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Yassa African Restaurant is celebrated for its authentic Senegalese cuisine, generous portions, and welcoming atmosphere. Patrons frequently commend the flavorful dishes, attentive service, and cultural ambiance. The restaurant's commitment to community engagement, such as live music events and catering services, further enhances its reputation.

Yassa African Restaurant Chicago IL - Authentic Senegalese Flavor in Douglas Neighborhood 

Nestled in Chicago's vibrant Douglas neighborhood, Yassa African Restaurant offers an immersive journey into the rich culinary traditions of Senegal. This cozy and colorful eatery is beloved for its authentic Senegalese stews, whole grilled fish, and uniquely flavorful dishes that make every meal feel like dining in a welcoming home. From tender meats infused with just the right balance of spices to comforting plantain fufu and savory djolof rice, Yassa delights food lovers seeking bold West African flavors.

What makes Yassa African Restaurant a must-visit dining spot

Beyond its authentic menu, Yassa African Restaurant warmly welcomes guests with a homey atmosphere and attentive service. Diners rave about the generous portions and dishes like the grilled whole fish with crispy skin and tender belly, the rich thiou curry shrimp, and the fried salmon-filled Fataya served with spicy pepper sauce. Vegetarian options are also thoughtfully prepared, ensuring everyone can savor West African staples. Whether you're craving dinner or lunch, Yassa is a local favorite that brings the heart of Senegal to Chicago.

Community praises and dining experience highlights

At Yassa African Restaurant, many guests express how their meals feel like they’re eating at a friend's house—flavorful, tender, and deeply satisfying. The spice levels are balanced to please a variety of palates, with some wishing for a touch more heat. The staff ensures attentive, friendly service in a clean and inviting space, making it great for family outings or group dinners. Popular dishes include the lamb thiou curry paired with fufu and fried plantains, the crispy-yet-juicy Yassa chicken, and the unique millet yogurt dessert called Thiakry. This family-owned gem continues to win hearts with its commitment to quality and cultural authenticity.

Frequently asked questions about Yassa African Restaurant

What are the restaurant's operating hours?

 Yassa African Restaurant operates Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Is there live entertainment at the restaurant?

 Yes, live music is featured every second Saturday, except in January and February.

Does the restaurant offer catering services?

 Yes, catering services are available for special events.

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

 No, the restaurant does not serve alcohol.

Yassa African Restaurant invites guests to enjoy a peaceful and spacious dining environment where cultural decorations enhance the experience. It is perfect for family dining and groups seeking to share a culinary adventure. While it doesn't serve alcohol or offer outdoor seating, the friendly staff, clean setting, and authentic menu make it a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike. Free street parking and accessibility options add to the convenience. Whether you come for the lunch specials or a relaxing dinner, Yassa promises a taste of Senegal's heart and soul in Chicago.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's Douglas neighborhood, Yassa African Restaurant is a vibrant culinary gem that invites you to experience the rich flavors of Senegalese cuisine. As you step inside, the colorful decor and warm ambiance immediately transport you to West Africa, making it the perfect spot for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Here, every dish tells a story, and the inviting atmosphere feels like dining at a friend's home.

At Yassa, the menu is a celebration of traditional Senegalese fare, featuring standout dishes that are both flavorful and visually stunning. One must-try is the **Grilled Whole Fish**, perfectly seasoned and grilled to crispy perfection, served alongside sautéed vegetables that add a delightful crunch. Another highlight is the **Thiou Curry Shrimp**, where tender shrimp are enveloped in a tangy curry sauce, complemented by fresh onions and carrots. Each bite is a harmonious blend of spices that transports your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Dakar.

Behind the scenes, the restaurant is family-owned, and the warmth of their hospitality is evident in every interaction. The chefs take pride in using authentic ingredients and traditional cooking methods, ensuring that each dish is not only delicious but also a reflection of their heritage. This dedication to quality and authenticity is what keeps patrons returning for more.

Conveniently located at 3511 S King Dr, Yassa is easily accessible for both locals and visitors. After indulging in a delightful meal, take a stroll through the vibrant Douglas neighborhood, where you can explore local shops and art galleries. The nearby Washington Park offers a serene escape, perfect for a post-meal walk.

Yassa is renowned for its authentic Senegalese dishes, particularly the grilled fish and Thiou curry shrimp.

Yes, there is free street parking available near the restaurant.

Yes, Yassa offers takeout and delivery options for those who prefer to enjoy their meals at home.

Whether you're a local or just visiting Chicago, Yassa African Restaurant is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the vibrant flavors of Senegal. Come and indulge in a culinary adventure that promises to delight your senses and leave you craving more.

Senegalese fare, including traditional stews & whole fish, are served in a cozy, colorful setting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzd19ESktBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJA2zT2_UrDogRZW0PDfK7iVI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzd19ESktBEAE

Feels like you’re eating at someone’s house and the food was so good and flavorful. The meat was tender and everything was good. Spice level was also good for me but I would have preferred a bit more heat. Overall would try again and definitely recommend trying this place out.  Got too excited to try the chicken and lamb and almost forgot to take a picture 😅 - as you can see it was too good to wait!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURMNzZ2RVlnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJA2zT2_UrDogRZW0PDfK7iVI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURMNzZ2RVlnEAE

The food was deeply flavored and very well cooked. The fried fish was tender and flaky and the seasoned Yassa on top was like nothing I’ve ever tasted. The Fataya were filled with salmon and warm spices and served with a spicy pepper sauce for dipping. Service was attentive and made sure we had everything we needed.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYZ1BLUmRBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJA2zT2_UrDogRZW0PDfK7iVI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYZ1BLUmRBEAE

We ordered two recommended main courses, paired with fried plantains and plantain fufu as sides. For appetizers, we tried a fried dish and the signature dessert, millet yogurt. Everything was unique, delicious, and satisfying.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Grilled Whole Fish
The grilled whole fish is a must-try here. The skin is crispy while the inside is tender! It’s seasoned just right, with onion and carrot as the main accompaniments. As a grilled fish lover, I really enjoyed the texture, especially the belly and fins. We dug in with our hands, just like other diners. It’s hard to imagine it tasting better with any other ingredients!

🌟🌟🌟🌟 Thiou Curry Shrimp
Thiou curry features several types of meat, and the shrimp are perfectly tender. The curry flavor isn’t overpowering and has a slight tanginess, loaded with onions and carrots. This was the second dish recommended by the staff, who suggested lamb as well.

For the main course, I highly recommend Plantain Fufu as a side! Fufu is a West African dish made from green plantains and water, with a slightly sticky, chewy texture and a hint of sweet plantain flavor. I loved it!

🌟🌟🌟🌟 Appetizer Fried Dishes
The spring rolls and dumplings were both delicious. The fried dumplings are filled with salmon paste and come with a spicy sauce—definitely worth trying individually.

For dessert, we ordered the Thiakry, a Senegalese specialty. It’s basically rich yogurt with millet added. It comes in a large portion, isn’t too sweet, and has a subtle cinnamon flavor. It’s quite filling and worth a try.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiaVlyWmtRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJA2zT2_UrDogRZW0PDfK7iVI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNiaVlyWmtRRRAB

Everything we tried was delicious. However,  the Thiou curry with lamb is so F’n good! You have to try it. It paired well with fufu , plantains and djolof.
The servers were nice and the restaurant was clean and welcoming. The atmosphere is homey.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURWMDhmVWhBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJA2zT2_UrDogRZW0PDfK7iVI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURWMDhmVWhBRRAB

A homey, spacious restaurant with super friendly service, beautiful decorations, and a solid selection of flavorful dishes! The prices are solid and the portions are large and filling. This is a family-owned restaurant I’d always be happy to eat at and support!

Food I tried:
- Yassa Fish with Djolof Rice (4.5/5): The fish was great-- quite boney and salty, but very tender and flavorful. The soft sautéed veggies on top added a nice kick of flavor and texture. The djolof was wonderfully crispy and wasn’t spicy but very well-seasoned otherwise.

- Yassa Chicken with Fried Plantains (4/5): The chicken was pretty crispy and juicy, and again, the soft sautéed veggies on top added a nice contrasting flavor and texture. The plantains were flavorful and well-fried.

- Maffe with Plantain Fufu (4.5/5): The maffe was good and heavy, with distinct yet somewhat subtle peanut butter flavors. The lamb was very tender, but I wish it came with more— there were only a couple pieces in there. The fufu had a soft, fluffy texture, and was a good pair to this dish for scooping up the maffe sauce. The fufu itself didn’t have much flavor, but it soaked up the flavor of other things pretty well.

Yassa African Restaurant: Authentic Senegalese Dining in Chicago's Douglas Neighborhood

Yassa African Restaurant, established in 2004 by Madieye and Awa Gueye, relocated to its current Bronzeville location in 2015 after a fire destroyed the original Chatham site. The restaurant is named after the traditional Senegalese dish 'Yassa,' reflecting its dedication to authentic Senegalese cuisine.

Yassa African Restaurant history and heritage in Chicago's Bronzeville district.

Founded in 2004 by the passionate couple Madieye and Awa Gueye, Yassa African Restaurant began as a heartfelt tribute to Senegalese culinary traditions. Originally rooted in the vibrant Chatham neighborhood of Chicago, this beloved eatery quickly became a local gem renowned for its authentic flavors and warm, inviting atmosphere.

In 2015, after a devastating fire engulfed their original location, the Gueyes demonstrated remarkable resilience by relocating the restaurant to Chicago's historic Bronzeville district. This new home not only preserved Yassa's rich heritage but also infused it with the dynamic spirit of Bronzeville, a neighborhood celebrated for its cultural significance and artistic legacy.

The restaurant’s name, Yassa, is a direct homage to a beloved traditional Senegalese dish known for its vibrant marinated onions, lemon, and mustard flavors. This choice reflects the restaurant’s dedication to authenticity, offering diners an immersive experience into Senegal’s rich cuisine and culture.

From Chatham to Bronzeville: A Journey of Community and Culture

The move to Bronzeville marked a new chapter, embracing a community rich with African American history and artistic expression. Here, Yassa African Restaurant continues to serve as a cultural beacon, blending traditional Senegalese recipes with the welcoming vibe that makes guests feel like family.

 Yassa African Restaurant was established by Madieye and Awa Gueye in Chicago’s Chatham neighborhood.

 After a fire destroyed the original Chatham location, the restaurant relocated to its current vibrant Bronzeville site.

Today, Yassa African Restaurant is celebrated not only for its delectable Senegalese fare—including traditional stews, grilled whole fish, and signature dishes like Yassa chicken and Thiou curry—but also for its homey, colorful atmosphere that welcomes food lovers, families, and cultural explorers alike.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Yassa African Restaurant in Chicago's Douglas neighborhood offers a vibrant dining experience with authentic Senegalese dishes, including traditional stews and grilled whole fish, in a cozy and colorful setting.

Yassa African Restaurant

Authentic Senegalese cuisine featuring traditional dishes like Yassa Chicken, Maffe, and Tiebu Djeun, complemented by a variety of sides and beverages.

Yassa Chicken

Yassa Lamb

Yassa Fish

Yassa Shrimp

Tiebu Djeun

Maffe

Fataya

Atieke

Djolof Rice

Fufu

Steamed Cabbage with Carrots

Couscous

Vermicelle

French Fries

Lettuce & Tomatoes

White Rice

Bissap

Ginger Juice

Baobab Juice

Coconut Juice

Pineapple Juice

Mango Juice

Tamarind Juice

Soda

Water

Yassa African Restaurant Menu

At 3511 South King Drive in Chicago, Yassa African Restaurant offers an authentic taste of Senegal with a menu that delights food lovers seeking rich flavors and vibrant culinary traditions. This cozy spot serves up classic Senegalese dishes, with each plate crafted to showcase the bold, aromatic spices and home-style cooking that define West African cuisine.

Begin your meal with an enticing variety of starters that range from crispy fried delights to fresh, fermented sides. Try the Fataya, a savory salmon-filled pastry bursting with warm spices, perfectly paired with a spicy pepper sauce for dipping. The Nem combines ground beef, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables wrapped in a delicate egg roll wrapper and fried until golden. For a lighter touch, sample the fermented cassava Atieke or the subtly refreshing steamed cabbage with carrots. Other vibrant options include Djolof rice, French fries, plantain fufu, couscous, vermicelle rice noodles, and a simple yet fresh lettuce and tomato salad.

The main course offerings highlight the rich, deeply flavored stews and grilled specialties that Senegalese cuisine is celebrated for. Signature Yassa dishes come with your choice of chicken, lamb, whole fish, or shrimp, each marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, onion, and mustard, served alongside fluffy white rice to soak up every bit of the tangy sauce. For a heartier meal, savor the Maffe — a comforting peanut butter and tomato-based stew with tender lamb, complemented by potatoes, carrots, and yams, served with rice. Another standout is the Tiebu Djeun, featuring succulent fried fish smothered in parsley and tomato sauce atop flavorful Djolof rice. Accompany these mains with classic sides like fried plantains or plantain fufu for an authentic experience.

Complete your meal with traditional Senegalese desserts like Thiakry, a luscious millet yogurt delicacy lightly infused with cinnamon, offering a mildly sweet and satisfying finish that reflects the region's unique flavors and textures.

Bissap – a refreshing hibiscus drink sweetened with sugar and water.

Ginger Juice – a zesty beverage blending ginger, sugar, and water.

Baobab Juice – made from the nutritious baobab fruit with sugar and water.

Coconut Juice – a subtly sweet drink combining coconut, sugar, and water.

Pineapple Juice and Mango Juice – fruity and fresh, balanced with sugar and water.

Tamarind Juice – tangy tamarind flavor sweetened with sugar and water.

Soda and Water – classic refreshing options to accompany your meal.

Highly recommended dishes include the Thiou Curry with lamb or shrimp, 

a delicately spiced curry loaded with onions and carrots that complements the tender meat perfectly. Pair these mains with sides like plantain fufu and fried plantains for an authentic and satisfying meal. The grilled whole fish, with its crispy skin and tender flesh seasoned with onion and carrot, is a must-try, inviting diners to enjoy it by hand just as locals do.

Savor authentic African flavors at Yassa African Restaurant in Chicago! Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and delicious dishes. Visit us today!

Yassa African Restaurant | Authentic Cuisine in Chicago

Cook County

Live music every second Saturday, except January and February.

Live Entertainment

Catering Services

yassa african restaurant chicago il usa dining experience overview and offerings overview of yassa african restaurant in chicago highlighting authentic senegalese cuisine and unique features for food lovers travelers and locals alike.

Nestled in the vibrant Douglas neighborhood of Chicago, Yassa African Restaurant is a gem for anyone craving an authentic taste of Senegalese cuisine. Located at 3511 South King Drive, this family-owned spot invites diners into a warm, homey atmosphere where every meal feels like a celebration of rich West African flavors.

Yassa African Restaurant specializes in traditional Senegalese fare that’s deeply flavorful and expertly prepared. Expect to discover standout dishes like the grilled whole fish, celebrated for its crispy skin and tender belly accented with sautéed onions and carrots. The Thiou curry shrimp and lamb are also crowd favorites, featuring a perfect balance of tangy and mildly spiced curry flavors.

 – tender and flavorful sides that complement the main courses beautifully.

 – salmon-filled pastries served with a spicy pepper dipping sauce for a burst of flavor.

 – a traditional millet yogurt treat with subtle cinnamon notes, perfect for ending your meal.

inviting atmosphere and attentive service

Patrons describe the vibe at Yassa African Restaurant as 'homey' and welcoming, enhanced by colorful decorations and spacious seating. The staff is known for their attentive and friendly service, ensuring guests enjoy every aspect of their dining experience. Whether you’re here for a family dinner or a group gathering, the restaurant’s warm hospitality makes every visit memorable.

Yassa African Restaurant accommodates diners with several conveniences: they serve both lunch and dinner, offer dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, and welcome families with children. Payment is easy with acceptance of credit, debit, and NFC payments. Free street parking is available for guests, though there is no valet or outdoor seating.

 – perfect for special events and celebrations.

 – enjoy live music every second Saturday of the month (excluding January and February) to elevate your dining experience.

why yassa african restaurant stands out in chicago

This spot is a must-visit for foodies seeking an immersive experience in authentic Senegalese cooking. The combination of tender meats, unique fufu sides, and desserts like millet yogurt creates a menu that is both diverse and satisfying. The family-friendly environment paired with affordable prices and generous portions makes it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Whether you’re craving fiery Thiou curry with lamb, crispy fried plantains, or the rich, nutty flavors of maffe with plantain fufu, Yassa African Restaurant delivers an unforgettable dining journey in the heart of Chicago.

If you’re exploring the city or a local looking for a new culinary adventure, make sure to add Yassa African Restaurant to your list for a flavorful dive into Senegalese culture, hospitality, and cuisine.

Illinois

Discover authentic Senegalese cuisine at Yassa African Restaurant in Chicago. Delight in flavorful dishes and a cozy atmosphere! Visit us today!

 savor Yassa African Restaurant in Chicago, IL

Experience the vibrant tastes of Senegal at Yassa. Enjoy fresh Yassa Chicken and lively service in the heart of Chicago!

 Unique Senegalese Dining Experience in Bronzeville

Discover the best dishes at Yassa in Chicago! Enjoy a guide to must-try meals and insider tips for an unforgettable dining experience.

Yassa African Restaurant: Authentic Senegalese Dining in Chicago's Douglas Neighborhood

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