Embarking on a culinary adventure at Soul Prime turned out to be more than just a dining experience; it was a journey through delectable flavors and heartwarming vibes that left an indelible mark on my senses. Let me take you through the highlights of an evening that transcended the ordinary. From the get-go, the atmosphere at Soul Prime was inviting, radiating warmth from the staff, service, to the owner's palpable enthusiasm. Nestled in Lincoln Park, a neighborhood known for its charm, Soul Prime managed to infuse it with an extra dose of vibrancy, transforming the dining space into a haven that felt like a home away from home. Despite not having a reservation, the accommodating team seamlessly ushered us to the bar, a spacious haven where you could dine comfortably without feeling cramped. The interior was a testament to thoughtful design - clean, modern, yet exuding an inviting coziness that resonated with the soul. Even the bathroom, an often overlooked aspect of dining establishments, boasted a mirror that had an unexpectedly positive impact on my self-esteem, prompting an impromptu selfie photoshoot. It was a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that Soul Prime applied to every facet of the dining experience. Now, onto the star of the show - the food. As someone who had never experienced soul food before, each dish felt like a revelation. The fried green tomatoes with lump crab were a delightful surprise, with the crab seamlessly enhancing the overall experience. Even the fried chicken, a dish I typically avoid, reached unparalleled heights with its perfect crunch, heavenly sauce, and impeccable breading. The collard greens were seasoned to perfection, the Mac and cheese boasted an impressive cheese pull that elicited a satisfied sigh, and the muffin cornbread melted in my mouth, leaving an indescribable feeling of satisfaction. The culinary expertise behind each dish was evident, showcasing a mastery of soulful flavors that left an enduring impression. What truly set Soul Prime apart was the intangible element - the vibe. It felt more than just a dining establishment; it felt like a community hub where good food and good vibes converged. In a city like Chicago, where the fast-paced life often overshadows personal connections, Soul Prime carved out a niche for itself as a place where patrons could feel a genuine sense of belonging. Adding a personal touch to the experience was the owner's active involvement in the restaurant's operations. Witnessing her calling orders, running a tight ship, and ensuring each dish met her exacting standards while simultaneously engaging with customers elevated the entire dining experience. I am immensely thankful that Soul Prime chose to grace Lincoln Park, injecting much-needed flavor into a neighborhood that was, perhaps, longing for a culinary awakening. Whether you're embarking on a solo adventure, enjoying a girls' night out, or planning a romantic date night, Soul Prime is a culinary gem that demands exploration. In conclusion, Soul Prime not only offers a gastronomic journey through soulful flavors but also provides a sanctuary where you can unwind, savor, and feel the genuine warmth of a culinary embrace. Without hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend Soul Prime - a solid 10/10 experience that transcends the ordinary dining affair. read more

Ignore the TikTok hype--this restaurant is far from impressive. I visited over the weekend while in Chicago, lured by viral recommendations from Keith Lee and other influencers. Unfortunately, the experience did not live up to the buzz. My mom and I arrived during lunch hours when the place was fairly empty. We were greeted and seated promptly, but the service left much to be desired. The young waiter appeared inexperienced and lacking in professionalism. While we waited for our food, we noticed the greeter loudly chatting on the phone, which was quite unprofessional. Additionally, the waiter went outside, returned, and touched various surfaces without visibly washing his hands or using hand sanitizer--an unsettling lapse in hygiene. We ordered the following: * White Meat Jerk Chicken * Collard Greens Dip * Fried Chicken (with their hot sauce) * Cornbread * Rib Tacos Of the dishes we tried, the fried chicken was the only remotely decent item, although it needed more seasoning without the hot sauce. The rib tacos were overly salty, prompting an immediate need for my blood pressure medication. The jerk chicken would have benefited from proper marinating and grilling rather than being baked. The cornbread was rubbery, flavorless, and undercooked--far from acceptable. The overall experience lacked any standout qualities that would warrant a return visit. To make matters worse, we were charged for soda refills--a detail that wasn't disclosed upfront. The automatic 20% gratuity also left a bad impression. Advice for Restaurant Management: 1. Training: Ensure all staff are properly trained in both service and hygiene practices. Consistent professionalism and cleanliness are crucial. 2. Enhance Food Quality: Reevaluate your recipes and cooking methods. Proper seasoning, cooking techniques, and ingredient quality can significantly impact your dishes' appeal. 3. Transparent Pricing: Clearly communicate any additional charges, like soda refills, to avoid surprises and dissatisfaction. 4. Customer Experience: Consider revising your gratuity policy to ensure it reflects the level of service provided. In summary, this restaurant did not deliver on its promises or live up to its social media hype. I would not recommend it for those seeking high-quality soul food or a memorable dining experience. read more

Look no further if you're searching for a dining experience that dances on your taste buds and provides a serene atmosphere. Our recent visit to this gem of Soul Prime Chicago restaurant was extraordinary. The Macaroni and cheese was a dish that's not just a side but a creamy, dreamy indulgence that transcends the ordinary. Its richness, cheddar texture, and deep, savory flavor make it a standout, leaving us yearning for more. The collard green dip was impeccable. Its balance of flavors elevates it from a mere dip to a transformative culinary experience. If I could, I'd bottle that deliciousness and take it home. My son's smoked salmon salad was another highlight. Fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced--each component was harmonious, showcasing the chef's attention to detail. My daughter had the chicken, which had a touch of extra saltiness on the skin. However, the hot honey sauce paired with the tender meat created a flavor explosion that made the minor flaw fade into insignificance. What truly set this restaurant apart for me was the ambiance. I rarely find a black-owned restaurant where I can converse without shouting over loud music. This place wants you to enjoy yourself and be relaxed. You can enjoy dinner without yelling Bravo to them for understanding the meaning of eating in peace. The attentive service from the server, hostess, and the rest of the staff made our evening even more enjoyable. The only hiccup? Parking--typical for the North side. But the dining experience more than compensates for this minor inconvenience. If you're heading here, consider an Uber or bike for a hassle-free visit. In summary, this place is a culinary haven that promises a memorable meal in a relaxed setting. I'll be back--next time, just without the parking woes! read more

Soul Prime is a hidden gem that truly embodies the heart and soul of Southern cooking. From the moment you walk in, you're enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. The star of the show has to be the beef ribs. They're tender, flavorful, and glazed to perfection--an absolute must-try. Paired with a glass of the Color Purple drink, which offers a refreshing twist that complements the meal beautifully, it's a match made in culinary heaven. The mac & cheese is rich and creamy, with just the right amount of cheesy goodness that keeps you coming back for more. The red beans and rice are seasoned beautifully, providing a hearty, comforting side that rounds out the meal perfectly. The baked chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the corn muffins are a delightful treat--soft, sweet, and ideal for soaking up all the delicious sauces on your plate. Don't forget the greens; they're simply outstanding--cooked to perfection with a touch of seasoning that enhances their natural flavors. The chef herself came out to greet us, and her passion for the food is evident in every dish. She's delightful and truly adds to the overall experience. Soul Prime is open daily, making it easy to drop in and enjoy a meal at the bar. If you're looking for authentic soul food that warms the heart and satisfies the palate, this restaurant is a must-visit! read more

I recently visited Soul Prime Restaurant and while the food was decent, my overall experience was marred by several issues that I feel compelled to share. Firstly, the wait time was excessively long, which was quite disappointing. I understand that restaurants can be busy, but the delay seemed beyond reasonable. Secondly, I encountered a frustrating situation with the billing process. I left a tip in cash, only to later discover that a service charge had been added to my bill without my knowledge. When I asked the waitress how much I would be charged, she only provided the total for the food, omitting any mention of the service charge. Despite requesting a receipt multiple times, I was never given one, which added to my frustration. Upon calling the restaurant to speak with the manager, I was refunded the cash tip I had left, which was a small relief. However, I am still dissatisfied because the waitress was not forthcoming with the full details of my bill. I feel deceived and cannot justify supporting a business that operates in this manner. I work hard for my money and expect honesty and transparency when dining out. Unfortunately, Soul Prime Restaurant fell short in these areas. Based on this experience, I will not be returning and cannot recommend this establishment to others. read more

I had the absolute pleasure of dining at Soul Prime, and I can confidently say it was a 10/10 experience! From the moment I walked in, the warm, welcoming atmosphere set the tone for what was about to be an unforgettable meal. The menu offers a perfect blend of traditional soul food favorites with a modern twist. I started with their fried chicken--crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside--seasoned to perfection. The collard greens and mac 'n cheese were hands down the best I've ever had. Each bite was packed with flavor and you could tell everything was made with love and attention to detail. The service was top-notch. The staff was attentive, friendly, and made sure we had everything we needed without being overbearing. The portions were generous, and I left feeling full and satisfied but already planning my next visit. If you're looking for authentic soul food that will hit the spot every time, Soul Prime is the place to go. Can't recommend it enough! read more

I recently dined at Soul Prime and found myself with mixed feelings about the experience. The food was undeniably the highlight--fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared. Well, with out french fries being the side for most dishes. The food that was ordered was the Hot Honey Chicken, Fried PorkChops, and Buffalo Shrimp. Unfortunately, the service didn't quite match the standard set by the food. The overall attentiveness from the staff was lacking, and my experience at the bar was particularly disappointing. The Bartender, Ryan seemed disengaged and unhelpful, which took away from what could have been a more enjoyable evening. A warm and welcoming front-of-house can elevate a great meal; in this case, it left a noticeable gap. If you're going strictly for the food, Soul Prime is worth a visit. But if exceptional service is important to your dining experience, you may want to manage expectations--or hope for a different bartender. read more

I celebrated my birthday at Soul Prime , which had a party of 6 . From the time I entered the Restaurant i was greet from the host , very welcoming , we decided to take photos she was more than eager to take them for us , Chef Royce was gracious to even come out and get in the photo . We sat at the bar for this refreshing drink called Pineapple crush that was so delicious , we got to our seat and ordered The collard green deep , Oh my so delicious we wanted seconds , we also ordered our food which was sent out in a timely fashion , hot Delicious the food was cooked to perfection and they even sang Happy Birthday , the Ambiance was cozy relaxing the decor was beautiful the lighting was awesome the seats where comfortable , Great place to experience Southern Comfort food Cant wait to get back there ! Great Job Soul Prime ! Thank you for this Memorable Dining experience read more

soulprimechicago had My Spirit Joyful from the beginning of walking into the establishment until leaving out! You see that #Collardgreendip? #meatlessstreettacos #catfishbites and more ... When you're Dancing while eating !! Actively knowing Your Body is in sync with your tastebuds Present Happiness !! I felt all the Intentions from the decor detail to the hospitality & smile of the host "Tot" ...attentiveness of the server "Ebony" her glow on the floor was delightful and the CEO and Chef Ms.Royse herself Graced Us with full Pride and heart giving us a Tour and backstory of this magnificent magical meaningful "Elevated" melanated dining experience!!!! I can not wait to visit for the Sunday Brunch!!! read more

this restaurant staff behaviour with me very bad please don't come here i not recommend anyone