27 Chicago spots to check out for National Black Business Month

August is National Black Business Month, the perfect time to put a spotlight on Chicago’s wealth of Black-owned businesses. Chicago’s Black entrepreneurs are an integral part of the city’s fabric, spearheading everything from beloved restaurants to trendy boutiques to award-winning cultural institutions and beyond.

Here are just a few of Chicago’s Black-owned businesses that are worth a visit in August and all year round.

Black-owned restaurants

Soul Veg City in Greater Grand Crossing

Black-owned restaurants across Chicago are making a dynamic contribution to the food scene, with a huge selection of bars, cafes, and restaurants showcasing a variety of global cuisines.

Taste 222: This intimate spot near the Chicago River serves swanky vibes and an innovative menu.

AndySunflower Café: This cheerful cafe in Beverly has been brewing coffee and tea with love for more than a decade.

TeaPotBrew Bakery: A staple in the South Loop, this cafe offers a rotating selection of freshly made baked goods each day.

Bronzeville Winery: This buzzy restaurant in the Bronzeville neighborhood is both an art hub and a trendy eatery.

Slab BBQ: Located in South Shore, Slab is a family-owned spot that has a cult following for its premium barbecue.

Mima’s Taste of Cuba: This colorful restaurant brings the traditional dishes of Cuba and a welcoming vibe to Irving Park.

Bronzeville Winery, photo by Daniel Kelleghan

County BBQ: Enjoy house-smoked meats and craft beer on the patio at this casual joint in Little Italy. 

Sinha Elegant Cuisine: In the West Loop neighborhood, Sinha specializes in authentic, homemade Brazilian dishes. 

The SoulFood Lounge: Head to North Lawndale to taste comforting soul food dishes from all over the world. 

Soul Veg City: Even carnivores will love this vegan restaurant and food bar that’s been a Greater Grand Crossing staple for more than 40 years. 

Williams Inn Pizza & Sports Bar: This family-owned spot in the South Loop serves up Chicago-style pan pizza and classic pub grub.

Bonus! Get a taste of these Chicago-based Black-owned food businesses.

Tubby’s Taste Vegan Cookies: vegan cookies inspired by Jamaican flavors
Kikwetu Coffee: ethically-sourced Kenyan coffee and treats
Ida’s Artisan Ice Cream: hand-made small batch ice cream
Love Cork Screw: a woman-owned wine brand

Arts, entertainment, and more

DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center

The creative spirit of Chicago’s Black community is showcased in galleries, theatres, arts venues, and cultural experiences throughout the city.

Buddy Guy’s Legends: One of the city’s premier blues clubs, Buddy Guy’s is owned by the legendary musician himself. 

The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center: Immerse yourself in Black history, culture, and art at this Washington Park museum.

Gallery Guichard: Explore art from the African diaspora in this acclaimed Bronzeville gallery.

Gallery Guichard; photo by
Abel Arciniega @tequilagraphics

Chicago Mahogany Tours: Delve into the fascinating, lesser known stories of Chicago’s historically Black neighborhoods. 

Black Ensemble Theater: In Uptown, the renowned Black Ensemble Theater showcases diverse stories through musical theatre.

Eta Creative Arts: This cultural treasure brings the African American aesthetic to life on stage, while also supporting Black artists. 

Red Clay Dance Company: An Afro-Contemporary dance group, the Red Clay Dance Company is a dynamic ensemble that performs throughout the city. 

Black-owned shops

There are plenty of Black-owned shops, boutiques, wellness spaces, and more to seek out and support in Chicago.

Boxville in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood; photo by Eric Allix Rogers

Essential Elements: Shop a carefully curated selection of women’s clothing and accessories in this Avalon Park boutique. 

The Silver Room: A neighborhood hub and eclectic boutique, The Silver Room houses jewelry, fashion, art, and more 

BLACKLION: In the historic Motor Row district, BLACKLION offers decor and furniture for all styles and budgets.

Far South CDC Marketplace: Browse wares from a variety of Black-owned small businesses at this community marketplace in West Pullman.

Boxville: In Bronzeville, this open-air marketplace offers local entrepreneurs spaces for building their businesses and also features live music, events, and more.

 

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