Evelyn's Food Love

Nestled on South State Street in Chicago’s historic Englewood district, Evelyn’s Food Love is a vibrant cafe that blends Southern comfort with Caribbean flair. Chef Evelyn Shelton, a graduate of Kendall College and former executive chef for Compass Group, leads a kitchen that serves signature dishes such as love‑rubbed roasted chicken, collard greens simmered with black‑eyed peas, and flaky Jamaican beef patties wrapped in puff pastry. The shrimp and grits, praised on Chicago Tonight, arrive creamy with a hint of smoked paprika, while the strawberry parfait offers a sweet finish. The interior combines modern stainless‑steel accents with warm wood tones, creating a welcoming space where locals feel like family and visitors sense the pulse of the South Side. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., the cafe offers a modest price range of $8‑$15 for most entrees, and it expands into full‑service catering for birthdays, corporate events, and community gatherings. As an ACDBE/DBE/MBE/WBE‑certified business, Evelyn’s Food Love partners with local nonprofits and showcases Chef Evelyn’s community‑focused ethos. Guests can enjoy free Wi‑Fi, a curated playlist of jazz and reggae, and a rotating art display featuring Chicago artists. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee, a hearty lunch, or planning a catered celebration, the staff greets every patron with genuine warmth and a promise that every bite is made with love.