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    Kizin Creole Restaurant

    4.0 (79 reviews)
    Closed Closed
    Updated over 3 months ago

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    KIZIN CREOLE RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Good for kids
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Kizin Creole Restaurant

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    Steamed Veggies and Diri djon djon
    Krystel M.

    This food is BUSSIN!!! My family went for my brother's birthday and we ate good. I have the Diri Djondjon and steamed veggies and akra and pantains because I dont eat meat. You can be vegan and eat GOOD. My brothers had the Griyo which is a fried pork dish he said it was the best he had , the mac and cheese reminds me of Trinidadian Macaroni Pie ,but more flavorful ...like a baked mac and cheese with a mild pepper flavor . My sister had the chicken stew and she ordered a second one to go because it was so good. The service was incredible . The people were so sweet , I think marketing might be why they are a bit empty , but they shouldn't be at all. If you all live in Evanston or Skokie or Chicago you MUST come here!

    Entrance area
    Liz W.

    Stopped by here in a whim to grab a meal to take home after a long day. All we can say is wow! Everything was soooo good! The boulet, chicken in sauce, plantains and rice were outstanding. The chicken was falling off the bone so tender. We can not wait to come back!

    Entrance
    Nadine S.

    I really wanted to like this place but it was a bit of a disappointment. Its quite hidden, I've lived on Evanston for like 20 years and never knew this place existed. They need to invest in a better sign and some lights to let patrons knows they're there. I ordered over the phone but when I got there only half the order was ready and I felt the front person could have been more hospitable especially since I was the only person there and it was her error. The food was too dry. The meat was over cooked but flavorful. You get decent quantity but lacks the quality. They also had limited items on the menu. No goat or snapper or oxtails. They offer non alcoholic drinks and traditional Haitian drinks which was nice. There was plenty of street parking available. They currently only accept cash and zelle, I thought this would have been helpful to know when I orders over the phone. Overall disappointing but would give them another try, because I've had their food before and I know it can be really good.

    Fried Pork (Griyo) & Fried Chicken & Fried Plantains with Djon Djon
    Ele M.

    I was so happy to find a Haitian restaurant in Chicago to take my Haitian Bae to. If I'm not mistaken, this is the only one. We hurried into a Uber and sped across town to enjoy this genuine food. It's located in the Irish/Polish part of town and has a warm feel to it. It's like eating from home. Teresa, our waitress, was a thrill to converse with and very helpful through our dining experience. We were served Griot, Djon Djon, Plantains, Pikliz, Legueme, and more. The food is very authentic and plated beautifully. I wasn't sold on the Pikliz but everything else was divine. The guava juice was fresh and tasty. The restaurant is clean, lively, and has lots of seating. I imagine this will be a place we can visit every time we're in Chicago.

    The menu page with the vegetarian options.
    Fi S.

    I'm always seeking out new cuisines I've never had, so I was glad to find this place. I picked up food, as I'd eaten at an African place down the street already but wanted to get the food from here too while I was in the neighborhood. Unfortunately, it took a long time for me to get any attention after entering. I stood awkwardly at the counter while a large family was loud and chaotic, their children pushing a baby around in a stroller and the kids opening the restaurant door over and over. A woman who worked there finally emerged from the back and seemed frustrated with the table of people, but she didn't give me any attention at first either. I don't know whether she had said anything to them about the behavior before I got there or not. Once she did take my order she was pretty nice. It was then awhile wait to get my food too. Menu-wise, I was pleased that there were a few vegetarian sampler meals and multiple sides, which I didn't expect to find. I had trouble deciding which I wanted. I decided on one with mac and cheese, rice (I chose the mushroom rice), fried plantains, and a cup of cole slaw. Granted, these are rich foods, and I refrigerated them first before reheating the next day. But everything seemed especially greasy- the rice moreso than any chinese fried rice. The flavors were pretty good, but it was hard to really enjoy with all the oil. The coleslaw may have been my favorite part. While takeout took as long as it did, I wouldn't suggest eating in. Of course conditions could be much improved without the obnoxious family with kids left to run around, but the place had a strange unfinished feel with few tables and an odd stage area in the back. I would have felt uncomfortable sitting and eating there too.

    Enjoying the Haitian culture!
    Wenda H.

    Clang wait to go back. Service was great, staff were kind, food was delicious. If you want to eat and run don't go here. It's an experience, sit down, relax and take your time to enjoy your family or friends and savor every bite. Don't pass on this restaurant... it's amazing Haitian food.

    Poul Fri in creole sauce, plantains, and Diri ak pwa  (haitian rice and beans)
    Sabrina C.

    Bonswa! Kizin was recommended to me by one of my Haitian friends. I was starving and looking for something from the islands to divulge on. I was in the mood for plantains. I happened to be in the Evanston area, so Kizin it was! I actually drove by a couple of times before I realized where it was so keep an eye out. Plenty of parking, so there are no worries there. When I got inside, I actually had to wait for someone to even appear to wait on me; a good 5 mins or so or just of just standing around and admiring the wall art. Then someone finally showed up. The wait for the food was about 15 mins; not too bad. I ordered the fried chicken - Poul Fri with creole sauce, plantains, and Diri ak pwa - haitian rice and beans. The rice was a little dry, but the chicken was great. The creole sauce was perfect and not too spicy. By the time I'd finished devouring my food, I realized I hadn't taken a breath in like 20 mins. I inhaled it all. All gone. During lunch from 12 - 3 there are lunch specials but even outside of then, the prices are reasonable. Kizin is definitely a go to for good Haitian soul food. Bon apeti!

    Haitian Patty with Chicken
    Gino W.

    Saturday afternoon and I decided to try Kizin Creole Restaurant. So glad that I did. Plantains. Haitian patties with chicken. Nan sos. There were two large communion parties in the back, but that was no problem. Food was prepared to order and I was glad of that. Full of flavour and good use of spices in the recipes. My Caribbean half approved. I will have to return for dinner to see what the atmosphere is like. As to lunch, I was thoroughly satisfied. And for those who may not be comfortable with people speaking languages other than English only, be forewarned that there is a lot of French and Creole spoken.

    Fried Pork (Griyo) and Black mushroom rice
    Latoya M.

    This place have the best griyo I've ever had. And so far everything that I have tried from them have been great. So much so I drive here once a month and I live over a hour away. And everyone is so friendly. And presentation on the food is everything! Love them!

    Stewed goat!

    The most important thing here is that the food was so, so good. Additional great things - the service was friendly, and they were careful to check for proof of vaccination. They indicated they didn't have any of the Haitian patties ready to go, but made them! Delicious. Marinad fritters were great, stewed goat was about the best I've ever had, the fried pork was crispy and juicy. Mushroom rice, mac n cheese and pikliz were excellent side options. Support this great restaurant!

    Fried Pork (Griyo)

    Wonderful experience! Great service, they were out of a couple things, but made them fresh for us. Marinad was fried perfectly, almost light, delicious. Fried pork was crispy and juicy and just the right amount of fatty, along with an amazing sauce. Patties in an awesome puff pastry, fantastic! Stewed goat was another highlight! Plus mac and cheese and black mushroom rice, terrific sides. Also BYOB, which is always appreciated. Give this place a try!

    Riz Djon djon, pikliz (carrots and cabbage), chicken, Fried Plantains

    I was looking for an Haitian restaurant in Chicago since I love haitian food and My friend told me about Kizin Creole. The service was great, they are really thoughtful and welcoming. The food was really tasty especially the black rice and the pastry I even took more to go home ! I will definitely come back !

    Fried plantain & fried goat.  Very tasty and awesome presentation.  Good job chef Daniel and chef Patricia.

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    5 months ago

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    1 year ago

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    2 years ago

    Please more rice in the veggie plater ! Jon Jon is lovely here , been here over 10 times ! 9/10

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    7 years ago

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    5 years ago

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    10 years ago

    Business owner information

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    Daniel D.

    Thanks Sabrina for your business and we appreciate your review.

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    12 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    3 years ago

    The food is good however the place says it opens at 12 and the doors were closed until 2pm very disappointing

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    4 years ago

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    7 years ago

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    Daniel D.

    Thank you Joel M. for your review. We really appreciate your business.

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    10 years ago

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    Daniel D.

    Thank you Devyn for your business and the positive feedback.

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    6 years ago

    Their Marinad Fritters and Pork Wrap Appetizer are delish! Cant' wait to come back to try the meal options!

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    8 years ago

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    Daniel D.

    Thanks Patrick P for stopping by it was a pleasure serving you.

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Kizin Creole Restaurant

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    Lior's Cafe

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    The food was worth the wait. I came on a Wednesday afternoon, right at opening time. We seated…read moreourselves and were able to order pretty quickly. When the food took "too long" (it didn't feel like it at this point, but the staff acknowledged it anyway), we were offered free pate of our choice The chicken pate was really good. My friend and I each ordered the dinner sized oxtail entree (1lb), which come with 2 sides. We're already making plans to come back. If you dine in, bring a jacket. If you're coming to order takeout, be prepared to wait a while.

    Fourth and final visit to Lior's. Waited 1 hour 20 minutes for a small entrée that should take 20…read moreminutes, max. Only seven people in the restaurant. No excuse for that kind of delay. Nobody checked on me the entire time. No water offered. No acknowledgment after 45 minutes of sitting there. The female manager on duty walked past multiple times without even looking at me, let alone addressing the wait. When I mentioned the issue to the cashier up front, all I got was "we're frustrated too." No apology, no accountability, no attempt to make it right. That's not an explanation, that's a shrug. I was hungry enough to stay, otherwise I would've walked out and canceled the order. If this is the normal level of service here, this place won't survive another year. The food is not worth this kind of treatment, and the owner needs to seriously look at who's running the floor. Not coming back. Save yourself the wait.

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    Garifuna Flava

    Garifuna Flava

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    The best oxtails I've ever had in Chicago. Tender and flavorful…read more Service was fast and friendly. Dine-in was not crowded at all. Very people were there. It was peaceful and I enjoyed the music and art which reflected the culture. The stew oxtail is worth every penny.

    A recent evening while wanderlusting in Chicago, I suggested Garifuna Flava because I'd heard…read moreamazing things about it. My fellow traveling house heads trusted my foodie instincts, but there was a little skepticism until our rideshare driver gave it his enthusiastic vote of confidence! Garifuna Flava is a Black-owned restaurant celebrating the rich flavors and traditions of Belizean, Caribbean, Latin, and Indigenous Garifuna cuisine. The restaurant isn't fancy, yet it is warm, welcoming, and one of the owners even took time to share the history of the Garifuna people with one of my friends. And making the experience even more authentic was the soundtrack of Caribbean and reggae music, which had us swaying, singing along, and feeling right at home like a spot in the Caribbean or Brooklyn. As for the food, it was DELISH! I enjoyed tender oxtails with yams, fried sweet plantains, rice, and stew beans. It was comfort food that tasted like a home-cooked meal. A nice cold Ting was the perfect pairing. I couldn't resist sampling a dining partner's shrimp dish, which was also flavorful. Garifuna Flava is located in Chicago Lawn, often referred to locally as Marquette Park on Chicago's Southwest Side. The neighborhood is home to the beautiful 323-acre Marquette Park, designed by the Olmsted Brothers (sons of the designer of Central Park), and holds an important place in the city's civil rights history. Thank you, Garifuna Flava, for a delicious meal and a cultural experience I'll remember. I'll definitely be back. But don't just take my word for it, go experience the yummyliciousness for yourself! Mmmm... #BonAppetit! Cheers!

    Photos
    Menu along wall and decor.
    Menu along wall and decor.
    Delish Jerk Chicken (Plus 2 Sides) Rice & Beans and Mac & Cheese
    Delish Jerk Chicken (Plus 2 Sides) Rice & Beans and Mac & Cheese
    Outside

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    The Wild Hare

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    I'm back to update my previous review. I finally got the chance to come back to The Wild Hare for…read morethe full dine-in and live music experience. I'm really glad I did. Our server was quick and pleasant. He was refilling and offering new drinks before we even knew we needed them. I'm not even sure I really considered the menu because I really came to retry the oxtail and rice & peas. I was not disappointed, and there was nothing but tailbones left on my plate. Ambiance is fun at The Wild Hare. The live music in the back room int he evenings are definitely where it's at. I would recommend checking out the event calendar on their website to help pick which day you may want to come. My only complaint is that I really wish the DJ played more reggae in the restaurant. I expected to have a full reggae night, but all the way up until the live band, it was mostly hip hop and R&B with the occasional reggae throwback. Give us more; we came for the reggae vibes!

    Came here on a Sunday after. They had drink specials available. We were able to find parking right…read moreout front. On this occasion there were drink specials. Grabbed $7 margarita (special) which was tasty. For food my husband and I shared the full lb of rib tips and fries. We thought they were tasty. We met up with some friends celebrating a March birth (Aries). The bar crowd was friendly...everyone just enjoying the music and each other. Bathrooms were big and never had an issue getting a stall. Security present and overall just a fun experience. Would love to come back when they have a live band playing.

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    Stage in second room
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    Caribbean Jerk Palace

    Caribbean Jerk Palace

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    It looks like there are two profiles for this location. So, I'll leave my review on both…read more I am so reluctant to try new places when I have my already go to spot. However, today I decided to try a different jerk spot. The food was honestly just alright. I kept looking for the WOW factor but just didnt get it. I ordered a 6 wing dinner with two sides. The wings were a little salty and taste more like American bbq chicken rather than jerk. The jerk sauce taste like a pre-packaged marinade. The cabbage was also salty with a slimy, greasy texture to it. The Mac and cheese was STELLAR! The vibe is a nice spot to drop in for spontaneous lunch. They do have adequate seating to accommodate dining in. The restaurant also appeared nice and clean. The customer service was good, friendly and welcoming. I even met the owner, "Antwon." It's always a nice touch to see an owner present. All and all the food was just alright. I honestly just didn't get that "authentic Jamaican spice taste". Jamaican Gates still holds the throne . (See review on that profile).

    A new Caribbean spot on the South Side, I saw a local amateur foodie visit them on social and…read morethought I'd try them out. So glad that I did! Reasonably priced for the food that youre getting, including their grilled chicken wings made to order. Heaping portions for their dinners, as you get your protein + rice and peas...and two additional sides! Loved the seasoning of the jerk (not too spicy). Mac is decent. Yam was good to me, but too sweet for my friend. Greens were good to my friend, but needed more spice to me. Overall, sides are solid, but may need to be doctored to one's preference. The oxtail tamales, highlighted in the social post I saw, was my friend's favorite, saying they were filling, not dried out, and seasoned well. I loved the jerk salmon egg rolls: it's 3 egg rolls (or 6 halves) of seasoned salmon in an egg roll wrapper that's not too greasy or overly fried. Friendly service. Quick turnaround on the food. I'll be back.

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    What I could eat
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    Aunty Joy's Jerk & Pizza

    Aunty Joy's Jerk & Pizza

    4.0
    (194 reviews)
    2.1 mi
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    If you're going to get food from here, call the number on the sign or order online. I made the…read moremistake of walking-in to make an order. My wait time on a Friday afternoon at 5pm had a 40-minute wait time. How do I know? Because I kept feeding the meter on the online parking app. There were many delivery people picking up food, including some folks that may have just finished a work shift and was grabbing food before going home. No I didn't get the pizza. I believe because Loyola University sits in the neighborhood, the restaurant is catering to the college kids by offering pizza. I decided to order some food for myself and husband - jerk wings, brown-stew chicken and jerk catfish - both with candied yams, rice and peas, and plantains; plus one slice of rum cake. After 25 minutes I checked on my order and was told there were no more candied yams, and I can replace it with cabbage and select 2 can sodas. When I got home, one of my orders actually did have candied yams, but somehow both included cabbage and macaroni and cheese. OK?! Well I guess I'll get to sample all of their sides! Let's start with the Jerk Chicken Wings. The presentation could have been worked on, however, the flavor was actually good and different from other places I've been. It had sort of a sweet and spicy flavor, but not overwhelmingly spicy. If I was to go here again, I wouldn't get the jerk catfish because they give you catfish fillet and not catfish steaks - which is what I prefer. Plus for the price - $25, I believe there should be more fish in this container. Can you see the catfish in my attached photos? No?! That's because it's in the top right corner underneath the jerk gravy (great flavor by the way). In fact, all the food had great flavors; especially for carryout. The candied yams were my favorite. Second would be the rice and peas. My hubby tried his food the next day and said the rice tasted mushy but had a good flavor. We believe that it was mushy because it had been over 24 hours and various refrigeration at home and his job. The chicken pieces were all dark meat (legs and thighs). On the online menu, it's called Jamaican Black Cake, but in the restaurant, it's called Rum Cake. Well you taste the rum on first bite, after that it tastes like raisins. I don't have to get that again. I've definitely have had better rum cake, and didn't have to pay $8 for a small sliver. I'm giving this restaurant 3 stars because of the enormous wait time, my order mix up and the not so tasty and expensive Black Cake / Rum Cake.

    I am not sure what happened over the last few months but this is the third time in a row I've…read moreordered from Aunty Joy's Jerk & Pizza only to be disappointed. There was a time that I would recommend this place to anyone that would listen but it has gone downhill. With the price of things nowadays you cannot waste money at places that are inconsistent. I recently ordered the jerk mac-n-cheese with a 1/4 jerk chicken and steamed cabbage. The great thing is that they have a short wait time for delivery and the food arrived on-time. That was probably the only thing good about the experience. When I opened my jerk mac it was soupy. I was confused as to why but I noticed the jerk chicken was drenched in a sauce. I have ordered this dish before and it did not have this level of sauce on it. The sauce made the dish like a soup and extremely salty. It tasted like I was eating a spoon full of salt with every bite. The 1/4 jerk chicken was cooked decently but it was mostly bones. The sauce on the chicken was so salty that it overpowered the dish. Not being able to get jerk chicken right when it's in your name and you're a Jamaican spot is a sign for me to stop trying. The cabbage was just as bad. It was so hard that it tasted like the cabbage you get from the premade salad bags but with some sauce on it. I couldn't even eat it because it was undercooked. The cabbage used to be my favorite side from them. I think my time with Aunty's Joy has passed. They have forgotten items when I ordered for delivery and the food is always so hit or miss.

    Photos
    Aunty Joy's Jerk & Pizza
    Aunty Joy's Jerk & Pizza
    Aunty Joy's Jerk & Pizza

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    Kizin Creole Restaurant - haitian - Updated August 2026

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