Cajun Restaurants near Forest Park, IL

“When you hear the name Shanahan's, one would think that this is an Irish pub, but it's actually touted as a creole restaurant. I have been to this restaurant in Forest Park, Illinois many times, and have mixed feelings about it. Oftentimes, the food is delicious but there have been other times when I found certain dishes to be inconsistent; such as the Seafood gumbo (sometimes too salty but other times decent). On the other hand, the Shrimp & Grits, the Fried Calamari and the hurricane drinks are consistently delicious. Dress is casual and food prices are moderate and a good value for the amount of food served. The staff is friendly and attentive. The locals love this place (which sometimes causes a noisy atmosphere) so get there early to avoid the crowds, as well as to secure on-street parking.“

“The service was amazing! Ms O is a sweetheart! The food did not disappoint. It was hot, fresh and delicious! I savored every bite. The wait staff was kind and friendly. The owner, Bridget, was very warm and friendly. The restaurant is very clean and beautiful. I will definitely return!“

“I’ve been to a ton of Chicago north side cafes, and there are two things I always crave / like to get:1. An egg and cheese bagel sandwich2. A Boston cream donutBoth of which knocked my socks off, the bagel sandwich was presented neatly in a basket, the bagel was flavorful and delicious, the bacon crisp and meaty cheese on egg all were flawless.The Boston cream had the right dough, was filled perfectly and had a delicious glaze, something I can’t say so much about my experience with Stan’s somewhat nearby.I also ordered an iced americano that came in a perfectly chilled metal tumbler.I don’t live nearby but I am now seeking out Spoken Cafe. So good.“

“Great little spot to pick up a bite, a coffee, and read/study/ or work for a bit. The food was delicious but a bit on the smaller side for my taste. Nothing to hold me back from visiting again. I definitely recommend if you are in the area. Check it out!“

“It's the highest rated bbq restaurant in the area and there's definitely a reason for it. The food was cooked to absolute perfection and the service was great. I definitely want to come back soon and not continue driving past it all the time“

“I had a fantastic brunch experience! The attention to detail, creative cocktails, and delicious food options really make CheSa’s Bistro stand out. The lamb chop, beignet waffle with fried chicken, and short ribs with red grits were absolutely mouthwatering. Each dish was cooked to perfection and the flavors complemented each other well. I recommend going with people who enjoy new things. Clearly I had an incredible experience and a wonderful time there. Cheers to more delightful brunches in the future at CheSa’s.“

“This place is amazing. I went to NO a few times in my youth. The first time I went I got red beans and rice right on the street and decided I probably never needed to eat anything else ever. This place brought that back to me. Through sausage on it. Might be gilding the lily but maybe some lily’s like it.The rigamaroo was so freaking good. The po boys were spicy and deliciousThe gumbo. Lord the gumbo. The flavor, then”juice” the gravy…whatever it’s called.l. So good…but I want it to have shrimp in it though…or maybe crawfish…but I might die of deliciousnessCountry music makes me very sad so I took one star away for ambiance. It is the old school stuff so only one point taken away.“

“YOOOO the gilty pig is insane! They have "popped up" at my farm a few times now, and each time I am amazed by the flavors and complexity they bring to "simple dishes". They take a brat and turn it into a full asian inspired meal. Now if the food wasnt enough, this truck could not be run by two better people. They deserve all of the awesome things that are coming their way. Keep killin it, guys!“

“This was my first time at this location and it was phenomenal. The ambiance feels inviting, warm, personal and touch of “home”. It felt like I was having lunch at my house. The food was very tasteful and well seasoned. I am one of those people that usually go with the “hamburger” or “chicken strips” because I am scared to try other foods. I ordered the red beans and rice with sausage and shrimp skewer. It was very delicious. The service was excellent.“

“Service was slow, but the manager did come over to apologize. Our server was very nice. Food was fabulous!Wheelchair accessibility: Plenty of parking and accessibility, although the front door was hard to find and not easy to open - needed someone to hold the door to get in.“

“Great food. A bit on the expensive side, but good seafood usually is.Dietary restrictions: Gluten free friendly as long as you do the boil (no fried foods). They were easy to work with once I told them about the gluten allergy. Delicious food!“

“Been here a few times in person, and the food is always great. Interior is cozy, staff is very nice. However - they seem to be afflicted by some sort of strange barbecue sauce based curse. Every single time I order takeout for lunch, no matter what sauces I request, I get barbecue sauce. The barbecue sauce is great! It goes with a lot of things on the menu. But it has been the substitute for ketchup, honey mustard, ranch, vinaigrette, you name it. This isn’t really a complaint, just kind of a weird coincidence. Check your sauces before you leave!“

“A solid 4.5 experience! It’s crab in a bag, if you’re expecting a fine dining experience then you’re in the wrong place. Highly recommend the Garlic Cajun option. Service was so friendly! $90 total for two pounds of seafood, an app, and two sides. Very much appreciate the hand wash station in the back - it’s a messy (but fun!) dining experience.“

“So glad I noticed it walking by and came back with my husband for dinner. The menu has lots of choices but we were only two so will have to check out different options next time. We each had dinners, he choosing 1/2 baby back ribs, Mac and cheese, cornbread. I had 1/2 slab brisket, Mac and cheese and collard greens. Side portions were generous and the collard greens were fantastic! Mac and cheese was terrific and the meats were just perfect. Service was great and price was just as great. Washed it all down with classic Margaritas. Great addition to neighborhood in same spot Fat Willy’s left when closed for good.“