Aunt Lou’s Soul Food brings the heart and soul of Southern cooking to Springfield, Illinois. Each recipe is handcrafted by passionate cooks who honor family traditions.
Guests are welcomed into a warm atmosphere that feels like home. The menu overflows with flavor, comfort, and nostalgia.
Founded by Louetta “Aunt Lou” Johnson over twenty years ago, this restaurant has grown from a small family kitchen to a beloved community landmark. Every dish traces back to Aunt Lou’s original handwritten recipes.
Loyal patrons appreciate the consistency and authenticity of each meal. Over time, the establishment became synonymous with genuine Southern hospitality.
The dining room features cozy wooden tables, checkered tablecloths, and vintage photographs of Aunt Lou and her family. Soft jazz and gospel music play gently in the background, adding to the sense of comfort.
Friendly staff members greet you with warm smiles and eager service. The ambiance makes every meal feel like a special family gathering.
At Aunt Lou’s, quality ingredients are the cornerstone of every recipe. Locally sourced produce, free-range poultry, and carefully selected spices ensure freshness.
Everything is cooked to order in small batches to maintain perfect flavor and texture. No shortcuts, no preservatives, just genuine home-style cooking.
The menu spans a wide variety of soul food classics, from crispy fried chicken to creamy mashed yams and cornbread fresh from the oven. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are clearly marked for guests with dietary needs.
Large family platters and individual meals cater to every appetite. Each bite tells a story of heritage, culture, and love.
Appetizers
Begin your meal with comforting starters that set the tone for Southern indulgence. Shareable portions encourage family-style dining.
All appetizers are made from scratch using Aunt Lou’s time-honored techniques. They’re perfect for those who love bold, home-cooked flavors.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Green Tomatoes | Hand-sliced, lightly battered, served with remoulade sauce | $6.99 |
| Seasoned Okra Bites | Fresh okra, dredged in cornmeal and fried to crispy perfection | $5.49 |
| Deviled Eggs | Classic recipe with tangy mustard and a sprinkle of paprika | $4.99 |
| Mini Pork Belly Sliders | Slow-cooked pork belly, tangy slaw, brioche buns | $7.99 |
Sides
Each main course comes with two sides of your choice. The sides exemplify the comfort and warmth of soul food.
Generous portions mean you’ll never leave hungry. Mix and match to find your perfect combination.
| Side | Description | Price (per side) |
|---|---|---|
| Macaroni & Cheese | Cheesy, creamy, baked with a golden breadcrumb topping | $3.99 |
| Collard Greens | Slow-cooked with smoked turkey, seasoned with garlic and onion | $3.49 |
| Sweet Potato Mash | Whipped sweet potatoes with butter and a hint of cinnamon | $3.49 |
| Buttermilk Biscuit | Flaky, tender biscuit served fresh from the oven | $1.99 |
| Black-Eyed Peas | Slow-simmered with ham hock and aromatic spices | $3.49 |
Main Courses
The heart of the menu shines in its main courses, each cooked with care and passion. Choose from family favorites that have stood the test of time.
All entrées include your choice of two sides and a biscuit. Whether you crave fried, grilled, or smothered dishes, there’s something for everyone.
| Entrée | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Fried Chicken Plate | Buttermilk-brined chicken, golden crust, served with gravy | $12.99 |
| Catfish Po’ Boy | Cajun-spiced catfish, lettuce, tomato, remoulade on French roll | $11.49 |
| Smothered Pork Chops | Bone-in chops in onion gravy, slowly braised for maximum tenderness | $13.49 |
| BBQ Ribs | Tender baby back ribs, slathered in house-made barbecue sauce | $14.99 |
| Vegetable Plate | Four sides of your choice, perfect for vegetarian guests | $9.99 |
Signature Specialties
Certain dishes are so beloved they earn special status on the menu. These items often feature seasonal ingredients or innovative twists on classic recipes.
Fans come from far and wide to taste these culinary highlights. They exemplify Aunt Lou’s creativity and dedication.
| Special | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp & Grits | Sauteed shrimp in Cajun cream sauce over cheddar grits | $15.99 |
| Jambalaya | Cajun rice stew with sausage, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables | $13.99 |
| Chicken & Waffles | Belgian waffle topped with crispy chicken strips and maple butter | $12.49 |
| Seafood Boil | Snow crab legs, shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn in spicy broth | $19.99 |
Desserts
No soul food meal is complete without a sweet finish. Aunt Lou’s dessert offerings celebrate classic Southern treats.
Each one is prepared daily in the on-site bakery. Treat yourself to a slice of nostalgia.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pecan Pie | Rich filling of toasted pecans and buttery syrup in flaky crust | $4.99 |
| Peach Cobbler | Fresh peaches baked with cinnamon topping, served warm | $5.49 |
| Sweet Potato Pie | Silky sweet potato custard with a hint of nutmeg | $4.99 |
| Red Velvet Cake | Moist layers with cream cheese frosting | $5.99 |
Beverages
Complement your meal with refreshing drinks handcrafted for Southern flair. Sweet tea and homemade lemonade remain staples.
Specialty coffees and hot teas warm the soul. A selection of soft drinks rounds out the options.
| Drink | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Tea | Poured fresh, perfectly sweetened | $2.49 |
| Homemade Lemonade | Tangy, refreshing, made with real lemons | $2.99 |
| House Blend Coffee | Dark roast, medium-bodied, served hot or iced | $1.99 |
| Soft Drinks | Assorted sodas, includes free refills | $1.99 |
Customer Testimonials
“Aunt Lou’s Soul Food is hands down the best Southern cooking I’ve had outside of Georgia. Every dish tastes like it was made by my grandmother.” – Michelle R.
“The fried chicken and mac & cheese are legendary here. I drive across town just to get my Sunday fix!” – David T.
Catering & Private Events
Aunt Lou’s offers full-service catering for weddings, reunions, and corporate events. Customizable menus accommodate groups of any size.
Buffet-style presentations and plated dinners bring the same quality you enjoy in the restaurant. Delivery, setup, and service staff are available on request.
Community Involvement
Giving back is central to Aunt Lou’s mission. Regular food drives and charity fundraisers support local shelters and schools.
Cooking classes introduce youth to the art of soul food preparation. Partnerships with area farms promote sustainable agriculture.
Each purchase helps fund scholarships for culinary students in Springfield. Seasonal volunteer days bring employees and patrons together for neighborhood cleanups.
Aunt Lou’s is proud to be a community anchor, fostering connection and goodwill. Every meal served represents more than great flavor—it’s a promise to the city.
Location & Hours
Find Aunt Lou’s Soul Food at 123 Elm Street, Springfield, IL 62704. We’re open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Lunch specials run until 3:00 PM on weekdays. Early reservations are recommended for weekend dinners.
Contact & Social Media
For reservations and inquiries, call (217) 555-1234 or email [email protected]. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @AuntLousSoulFood for daily specials and upcoming events.
Join our mailing list for exclusive coupons and announcements. We love connecting with you online and in person.
Come experience the soulful warmth of Aunt Lou’s kitchen today. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner or a sweet finish, our menu has something to satisfy every craving.
Join us and become part of the family that makes Springfield’s soul food scene truly special.
