Southside & Friends with Emani Roberts

Our fan-favorite South Side & Friends guest chef collaboration dinner series is making its much-anticipated return this September, with Chef Emani Roberts, the unapologetically creative chef and owner of Southern-inspired brunch hot spot Brûlée, joining Chef Dominique Leach’s lineup of outstanding Black Chicago chefs.

Recognized as the Chicago Tribune’s Reader’s Choice Award winner for “Best New Restaurant” in 2026, less than one year after opening its doors in the South Loop, Brûlée has quickly become a go-to for Southern comfort dishes with Emani’s signature modern twist.

Now, on Friday, September 18, Chef Emani and Chef Dominique Leach will bring their shared love of bold flavors and modern takes on tradition to Lexington Betty Smokehouse. Both chefs draw inspiration from traditional cooking techniques and treasured memories passed down from their grandmothers, making this one-night-only, multi-course dinner a celebration of their roots and distinct culinary perspectives.

Doors will open at 6 PM, and the dinner will begin at 6:30 PM.