Fish restaurants

MJ's Fish and Chicken Express

4.6 322 reviews Closed 716 E Enos Ave, Springfield, IL 62702, United States

Discover this place

MJ's Fish and Chicken Express, located in Springfield, IL, stands out as a culinary gem, celebrated for its delicious offerings and warm hospitality. Diners rave about the freshly fried chicken, noting its perfect seasoning and golden crispiness. Derek Lawton describes it as "soul food" that could transport him straight back to Houston. The potato salad and homemade macaroni and cheese further elevate the experience, making it a haven for comfort food lovers.

Customers also highlight the generous portions and impeccable cooking of the fish dishes, particularly the catfish and walleye. Walter Crabtree and John Kelly commend the quality, noting how the flavors and textures truly impress. The welcoming atmosphere fostered by the friendly staff, led by the personable owner, Margaret, ensures that guests feel at home. Patrons often leave in high spirits, excited to return for more.

Overall, MJ’s Fish and Chicken Express is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with heart and flavor. Friendly service, hearty portions, and delightful dishes make it a must-visit for anyone in the area looking for a taste of comfort and care. Come hungry, leave happy!

Photos

Amenities & More

Service options

Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights

Fast service
Serves local specialty

Popular for

Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Dining options

Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities

Bar onsite
Gender-neutral restroom
Restroom

Atmosphere

Casual
Cozy
Quiet
Trendy

Crowd

Family-friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safespace

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with MJ's Fish and Chicken Express before visiting.

Reviews for MJ's Fish and Chicken Express

4.6

322 reviews

100%

15%

Review highlights

Based on 322 reviews

MJ's Fish and Chicken Express is widely praised for its consistently hot, flavorful dishes and generous portions, particularly their fried chicken, catfish, and classic soul food sides like potato salad and mac and cheese. Customers appreciate the authentic, home-cooked quality of the meals, which evoke a nostalgic, comforting dining experience. The restaurant’s friendly and welcoming staff, including the owners, are frequently noted for their exceptional hospitality, enhancing the overall customer experience. Furthermore, the freshness of the seafood and attention to seasoning are common highlights. Overall, MJ's is regarded as a reliable spot for hearty, well-prepared soul and seafood cuisine with a warm, community-oriented atmosphere.

Taylor Taylor

Jul 11, 2025

One of my favorite go to’s when I’m in town visiting.... Food is always hot and delicious the customer service is always on point! I would highly recommend everyone looking for really great food to support. Thanks MJ’s

Derek Lawton

Jun 28, 2025

I’m from Houston, Texas so I’ve been looking for some good soul food that made me feel like I was back home and I must say MJs didn’t disappoint! The chicken was freshly fried, well seasoned and so gold you could probably sell it at the pawn shop. The potato salad *chefs kiss, the Mac n cheese was delicious home made. All my southern folks these other restaurants are not real soul food . MJs is where I will be going from now on. The owners should be proud of this gem. I didn’t take a picture of the food because I almost ate the plate too . See yall again soon

Walter Crabtree

Jun 08, 2025

Homemade pies tarter sauce food cooked to perfection. Super friendly staff and owners. We each had walleye 1 lb per order. Probably better than all you can eat I would've ate more otherwise.

Jerry Newitt

May 25, 2025

The catfish was very fresh, the portions were more than we could handle, and the flavor was very good. The hospitality of Margaret ("M" in MJs") and other patrons was unbeatable. Such friendly people.

John Kelly

May 09, 2025

This was my first time at MJ's and it was fantastic, I had the walleye lunch with greens and cornbread. Everything was cooked perfectly, nice light breading on the fish and the greens were so flavorful. The staff were very welcoming and friendly. I will definitely be back

Mike Gascoigne

Apr 30, 2025

I ate a baked chicken meal at MJ's as part of a promotion they had with the Illinois Department of Revenue for African American History Month. Wow. The chicken was tender and baked to perfection. The mac and cheese was perfectly cheesy. I had never had sweet potatoes prepared in a sauce before but that was delectable. I finished my entire meal in under five minutes. That is how good it was. I definitely recommend eating here.

Kathleen Parrish

Apr 16, 2025

I had the the cat fish, green beans, and the fried tomatoes and it was delicious. The owner came and talked with us. Waitress great. We will definitely be going back.

Christopher Brown

Mar 20, 2025

BEST chicken sandwich around, hands down! I went back 3 days in a row to get the chicken sandwich after the first one I had. The cheese sauce is also amazing! No complaints at all. New favorite place for lunch