Discovering the Soul of Creole Cooking at Johnnie Mae's
Nestled in the heart of Highwood, Illinois, Johnnie Mae's Creole Kitchen stands as a testament to the rich, soulful traditions of Southern culinary arts. Located at 114 Washington Ave, this establishment serves as a welcoming destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Creole heritage. The kitchen is built upon a foundation of time-honored recipes, passed down through generations and prepared with a deep respect for the ingredients that define this vibrant style of cooking. Stepping into Johnnie Mae's, guests are immediately greeted by an atmosphere that prioritizes comfort, community, and the genuine warmth of a home-cooked meal.
The philosophy behind the kitchen is simple: to provide a dining experience that feels like a gathering among friends and family. By focusing on the nuances of Creole flavors—the delicate balance of spices, the slow-simmered bases, and the fresh, hearty components—the restaurant captures the essence of a culture deeply rooted in hospitality. Whether you are a long-time enthusiast of Southern cuisine or a curious newcomer looking to explore new culinary horizons, Johnnie Mae's offers a space where every plate tells a story of tradition and passion.
What Makes Johnnie Mae's Creole Kitchen Unique
Authentic Culinary Heritage: Every dish is crafted with a commitment to traditional Creole techniques, ensuring that the depth of flavor and complexity of the cuisine remain true to its roots.
Community-Centric Atmosphere: The restaurant prides itself on being more than just a place to eat; it is a neighborhood hub where the focus remains on personal connection and a relaxed, inviting environment.
Dedication to Quality Ingredients: By prioritizing fresh, high-quality components, the kitchen ensures that the natural profiles of their ingredients shine through in every recipe, from savory stews to classic sides.
A Warm, Welcoming Experience: The service and setting are designed to make every guest feel at home, reflecting the genuine spirit of Southern hospitality that defines the Creole way of life.
The culinary landscape of Highwood is diverse, yet Johnnie Mae's Creole Kitchen carves out a distinct niche by remaining steadfast in its dedication to its namesake's vision. The kitchen does not rely on trends or gimmicks; instead, it relies on the enduring appeal of well-prepared food that nourishes both the body and the spirit. Each visit is an opportunity to slow down, enjoy the company of others, and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into every bowl and platter served.
As the restaurant continues to serve the local community, it remains a cornerstone for those who value authenticity and heart in their dining choices. If you find yourself in the Highwood area, a visit to 114 Washington Ave offers a chance to experience a slice of Southern tradition right in the heart of Illinois. We invite you to join us for a meal that celebrates the history, the flavors, and the enduring joy of Creole cooking, prepared with care and served with a smile.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Service options
Curbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Comfort food
Quick bite
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Counter service
Dessert
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Family-friendly
Tourists
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
Children
Good for kids
Kids' menu
Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Menus
Photos
Reviews Johnnie Mae's Creole Kitchen
Sam P
30-05-2026
Went for the first time and the food was delicious. Portions were generous. And definitely worth the price. … More
Tamika Johnson
30-05-2026
The best Jamaican food in IL, and I’ve tried a few. I was on a quest to find home cooking and this hit the spot. Will be back. Big up Chole and Andrew. More
Jo Be
30-05-2026
I was excited when one of the locals told me about some new soulfood in the area. And female owned so I was definitely going to support! I was having issues with the online ordering system the 1st time which turned out to be good because … More
Brandt Rosen
30-05-2026
This new restaurant was so needed in the Chicagoland area! My wife is from Louisiana, so as soon as we saw this new restaurant, we had to try it! We got the fried tenders and fries, catfish po boy, and the shrimp etoufee. Everything was so … More
Holly Kleinschrodt
30-05-2026
So excited for this place!! We got the crab cakes and shrimp po boy. Cannot wait until we can order from there again. Love that we have this place in Highwood with our other amazing restaurants! 💗 … More
Gregg Barbakoff
30-05-2026
Johnnie Mae's is a fantastic addition to Highwood's restaurant scene. Delicious, authentic soul food. Had the catfish last time, and - now that the owner is back in town - I'll be going back soon to try the shrimp and grits. If you like … More
Chauncy Copeland
30-05-2026
I’m working in that area and I got the fried catfish and some fries. It was fried perfectly and had a delicious flavor!. Then I tried the Carmel cake. I’m hooked! It taste like the Carmel is infused in the cake. Delicious! I will be grabbing more while I’m still in area! More
Tray
30-05-2026
The catfish is seasoned and fried very well 10/10. Jerk wing tastes great 10/10. & the fries are seasoned well. More
Karina Gomez
30-05-2026
As you can tell, I barely left any crumbs. I ordered the Philly cheese steak sandwich and may I say I was blessed today. Thank you for bringing this amazing food to our small town 🩷 … More
Flyboy Rowe
30-05-2026
I usually only leave negative reviews or opportunities for a business to do better. But Chef didn’t leave no room for error! JM’s is absolute fire! Location, the vibe, the taste, and presentation all 10’s! Don’t sleep on the “My Fathers … More
JASON MATHIAS
30-05-2026
Absolutely the BEST Cajun/Creole food I've had outside of NOLA by far! Every single thing we tried was great and the portions were healthy! The folks working are very friendly and have it down to a science. … More
S. H.
30-05-2026
Super delicious and flavourful dishes.
We loved every bite of it! Cant wait to go back.
Hope more people hear about this place and support!
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Alex Miller
30-05-2026
I was indecisive on getting the jumbalaya & the oxtail , I went with the jumbalaya & my sister went with oxtail. I had both & they were both really really good! Very unique flavor! I am not from the area but I am willing to drive the hour … More
Danny O'Toole
30-05-2026
The Cheesesteak was delicious. First glance brought me back to the Hoagie Hut, but the flavors are very different. The family story is awesome, and I look forward to trying more of Grandma Mae's time honored recipes. More
Evan Bello
30-05-2026
Johnnie Mae’s Creole Soul Food in Highwood, IL is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Creole flavors! We ordered the fried shrimp po’ boy, blackened shrimp po’ boy, and fried chicken po’ boy—each served on perfectly fresh bread that … More
Daniel Kleinschrodt
30-05-2026
Definitely one of the best burgers I've had in a long time! Also had the po boy and crab cakes a few months ago. Also highly recommended! More
Carmen Campbell-Villalobos
30-05-2026
My husband and I were so excited to discover this gem of a restaurant. This place is legit. The owner is so sweet. She's orignally from New Orleans. The staff are very friendly. This is the place to come to if you appreciate freshly made tasty creole food. My husband had the lamb chops with rice. I had the fried catfish, cajun fries and the best yummy cole slaw. Don't get me started on the beignet's. I can't wait to try the mac n cheese and collard greens. The restaurant only has a few tables. The owner said they are expanding. Try the food you won't be disappointed.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Seating type
Indoor dining area
S. H.
30-05-2026
Super delicious and flavourful dishes.
We loved every bite of it! Cant wait to go back. … More
Jamila Moorer
30-05-2026
Last weekend my family and I had a pleasure of findingthis gem. The owner was very nice and patient. The food was amazing and the service was that of a five star restaurant.We didnt get a picture of everything, put we did get a few. if we are ever in IL again we will be back!!!! More
Melissa
30-05-2026
The best Cajun food ever! I got the Cajun pasta with the fried catfish. If you’re local, you gotta check this place out in Highwood. Or drive from the surrounding areas, it’s worth it! More
Jay Raw
30-05-2026
I went for the shrimp but unfortunately they were out. I did get the catfish instead. Mac, Greens, and Yams. I’ll have to go back for the shrimp at some point. More
Alonzo Ontiveros
30-05-2026
I rarely ever write Google reviews, but after my visit to Johnnie Mae’s I had to give my take. The staff provided myself and everyone who was there at the time a warm & family oriented service that you honestly rarely find nowadays. I … More
Luann Woods
30-05-2026
Johnnie Mae’s blew me away! From the moment we walked in, the vibe was warm, welcoming, and full of soul, and the food? Next-level delicious. … More
Jack Fischer
30-05-2026
Let me offer some advice: never mix business and politics. You want your customers focusing on the food; they are there for lunch, not a lecture. When you plaster the storefront with political messaging, it comes across as hostile and … More
Santiago Figueroa
30-05-2026
Me and my 3 friends were looking for a new place to eat at so we decided to go to Johnnie maes we got a catfish platter, catfish po boy, shrimp po boy and pasta and everything was so great my catfish was so delicious so soft and juicy every bite was so good! The best first time eating authentic creole/ soul food. the food was amazing the owner had great energy and answered all of our questions for our first time great customer service. Felt right at home!. overall good experience me and my friends definitely will be back to try some more soon!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
J M
30-05-2026
Service was just ok, not super friendly. Had the steak sandwich which was delicious. Sauce was really good albeit a little heavyhanded, overpowered the meat a bit. Not mad about it tho. Next time I would skip the fries - soggy and limp.
This is all meant as constructive criticism, as I love Creole food and would love to see this place thrive. I will come back and try the more traditional dishes.
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 2
Gabriela Garcia
30-05-2026
I absolutely LOVE the food here. I’ve been twice and have ordered the chicken po boy and the chicken and waffles. Both were amazing. The last time I went they ran out of beignets, so I’ll have to check those out next time. Just a heads up if you want to eat inside during the winter, it’s very cold inside the restaurant. I kept my jacket and hat on the entire time. Can’t wait to try more of their food!
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 2
Elsa Murillo
30-05-2026
My husband and I ordered from Johnnie Mae’s today and oh my lord. The food is amazing. We had the shrimp etoufée, SuperGoode po-boy, Cajun fries, jambalaya, collard greens, and etoufée egg rolls. The portions: generous. The flavors: spectacular. The shrimp in my etoufée were massive; the ratio of rice to etoufée perfect. First bite had me closing my eyes and relaxing my entire body. The collard greens have excellent flavor. I dare say they’re the best ones I’ve had. 100% will be back, and likely sooner rather than later.
Order type
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Special events
No special event
Jeffrey
30-05-2026
This place is worth the wait! Everything is made fresh to order. I ordered My Dad’s lunch. Grilled cheese with fried chicken and buffalo sauce with a side of Mac and cheese. I haven’t had good Mac and cheese in a long time. And the sandwich was so good! My wife got the jerk chicken with Cajun fries and catfish which she loved. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The place is a little small but there is enough space for a couple tables to enjoy the food freshly prepared. We will be back to try the other items soon!
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 3
carolla Ault
30-05-2026
The owner and chef is friendly as is the staff member. While the restaurant is small, the food is delicious. I have never had shrimp cooked better than Chloe cooked it. I have been there twice and will happily return.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Candy Frison
30-05-2026
I had great customer service today when I visited this location. I stopped here because I read some of the reviews and wanted to give it try to support small family owned business.
My takeaways on this food review is mixed. I ordered the Cajun Eggrolls which I was unhappy they were a little cold. I stopped to try them before heading home. I also got the Poorboy Shrimp sandwich which was actually really good.
Order type
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 3
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Reviews Johnnie Mae's Creole Kitchen