Imagine a place where flying pigs and comfort food collide.

No, it’s not a fever dream – it’s Wishbone, Chicago’s quirky Southern-inspired eatery that’s been serving up smiles and satisfying bellies for decades.

Let’s talk about Wishbone, shall we?

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, white tablecloth, “Do I use the salad fork or the dessert fork?” kind of joint.

No siree, this is the kind of place where you can show up in your pajamas (though I don’t recommend it), and no one would bat an eye.

It’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug from your favorite aunt – the one who always sneaks you an extra cookie when your parents aren’t looking.

Now, I know what you’re thinking.

“Another restaurant article? Yawn.”

But hold onto your taste buds, folks, because Wishbone is about to take them on a wild ride through the South – without ever leaving the Windy City.

First things first, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – or should I say, the flying pig on the ceiling?

Yes, you read that right.

When you walk into Wishbone, you’re greeted by a menagerie of airborne farm animals painted on the ceiling.

It’s like Old MacDonald’s farm decided to defy gravity and throw a party.

And let me tell you, nothing says “Welcome to our restaurant” quite like a cow doing the backstroke above your head.

But don’t let the whimsical decor fool you.

This place means serious business when it comes to food.

Wishbone has been dishing out Southern comfort food with a twist since 1990, and they’ve got it down to a science.

Or maybe it’s more of an art.

A delicious, mouth-watering art that makes you want to hug the chef and ask them to adopt you.

Now, let’s get to the star of the show – the fried catfish.

Oh boy, where do I even begin?

This isn’t just any fried catfish.

This is the Beyoncé of fried catfish – it’s flawless, it’s got attitude, and it leaves all other fried catfish in the dust.

The menu calls it Southern Style Fried Catfish, but I call it “Where Have You Been All My Life?”

It’s a generous portion of farm-raised catfish, coated in a buttermilk batter that’s so light and crispy, it practically floats off the plate.

And when you take that first bite?

Forget about it.

It’s like your taste buds just won the lottery.

The fish is tender and flaky on the inside, with a golden-brown crust that’s seasoned to perfection.

It’s served with your choice of sides, but let’s be real – the catfish is the main event here.

Everything else is just a supporting actor in this culinary Oscar-worthy performance.

But wait, there’s more!

Wishbone isn’t a one-trick pony – or should I say, one-trick catfish?

Their menu is like a greatest hits album of Southern cuisine, with a few surprises thrown in for good measure.

Take the Red Eggs, for instance.

It’s not a Dr. Seuss creation, but it might as well be.

Picture this: two eggs perched atop corn tortillas, smothered in a spicy red sauce, and topped with melted cheddar cheese.

It’s like huevos rancheros went on vacation to New Orleans and came back with a killer tan and a new attitude.

And don’t even get me started on the Chicken Andouille Hash.

It’s a beautiful mess of spicy sausage, tender chicken, and crispy potatoes, all mixed up with peppers and onions.

It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to stand up and slow clap.

It’s that good.

Now, I know what you’re thinking.

“But what if I’m not in the mood for Southern food?”

First of all, who are you and what have you done with the real you?

But fear not, my culinarily confused friend.

Wishbone has got you covered.

Their menu is like a United Nations of comfort food.

You’ve got your Southern classics, sure, but there’s also a nod to Tex-Mex with their Breakfast Burrito.

And for those of you who insist on being healthy (bless your hearts), there’s even a Wishbone Veggie Burger.

It’s like they took a garden, smooshed it into a patty, and served it with a side of “See? We can do healthy too!”

But let’s circle back to the atmosphere for a moment, shall we?

Because Wishbone isn’t just about the food – it’s about the experience.

From the moment you walk in, you’re hit with a wave of color, quirkiness, and comfort that’s as warm and inviting as a freshly baked biscuit.

The walls are adorned with local art that’s as eclectic as the menu.

You might see a painting of a jazz musician next to a portrait of a chicken wearing a top hat.

It’s like someone raided the world’s most interesting yard sale and decided to hang everything on the walls.

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And you know what?

It works.

The mismatched chairs and tables add to the charm, making you feel like you’re dining in your eccentric great-aunt’s kitchen – the one who collects salt and pepper shakers shaped like various farm animals.

It’s the kind of place where you can come as you are, whether you’re in a business suit or your Sunday sweats.

No judgment here, folks.

The only thing they judge is how empty your plate is at the end of the meal.

Now, let’s talk about the staff for a moment.

These folks are the unsung heroes of Wishbone.

They’re like the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, if Spider-Man wore an apron and carried a pot of coffee instead of shooting webs.

They’re quick with a smile, a joke, and a refill.

And let me tell you, they know their stuff.

Ask them about any dish on the menu, and they’ll give you a description so vivid, you’ll swear you can taste it already.

They’re like culinary tour guides, leading you through a delicious adventure one plate at a time.

And here’s a pro tip: if you’re feeling adventurous (or indecisive), ask your server for their recommendation.

It’s like playing Russian roulette, except instead of bullets, it’s delicious food.

And everyone wins!

Now, I know what you’re thinking.

“This all sounds great, but what about breakfast?”

Oh, my sweet summer child.

Wishbone doesn’t just do breakfast – they elevate it to an art form.

Their breakfast menu is like a love letter to the most important meal of the day, written in bacon grease and maple syrup.

Take the Smoked Beef Brisket Hash, for example.

It’s a beautiful symphony of smoky brisket, crispy potatoes, and perfectly poached eggs.

It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you want to high-five the chef and then take a nap.

But wait, there’s more!

If you’re in the mood for something a little more… aquatic, the Salmon Cakes are calling your name.

These aren’t your grandma’s salmon patties (no offense, Grandma).

These are delicate, flaky salmon cakes served with a dollop of hollandaise sauce that’s so good, you’ll want to write it a thank-you note.

And let’s not forget about the Wishbone Corned Beef Hash Cakes.

It’s like they took everything you love about corned beef hash, formed it into perfect little cakes, and then fried them to golden perfection.

It’s the breakfast equivalent of a standing ovation.

But here’s the real kicker – Wishbone serves breakfast all day.

That’s right, folks.

You can have breakfast for dinner, dinner for breakfast, or create your own meal-time continuum.

It’s like they’ve discovered a loophole in the space-time continuum, and that loophole is filled with delicious food.

Now, I know we’ve been focusing a lot on the savory side of things, but let’s not forget about the sweet treats.

Wishbone’s got a dessert menu that’ll make your sweet tooth do a happy dance.

Their Bread Pudding is the kind of dessert that makes you want to hug the person next to you and say, “We made it. We’re finally here.”

But perhaps the most impressive thing about Wishbone is its staying power.

In a city known for its culinary scene, where restaurants come and go faster than you can say “deep dish pizza,” Wishbone has been a constant for over three decades.

It’s like a dependable friend who’s always there for you, ready with a warm meal and a cold drink.

It’s weathered economic ups and downs, changing food trends, and even a global pandemic.

And through it all, it’s kept its quirky charm and commitment to good, honest food.

In a world of fast food and flash-in-the-pan food trends, Wishbone is a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the simple things.

A perfectly fried piece of catfish.

A warm biscuit slathered in butter.

A cup of coffee shared with good friends.

These are the things that Wishbone does best, and they’re the reasons why people keep coming back, year after year.

So, the next time you find yourself in Chicago, do yourself a favor and make a wish(bone).

Wish for good food, good company, and a dining experience that’ll leave you with a smile on your face and a happy belly.

Trust me, at Wishbone, those wishes have a funny way of coming true.

For more information about their menu, hours, and special events, be sure to check out Wishbone’s website or Facebook page.

And if you’re trying to find your way to this Southern comfort food oasis in the heart of Chicago, use this map to guide you to your next delicious adventure.

Where: 161 N Jefferson St, Chicago, IL 60661

Remember, at Wishbone, every meal is a chance to make a wish.

And if you wish for the fried catfish, well, you’re in for a treat that’s nothing short of magical.