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CJ's Eatery - CLOSED
Categories: Restaurants Southern Restaurants Breakfast & Brunch Southern, Breakfast & Brunch [Edit]
3839 W Grand Ave(between Avers Ave & Springfield Ave)
Chicago, IL 60651
Neighborhood: Humboldt Park
(773) 292-0990
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Good For:
- Breakfast, Brunch
- Alcohol:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
132 reviews for CJ's Eatery
Review Highlights
"I moved on to the *Shrimp and Grits- excellent."
(in 34 reviews)
"Banana Bread Pudding with Peanut Butter Creme Anglaise."
(in 7 reviews)
"Biscuits and Gravy - Delectable."
(in 23 reviews)
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132 reviews in English
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Review from KayMack C.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 7/14/2010 6 photos
OH CJ. SAY IT AIN'T SO!
I've been coming here for 3 amazing years of goodness. Three years of chicken and waffles, the BEST shrimp and grits i've ever had, a mound of meatloaf over mashed potatoes with fried onions, banana bread pudding with the creamiest peanut butter anglaise sauce, tender and perfectly seasoned pulled pork, fluffy and delightful buttermilk biscuits, and sweet, yummy blueberry lemonade.
I've stopped by twice recently (in the past 2 - 3 weeks), and both times they were closed with no note anywhere. Also, the phone number is disconnected. It used to say "temporarily disconnected" and now it just says "disconnected."
OH CJ. PLEASE COME BACK! What on earth is a southern girl's heart going to do without your amazing soul food in Chicago?!?! ... No one else even comes close.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/25/2008
I should preface this by saying that I'm incredibly biased towards CJ's as I spent the first half of… Read more »
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Review from Tong J.
8/9/2010
*** CJ's Eatery is CLOSED from Monday-Friday and OPENS only on SATURDAY-SUNDAY 9am - 8pm, with brunch hours from 9pm-2pm. ***
Thanks to Timeout Magazine, we found this terrific little place. The reason we give it 3 Stars because my partner thought the fried chicken and waffles was just okay. For me, of course, it's 4 Stars all the way. Our wonderful waitress told me that her favorite dish in menu was Shrimp and Grits + Eggs over-easy. OMG, she was right. That was amazing! I was totally in love with it.Listed in: Chicago Reviews
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Review from Emily D.
Chicago, IL
4/1/2009 ROTD 6/8/2009
The South is lazy porches, hammocks, a heavy breeze. . . sweet tea, hot concrete and slooooowwwwing down.
Monique's smile as we walked into CJ's, sandwiched between auto repair shops both legal and otherwise, slowed us down right quick. It was as though we were saved, palms raised to our foreheads and choir rejoicing.
I mean to say it was somewhat of a spiritual experience. Non-believers believed. Sun shone through the front panes so you felt warm despite March snow, and felt rich. . . even though we're pinching.
She took good care of us, Sister Monique. From advice on catfish versus salmon (catfish, undeniably), to which tea to pour (African Nectar) we sat, nay, swayed in our booth for a good long while.
It's hard to transport a person somewhere, but the crooning of some luscious, soulful songbirds over the restaurant speakers made it a lot easier to chill.
Just slooooow down.
And we wasted away hours over cheesy grits with big plump shrimp, buttery biscuits and chicken and waffles, discovering precisely why soul food is good for you. We enjoyed the savory so much we ordered the sweet and a piping hot cinnamon roll, check that, BIG piping hot cinnamon roll came out to bid a farewell.
Like a grandma standing in the driveway, waving a white hanky while you get back on the county road. . . we felt as easy when we left as we did when we arrived. Like Lauryn Hill croons, CJ's just has "that thing, that thing, that thiiiiiing".Listed in: ROTD
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Review from Rafael C.
3/9/2009 ROTD 3/23/2009
One question will now haunt me for a while ... why wasn't I eating grits before? Well it seems because I didn't discover CJs until just now! I must thank a fellow Yelper with hazelicious eyes!
Shrimp and Grits - you are my southern savory master and I'm not worthy to have you as often as I would like. Seriously, WTF did you come from cause I was blindsided and I think I liked it ... not fair that I can't see you again until the next weekend as CJs is only open on weekends! Please be a little more gentle next time, for I am a newb in your world!
I'm glad I was able to have my coffee and taste the biscuits and eggs that came with the dish before I got into the grits as everything else was a blur. I did manage to see that the group I met up with were enjoying their dishes too so by all accounts everyone was happy at CJs.
I want to thank CJ himself for checking in on our group, the staff for handling us and also putting everyone on separate tabs. I'm still shocked we had the place mostly to ourselves but I have a feeling it won't be so on my next visit. Oh yeah, I'll be back as the Shrimp and Grits and myself aren't through just yet!Listed in: Breakfast bliss!
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Review from Jason Z.
2/1/2010 ROTD 3/28/2010
You know how when you like a band, and no one else really knows about them, and you tell all your friends about how great the band is, but still no one knows who they are, and you can walk up to scubas or empty bottle and get tickets for their shows, and it's only like you and 25 other people in the crowd, and you don't understand how they aren't bigger, how some crap song can get played on the radio a thousand times a day, but this band can't? And then maybe the band does blow up, and they get a song on Q101, and then band goes from the Metro, to the Aragon, to Alpine, and then you sit there and complain about how you knew them way back when, and you wish they were still that little band?
That's CJ's, only it hasn't blown up yet. I don't care how far, or how long it takes to drive to this place, I'm going there every Saturday. There, I've said it. If this place was in another neighborhood, there would be a 4 hour wait every Saturday and Sunday. We headed out there one Saturday morning. Yes, it felt like we drove forever, but we were able to park right in front.
The place is beautifully designed. They have a full coffee bar in the back which you can also order to go coffees, lattes, etc. There was only one other table in there, which is great if you're starving, but not good if you love the food at this place.
We started out with an order of biscuits and gravy. I'm always in search for the best biscuits and gravy, and these are right up there. The biscuits are light, and thin, and full of buttery flavor. The sausage gravy had a nice spice to it. (I think I'm the only person to order an appetizer for brunch). For my meal, I ordered the sausage casserole. It was fantastic. It's eggs, sausage, and veggies baked in a small dish, and a dollop of sour cream--heavenly. The GF had huevos racheros, which come on two homemade crunchy tostitos. They too were amazing.
The service is great. They are beyond friendly, the waitress joked around with us every time she brought something to us, and the chef came out to thank us for coming.
This place is great, I can't say enough good things about it. I hope everyone goes, and they have lines out the door. Just not when I go. -
Review from Kevin A.
2/8/2010 ROTD 6/10/2010
PROZAC IN WAFFLE FORM
Are you in a bad mood? Rough week at work? Do you need a break from your low-carb, low-fat, low-taste world? Well if you need an attitude adjustment, skip the Prozac and head on over to CJs for food that will fill your belly, warm your heart, and lift your spirits.
Imagine buttery biscuits smothered in rich chunky sausage gravy, fluffy banana pancakes with crisp smokey bacon, freshly fried chicken on a Belgian waffle smothered in gooey pecan maple syrup... Are you drooling yet?
After having so much "soul food" minus the soul, it's refreshing to find a place where you can really feel and taste the love in every bite. You can tell they take pride in every dish they make and the service is so friendly you'll feel like family.
The only thing that broke my heart was that this place was so empty on a Saturday when the food and service are so excellent. Come on people! You'll wait for an hour for a mediocre brunch at Orange and Toast, but you won't make the quick drive over to Humboldt? You are missing out if you don't give this place a shot! -
Review from Vincent T.
Chicago, IL
6/6/2010
A phenomenal find, thanks to Yelp's reviewers! Excellent waitstaff (another shout-out for Monique), excellent coffee, excellent ambience, excellent menu choices, excellent food.
For the record, we had the shrimp and grits (if not to die for, it's definitely worth being seriously injured for) and the biscuits/gravy. The radical flavors in each perfectly blended with each other to inspire mouthgasms galore.
One of the few places The Wife had to ask Monique, "Do you guys cater?" It's THAT good. -
Review from Colleen C.
Brooklyn, NY
Updated - 11/2/2009
:::to the tune of Lean on Me::::
-actually heard in the soundtrack de brekkie, this past Sunday, post Halloween at CJ's. NO WAIT. None. OMG, my heart almost leapt from my chest at the thought of imminent food in front of me, and copious forms of beverage. Sweet baby Jesus, AMEN!
Ok, to the song...with commentary.
Sometimes in our lives we all have pain (hangovers)
We all have sorrow (hangovers)
But if we are wise (and drive far West to CJ's)
We know that there's always tomorrow...(and french toast and pancakes)
Lean on me, when you're not strong (I think the term was..."morose.")
And I'll be your friend (yay, coffee!)
I'll help you carry on (yay, ice water!)
For it won't be long (not at all, service was quick..Monique is my new BFF)
'Til I'm gonna need (more. coffee. please)
Somebody to lean on (scrambled eggs!)
Please swallow your pride (and banana pancakes)
If I have things you need to borrow (Splenda, Diet...errrg, Pepsi)
For no one can fill those of your needs (damn straight, thank you CJ)
That you don't let show (I showed it, I'm pretty sure).
Lean on me, when you're not strong (and hungover)
And I'll be your friend (hooray)
I'll help you carry on (liquids + breakfast + grease)
For it won't be long (I finally feel better)
'Til I'm gonna need (I'm never going out again)
Somebody to lean on....
So just call on me brother CJ, when you need a hand
We all need somebody to lean on
I just might have a problem that you'd understand (FOOD, stat)
We all need somebody to lean on (thank you. thank you. thank you.)
Lean on me...
So as I sat in this booth...LEANED into this booth with glitter in my hair, ears, eyes, eyelashes, etc, I thanked Yelp for reminding me great brunch/breakfast CAN exist on the weekends without a wait, you just gotta trek a bit to get there. WELL worth it.
Best $25 I've spent in a very long time.
CJ, way to go.Listed in: Brunch.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/3/2009
Whoa.
A few notes...
1. They are ONLY open on weekends. Odd. I wonder why? Anyone know? Saturdays… Read more »
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Review from Amanda Z.
1/26/2010
She warned me about messing with the biscuits and gravy before my meal....
But I'm not one to listen. Face it, I'm bossy, but I don't listen to the bossing. It's an attitude choice. Deal with it.
In any event, after careful pondering, we decided CJ's was our place du jour for brunching on a Saturday. It was a bit of a drive, but fortunately, there is ample street parking, no meters. Niiiice.
It was nearly empty in there, which is a damn shame. This place takes its breakfast serious, as it should, and people should recognize. Actually, just ignore this. Patience ain't one of my virtues and the fact that I can get my food and coffee with no wait is huge. So, go back to sleep, pretend you didn't read the no wait tip I just left for you.
So, obviously, we couldn't resist the side of biscuits and gravy. Homemade, perfectly sized darling little biscuits with the perfect gravy. Not to heavy or thick, little bits of sausage strewn without. Lovely.
I went with the huevos rancheros. In my effort to make 2010 my year where I start to eat eggs with runnier yolks (don't you have yearly food challenges too?), I got my eggs over-medium. They were cooked to perfection, topped with cheese over a crispy tortilla with black beans and a spicy side of salsa. Awesome. A few bites of my guy's sausage casserole, smothered in cheese and sour cream, had me convinced that he had ordered well too.
Service was friendly with a smiling visit from the chef at the end of the meal and plentiful refills on my coffee. (One *baby* complaint: get some real cream up in here!!! I dig my dairy!)
Also noted: this place is BYOB in the event you like a few mimosas with your brekkie...brunch bunch, I'm looking at you.
So, the moral of this brunch story? Mess with the biscuits and gravy. You run with the risk of being scolded for not cleaning your plate, but it is so worth it.Listed in: B.Y.O. Pleeeease?!, Brunchin' away Sundays!
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Review from Jeff A.
1/24/2010
So just as I said I was going to give less 5 star reviews, I start eating at amazing places like CJ's!
We went for a true flavor tour.. It was phenomenal!
Sunday Brunch 12:15pm and the place had plenty of seats, something tells me not for long...
We kicked off our smorgahhborgh of soulful delight with banana bread pudding, and it rocked, I am a glutton for bread pudding, not too sweet and oh so moist it was on point! 4.5stars
We split 4 entrees amongst the three of us...
Banana pancakes with bacon, both were out of this world, the bacon crisp and melt in your mouth fatty, just the way I like it! The pancakes were ridiculous, so tasty, so moist, so buttery, so amazing, I can't say enough, these may be some of the best pancakes I have ever interacted with! I think as long as they are on the menu, and I am here, these will be part of my feast! 6 stars!
Breakfast sausage casserole...Yeah that good! really freaking good... chuck full of all the protein you will ever need eggy meaty tasty! 4 stars!
My least favorite of the buxom brunchy bunch was the catfish breakfast, I like a lil less fish flavor in my cat, it was still good don't get me wrong, the eggs were fluffy the grits were cheesy and wonderful, it was an all around good dish! 3 stars...
OMG I saved this for last... Rock and roll was the Chicken and waffles with pecan maple syrup happiness! Juicy chicken wing all atop an off the chain waffle, it was malty, it was creamy, it was moist, it was heavenly like a cloud, it was amazing; CJ hooks up his griddle goods, it is clear to me, pancakes and waffles are off the map here, you will need to hook up on at least one griddle creation or you are missing out for sure! 7 stars!
All this served up with some of the best tea and coffee this planet has to offer and served to the table with true passion by the lovely Monique! Thanks Monique you made our Sunday! 10 stars!
I will be hip hoppin my way back to CJ's often, and for now it looks like they will have a seat for me...Yay!Listed in: Chicago Musts!!!, Brunch...
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Review from Angie M.
5/13/2009
The biggest issue I have with CJ's is consistency.
On my first visit to CJ's, the service was abysmal. We were the only table in the restaurant, yet we never received coffee refills, it took forever to get our food and everything was just, for lack of a better word, slow. I know, I know; CJ's is all about Southern cooking and service and with that comes a leisurely pace, but come on, guys. We can pick it up just a touch, yeah?
The food is also inconsistent. The first time I tried CJ's cheese grits and was blown away! They were thick, creamy, flavorful and awesome. The second time around? Not so much. The grits came out watery and bland.
I will say, however, that my sausage and egg breakfast casserole was absolutely delicious on both visits. Deceptively filling, it's chock-full of fluffy eggs, slammin' sausage, hash browns, cheese, onions, peppers and topped with sour cream. Not exactly figure friendly, but I did show up to CJs on both occasions with a wicked hangover, so grease was mandatory. Trust me. This menu item gets the job done.
Also important to note:
1. CJ's has quite possibly the best drink menu I've seen in a long time. Tropicana orange soda? Flavored lemonades like cherry and blueberry? Good God, I was in liquid heaven!
2. They have the best satellite radio station playing in the morning. It's all of these old R&B songs, which put a smile on my face.
In the end, CJ's just needs to tighten things up a bit. You know, work on making the food taste great all the time and pick up the service a bit. Then I'll be their #1 fan.Listed in: Brunch., Cops Eat Here
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Review from Mary T.
3/9/2009
One word: awesome!
DISCLAIMER: Sorry, this review is sub-par (read: sucks). I blame it on a variety of factors: Daylight Savings Time, a mild hang over, and raging allergies that had me sneezing through my entire meal.
The miserable rain, among other things (see above) didn't stop me and my fellow Yelpers from trying this place for brunch. For most it's a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the trip; just don't make that trip on a weekday because they're not open.
Everything our table got looked amazing and from the sounds and cleaned plates tasted amazing too. I had the banana pancakes with a side of hash browns and loved them! Service was great, I don't think they get a lot of big groups (10+), but did their best to keep everyone happy, fed and hydrated. At the end of our meal CJ even came by the table to thank us for coming and chat a little bit.
Bottom line: Yum! Now get to CJ's while you can still say you were a fan before it became insanely popular ;-)
TIP: CJ's is BYOBListed in: Closing Time
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Review from michaelia f.
Chicago, IL
3/22/2009
Love, love, love this place.
I read last week's Time Out and this restaurant was featured in the "Save this Restaurant" article. When I read about creamy shrimp and grits, I was sold. I knew I had to get to this place, and fast.
I've been obsessing over shrimp and grits since I saw a travel channel show about South Carolina. Grits? Love 'em. Shrimp? One of my favorite sea creatures. Bacon? I don't know what I can say about bacon that hasn't been said already. (Food of the gods).
Saturday morning rolls around, and since I'm up absurdly early, I decide that this is the day. The day that will start the right way, with shrimp and grits.
CJ's is located on a quiet stretch of Grand in West Humboldt Park. While far from any train stop, it's easily accessible by Division or North Ave. buses.
When my dining companion and I walked in, we were surprised to see that there was no one else in the restaurant. It's really cute inside, with bright oranges, reds, and yellows decorating the room. There's a coffee bar too, so you can pop in and grab a latte to go.
I already knew what I wanted, but I took some time to peruse the menu. CJ's has some southern favorites, like fried chicken and waffles and biscuits and gravy, but also offers creative spins on old standbys, like the blackened salmon.
Not 15 minutes after we ordered, my shrimp and grits and my dining companion's catfish breakfast came to our table, piping hot. The shrimp and grits were everything I had hoped for: creamy, rich, and bacon-y. Shrimp were perfectly cooked and tender. A perfect way to start a day. My breakfast also came with two eggs, well cooked (over-easy), and a soft, buttery griddled biscuit. This was a ton of food, and I couldn't finish it (disappointing). My dining companion enjoyed his catfish breakfast, which came with two eggs, biscuit, grits, and a big filet of catfish. I snagged a bite of the catfish, which was deep-fried to crispy, crunchy perfection.
CJ's is only open on the weekends, but it's worth the trip. Go, go now. You won't regret it.Listed in: Five stars of awesome
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Review from Carol J.
Chicago, IL
10/4/2009
CJ's is everything I stand for, literally and well, in name. I went to brunch there and was crazy late due to the fact that I FORGOT that Grand runs on an angle at the very end. My bad!
Do I care about l about bells and whistles in a restaurant? Not so much. I mostly care about passion and dedication and awesome food and friendly service. Kind of like going to a long last Aunt's house, the food is definitely comfort food and probably not for those counting calories. If the yum factor is all that matters, this place is for you.
Awesome Spinach Dip (actually could be a meal in its creamy rich bad self). Fantastic fried chicken, moist and tender on the inside, crispy crunchy on the outside, enough flavor all on its own, no need to dip it or drench it any second rate sauce.
Loved the mac and cheese and was in awe of the grits. And was really happy to enjoy the lenient BYOB policy. I needed the vodka and Red Bull to function after of a feast of deliciousness. -
Review from Andre W.
2/15/2010
After hearing all the praises that were sung for this place it was only right I give it a shot. Drove over yesterday and street parking wasn't so bad. Walked in and was greeted by our nice server Monique who told us to sit wherever we wanted.
I had been hearing about the shrimp & grits for quite awhile and our server told me she was enjoying some when she came in to work that morning so I took her advice. The meal was great as it came along with a side of eggs and a biscuit. To drink I went with the Southern Sweet Tea. I did my undergraduate studies in Arkansas, so the tea definitely took me back to my collage years. Very sweet and on point!
While eating we were able to listen to some old and not so old soul grooves. The staff is very cool and helpful. Very southern menu so if you're into soul food you gotta check this place out. Good stuff from CJs!!!!!Listed in: Best Breakfast/Brunch, Gone Too Soon
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Review from Brent W.
8/19/2008
Easy 5-star on spectacular (and incredibly nice) SERVICE and, so far, a 4-5 star on the food. My first visit to CJ's a few months ago was one of the best (and most unexpected) dining experiences i've ever had...and it had everything to do with how simply straightforward the place and food was and how authentic and genuine the people who run CJ's are.
The place is very easy to miss and on a stretch of Grand that's a mix of older industrial buildings and 2nd hand furniture and (hopefully 1st hand) mattress stores. It's on the corner of Avers and Grand.
It was an early Sunday afternoon, 12ish and running errands over near Division's restaurant row. Was quickly becoming hungry, craving brunch/bfast along the lines of Milk and Honey or Janik's. Well, we all know that M and H on an any w/e dining hour is simply out of the question, and this day was no different. A line running 10 deep *outside*, prob an add'l 10+ inside. No thanks.
So I think of this place raved about on LTH and keep heading west, bust a right on Grand, go several blocks and completely drive by CJ's, didn't even notice it. I make a U-e a few blocks down, come back at a snails pace so as not to miss it, find it and park right in front. No line. I was giddy as a school girl. Or something like that.
I walk in and am greeted by Monique. Best sever ever ? I think she just might be. And cute as hell on top of all that charming personality, what a girl.
So I'd read about their freshly squeezed lemonade and order one up along w. the B and G's with a side of eggs. In short, I have now found the pinnacle of Biscuits and Gravy in Chicago...read any of my AM dining reviews and you'll know this quest has been long, and for the most part, unsuccessful. Well, CJ's has pretty much nailed it. They are fantastic....and i've had them a few times and they're consistently fantastic!
The owner/operator, Charles, describes his food as Southern Comfort Food and makes a distinction b/t that and Soul Food. Whatever the case may be, it's my kinda food not so much that it's SCFbut more b/c it's just absolute quality. Helluva nice guy who started this place up about a year ago and I hope all those in Yelpland will give this place a shot, you will *not* be disappointed, I assure you!
Btw, I took my 1 1/2 yr old boy there the other day and was wow'd again at CJ's accommodation. I asked Monique about their kids menu and she said I can pretty much take anything off the menu and make it kids portion. 1 pancake? No problem. 1 french toast. Do that too. Small (complimentary) fruit cup. Yes. They. Did. Simple gesture I know, but it is so refreshing to see this sort of service and attention paid to customers in a sea of places that treat you indifferent at best.
CJ's, as good as it gets. -
Review from Rhonda G.
Updated - 2/28/2010
Ok, we know that I like this place but the final test was the seal of approval from my family.
I, along with 7 other family members headed here for Sunday brunch. I felt nervous as though I were introducing a new boyfriend "please let them like CJ, Please let them like CJ". My fam doesn't do pretentious so I deemed this place perfect for them and I think I was right.
My brother is always late as was the case this afternoon, we ordered drinks and they were very understanding of the fact that we were waiting for a couple of other people to show up. The waitress was pretty attentive and just seemed to be the same laid back person I recall from my first visit.
Our party was finally all there and we ordered, food came without error and we were on our way. I scanned the faces at the table for any looks of horror or unhappiness, none. I dug into my fried chicken and waffles which was surprisingly very good. Once you get over that "hey, these things don't go together" hump you'll allow yourself to enjoy the sweet and savory awesomeness.
Being here with the family definitely brought about feelings of nostalgia. The food, the laughter...glad we were able to capture that again if only for a few hours.
Rhonda tested, family approved.Listed in: Breakfast of cheapskates...I…, on GRAAAND AVENUE!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/15/2009 ROTD 1/22/2010
"eat your food and quit playing with it". These words came from behind me.
I got chills.
"Mom?"
Nope,… Read more »
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Review from Becky S.
Chicago, IL
1/16/2008
One New Year's Day around noon, my friends and I, as well as most of Chicago, woke up hungover and wanting brunch. This would have been a laughable aspiration, as most restaurants waits were so long that we would have been fed somewhere around suppertime. But then I remembered--CJ's.
I had been to CJ's once before for brunch with a friend (the same clever one who introduced me to a number of new culinary splendors), and it was quite dreamy. They do a gourmet soul food kind of thang... cheesy grits, chicken and waffles, biscuits and gravy... all of which are awesome and cheap, to boot. One New Year's, we ventured over there, and they were empty. Open, but empty. That was great news for us, as our waitress doted on us, but bad news for CJ's... this place ought to be crowded.
Oh.. what? you want to know about the food? Ok then.
Chicken and waffles with pecan maple syrup - Fabulous. Meaty, greasy (greasy in a good way, like fried chicken should be) chicken wings on top of a Belgian waffle. I've only picked off the friend's plate, but me likey mucho.
Biscuits and Gravy - Delectable. And. Um. $3 or some ridiculous price. We ordered them as a breakfast appetizer.
Banana Bread Pudding with Peanut Butter Anglaise. Sound good? It tastes even better than what you're imagining.
And lastly.. the cheesy grits. Oh. My. Goodness. The taste of these is closer to risotto.. they're made with cheese, white wine, onions, bacon, and shrimp. I know I should try other things on the menu, but I can't.
I want CJ's to feed me brunch 4-eva. So. People need to start going there.. but not everyone, otherwise it will be far too crowded. So maybe every fifth person to read this review. Once they get busy but not so much that I have to wait for a table, we'll all stop telling people. Ok? Yeah. That should be nice.Listed in: Holy crap, you HAVE to try…
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Review from Mickey A.
3/8/2009
I think I'm the only one out of the Yelp brunch group today who didn't order grits. I'm just not a fan (and I'm from the South!). Hash browns just sounded so good at the time. They went well with my made-to-order omelet of my favorite mix: bacon, peppers, onions, and tomatoes. The portions are just enough to fill you up and put you in a food coma for most of the day...not that I just woke up or anything.
We had a good time. Service was awesome. I'm definitely coming back because I want to try the breakfast sausage casserole and the chicken/waffle combo, both of which I am now craving, and we ate a few hours ago!
FYI: Waiting for the 65 Grand bus (which takes you directly there) is a pain in the ass, esp. when it's raining and on the weekends. -
Review from Vanessa M.
Chicago, IL
5/12/2009
Go for the cheesy grits, stay for the rest of the great food. I've been here twice now and can't wait to go back. The food is delicious. I have had both the french toast and the huevos rancheros. The huevos rancheros came on crispy corn tortillas with veggies and a green salsa. French toast was of the actual french bread variety, not the greek toast most other restaurants use. Both were good enough that I barely left crumbs on my plate. But the cheese grits... Holy hell, those are awesome.
The only thing that is a bit lacking is the length of service. If you are thinking you can eat in a hurry, you may want to go somewhere else. This is slow, southern (?) service, even if you are only one of 3 tables in there. I can't really fault them for that, especially when it's a southern food style eatery. But if you're not in any hurry and just want to eat some kickass food with some friends, this is your place.Listed in: Brunching
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Review from Cee T.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 8/10/2010
OH NO! I went by Sunday August 8 2010 about 10:30am and again today, Tuesday August 10th about 11am........(I also called and the # is disconnected) I believe CJs is closed.
All I have to say is, I'm sure it is because of the LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION, cause it definitely wasn't the delicious food.
CJ, hopefully you'll find another location for your restaurant that is more accessible.Listed in: Breakfast is the most…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/21/2008
I love going out to breakfast and went solo to CJ's Eatery on Mother's Day and was very impressed… Read more »
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Review from Charlotte T.
Chicago, IL
4/21/2009 3 photos
CJ's is our go-to brunch place. It is a little out of the way, but I guess that keeps the line non-existent! I am torn between letting people know how good the food is and keeping it less busy so I can get a table.
Shrimp and Grits are amazing! The biscuit is soft, fluffy and buttery. Chicken and Waffles are the bomb! See the photos I uploaded... How can you resist!?Listed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from Kyra M.
Chicago, IL
9/20/2009
I must have driven by CJ's hundreds of times over the last couple years, but they never looked open so I never thought twice about coming here. Thank you, Yelp, for steering me in the right direction. This morning we were looking to try a new breakfast place, unfortunately, living in Belmont-Cragin doesn't really give many original options without having to go to Oak Park or drive somewhere out of the way. If you drive, CJ's is pretty much centrally located, ten minutes away from Wicker Park/Bucktown/Logan Square, and a straight shot down Grand from downtown or the Northwest side. You know you have true Chicagoan potential if you will drive anywhere for good food. True story.
We were there pretty early this morning (9am), and we were the only ones in the restaurant for a good half hour. The waitress was very friendly and we had a great conversation with her. CJ himself even came out to talk to us when we finished our meal. You would never know how great CJ's is from the outside. The decor was very warm and inviting, exposed brick walls and duct work, very clean, colorful artwork, interesting chairs, cozy booths. There is an espresso bar with an extensive drink list (makes me wish they were open during the week so I could stop by for morning coffee!), and their non-coffee drinks were also interesting; my companion, a very picky sweet tea lover who spent four years living in Atlanta, rated the sweet tea one of the best he's ever had. I had a simple cup of coffee, which was a great brew and refilled frequently.
For breakfast I had the sausage scramble casserole, which I thought looked a bit small at first but was surprisingly filling. My companion had the catfish, and cleaned his plate before I could finish my casserole. The biscuits... omg the biscuits. All I can say is mmmm. And mmmm again. So flaky. Mmmm... For dessert (yes, we ordered dessert after breakfast) we tried the banana bread pudding, which has this delicious peanut butter sauce and comes out nice and warm, looking almost too pretty to eat. It was all so delightfully satisfying. I can't wait to go back to try their lunch/dinner menu and all the other fantastic breakfast items. I definitely see CJ's becoming a regular weekend spot for us!
UPDATE: Went back for dinner (yes, the same day), and WOW! As could be expected, everything was delicious. This time I got to try the sweet tea for myself, and I savored every sip. For dinner we started out with a cup of the jambalaya, then I got the southern style fried cat fish and he got the fried chicken. Between the both of us we had mac n cheese, yams, mixed greens, red beans and rice, and garlic mashed potatoes. As a side dish lover, I smiled when I saw you could get 4 sides as a dinner in lieu of meat. I couldn't pick a favorite side dish, they were all fabulous, and our plates were completely empty. Didn't have room for dessert this time.... I won't stop until I've tried the entire menu! -
Review from Esther Y.
8/24/2008
Every good thing people say about CJ's is true. This place is AMAZING. We had Monique as our server, and true to form, she was great. She's friendly, great at giving suggestions, nice and all around pleasant. (when we told her about her rave reviews on Yelp, she got excited. LOL-that was fun).
So, when the bf and I go to try a new place, we have a tendency to over order so that we can have a lot of tastes, so don't judge us.
The bf had the catfish breakfast with cheese grits, scrambled eggs with cheese and a biscuit. Everything was AWESOME. I just realized that he enjoyed the catfish so much he didn't even offer me a bite. The cheese grits were good and so was the biscuit. YUM.
I had the sausage and egg casserole, it was great. I had a taste for a hearty breakfast and it hit the spot. Tons of veggies, a good amount of sausage and it was great with hot sauce.
We also had a waffle on the side (so that we could try the pecan maple syrup) and we were glad we did. Like Brent W. said, they should bottle it up and sell it.
For our drinks, we had the sweet tea which was also very tasty.
Ok, here's where you should not judge....we were sitting there and the bf liked it so much he wanted to order from their Soul Food Sundays menu to take home. So, he did. And we ate a slice of key lime pie while we waited. Considering it's hard to find good key lime pie in the city, it was a very pleasant surprise to have a great slice here. The pie was made in house and the crust was light, buttery, awesome goodness.
After we ate our pie, the owner came out and talked to us. He is very sweet, good natured and was so happy we liked his food. Immediately after we talked to him, the bf and I were plotting ways we could have him cater a party for us.
This is one of the places I wish could stay open forever. I normally like to keep these kinds of finds to my family and friends, for fear of having to compete with hipsters for a table, but this is one place I want everyone to go to so that you can help keep this neighborhood place alive.
Eat here. You'll be happy you did.Listed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from Becky W.
Chicago, IL
3/13/2009
I think I was meant to be a southerner. Maybe I was in another life.
Anyway, the food here hits the spot in my southern-meant self. I went with a large group of yelpers, and everyone loved their food. I went the common way and had an omelet, but they had pepperjack cheese! the best for omelets! Along side were grits and biscuits. Ok the grits were pretty good. The best grits I've eaten? No. But awesome? yes. Nice and buttery. They just needed some cheese.
The biscuits are where the place shines. Best biscuits ever!! I'd go back just for them! -
Review from yvette c.
Streamwood, IL
4/6/2009 1 photo
Came in over the weekend with Ericka L and it was fantastic! I had the Catfish brunch special that consisted of the crispiest, crunchediest Catfish I have ever had with the tastiest biscuits I have ever eaten, the cheesiest grits and 2 scrambled eggs. It was all very heavenly and I can't wait to come back for more. The service was a snail's pace but by the time my food came I didn't seem to mind anymore. I also had their cherry lemonade which is lemonade with a shot of cherry syrup of some sorts. I'm not exactly sure what it was but it was delicious! The restaurant was quaint with art scattered all over the place. What a great find!
Stacy Y - you can fifth wheel it up anytime! -
Review from Pinaki S.
Chapel Hill, NC
4/6/2009
Really, really, really good food. Sweet atmosphere. I had biscuits and gravy which were definitely solid.
My dining mates both had breakfast casseroles, one as a meat-a-tarian and one with all the trimmings. These were both thumbs-upped. The "southern" sweet tea definitely wasn't as good as the stuff down South, however. Stick to another drink if you're looking for that.
The very friendly server made sure to ask us where we heard of the place (I love when they do that). The answer, of course, was Yelp. -
Review from nikki c.
3/19/2009
as big as Chicago can be when it comes to Southern lovin food the really good choices just show up on a short bus list.
Mr. Charles Jr. and family found a dang smart way to fill a niche so well I cry tears of maple syrup to smother my pancakes of joy.
Open just on weekends until business can support a full time switch CJ cooks up some soul hurting foods in the few hours he performs in the kitchen.
Everything was good as sitting down to a big table of yelpers allowed us to sample, moan and sample some mores.
The slow service is reminiscent of the southern lifestyle, friendly and not hurried, and its good to sometimes be reminded that life should be savored by the moments and not just gotten through.
kudos for adding to the quality of soul dining in this cold city. -
Review from Ericka L.
4/4/2009 2 photos
Came here today with Yvette C. and we were just outdone! I had the breakfast casserole (see a picture I took) which was a medley of hashbrowns, eggs, sausage, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. It was perfect. It also came with a deliciously buttery biscuit that amazed me! I mean, they cooked the biscuit and then split it in half, buttered it, and then grilled it! I mean talk about a buttery crunch - I was severely pleased and tried to hold on to the biscuit as long as I could. Sadly...my stomach is no dummy and sent vicious messages to my brain telling me to "FINISH HIM"!!! SO I did...
Tried their cherry lemonade which was so refreshing and tasty. I am a lemonade fanatic and I'll jump at any opportunity to taste different varieties and this one hit the spot!
The restaurant itself was very nice and I enjoyed the art on the walls.
Overall - I am with all my fellow yelpers on this one - I loved everything about this place and I will def be back with Yvette and our men!
Muah! -
Review from Mika J.
Chicago, IL
8/16/2009
I once went to South Carolina in search of the world's best shrimp and grits. Who would have guessed my quest would end at home!
Thank you CJ's for bringing the smells, tastes, and love of grandma's southern kitchen to Humboldt Park. If you're looking for heaven try the biscuits (fluffy and buttery), grits (creamy and cheesy), gumbo, and the catfish (lightly breaded and flavorful). Don't let the neighborhood or sparse crowds fool you...this place is goooood! -
Review from Kurt P.
Chicago, IL
1/21/2010
Go to CJ's, and then go there again. Don't let this place die.
Start off with the spinach dip- it is served with fried pita chips and is soooo good .
I had the sausage casserole which was great, but I should have had the fried chicken and waffles (with pecan maple syrup) that my coworker had. She's from LA and liked it better than Roscoes.
CJ's is a great place for groups- you won't have to wait. It is a bit far west, but you'll spend less time driving back and forth compared to waiting at more popular places. Its definitely worth it. He's open Thu-Sun. -
Review from Liz Q.
Pittsburgh, PA
8/6/2007
Banana Bread Pudding with Peanut Butter Creme Anglaise.
That is all that needs to be said.
Oh - you want more? Um....a wonderful new gem on the West Side (WESTSIIIIIIIIIIDE) that will please the most discriminating palates with their take on Southern American cuisine. Meatloaf (with amazing mashed potatoes), catfish, corn chowder and more grace this menu.
But what is important is the banana bread pudding with peanut butter creme anglaise.
They also have a full coffee bar and serve breakfast, as well as brunch on Saturday and Sunday. The staff is friendly and CJ himself comes around to make sure you have everything that you need. And if you have ordered the banana bread pudding with peanut butter creme anglaise, then the answer is yes. Yes, you do.
CJ's Eatery is definitely worth the bus ride/car ride/bike ride. One might say it's worth it's weight in banana bread pudding with peanut butter creme anglaise. -
Review from Jessica G.
Chicago, IL
5/25/2008
This place is wonderful. We had a bunch of family in town and wanted a great brunch to take them to - I called CJ's this morning, and CJ himself answered and assured me that they would be glad to accomodate out 10 person party at the last minute.
We had the crab cakes and southwest eggroll appetizers, shrimp & grits, banana pancakes, catfish & eggs, BISCUITS AND GRAVY, and everything was fabulous.
We even ordered another platter of B&G to share after we had tasted them.
Wonderful food, and our server was very courteous and helpful. -
Review from Channyn W.
Chicago, IL
8/18/2008
For a moment I thought I had teleported back home and my momma was waking me up for some freshly baked biscuits and gravy. Instead, I found myself in a surprisingly lovely space that was tastefully decorated and relatively empty. Food this good deserves to be noticed!
If I could sit in a booth every day of the week and feast on the varied menu, I would do so with pure pleasure. The breakfast casserole was ridiculously good, as were the aforementioned biscuits and gravy. This is the only place in Chicago i've found so far that actually gets it right. Add the banana bread pudding and I could have stayed all day. Actually I wanted to stick around and wait for Sunday dinner because the menu looked just that delicious.
It was a bit of a drive from me, but one i'll be making a helluva lot more often now. Only downside is they're only open on Saturday and Sunday. :::Sigh:::Listed in: What time is brunch?
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Review from Elizabeth T.
Chicago, IL
5/16/2010
What a perfect place for Sunday brunch. It's so bright and cheery inside with the kitchen completely exposed to the rest of the restaurant - it almost feels like eating in Grandma's kitchen. So homey!
The service was great. They are very attentive, down-to-earth, and friendly. I came with a couple of old friends, so we had a lot of catching up to do. I have worked in several restaurants and know that it's difficult to achieve the right balance of attentiveness with groups like this and our server was definitely spot-on. Very respectful!
I was jonesing for the chicken and waffles, but REALLY wanted some cheese grits and a buttermilk biscuit, so I ordered the Fried Catfish Breakfast. The cheese grits are spectacular, like mana from heaven in my mouth. Mouth Mana. Hah. Anyway, the biscuit was light and buttery. The only thing wrong with it was my wishing the darn thing was bigger. The catfish was perfectly cooked with a light cornmeal batter, and my eggs were perfect as well.
My biggest - and only - issue with my meal was that it was kind of...plain/bland, save the cheese grits. I REALLY wanted some tasty hot sauce of some sort to bring my catfish and eggs together. Nevertheless, the meal was cooked perfectly and very hearty, as soul food should be.
One last thing - do yourself a favor and GET THE SWEET TEA. God. I could guzzle that down all day. Sure, it's sweet, but they put a whole bunch of lemon in it that balances it out very nicely - almost like an Arnold Palmer.
I will definitely be back. -
Review from Jay L.
Chicago, IL
9/30/2009
If you were born with a golden spoon in your mouth and are afraid of "hoody" places, CJ's might not be right for you. If you drive a fancy sports car, CJ's might not be right for you. If you do triathlon and eat only cottage cheese, CJ's might not be right for you. If you enjoy quality delicious food, CJ's might be the right place for you.
BAM! Imagine the best spinach dip you've ever had. Now, double that pleasure and then you'll have a hint of what CJ's spinach dip has to offer. I'm not going to lie, this dish alone is bringing me back and possibly upping my four star review to five star. That's how good it is.
Walk into this lively restaurant and you'll forget where you are. The decor is friendly and inviting. Service was fast and efficient. The food is fantastic although not for the health conscience. The shrimp and grits were awesome but get heavy after awhile. I'll definitely be back and I'm pretty sure my second visit will constitute a star bump. -
Review from Terri N.
Chicago, IL
5/4/2009
It was a beautiful Sunday and we didn't want to stand in that long ass line for Glen's Diner, so we opted for something new and decided to come here (they are only open on the weekend).
I'm glad we came here because the food and husband/wife owner, server were all humbling and fantastic. CJ's Eatery is a small family own southern cooking filled with good loving restaurant.
For brunch that day Tony and I had:
Chicken and Waffle (Perfectly breaded/seasoned moist chicken wings with a side of buttermilk waffle and delicious pecan syrup)
Gumbo
Catfish breakfast plate (Lightly breaded melt-in-your-mouth catfish, cheese grits, scramble eggs and a side of cantaloupe)
Sweet Tea (perfectly made)
Our server was extremely courteous and helpful in making recommendations. All food was made fresh and came out promptly. Needless to say we were kind of embarassed for finishing up our scrumptious brunch without a crumb left on either plates. Tony and I loved our experience at CJ's and the wonderful food because it was great (how can you go wrong with sweet loving down south homecooking?). I can't wait to take our daughter here, she would totally be hooked on their sweet tea and buttermilk waffle (another star for being family friendly.)
Seriously, come here without the high expectations. It's not that CJ's falls short of anything, not even by a mile, however, some people tend to read the reviews and enter a restaurant expecting too much. Walk in there with an open mind, wipe out what others have to say and how we are rating it, and judge for yourself. -
Review from Mandi G.
Chicago, IL
7/20/2009
Southern comfort food.
Overlook the slow service;
your gut will thank you. -
Review from Rusty S.
Chicago, IL
9/23/2007
Excellent, cheap menu. Seriously, you can get out of there for less than $10 per person, especially since it's BYOB. I think there's only one chef, and he did everything that we ordered well. One option for brunch is chicken wings and a Belgian waffle. Sounds intriguing, but I couldn't pass up the mac & cheese.
Revised 10/17: Have another star for consistently good food! And welcome to my 'Clean Plate Club' list. Yeah, CJ's!
The waitress did forget to put in the entree order for one member of our party - but I only point that out because some restaurants would have been jerks about it and try to blame it on someone else. This place was not like that. Our server was so nice about it that it really wasn't a big deal. Take notes, other restaurants!
Can't wait to go back. It's a bit out of the way, so I hope they do well.Listed in: Great Service, BYOB, Clean Plate Club
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Review from Kara K.
Chicago, IL
11/14/2009
Having southern roots, there aren't too many places in Chi City (other than at my relatives) that can serve up that goood down home cooking that warms my soul, fills my belly and gives me the "Itis". After yelping for brunch spots in my hood this place popped up and I couldn't believe I had never driven past it or at least heard of it. Well let me tell you something, this place right here...hmmph, felt like I had been transported back to my childhood and college days in BAMA.
We got there about 10:30 and I was surprised there wasn't some annoyingly ridiculous long-ass brunch line like you see at Bongo Room or Wishbone. And there were only 2 other parties seated so I started to have my doubts. The server waved at us to seat ourselves and she brought over a menu. As I perused the offerings I knew this was the real deal and the only reason why there weren't hoards of people there is because it's in the hood--and I do mean THE HOOD.
We started off with a glass of sweet tea and a cup of gumbo. If I didn't have a sore throat, that spicy and oh-so-delicious cup would have been emptied in about 2 minutes. For my brunch entree I had the sausage casserole, a side of cheesy grits and a buttermilk biscuit. That biscuit was so light, flaky and buttery I thought I was going to start crying, The cheesy grits were the right super-creamy texture and were doing little flavor cartwheels as they eased down my throat. The casserole was outstanding and seasoned just right.
My 3 year-old daughter ordered the banana pancakes with bacon and either she's going through another growth spurt, or her meal was just THAT good because she wolfed down those pancakes with such gleeful abandon I just had to try them for myself. They were just that good-- frickin' delicious even and the bacon was cooked to a tender, yet crispy level of perfection.
My man ordered the ham off-the-bone which tasted as good as the ham my grandmama used to make; eggs sunny side up and that darned buttermilk biscuit.
I asked the server, who was the only one working at the time , where were all the people and she said on Saturday it's pretty much a slow burn-- a steady stream of people all day, not a mad rush during certain times. She did say Sundays can get kinda buckwild though.
CJ came over and asked how we enjoyed our meal and how we heard about it. We sang his praises and told him we'd be back. I think I'll go back tomorrow!Listed in: Dem Belly Full, Mmm....Breffiss!
