Possibly the best grits I have ever had

Visited the restaurant on a Sunday for brunch with a party of 5. We were greeted and sat right away. This restaurant is on the smaller side but it gives you a hometown feel during your visit which is cozy. All the staff was friendly and helpful. I ordered the seafood omelet that comes with shrimp and crab meat along with grits or hashbrowns and pancakes. The eggs were fluffy and the seafood was cooked well. As a personal preference, I would of preferred a bit more seasoning but it was well executed. The grits were cooked properly and complemented the omelet. The pancakes were a good size and golden brown. read more

Hidden Manna Cafe - Seafood Omelete - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Matteson, Illinois

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I always have a good experience with them. Their food is delicious and their drinks are good. They provide good customer service. This is a hidden gem in Matteson. read more

Food is good, however they are an absolute pain with carry out. I visit them at least once a week and have to show 3 different types of identification to get my food. After going through all of that, I get home to find that al of my food isn't even in the bag. Difficult experience. read more

the entrance was confusing the find since the building was two different buildings combined but the entrance is accessible from the parking lot. the interior was clean and well decorated. the staff there was really nice and helpful when ordering and requesting items. we ordered the catfish and gumbo. the catfish was really really good. the gumbo wasnt my favorite because there was something with the taste i wasnt the biggest fan of but still pretty decent. the cost is pretty high in comparison to city restaurants read more

Chicken jambalaya was awesome, on point. Spicy but not overbearingly so. Delicious.

Well... my appetizer came with long black hair in the dish, my main meal was delivered to the table cold (greens and pinto beans with rice) however the fish was prepared well. The waitress became short and curt when we pointed out the hair in the fried green tomatoes and complained about the sides were cold. read more

Great food and awesome service's, never had a problem here. Very clean and always smells good.

Food is always good, ambiance is nice. Servers are always helpful. Nice to have a spot in the neighborhood that provides a safe, pleasant alternative to the abundance of fast food options nearby. read more

This food was bland but was at a good price point. I wouldn't come back here. Our service was pretty good too! Loved the mimosas but the food missed the mark read more

Hidden Manna Cafe - Catfish and grits - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Matteson, Illinois

I would not recommend this business due to my personal experience. Let me stand corrected, perhaps if you're a part of a large group or party attending a special event, this would be a place to visit. I must say when I was attending a birthday party, they were excellent. Upon my return to enjoy the same treatment with my husband and mother, the service was horrible. We were overlooked! We were over charged! The food was undercooked and unpleasant. I left there asking myself what did we do, to be treated that way? I will rate with a 1 star, because the manager, she did give me a call, after she read a statement of the service. But, unfortunately the Hidden Manna, needs to remain hidden. TeamBrown does not approve read more

My husband and I made the 60+ minute drive to return to a restaurant we enjoyed in the past ......and we were NOT disappointed. Again, our lunch was delicious and served with a welcome. read more

This place is a great little gem. I was here last weekend for a funeral. My cousin picked this place when I said I was some shrimp and grits. Their shrimp and grits were very good with some spice. We had fried green tomatoes with a remoulade sauce. I loved my lunch. A few other meals were a shrimp omelette with hollandaise sauce, and a traditional breakfast. We had mimosas, we ordered a bottle with cranberry & orange juice. The waitress staff & hostess were so nice and polite. The waitress had 4 different tables by us but you wouldn't known it cuz she catered to everyone. I will be back when I go back to visit my old home town. read more

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Their quality of taste is what I've experienced in their delicious cuisine, along without staff of such a great service from their employees!! I know that every time I've had the pleasure of being treated like royalty when I've been a patron or as a musician (Piano Player ) I've felt at home , thanks to the management and their employees for being so nice to me and my friends always!! Wayne Gray Band Leader Gray Matters 773-206-8826 read more

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Best Cajun food in the South Burbs! Comfort food in a comfortable space! Catfish is so fresh it jumps off your plate. Red beans are as good as any found in NOLA. Gumbo is authentic and loaded with seafood! Go find Hidden Manna. Bring an appetite with you. read more

Excellent brunch. Great food, excellent service, and friendly employees. Can't wait to go back ! read more

Our server was nice. The food was decent, not the best I've had from there. Next time I won't go close to closing time.

Had a taste for gumbo and etouffee. Found out they had some of the best greens I've ever had. I recommend everything on their menu.

I wanted to provide my honest opinion. Unfortunately I was not satisfied with my experience at Hidden Manna Cafe. I love the fact of supporting any African American business. This restaurant fell short of my expectations. I brought my mother here on October 6th for her birthday. After carefully reviewing all creole restaurants I choose Hidden Manna Cafe. First off I sent a message to the restaurant to see if I could make a reservation, the owner called me back right away and was delightful. When we arrived, we were seated and our server was manurable. He seem to be rushing us, we arrived at 2:00 PM and they close at 3:00 PM. I wanted to order a bottle of La Marca Prosecco which was on the menu for $30. He brought back a glass. When we figured out the confusion, they did not have a bottle of the Prosecco, so we had to settle for a glass each. Our server keep coming over every two minutes, which made us feel uneasy and rushed. I had the fried catfish, buffalo mushrooms and fried green tomatoes. The food was mediocre. I don't eat fried food much, so this was supposed to be a treat. The food tasted like the grease was old. I asked if they served beignets and he said no and someone walking from the kitchen said they did. He told us the cost was $4.00 per beignets and then came back to say they were $4 for 3. It seemed he was either very new or did not know much of the business. Unfortunately, I was not impressed will not be going back. read more

The service exceeded my expectations. They were very attentive. My meal was good. The pricing was reasonable. My only complaint was that want either club soda or seltzer water. Both were flat. read more

Rediculously overpriced for what they're serving! I'm sure they get few return customers.

It's 12:40 2/25/2024 I'm standing at the door as I type the seating list almost serves no purpose. The gentleman at the door gave the names in order and we all understood and waited.... After 20 min a group came in whose name was LAST on the list and were immediately sat down Right in front of everybody against the gentleman's list and even he was pissed. So now everyone is looking silly nobody is speaking to us and this chick with wild hair AND NO SEATING LIST is popping off at people and she is the one that is wrong WWWOOOOWWWW!!!! Still standing and nothing is being done or said to us I'll see how far this goes might take an additional review!!!! 12:50still still nothing read more

Hidden Manna Cafe - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Matteson, Illinois

This is a hidden gemnin Matteson, IL. I have been here several times. The food is great, breakfast lunch and dinner

The food is hit or miss, like most things nothing is perfect but they have decent food. I go here from time to time and the taste is flavorful however, depending on the day it can be greasy. The servers are nice & well manned. However, it can take a while to get your food so, don't go here in a hurry. There's ample parking & the restaurant setting is relaxing & gives a down south homey feeling. read more

The food and service were excellent! The menu is extensive which made it difficult to make a choice. The classic shrimp and grits was outstanding! But the chicken and waffles with the honey butter made me want to order take-out! I absolutely recommend Hidden Manna! read more

The ingredients and spices are bursting with flavor. Stopped here for brunch. Loved the sausage links in the breakfast spread. Also enjoyed the rub used to blacken the fish. read more

My college girlfriends and i try a new restaurant usually monthly so the hidden manna cafe was the place of choice. We tried the fried green tomato they were pretty good one set was in regular batter and the others were in like a cajun batter which was better. I tried the gumbo which was a nice portion size and it was tasty. Parking is adequate as they have a lot. Staff was pleasant. I would go back to try something else. read more

Hidden Manna in Matteson , IL is a homey quaint little spot with tasty fares that satisfy a diverse group of appetites. You won't go wrong with pretty much anything on the Menu. It's like eating comfort food at your favorite Auntie's house. Your belly will be full, your appetite satisfied, and your wallet won't suffer too MUCH. Breakfast is my preferred meal of the day. read more

Hidden Manna Cafe - Breakfast is on Point!!! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Matteson, Illinois

The food is superb. The service is cliched. The ambience is like fairy tales or a true love story. Whenever George and I would argue, This is where we went to make amends. We are no longer together as of October 27, 2023. Yes, I miss him dearly. He will always be my forever sunshine! read more

Hidden Manna Cafe - My fiancé and I were sharing a moment and waiting to be served in 2023. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Matteson, Illinois

This is a wonderful restaurant! The food is all homemade with amazing New Orleans flavor!!! Their collard greens are outta this world and everything is sooo yummy! I ordered the Cajun etouffee which is top notch... plus I cannot say enough about their collard greens ( best I have ever had )... and their soups are all homemade goodness... The staff were soo kind and attentive! I love this place I want to try Everything Plus I have ordered a burger there which was better than Great ! read more

The food is excellent. My experience from being greeted at the door to being seating was great! My waitress was attentive and the owner came over to check on us. I really appreciate that! The ambiance is country feeling and clean. read more

Long drive from Chicago to Matteson, but it was worth it. Packed restaurant on a Saturday afternoon and I understand why. The Louisiana in me approves for the most part. There were a few "Huh?" moments. The fried green tomatoes are the best that I've had at any restaurant I've had in Metro Chicago. They're not topped with lettuce and green onions. Nope, they're not gourmet, just blooming good. The shrimp and grits deserve an encore. The fried corn is more Mexicorn than proper Southern fried corn. The etouffee was a bit heavy handed on the Worcestershire sauce. It made the dish slightly vinegary. The fried lobster tail and waffle were what dreams are made of. It's not the usual chicken and waffle combination, just better. The desserts aren't made on the premises. The pound cake was course but the flavor was there. The banana pudding "was" gourmet: more like key lime pie with bananas and cookies. Not bad but you notice the hint of lemon in it. The strawberry cheesecake was a hit, for sure. Because of the hours and distance from where I work, weekday visits are not an option. Future weekend visits will be for breakfast and I'll get there as soon as the doors open because the place fills up fast. They'll get my dollars. read more

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Excellent customer service !!! The food was awesome!!! I will return!! Thank you! That's all I have! read more