In every corner of Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods, Black-owned eateries are serving up a taste of heritage, innovation, and community. From the smoky flavors of barbecue joints to the rich spices of Caribbean cuisine, the culinary landscape in Chicago is a testament to the creativity and resilience of its Black restaurateurs. Come experience these must-visit establishments and the unique flavors that they bring to the table.
14 Parish Restaurant & Rhum Bar: Located in the heart of Hyde Park, this restaurant and rhum bar serves up delicious Caribbean cuisine like jerk chicken and Jamaican patties, paired with fun innovative cocktails. There are over 1,00 rhums to explore!
Batter and Berries: The Lincoln Park breakfast and brunch spot is known for its famous French toast flights and collaborative menu items with other local establishments.
Bell Heir’s BBQ: Head to the Carnaryville/Fuller Park neighborhood for the goodness of barbecue made from scratch. Enjoy specialties like the smoked turkey leg and baked mac and cheese smothered with smoked brisket and bacon.
Bronzeville Winery: This inviting and social restaurant space in Bronzeville offers a rotating wine list and features comfort foods reimagined with house-grown greens and other locally grown ingredients.
Buddy Guys Legends: Owned by the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Buddy Guy himself. Over 20 years some of the best local and national blues bands perform here live. The full menu specializes in authentic Cajun fare.
Chemistry: More than just your average steakhouse, Chemistry has live bands and a tantalizing nightlife. It’s a booming brunch spot as well.
CheSa’s Bistro: The Avondale neighborhood Bistro is serving up an entirely gluten-free menu featuring contemporary American cuisine with a Creole twist.
Cleo’s Southern Cuisine: With three locations in Chicago, you’ve got plenty of options to get your Southern comfort food fix. Some must-have staples are fried catfish and homemade desserts.
Daisy’s Po Boy and Tavern: This po-boy shop evokes the vibrancy of New Orleans through classic sandwiches, colorful decor, and music.
Dawn: This breakfast eatery is heavy on the charm and showcases influences from various corners of the South, with unique twists on Southern classics like the pot roast with jalapeno grits.
Demera: Head to Uptown for authentic Ethiopian cuisine, where you’ll find an assortment of flavorful options for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free folks.
Frontier: The West Town restaurant is serving up American classics and wild game. The patio and beer garden is the perfect setting for their monthly gator dinner.
Ina Mae: This Wicker Park restaurant is bringing a taste of New Orleans to the neighborhood. Enjoy live music and Nola-inspired delicacies.
Kitchen + Kocktails: Serving upscale southern comfort in the heart of River North, this spot is known for its handcrafted cocktails, Instagramable dishes, and a great music playlist.
Lexington Betty Smokehouse: The smokehouse is an ode to Food Network star Chef Dominique Leach’s grandmother. Flavorful Chicago-style barbecue is served with soulful sides.
Luella’s Southern Kitchen: This Lincoln Square kitchen serves family recipes passed down from generation to generation. Authentic South flavor is served in every bite.
Majani Soul Food: Specializing in vegan soul food in the South Shore neighborhood, every recipe at the fast-casual restaurant is developed with fresh local ingredients and mouth-watering spices.
Provare: Creole and Italian fusion cuisine is the main focus at this West Town spot, where seafood dishes and fresh pasta made in-house are the stars of the menu.
Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream: Indulge in old-fashioned homemade ice cream and desserts with plenty of unique and traditional flavors to choose from.
The Soul Food Lounge: Preparing soul food from all over the globe, this fusion spot offers a grand tasting menu that includes three entrees and a glass of house wine.
Soul Prime: This elevated soul food restaurant was recently visited by viral food critic Keith Lee. Make sure you secure a reservation and check out the specialty collard green dip.
Soul & Smoke: This barbecue joint with two Chicago locations is known for not only delicious smoked meats, but for its commitment to the community.
The Delta: The restaurant and cocktail bar in the Wicker Park neighborhood is an ode to the Mississippi Delta. The Delta specializes in red hot tamales and craft cocktails.
The Duplex Chicago: The buzzing Logan Square bar and restaurant partners with new chefs every six months to offer a rotating menu of diverse flavors.
Virtue: The James Beard Award-winning restaurant is known for its distinguished southern cuisine. The blackened catfish is a crowd favorite.
