Black Owned Businesses in Chicago (Either I know these businesses personally,* or they have been recommended... by you! Thanks!)
Accounting:
*The Walker Group, LLC (TWG) - a Certified Public Account & Consulting firm that concentrates primarily on performing audits for not-for-profit organizations, local governments and municipalities, and entities regulated by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Services: Auditing; Accounting; Management Consulting; and Business Information Systems. "We Promote Efficiency Within Your Business" TWG - 1431 Huntington Drive Calumet City, IL 60409 (in the rear of the Gareda Building, River Oaks West Business Park) [email protected], [email protected] (708) 868-2545
Art
*Gallery Guichard - Art that Touches the Soul - 436 East 47th Street (773) 791-7003, (708) 772-9315, (312) 543-7168[email protected]. Open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 11:00 am to 3:00 pm or by appointment. https://www.galleryguichard.com/
*Kilimanjaro International - 1305 E 53rd St. b/t Kimbark Ave & Kenwood Ave in Hyde Park (773) 324-4860 https://kilimanjaroafricaart.com/
*The Woodshop Art Gallery (Since 1974) - 441 E. 75th St. 773-994-6666 a custom cabinet shop, a custom framing shop and a nationally renowned art gallery which specializes in art by African American, African and Caribbean artists. Open daily except Tuesdays and Sundays.
Auto
Gibsons Citco - 15221 Halsted St. in Phoenix, Illinois! Gas station hours are Mon-Sat 6am - 10pm, Sun 7am - 10pm. (708) 596-5085 - Gibsons has been serving the community respectfully for nearly fifty years!
Lafrance Service Center - full-service preventive maintenance / automotive repair center. M-F 8am-6pm, S-S 8am-4pm. 510 East Sibley Blvd, Dolton, IL 60419 (708) 849-9300
Books
*Afri-Ware - 1701 S. 1st Ave. Suite 503, Maywood, IL 60153708-524-8398 Thurs-Fri: 10-6pm, Sat: 10-5:30pm https://www.afriwarebooks.com/
*Third World Press - The historic publishing company and bookstore that launched the careers of many Black writers. Writer / Educator / Third World Press Founder Haki Madhubuti has has a staunch support of the Black community and the creative arts since the Black Arts Movement of the 1960's. https://thirdworldpressfoundation.org/
Clothing / Jewelry
*Cannon's T-Shirts & More - 347 E. 75th St. - T-shirts, custom t-shirts, socks, hats, jewelry, etc. (872) 303-3644
*Essential Elements - 1640 E. 87th St. (773) 978-1200 - Essential Elements Chicago is an upscale shopping experience nestled on Chicago’s south-east side, near beautiful Lake Michigan. http://essentialelementschicago.com/
*Kayra Imports, 1643 E. 87th St. (773) 768-3003; 101 E. 53rd (773) 363-5280; 706 E. 83rd St. (773) 488-4123 www.kayraimports.com
*Kilimanjaro International - 1305 E 53rd St.b/t Kimbark Ave & Kenwood Ave in Hyde Park (773) 324-4860 https://kilimanjaroafricaart.com/
*Legacy Men’s Boutique - 107 E. 47th Street, Chicago, and store hours are Monday-Saturday 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m., Sundays are by appointment. For more information call 872-228-1871
*Maxine's Boutique - 1613 E. 87th St. (773) 221-8308; Lincoln Mall, 257 Lincoln Mall Dr., Matteson, IL 60443 (708) 503-6293 "Maxine's is an upscale women's fashion boutique originally based on the South side of Chicago, in the historical Pill Hill Neighborhood! Maxines has now PASSED THE TORCH To Mora's Fashion, therefore bringing you even more of the looks, that will have you feeling as if you're walking the runway! You can also expect to receive the moderate to high quality designs in apparel and accessories! Ranging from sizes 8-20 (Smaller sizes available upon request)! With over 50+ years in the fashion industry, you should definitely have our 2 Brick and Mortar locations on your TO SHOP LIST!" https://morasfashion.net/
*Sarah Kuenyefu Collection - 1510 E 63rd St. Between S Blackstone Ave and S Park Shore East Ct/S Harper Ave in Woodlawn (773) 324-6858 https://www.sarahkuenyefu.com/
*The Gorée Shop, African Specialty Import Boutique - 1122 E 47th St. in Bronzeville. African fashions, alterations, fabric and jewelry. They also hand tailor. (773) 285-1895.
*Wesley's Shoes - "Shoes of Distinction for the Entire Family." - 1506 E. 55th, Hyde Park Shopping Center, (773) 667-7463 www.wesleyshoes.com
Eateries / Restaurants:
*Ain't She Sweet Cafe - 526 E. 43rd St. (773) 373-3530. Yummy sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads, shakes, smoothies, and desserts! Open: Monday - Friday 10am - 6pm, Saturday 11am - 6pm http://www.aintshesweetcafe.com/
*Unfortunately, Angelica’s Bakery - in Hazel Crest, Il is gone.
*Brown Sugar Bakery -328 E 75th St(773) 224-6262. Established in 2002, Brown Sugar Bakery embodies the soulful essence of Southern desserts, a tribute to cherished family recipes that evoke warmth and nostalgia. With each delightful creation, the bakery weaves a tale of tradition and innovation, channeling the spirit of those who have crafted these flavors for generations. From classic cakes to cobblers, pies, and cupcakes, the bakery's menu is a symphony of delectable treats. brownsugarbakerychicago.com/
*Chemistry - When the creator of Chemistry first started dating, he wondered "If there were only a place that was breathtaking upon entry, amazing live bands and DJ's, delicious photographable food, good service, along with a place to get up and dance," he’d show up as much as his pockets could afford. However that place didn’t exist, until now. Chemistry, the perfect mix of a high-end late-night steakhouse, booming brunch spot, and tantalizing nightlife vibes all created to be the perfect place to experience love! Shout out to the DJ. :-) www.chemistrychicago.com/
Dan's Soul Food and Cafe, 2523 W. 79th St. (773) 737-6695. Dan’s Soul Food & Café began with one goal: to share Southern cooking with Chicago. At 2523 West 79th Street, our family wanted a place where people could enjoy meals that feel like home. https://danschicagosbest.com/
*Dat Donuts - "Too good to dunk!" - 8251 S. Cottage Grove Chicago, IL. 60619. Also serves breakfast sandwiches, fruit smoothies, coffee & tea, milk & juice. Call 773-723-1002. Open 24 hours. Closed Sunday at 5pm - http://www.datdonut.com
Eat Moore Cakes - Specializes in custom made–to-order designer cakes for all occasions, with 24-hour online ordering and quick email response. Eat Moore Cakes – 937 S. Hamilton Lockport, IL, Call 888-713-2176. https://www.eatmoorecakes.com/
*Gorée Cuisine - Gorée Cuisine, a family-owned West African-Senegalese restaurant. "Our chefs use only the freshest ingredients, unique spices, and traditional cooking techniques to make sure our dishes are full of flavor and will tantalize your taste buds. Our menu features a variety of traditional dishes from Senegal, as well as innovative dishes that bring the flavor of West Africa to Chicago. We also offer catering services for special occasions and events." Yum!!! - 1126 E 47th St (773) 855-8120 [email protected] Harold's Chicken - Since 1950, Harold’s Chicken has been a Chicago staple, particularly on the South Side. Beware of Harold's wannabes. There are 20+ locations in the Chicago area connected to the corporation. One of their highest rated locations is 124 E. 35th St. in Bronzeville. https://www.haroldschickenscorp.com/locations
*Ja' Grill Hyde Park - Where the vibrant flavors of Jamaica come alive in every dish we serve. Embark on a culinary journey to the Caribbean. - 1510 East Harper Court 773-752-5375 www.jagrill.com
Lem's Bar-B-Q House - 311 E 75th St. (773) 994-2428
Luella’s Southern Kitchen - 4114 NorthKedzie (new location) is a casual independent restaurant owned by Chef Darnell Reed. Luella’s serves lunch and dinner Tuesday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Weekend brunch is served from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday; dinner is served until 10 p.m. on Saturday and 8 p.m. on Sunday. All major cards are accepted. Luella’s is a BYOB establishment; no corkage fee is charged. Takeout and delivery service are available. (773) 961-8196 www.luellassouthernkitchen.com.
*Norman's Bistro - 1001 East 43rd Street (at Ellis) 773 - 966 - 5821. Fine dining in an elegant / jazzy atmosphere with a charming host. Recognized by locals as one of the top restaurants in the Hyde Park and Kenwood area, Normans Bistro offers an American Creole Cuisine with a Brazilian Flair. Outstanding dessert menu and wine list are served in a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Norman Bolden, proprietor of Normans Bistro, personally leads Normans Bistro, bar and catering/banquet service. His active daily management ensures consistent quality and service in every area of the business. The dining room serves up to 85 guests, making it the perfect venue for private events. The outdoor patio features comfort with elegant landscaping. http://www.normansbistro.com/
*Reggio's Pizza - Known for their 'butter crust' pizzas. 8548 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL and coming soon to 4438 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, IL. Additional location at O'Hare airport: T1, C18, T3, G8, and T3, HK food court. https://www.reggiospizza.com/
*Sip & Savor Chicago - Our goal at Sip and Savor is to capture the positive energy and excitement of Chicago neighborhoods. In recent years, Hyde Park and Bronzeville has welcomed burgeoning revitalization: restoration of historic buildings along with development of new businesses and an influx of professionals making the community home. I am proud to say that Sip and Savor is a part of this positive movement. We call ourselves “Globally Local” – we offer the finest coffee and teas from around the globe, while complimenting them with pastries from local bakeries. We strive to become your neighborhood coffee shop of choice. http://www.sipandsavorchicago.com Sip & Savor Chicago (Hyde Park) - 5301 S. Hyde Park (Del Prado Building) 773.952.4532 Mon-Fri: 6am-8pm; Sat-Sun: 7am-7pm; Major Holidays: 8am-3pm Sip & Savor Chicago (Bronzeville) - 528 E. 43rd Street. HOURS: Mon - Fri: 7am - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 6pm; Major Holidays: 8am - 3pm
*Soul Veg City (Formerly Original Soul Vegetarian) - 205 E. 75th St. (at Indiana) (773) 224-0104 - The original Soul Veg was my jam for more than twenty years. The new configuration took some getting used to, but the food is still terrific! http//www.soulvegcity.com/
*Truth Italian Restaurant - 56 E. Pershing, Chicago, IL 60653 (Bronzeville) Mon - Fri 4pm - 2am Sat - Sun 12pm-2am (312)715-8796 Built on Founder Peytyn Willborn’s vision which included a “world class kitchen that produced five star Italian Cuisine for everyday people.” Her vision was to also bring this elegantly designed establishment with great service to the Southside of Chicago. She succeeded. Also, their salad dressing is delightful! http://www.truthitalian.com
Virtue - 1462 E 53rd St., Chicago, IL 60615 (773) 947-8831 A Southern American restaurant that leads with a culture of hospitality & kindness. https://www.virtuerestaurant.com/ *Yassa African Restaurant - 3511 S. King Dr. "...It is a taste you will always remember. Ask about our ever diversifying ..." This place, located in the old Mississippi Ricks location, reminded me of my first trip to Senegal. Everything is made fresh so don't be in a hurry, but well worth the wait. Yum, yum, yum! https://yassaafricanrestaurant.com/
*South Side Community Federal Credit Union - 5401 S. Wentworth Avenue Suite 25, 773-548-5500 Our mission is to equalize economic power and fight poverty through holistic financial education and by providing access to credit and savings services for our members. http://www.southsidecommunityfcu.org
Gifts *Afri-Ware - A staple in the community, Afri-Ware carries a wide range of books and gifts and holds book signings and many other community activities. 1701 S. 1st Ave. Suite 503, Maywood, IL 60153708-524-8398 Thurs-Fri: 10-6pm, Sat: 10-5:30pm https://www.afriwarebooks.com/
Global Fusion – 1961 Ridge Road (at Dixie Highway) in Homewood, IL. Global Fusion specializes in imported Home Décor, African Art, Jewelry, Furniture, and Fair Trade gifts. Here you will find items from Africa, Asia, India, South America, as well as other parts of the world... We focus and pride ourselves on selecting vendors, products and artists who emphasize environmental friendly choices in their product lines. We are dedicated to operating our business with dignity and integrity.
Tola's Creations Botanica Wellness & Cultural Center - 2943 W 71st, Chicago, Il 60629 773-960-4625. Tola's offers a wide range of products and services for holistic wellness. www.tolascreations.com
Hardware:
*John's Hardware & Bicycle Shop - 7350 S. Halsted St. (773) 483-7443. Mon - Sat: 9am - 6pm. Services: Glass cut to size; Window repair & screens; Locksmith; Huge selection of keys cut; Pipe cut and threaded; Welding; Tool rental; Truck rental. Departments: Plumbing; Electrical; Door Hardware; Paint; Gardening Supplies; General Hardware; Bicycle Shop: Parts and Repairs on All Makes and Models; Tune-Ups; Overhauls; Adjustments; Flat Tires Repaired.
Chicago Party Place - "Your choice for the best Party and Event Inflatable bouncers, combos, slides and more in the Chicago area! - 639 E 75th Street, Chicago, Illinois 60619. Open 8am -noon, daily except Sundays and Wednesdays. www.chicagopartyplace.com
Photography
*Vincent E. Walker Photography - photography, video and graphic design. Weddings, parties, portraits, family reunions, events, etc. [email protected] (312) 719-6830.
Theater / Entertainment:
*Black Ensemble Theater - 4450 North Clark Street 773-769-4451 -The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater is to eradicate racism and its damaging effects upon our society through the utilization of theater arts. http://blackensembletheater.org/
*Congo Square Theater Company - an ensemble dedicated to artistic excellence. By producing definitive and transformative theatre, spawned from the African Diaspora as well as other world cultures. 773.296.1108 https://www.facebook.com/congosquaretheatre/
*ETA Creative Arts Foundation - 7550 S. South Chicago - (708) 926-4641. eta Creative Arts Foundation ...has a commitment to the production of new works that “tell our story” in the first voice.www.etacreativearts.org
*Joel Hall Dancers & Center - offers one of the most extensive dance & movement curricula in the Midwest. Modern Jazz Dance, Ballet, Hip Hop, Modern (Horton/Graham based), Musical Theater and Tap. Plus, Joel Hall’s unique signature urban dance style — based in jazz and expressing a rich vocabulary embracing both classical & modern idioms. Students of all ages will learn terminologies, proper technique, body awareness, strengthening and movement control. http://joelhall.org
*Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago - A Chicago-based company that performs authentic and progressive interpretations of contemporary and ancient African and African American dance, music and folklore. http://www.muntu.com
*Najwa Dance Corps - "A living archive of dance history," Najwa Dance Corps presents an exciting repertoire that spans the eras of the African-American heritage." Fine performance. Classes for dancers of all levels. The Golden Dome - Chicago Park District 100 North Central Park (773) 727-1773 - I had the joy of dancing with NDC for many years! https://www.najwadancecorps.org/
Trophies / Plaques / Awards:
*CMS Trophies & Plaques - 606 E. 61st St. (773) 873-9888 We have proudly served the Chicagoland area for 30+ years and hope to add you to the CMS family of satisfied customers. If you don't find what you are looking for on our site, please call (773) 873-9888 or visit our showroom and our professional staff will be happy to assist you. CMS Trophies & Plaques stands on the promise of creating awards of excellence. We believe in providing quality service to our valued customers. http://www.cmstrophies.com/
I'm still searching for a Black-owned and operated gas station in Chicagoland, but for now, I found Sasafrasnet, LLC, a Black firm that sells fuel to BP and Mobil stations in the area and owns several (rented by others).
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