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Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods offers an immersive New Orleans experience in Chicago's Wicker Park, featuring Southern and Creole cuisine. While the ambiance and food quality are praised, some patrons note service delays during busy periods.

Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods Chicago Experience Overview 

Nestled in the vibrant West Town neighborhood of Chicago, Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods serves up an authentic slice of New Orleans right at 1415 N Wood St. This funky outpost is beloved for its lively atmosphere, creative Southern and Creole fare, and specialty retail products that capture the spirit of the Big Easy. Whether you're a foodie craving bold flavors or a music lover looking for lively nightlife, Ina Mae offers a uniquely engaging experience with its blend of food, drinks, and live entertainment.

Ina Mae is best known for its flavorful Southern and Creole dishes, which include fan favorites like fried chicken, gumbo, red beans and rice, and deviled eggs. Patrons regularly praise the menu’s authenticity and the well-crafted rotating seasonal cocktail selection, with highlights such as the Ina Mae House Punch served in a distinctive skull pitcher. The venue’s vibe is enhanced by live music that infuses the space with energy, coupled with a New Orleans-themed interior that transports you away from Chicago’s urban landscape.

Not all experiences are the same, though. While many guests rave about the delicious food and cocktails, some have noted occasional inconsistencies, particularly with seasoning and service speed during busy periods. However, the welcoming staff and the overall ambiance often leave visitors eager to return and try more offerings.

Live music performances that elevate the dining experience.

Outdoor seating available on a cozy sidewalk patio.

Dog-friendly environment welcoming your furry companions.

Accepts credit and debit cards as well as NFC payments for convenience.

What are the operating hours of Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods?

 The restaurant operates Tuesday to Thursday from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, Friday from 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM, Saturday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM. It is closed on Mondays.

 Yes, the restaurant features live music performances that contribute to its vibrant atmosphere.

 Yes, Ina Mae provides outdoor seating on a sidewalk patio for guests to enjoy al fresco dining.

 Yes, reservations are accepted. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak times.

 Yes, the restaurant accepts major credit cards for payment.

Guests consistently enjoy the authentic New Orleans atmosphere paired with flavorful Southern and Creole dishes at Ina Mae Tavern. The live music and festive ambiance create a welcoming and spirited environment. While the food is generally well-liked, some visitors have experienced slower service during peak hours, which is something to keep in mind when planning your visit. Overall, Ina Mae stands out as a must-visit spot in Chicago for those seeking a taste of the South with a side of lively entertainment.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's vibrant West Town neighborhood, Ina Mae is a culinary gem that brings the spirit of New Orleans to the Windy City. This funky outpost is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience that combines creative fare, live music, and a lively atmosphere that beckons food lovers and social butterflies alike. As you step inside, the warm, inviting decor and the sounds of jazz create an ambiance that feels both festive and cozy, making it the perfect spot for a casual dinner or a night out with friends.

At Ina Mae, the menu is a celebration of Southern cuisine, featuring standout dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. One must-try is the **fried chicken**, which is perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, served with a side of creamy potato salad that complements the dish beautifully. Another highlight is the **gumbo**, rich with flavors and packed with fresh ingredients, making it a comforting choice for any occasion. The rotating seasonal cocktail menu adds an exciting twist, with drinks like the Ina Mae House Punch, served in a charming skull pitcher, setting the tone for a fun dining experience.

What sets Ina Mae apart is not just its food but also its vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant often features live music, creating a lively backdrop for your meal. Whether it’s a local band or a themed night, the energy is palpable, making it a great spot for gatherings. Additionally, the staff is known for their friendly service, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and valued. This combination of great food and engaging ambiance makes Ina Mae a must-visit destination in Chicago.

Ina Mae is celebrated for its Southern-inspired cuisine, particularly its fried chicken and gumbo, alongside a lively atmosphere featuring live music.

Visiting Ina Mae offers a unique blend of delicious food, a vibrant atmosphere, and live music, making it a perfect spot for a fun night out.

Ina Mae is conveniently located near several attractions in West Town, making it easy to explore the neighborhood before or after your meal.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, make sure to stop by Ina Mae for a taste of Southern hospitality and culinary delights. Gather your friends, enjoy the live music, and indulge in dishes that will leave you craving more. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Funky outpost with a New Orleans vibe, creative fare, live music & specialty retail products.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzc0o2QWlnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJPRWxdNTTD4gRGBHA7sE-iB8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzc0o2QWlnRRAB

Starting of course the service was great , all staff were nice and helpful. Atmosphere is nice depends on the music and or the band. Now let’s get to the food. I am a fried chicken enthusiast and maybe I had a lot of expectations since it’s a southern restaurant. The chicken in my fried chicken was unseasoned just literally raw cooked chicken that haven’t been marinated or anything , and then breaded lightly and the breading is not great. The chicken tenders are a bit better but same remark that the seasoning is not great, Deviled eggs were just fine and the fried thing whatever in the pic was good , but overall the drinks were great the food unfortunately not, I hope to return and have a better experience, good luck I would say

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYeUliTFNnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJPRWxdNTTD4gRGBHA7sE-iB8/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYeUliTFNnEAE

Southern food in a new Orleans themed space. Nice rotating seasonal cocktail menu and the food overall is good.

Menu covers a nice spread and prices are fairly reasonable for the city.

It may have been a bit of an off night when we went,  but our server was pulled in a few too many directions and it was hard to flag them down. They were very nice others.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3NHBqODBBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJPRWxdNTTD4gRGBHA7sE-iB8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3NHBqODBBRRAB

I absolutely had a great experience here. I took my sister for her birthday. We did outdoor seating. Wait staff were kind and helpful. First drink I had was the Ina Mae House Punch and I'd order that again and again. It came in a little skull pitcher and set the tone for the meal. We ordered deviled eggs. We were eating them so quick we barely got a picture. We tried the gumbo great but comes with potato salad. We thought we might hold that part. We had red beans and rice with sausage. We kept eating this and stuffing ourselves. It was great that day and when reheated the next day. We also had fried chicken. You can carry the flavor but I like mine plain. It was fried well in meal. I enjoy it then and as a leftovers. If you are on the go and eat out often then how leftovers taste matter. Finally we had a snowball and opted to make it boozy. If you do nothing else you can come here to make your own drunken treat.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYaHFpRExnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJPRWxdNTTD4gRGBHA7sE-iB8/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYaHFpRExnEAE

My friend and I went on a Fri night. The place is small so I expected it to be a little crowded. When we got there we were told they were only accepting reservations at the time because they were fully booked. Which is understandable. The host offered us outside sitting which was a no for me because there were no heaters. So, eventually we got seats at the bar. I would like to point out we were there for about 1.5 hrs and at least 3 high tops and 1 table in the back by the band stayed empty for a hr. So much for those reservations. It's Halloween time so they have themed drinks, live music, and specials. My friend had the hurricane and witches brew and she said they did not skip on the alcohol, both are recommended. The fried catfish Po boy was seasoned well. The gumbo had great flavor. The crab cakes actually taste fresh without the fishy taste. The mac and cheese was ok. It was missing something. Red beans and rice were surprisingly flavorful. Highly recommend the crab and artichoke dip. Just in case you have to use the restroom, unfortunately you do have to walk down a flight of stairs to get to it.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuejkyV0RREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJPRWxdNTTD4gRGBHA7sE-iB8/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuejkyV0RREAE

NO happy hour for October! Food was delicious. Service was great. The place was decorated for Halloween - so cute! Live music! BUT what isn’t advertised online… unless I missed it… HAPPY HOUR NOT OFFERED MONTH OF OCTOBER.
Halloween themed drinks were delicious, cup decorations on point! Chicken strips were tasty and not dry! The potato salad side, yum! The hushpuppies, yum! Fried pickles… i probably wouldn’t get them again. Breading fell off and were soggy. Everything else, we loved! Definitely would come back for dinner. Would like to try other things on the menu.

Enjoy Southern Cuisine at Ina Mae, Chicago's New Orleans Gem

Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods, named after Executive Chef Brian Jupiter's great-grandmother, offers a New Orleans-inspired dining experience in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood.

Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods: a New Orleans gem in Chicago

Nestled in the vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago, Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods stands out as a unique culinary destination that blends rich Southern heritage with the energetic spirit of the Windy City. Named in honor of Executive Chef Brian Jupiter's great-grandmother, Ina Mae, this establishment transports guests to the lively streets of New Orleans through its carefully crafted menu and inviting ambiance.

Since its inception in 2016, Ina Mae Tavern has been a beacon of Southern-inspired dining in Chicago. Opening its doors that year, the restaurant quickly captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its authentic flavors and warm hospitality.

Just a year after launching, Ina Mae earned a prestigious Bib Gourmand award from the MICHELIN Guide in 2017. This accolade highlighted the restaurant’s commitment to providing high-quality dishes at great value, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit spot for Southern cuisine enthusiasts and foodies exploring Chicago’s diverse dining scene.

Distinctive New Orleans-inspired experience

At Ina Mae Tavern, the essence of New Orleans is woven into every aspect of the dining experience — from the spicy, soulful dishes to the lively atmosphere enhanced by live music and themed cocktails. This makes it a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic taste of the South without leaving Chicago.

 - marking the arrival of a Southern culinary haven in Wicker Park.

 - recognition from the MICHELIN Guide for delivering quality cuisine at great value.

This history and recognition not only reflect Ina Mae Tavern's dedication to exceptional food and hospitality but also its role in enriching Chicago’s culinary landscape with a vibrant slice of Southern culture. Whether you're a local foodie, a visitor craving New Orleans flavors, or someone looking for a lively spot with great music and cocktails, Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods offers a memorable experience steeped in tradition and creativity.

A hidden gem in the vibrant West Town neighborhood of Chicago, Mae boasts an inviting atmosphere that promises an unparalleled dining experience. With its modern yet rustic decor, the establishment is a feast for the senses before you even take a bite. The menu is a charming mosaic of flavors, showcasing a delightful blend of classic dishes and innovative culinary creations that spark intrigue at every turn. The bar at Mae is not to be missed, featuring an impressive selection of craft cocktails and local brews that perfectly complement the culinary offerings.

Ina Mae

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Live Music

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Alcohol

Good for Children

A hidden gem in the vibrant West Town neighborhood of Chicago, Mae boasts an inviting atmosphere that promises an unparalleled dining experience. With its modern yet rustic decor, the establishment is a feast for the senses before you even take a bite. The menu is a charming mosaic of flavors, showcasing a delightful blend of classic dishes and innovative culinary creations that spark intrigue at every turn. The bar at Mae features an impressive selection of craft cocktails and local brews that perfectly complement the culinary offerings.

Experience the flavors of New Orleans with our Southern and Creole-inspired dishes, from po' boys to gumbo and beignets.

Hushpuppies

Crab & Artichoke Dip

Fried Pickles

Gumbo Ya-Ya

Deviled Eggs

Crispy Cauliflower

Jup's Hot Wings

Green Goddess Salad

Shrimp & Avocado Salad

Char-Grilled Oysters

Frenchman Street Oysters

Mixed Fried Chicken

Fried Chicken Tenders

Maw Maw's Beef Tips

Catfish Filet

Lump Crab Cakes

Gulf Shrimp

Corn on the Cobb

Red Beans & Rice

Mac & Cheese

NOLA Po' Boys

Biscuits

Beignets

Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods Menu

Ina Mae Tavern Menu Overview - A Taste of New Orleans in Chicago's West Town District.

Nestled at 1415 North Wood Street in vibrant Chicago's West Town, Ina Mae Tavern serves up an authentic New Orleans experience with a Southern and Creole-inspired menu. From soulful starters to indulgent mains, delightful desserts, and creative cocktails, this spot promises to transport your taste buds straight to the Big Easy.

Begin your meal with a range of flavorful starters that showcase Southern comfort at its finest. Crispy Hushpuppies combine cornmeal, onions, and buttermilk with a zesty pimento butter. The Crab & Artichoke Dip offers a creamy blend of crab meat and artichokes paired with cajun tortilla chips, delivering a perfect balance of richness and spice. For a tangy twist, Fried Pickles coated in buttermilk and spices come with a punch of voodoo sauce.

Gumbo Ya-Ya: A hearty starter brimming with shrimp, chicken, crawfish, andouille sausage, rice, and a traditional potato salad side.

Deviled Eggs: Classic eggs with a creamy filling of mayonnaise, mustard, hot sauce, and scallions.

Crispy Cauliflower: Buttermilk-battered cauliflower served with buttermilk ranch and spicy voodoo sauce for dipping.

Jup's Hot Wings: Chicken wings tossed in a signature Jup's hot sauce for a fiery start to your meal.

Additional favorites like Corn on the Cobb, Red Beans & Rice with andouille sausage and ham hock, and classic Mac & Cheese round out this tempting selection.

For the main course, savor standout dishes that blend Southern tradition with creative twists. The Green Goddess Salad is a vibrant mix of kale, charred broccoli, avocado, and jalapeño lime vinaigrette – a fresh option packed with bold flavors. Seafood lovers will delight in the Char-Grilled Oysters topped with creole butter and parmesan, or the Frenchman Street Oysters, enhanced with crabmeat and artichoke.

The heartier mains include a tempting variety of fried and blackened options: Mixed Fried Chicken and Fried Chicken Tenders each arrive drizzled with hot honey for a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Maw Maw's Beef Tips feature tender sirloin simmered in beef gravy with classic trinity vegetables while Catfish Filet and Gulf Shrimp can be enjoyed fried or blackened to your liking.

Don't miss the NOLA Po' Boys – iconic French bread sandwiches loaded with choices like fried shrimp, roast beef, fried oyster, or Nashville hot chicken, dressed with lettuce, tomato, pickles, mayo, and hot sauce for that authentic New Orleans kick.

Finish your meal with classic Southern desserts that comfort the soul. Warm, flaky Biscuits made with flour, buttermilk, and butter offer simple indulgence, while airy Beignets dusted with powdered sugar deliver a light and sweet finish reminiscent of New Orleans' famous treats.

Complement your meal with Ina Mae's rotating seasonal cocktail menu that features inventive creations embracing New Orleans’ festive spirit. From the signature Ina Mae House Punch served in a quirky skull pitcher to Halloween-themed drinks like the Hurricane and Witches Brew, each cocktail is crafted to excite your palate and elevate your dining experience.

 A signature punch served in a skull-shaped pitcher that sets a fun and festive tone.

 Including crowd favorites like the Hurricane and Witches Brew.

Ina Mae Tavern's combination of a lively New Orleans theme, live music, and a menu packed with authentic Southern flavors makes it a must-visit destination for foodies and culture seekers in Chicago. Whether you're craving crispy fried chicken, savory po' boys, or a refreshing cocktail, this West Town gem offers a spirited dining experience that captures the heart and soul of the South.

Savor mouthwatering dishes and cocktails at Ina Mae in Chicago's vibrant West Town. Experience culinary delight—visit us today!

Dine at Ina Mae: Trendy Chicago Restaurant in West Town

Cook County

Enjoy live performances that enhance the vibrant atmosphere.

Dine al fresco on our inviting sidewalk patio.

Savor our special brunch menu on weekends.

Brunch

Ina Mae Chicago dining experience in West Town neighborhood of Chicago provides a lively New Orleans-inspired atmosphere combined with creative Southern cuisine and vibrant entertainment.

Nestled at 1415 North Wood Street in Chicago's trendy West Town, Ina Mae is a must-visit spot for food lovers seeking an authentic slice of Southern charm with a modern twist. This funky outpost delights guests with its New Orleans vibe, featuring an eclectic mix of live music performances that fill the space with irresistible energy.

Ina Mae offers a full dining experience with a menu that covers brunch, lunch, and dinner, making it an ideal destination for any time of day. Guests can enjoy creative Southern dishes alongside a rotating seasonal cocktail menu, including the popular Ina Mae House Punch served in a quirky skull pitcher, setting the tone for a memorable meal.

 is available on a welcoming sidewalk patio, perfect for guests who love to dine al fresco while soaking up the vibrant neighborhood atmosphere.

The menu showcases Southern staples like gumbo, red beans and rice, crab cakes, and fried catfish po' boys — all crafted with care to bring bold, soulful flavors to every bite. Vegetarian options are also available for diverse palates. For dessert lovers, the boozy snowball cocktail offers a fun and indulgent way to cap off the meal.

 Enjoy live performances that enhance the vibrant atmosphere.

 Dine al fresco on our inviting sidewalk patio.

 Savor our special brunch menu on weekends, featuring hearty and flavorful options that celebrate Southern comfort food.

Ina Mae is perfect for groups and families alike, welcoming children and even dogs. The spot offers convenient features such as takeout and delivery services, accepts multiple forms of electronic payments including NFC, debit, and credit cards, and provides both free and paid street parking options nearby. Guests can enjoy watching sports in a lively setting and take advantage of reservable seating to secure their spot on busy nights.

 nights add a dynamic backdrop to your dining experience, while the friendly staff and warm ambiance keep visitors coming back for more.

Illinois

Discover Ina Mae in Chicago's West Town for authentic New Orleans-style dishes, live music, outdoor seating, and a vibrant Southern ambiance.

Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods in Chicago - Unique Creole Experience

Enjoy flavorful Southern and Creole dishes at Ina Mae in Chicago. Experience live music, outdoor dining, and unique cocktails in Wicker Park.

Explore Chicago's Ina Mae Tavern - Authentic Creole & Southern Food

Learn about Ina Mae in Chicago’s Wicker Park, inspired by New Orleans, featuring rich history, southern flavors, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

Enjoy Southern Cuisine at Ina Mae, Chicago's New Orleans Gem

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