Cleo’s Southern Cuisine was founded on May 4, 2019, by Kristen Harper as a heartfelt tribute to her grandmother, Cleo. Driven by a mission to share the authentic "taste of hom...
Read moreCleo’s Southern Cuisine was founded on May 4, 2019, by Kristen Harper as a heartfelt tribute to her grandmother, Cleo. Driven by a mission to share the authentic "taste of home" and warm hospitality she cherished from Cleo’s Mississippi kitchen, Kristen established the restaurant in Chicago to serve food that not only delights the palate but also nourishes the soul.
From its first location, the brand quickly became a beloved community institution, celebrated for its uncompromising quality and a culture that treats every guest like family. This local success fueled organic growth to three thriving locations across the city. In a pivotal moment, a now-famous 10/10 review from food critic Keith Lee launched Cleo's into the national spotlight, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon and drawing unprecedented attention to its story.
This acclaim has been validated by features in Forbes, Essence, and the Michelin Guide, along with high-profile collaborations with Microsoft, Nike, and partnerships as a trusted food provider for the Chicago Bears, Bulls, and Sky. Today, Cleo’s Southern Cuisine stands as more than a restaurant; it is a testament to legacy, a celebrated Black-owned and female-founded enterprise, and a vibrant community hub dedicated to sharing the enduring spirit of Southern comfort with the world.
