The SportsWise team talks about the WNBA's public relations inadequacies.
Cover Story: Black owned business month
Black-owned Business Month highlights economic equity, promotes entrepreneurship, and encourages the public to actively support Black entrepreneurs and community wealth building. We share a listing of some of our favorite Blackowned businesses, from restaurants to lawyers.
The Playground
DISCLAIMER: StreetWise publishes perspectives from vendors and contributors to reflect a range of lived experiences and viewpoints. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of StreetWise. We are committed to fostering dialogue grounded in dignity and respect, and we do not endorse language or perspectives that harm or dehumanize others.
Dave Hamilton, Creative Director/Publisher dhamilton@streetwise.org
Julie Youngquist, Executive director jyoungquist@streetwise.org
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The wnba's pr problem
John: Sportscaster Dan Patrick was expected to do an interview with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, but her public relations staff advised her not to, so Patrick went on a rant about why they changed their minds at the last minute – after he waited two hours. This is the league that wanted to be taken seriously, just like the NFL, Major League Baseball, NHL and the NBA. What do you make of the last-minute snub?
Russell: I don’t listen to Dan Patrick. He thinks he knows too much: how to change the All-Star game, how to change the slam dunk contest. They didn’t want him to interview Engelbert because ever since Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark came things have changed for the better – or have they? Some players are fouling Clark, trying to injure her. Dan can’t tell Engelbert how to do her job. He thinks he has an answer for everything. He doesn’t. Get off her back.
Allen: Me and Russell had talked about an incident Patrick talked about on his show that happened June 24 between Clark and Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas. Thomas landed on Clark and pushed her fist into her throat, but no one
realized it until after the game when fans shared clips. Thomas said it was an accident. The PR probably suspected he was going to continue to talk about it, which is probably one reason the interview was cancelled. But they shouldn’t have led him on to think they was going to do an interview and then turned around at the last moment, gave him a feeble answer and snuff him out.
John: To me, Dan Patrick comes off as being fair but tough. He explained that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell doesn’t do interviews. At least Goodell is consistent.
What bothered me more about Commissioner Engelbert is, she should have just told Patrick, “I am not going to do it; I have much more on
my mind about why Caitlin Clark is getting pummeled by opponents.”
For her to say “I am going to do it” and then two hours later to change because of her PR, to me, says you’re not serious. She is going to have to do some of these interviews and take the tough questions. For her to not do that is a disservice.
Also, for her to just give Thomas a one-game suspension when she should have gotten a 10-gamer shows me the WNBA has a long way to go.
Russell: There’s a lot of bad calls. Dan Patrick should go interview WNBA players, like Caitlin Clark – how does she feel about getting fouled all the damn time?
Allen: If the commissioner can’t handle the tough questions, maybe she ought to give up the position. This is one situation that needs to be talked about, like Russell says. And yes, Patrick should interview the players. The public does want to know.
John: Maybe Dan can learn a little more from the players themselves. One day a sitdown interview with Caitlin Clark and another day Thomas and why she’s getting death threats – which is unacceptable too. The WNBA has an image problem. If it wasn’t for Caitlin Clark, it might not last five years.
Any comments, suggestions or topic ideas for the SportsWise team? Email StreetWise Editor Suzanne Hanney at suzannestreetwise@yahoo.com
Vendors John Hagan, Russell Adams and A. Allen chat about the world of sports.
Black owned businesses in Chicago Restaurants
14 Parish
Caribbean-inspired cuisine and rhum, rums and rons cocktails, aim to bring a little bit of paradise to Hyde Park. Weekend brunch, $10 Tu-Th Happy Hour. 1644 E. 53rd St. 14parish.com
Afro Joe’s Coffee & Tea
Casual coffee shop offering breakfast, panini, and brunch fare, plus live music. 1818 W. 99th St.
Ain’t She Sweet Café
Fresh and healthy sandwiches to eat onsite in Bronzeville and Beverly or catered to party, office, or special event.
526 E. 43rd St.
9920 S. Western Ave. aintshesweetcafe.com
Andy Sunflower Café
Located inside the Beverly location of Ain’t She Sweet, offering fresh crafted coffee beverages using the freshest beans sourced by the best local roasters. Donations to first responders, teachers, medical workers. 9920 S. Western Ave. andysunflowercafe.com
Bani’s Beets
Cold-pressed daily in the name of health, juices to “curve cancer and beet diabetes.”
10305 S. Hale Ave.
170 N. Sangamon (Pickup only, via online order) banisbeets.com
Batter & Berries
Brunch flavor with Southern charm and Chicago heart & art, from a French toast flight with rotating seasonal flavors to Cluck-N-Gaufre: a sweet potato waffle stuffed with fried chicken.
2748 N. Lincoln Ave.
2318 S. State St.
3462 Vollmer Road, Olympia Fields batterandberries.com
Bronzeville Winery
Eric Williams of The Silver Room and Cecilia Cuff of The Nascent Group merged their experiences as arts and culture leaders in this trendy eatery that doubles
as an art hub, with wine talks, art openings and curated cultural events.
4420 S. Cottage Grove bronzevillewinery.com
Brown Sugar Bakery
The nation’s first woman-owned chocolate manufacturer and a James Beard nominee, Brown Sugar runs the gamut from soulful Southern recipes to Obama Cake: layers of red velvet, chocolate, and yellow cake with cream cheese frosting, chocolate drizzle and pecans. Pickups for cupcakes and slices, 24 hours’ notice for orders; Chicagoland delivery; nationwide shipping.
328 E. 75th St. brownsugarbakerychicago.com
Can’t Believe It’s
Not Meat
Transforming vegan and vegetarian culture with healthier, more flavorful comfort food: burgers, po’ boys, tacos and more.
1368 ½ E. 53rd St. 226 W. Chicago Ave. 24 Orland Square Drive, Orland Park https://cantbelieveitsnotmeat.com
Cantina Rosa
Small plates and craft cocktails – many with agave -- that blend modern sensibilities with traditional influences. Cantina Rosa draws inspiration from diverse regions of Mexico, enriched by the expertise of its most experienced team members. The name “Rosa” pays tribute to Rosetta, the grandmother of Chef Erick Williams, who profoundly shaped his life. 5230 S. Harper Ave. cantinarosa.com
Caribbean Jerk Palace
A fusion of Caribbean flavors brings exquisite Jerk cuisine, delightful island dishes, and sumptuous seafood offerings. 120 W. 87th St. caribbeanjerkpalaceinc.com
CheSa’s Bistro
Upscale Creole, gluten-free menu in Avondale, from Five Cheese Alligator Dip to Gumbo with chicken, shrimp and andouille sausage and Crawfish/Shrimp Etouffee. 3235 W. Addison St. chesasbistro.com
Chicago French Press
Ethically sourced coffee and tea, roasted for freshness in the Windy City, fueled by women and sustainably delivered - 5% of each retail bag benefits nonprofits supporting women and youth.
1021 S. Delano Court
McCormick Place, 2301 S. Martin
Luther King Dr.
UIC Richard J. Daley Library Café, 601 S. Morgan
University of Chicago Bookstore Café, 970 E. 58th chicagofrenchpress.com
Chicago’s Home of Chicken and Waffles
Serving up soul food, breakfast food and comfort food.
3947 S. King Drive
543 Madison St., Oak Park chicagoschickenandwaffles.com
Cleo’s Southern Cuisine
With chicken rated a “perfect 10” by TikToker Keith Lee, partnerships with the Bulls, Bears and Sky, and a secret Mississippi Comeback sauce for its Southern cuisine, you’ll want to “taste the hype” too.
2826 N. Lincoln Ave.
4248 S. Cottage Grove Ave.
190 N. Wells St. eatcleos.com
C & W Market and Ice Cream Parlor
Homemade ice cream, snacks, old fashioned candies, beverages, produce, frozen goods, dairy, soup, sandwiches and essentials. In addition to its food pantry foundation, C&W offers an ice cream truck and catering. 1901 Church St., Evanston cwmarketandicecreamparlor.com
Daisy’s PoBoy and Tavern
Named for James Beard-winning Chef Erick William’s late aunt by marriage, Up-South Po’-Boy shop evokes the vibrancy of New Orleans through its most celebrated and classic sandwich, fun colors, and music. 5215 S. Harper Ave. daisyspoboychicago.com
Dan’s Soul Food and Café
Short ribs, smothered pork or T-bone steak, catfish, turkey wings for the whole family, where every day is Thanksgiving. 2523 W. 79th St. danschicagosbest.com
Dat Donut
Oversized donuts in a variety of flavors, hand-cut every day and too good to dunk.8251 S. Cottage Grove Ave. 947 W. Wellington Ave. datdonut.com
Doughboy’s Chicago
High-quality comfort food, including its famous “Spaghedough.”
2537 S. Wabash Ave. www.doughboyschicago.com
Ethiopian Diamond
Basking in the ritual of traditional Ethiopian dining, savor a world of spices in the warm comfort of its communal atmosphere. 6120 N. Broadway ethiopiandiamondrestaurant.com
Flippin
Flavors
Every bite is a burst of flavors at this healthy sandwich and salad spot. Debit and credit card only. 1848 W. 95th St. www.flippinflavors.com
Forty Acres
Fresh Market
Peak-of-freshness produce sold at low prices, so every ’hood from the West Side to Westchester can be healthy. SNAP/ EBT users pay $5 for delivery, get Link
5713 W. Chicago Ave. www.fortyacresfreshmarket.com
Frontier
Whole animals served alongside oysters and tap brews by James Beard semifinalist. Will close August 10, then be available as a event space. 1072 N. Milwaukee Ave. thefrontierchicago.com
Fruitful Delight
Smoothie & Juice Bar
Fresh, fruit-filled smoothies, coldpressed juices, healthy eats: delicious açaí bowls, salads, breakfast items, wraps, tacos, kabobs and sandwiches; full bar offering cocktails, mocktails, and more. 2 E. Cermak Road fruitfuldelightsmoothiebar.com
Garifuna Flava
Named for the Garifuna people of Central America, this Belizean restaurant offers Caribbean, Latin and Indigenous food and full bar with tropical drinks. 2518 W. 63rd St. www.garifunaflava.net
Harold’s Chicken
Started by Harold Pierce on the South Side in 1950, the franchise has expanded to 47 locations in eight states, which is noteworthy because it started in an era when larger fast-food chains avoided African American neighborhoods. Here are several Chicago locations:
9938 S. Torrence Ave.
9511 S. Ashland Ave.
7059 S. Halsted St.
7318 S. Vincennes
1208 E. 53rd St.
407 E. 75th St.
1361 N. Milwaukee Ave.
1505 W. Madison
7200 S. Western Ave.
100 W. 87th St.
636 S. Wabash Ave.
2134 S. Michigan Ave.
124 E. 35th St.
1450 S. Michigan Ave. haroldschickencorp.com
Hecky’s
BBQ ribs, rib tips and chicken recipes handed down from Hecky Powell’s Creole grandmother in New Orleans. More than a carryout, Hecky’s gives back to the local community. 1902 Green Bay Road, Evanston heckys.com
Home of the Hoagy
Compact restaurant serving classic sandwiches for the most discerning palates - from cold cuts to steak on freshbaked bread 1316 W. 111th St. home-of-the-hoagy.weeblyte.com
Ina Mae
New Orleans-style seafood and chicken alongside live music performances. 1415 N. Wood St. www.inamaetavern.com
Ja Grill
Dive into a sea of flavors with traditional Jamaican dishes like Jerk Chicken, Curried Goat, Oxtail, Vegan Ital Stew and Whole Red Snapper Escoveitch, all made with authentic ingredients and cooking methods. 1510 E. Harper Court www.jagrill.com
Jerk Taco Man
Charcoal-grilled Jamaican jerks and other specialties derived from family recipes. 4001 W. Jackson 7723 S. State St. www.jerktacoman.com
Jerk Villa Bar & Grill
Vibrant Caribbean dining, from jerk chicken and seafood dishes to jerk chicken salads, party wings, and Jamaican beef patties. TV screens for sports enthusiasts. 2216 S. Michigan Ave.
“Mother” Josephine gave employment to at-risk youth and served downhome cooking all day long to everyone from Mr. T to Mayor Rahm Emanuel. The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, stopped in for her Gumbo every time she came to town. That’s why the City of Chicago named her block of 79th Street Mother Josephine Wade Way. 436 E. 79th St. josephinescooking.net
Justice of the Pies
Sweet and savory pies, quiches and tarts. Maya-Camille Broussard established Justice of the Pies in honor of her late father, Stephen J. Broussard, a criminal defense attorney with a passion for baking and eating anything made with a crust, who believed everyone deserves an opportunity to reform their lives. The bakery’s signature I KNEAD LOVE Workshop provides elementary-aged children from lower-income communities instruction on nutritional development and basic cooking skills, as it encourages their kitchen creativity in the name of ending food insecurities. The Broussard Justice Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to eradicate food insecurity and decrease health disparity issues in underserved communities.
8655 S. Blackstone Ave. justiceofthepies.com
Just Turkey Grill
All-turkey-based BBQ tenders, links, tips, legs, burgers and more are a healthier option for those who want the taste but not the pork or beef. Also in LA and Minneapolis – and looking to franchise!
4353 S. Cottage Grove
17929 S. Halsted, Homewood justturkeygrill.com
Kilwin’s
Made-in-store confections and Original Recipe Ice Cream, handcrafted by 160 franchisees with stores in 28 states.
Navy Pier: 600 E. Grand Ave. 310 S. Michigan Ave.
5226 S. Harper Ave.
5224 N. Clark St.
737 N. Dearborn St. www.kilwins.com
Kizin Creole
Traditional Haitian meals in a straightforward dining room. 2311 W. Howard St. www.kizincreole.com
Lem’s BBQ
Vintage drive-in offers late-night BBQ and ribs to go. 311 E. 75th St. lemsque.com
Let’s Get Poppin, Inc.
Family-owned popcorn house offering tins of unique flavors: bacon, jalapeno, ranch, in ad dition to the familiar cheese, caramel and butter. 11758 S. Western Ave. letsgetpoppin.com
Lexington Betty Smokehouse
Chef Dominique recreates the aromas of her Grandma Betty King’s house, along with beef and Wagyu dogs. She and her wife Tanisha have been serving up Chicago BBQ and sides since 2016. Eat in, or en joy curbside pickup, delivery and takeout. 756 E. 111th St. lexingtonbetty.com
Litehouse
Whole Food Grill
Health-focused spot with organic and vegetarian wraps, salads, bowls and more. 1368 E. 53rd St. litehousewholefoodgrill.com
Mima’s Taste of Cuba
Live and Believe Nutrition (the LAB)
Community space for workouts (dance, cardio, Thrive Drum Cardio,™ yoga and more) protein and energy drinks, good music and a lotta soul. 2025 W. 95th St. liveandbelievewellness.com
Long Room
Thoughtfully curated full scale coffee program, a playful ever-changing beer list, a well-rounded collection of spirits and inhouse developed and classic cocktails, complemented by four rotating restaurant partners, offering chef-driven “food truck style” breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner. 1612 W. Irving Park Road longroomchicago.com
Luella’s Southern Kitchen
Classic Southern fare with a mod ern twist – Shrimp and Grits, But termilk Fried Chicken – sourced locally.
4144 N. Kedzie Ave. luellassouthernkitchen.com
Mabe’s Sandwich Shop
Freshness is its love language – for family, for food, for Chicago – in a range of sandwiches, soups and salads. 312 E. 75th St. mabesss.com
esuohekomS
Tropical crafted cocktails and Cuban comfort food the way family’s matriarch made it. 2925 W. Irving Park Road mimastoc.com
Momentum Coffee
Premium coffee, lunch, catering and coworking.
1900 S. State St. 11 N. Michigan Ave. Austin: 5100 W. Harrison Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave. momentumcoffee.org
The Park Bar and Grill
Contemporary soul food and American restaurant located steps from Washington Park. It offers a laid-back neighborhood vibe with elevated comfort food, craft cocktails, live DJs, a spacious outdoor patio and private event rooms. 65 E. Garfield Park Blvd.
https:// theparkbargrill.com
Pearl’s Place
Southern-style soul food in elegant space – one of USA Today’s 10 best Readers’ Choice buffets. 3901 S. Michigan Ave. pearlsplacerestaurant.com
Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream
Old-fashioned homemade goodness with high-quality ingredients, to create new memories.
46 E. 47th St. www.shawnmichelles.com
Sip & Savor
Fair Trade certified coffee, in a warm and colorful environment amid an aroma of ideas and resources.
5301 S. Hyde Park Blvd. 528 E. 43rd St. sipandsavorchicago.com
Soulé
Its name inspired by Biggie Small’s hiphop single, “Juicy,” Soule’ offers Creoleinspired food by reservation only. 3615 W. Roosevelt Road www.soulechicago.com
Soul Veg City
This plant-based vegan, soul food and Americana restaurant is leading Chicago into the future of cuisine. 203 E. 75th St. soulvegcity.com
South Shore Social Beach Club
Located at the South Shore Cultural Center Beach House, find takeout food and “Live at the Lakefront” music. South Shore Cultural Center Beach House, 7059 S. South Shore Drive
Southern Chicago
Southern Chicago is a modern Southern restaurant located in the heart of the South Loop, offering a bold and refined take on classic American and Southern cuisine.
Designed for guests who appreciate elevated dining without the pretense, the restaurant blends rich tradition with global influences and contemporary style.
2000 S. Wabash Ave. www.southernchicagorestaurant.com
Storyville
River North restaurant and cocktail bar offers elevated New Orleans-inspired cuisine, where you’ll be swept away by the exotic ambience of its main floor dining room, outfitted with plush red booths and alluring décor that evoke the Big Easy’s warm, soulful charm.
2236 E. 71st St. www.surfsupdivein.com/location/southshore
Sweet Maple Café
Country-style meals with all-day breakfast and lunch options.
1339 W. Taylor St. sweetmaplecafechicago.com
Taste 222
Stylish “New American” cuisine and unique beverages in upscale West Loop restaurant/event space.
222 N. Canal St. taste222chicago.com
Taylor’s Tacos
Taco catering and events company that specializes in authentic street-style tacos with a whole lot of Chicago soul. Influences are Taylor’s sojourn in SoCal and Maya’s experience with her mother’s organic garden and her dad’s consulting to Ethiopian restaurants. Good Morning America called its “sexy crispy shrimp taco” the best in Chicago. 135 N. Kedzie Ave taylorstacoschicago.com
The Soul Food Lounge
Cooking was Quentin Love’s refuge from gangs when he was growing up raised by his grandmother. The former Marine has devised healthy a soul food fu sion of Italian, Mexican, Ameri can and Asian cuisines in North Lawndale and Beverly.
3804 W. 16th St. 10701 S. Hale Ave. thesoulfoodlounge.com
Trice’s Original Slab Bar-B-Que
Originally opened in Chatham in 2003, this familyowned rib spot with signa ture sauce has reopened in South Shore. 1918 E. 71st St. slabbbq.com
Truth Restaurant
Choices run from all-day breakfast and soul food to relaxed Italian from its mission to be a world-class kitchen that produces five-star cuisine for everyday people. 56 E. Pershing Road truthchicago39.com
Two Fish Crab Shack
Beach-themed space providing custom seafood boils and fried fish. 641 E. 47th St. twofishcrabshack.com
Uncle Remus
Founded by Charmaine Rickette Alfred’s folks Gus and Mary in 1969, this chain –and its “Big Saucy” food truck – brings the taste of the West Side: saucy fried chicken.
5611 W. Madison St. 2537 S. Wabash Ave. (inside Picnic/ South Loop) www.uncleremususa.com
Vee-Vee’s African Restaurant
Casual eatery specializing in Nigerian comfort dishes such as jollof rice, fufu, and suya. 6232 N. Broadway veeveesafricantogo.com
Virtue
Chef Erick Williams became the first Black chef to win Best Chef/Great Lakes from the James Beard Foundation for this Southern American restaurant that leads with a culture of hospitality & kindness, provides great value and uses heritage techniques to create some familiar flavors, some new ones. He founded the Virtue Leadership Development program, a not-for-profit incubator equipping young adults of color with entrepreneurial and leadership skills through hands-on training in the restaurant industry. 1462 E. 53rd St. virtuerestaurant.com
Southern Chicago
rotS
Chatto
Lifestyle & Wellness
All Butter’d Up
Luxurious shower gels, body butters and body oils bring daily care to a spa-level experience, inspired by a history of helping a grandmother with severe skin issues. allbutterdup.com
Chatto Skin & Hair Care
Powerful, plant-based solutions that go beyond trends to deliver real, lasting results for men’s and women’s hair, scalp, and skin. 2023 W. Carroll Ave. chatto.com
Abena Boamah-Acheampong was a therapist and 7th grade math teacher who went back to her mother’s favorite ingredient in the name of humanity and intention. Hanahana’s shea butter is ethically-sourced from the Katariga Women’s Shea Cooperative in Tamale, Ghana and combined with all-natural oils to bring out the true beauty in your skin. Women in the cooperative have access to health care, education, and economic growth opportunities. hanahanabeauty. com
Hyde Park Hair Salon
Elevate your grooming in the manner of Devon Hester, Muhammad Ali, Harold Washington -- and President Barack Obama. 5234 S. Blackstone Ave. hydeparkhairsalon.biz
Jordan’s Beauty Supply
Professional products and continuing education.
1911 E. 79th St. jordansbeautysupply.com
Le ’Flair
Hair Lounge
Salon run by internationally known stylist Ashley “Fushia Le ’Flair” Peters weaves its years of skill and artistry into your hair, along with a unique blend of ethics, privacy and time management to have you walk away feeling revitalized.
1s132 Summit Ave., #301a, Oakbrook Ter race leflairhair.com
Luster Products
African American, family-owned and op erated since 1957, Luster Products Inc. manufactures quality hair and personal care products sold throughout the U.S. and internationally.1104 W. 43rd St. lusterproducts.com
Pear Nova
NWäR Studios, Inc.
NWAR prides itself on offering a judgement-free space, regardless of your identity, for your waxing, facials and lash extensions. 5204 N. Damen Ave. nwarstudiosinc.com
Patrice’s Picture of Beauty Hair Salon
306 E. 75th pictureofbeauty.net
Rachel James founded this nail polish company in 2012 to address the lack of colors for medium to dark skin. Named to honor the Nova Pear tree, it’s crueltyfree and vegan-friendly, free of 10 toxic ingredients such as toluene, formaldehyde and phthalates. pearnova.com
ProFit Studio
Individualized training within small groups, a diverse range of multi-level classes, private personal training, meal planning, and nutrition counseling at 6,500-square-foot boutique fitness studio. 3700 S. Indiana Ave. profitstudiochicago.com
Solo Beauty Supply
Showcasing Black hair care products: wigs, braiding hair, weaves and more. 9011 S. Ashland Ave. 8158 S. Cottage Grove www.solobeautysupply.com
Spifster Nails
Tacarra “Spifster” Sutton started on her own nails with felt-tip pen and a single shade of polish to kick her nail-biting habit. She gained her nickname because she is so able to make anything “spiffy” and has drawn the attention of Debi Mazar, Danielle Brooks, Taraji P. Henson and brands like Nike, Cadillac and Topshop. spifter.com
Spifster Nail s
SERVICES
Black Box Creative
Marketing service specializing in web design and digital promotion for businesses. 432 E. 46th Place #2 blackboxcreative.com
Bronze Balloons
Balloons in 80 latex colors sculpted into fanciful arrangements and highlighted by milestone numbers special to you. 1010 W. 35th St. bronzeballoons.com
Christmas in the Wards
Chicago City Council members work with school principals to find families in need at the holidays and to take them shopping – 40 wards and 625 families in 2024. 1030 E. 87th St. www.christmasinthewards.com
Creative Genius Law
Legal services for people in creative industries: arts, entertainment and media. 171 N. Aberdeen, Suite 400 creativegeniuslaw.com
DeskFlex
Smart desk booking and office hoteling solutions tailored for more flexible, efficient, productive remote and hybrid workers.
111 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 1146 deskflex.com
Doc Able’s Auto Clinic
Auto repair, tire sales, brake repair, oil changes, wheel alignments and towing services to Chicago and the North Shore. 936 Chicago Ave., Evanston https://docable.com
Donna’s Loving Doggy Palace, Inc.
Pet groomer
75th off the Dan Ryan Expy. https://pocketsuite.io/book/Donnasloving-doggy-palace-inc/items
Gone Again Travel & Tours
First African American-owned storefront travel agency on the West Side has a mission to help you stress less and travel more by providing expert advice for your budget and convenient payment plans.
4952 W. Chicago Ave. www.goneagaintravel.com
ILA
Creative Studio
ILA (I LOVE ART) provides Educational Programming to support artistic sustainability; Curated Events that amplify the voices of Black artists; and Community Building -- connecting artists, organizations and creative leaders to support the next generation of Black artists.
Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 1212 https://ilastudio.homesteadcloud.com
Knight, Morris and Reddick Law Group
Black women-owned firm ensures your real estate transactions are seamless and secure.
333 S. Wabash Ave., Unit 2700 kmrlawgroup.com
MoHall Commercial and Urban Development
Full-service commercial real estate brokerage dedicated to representing investors, landlords, tenants, and property owners in Chicago and surrounding suburbs.
350 N. Orleans St. #9000n mohallcommercialud.com
My Girlfriendz Party Rentals
ALL your needs, from photo booth to custom decorations, bartenders, photographers and portable restrooms. mygirlfriendsphotobooth.com
Neat Cleaning Services
Experienced cleaners use toxin-free products on your home.
7609 W. Irving Park Road https://neatcleaningserviceschicago. weebly.com
Official Anais Consulting
PR firm elevates the brands of local entrepreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits to national and international levels with social media management, fundraising consultations and branding services; and gives back to the community. vauveanais.com
RETAIL
Bon Bon Vie
Custom totes, mugs and more by Black artists, created in 2010 to fill a void for women of color in the graphic T-shirt market (and show love to the fellas, too). wearbonbonvie.com
Cherry Mountain Arts
Founded in 2022 by artist RELLO, Cherry Mountain has grown into a premier destination for curated fine art gifts where rare objects, streetwear, and design intersect. No longer a gallery, it champions collectible art in all forms, offering pieces that feel just as at home on a bookshelf as they do in a frame. It redefines what it means to collect. 400 S. Green St. cherrymountain.com
GoGoVie
Premium baby carriers. 1449 S. Michigan Ave. gogovie.com
Silver Room
Since 1997, The Silver Room has been supporting local designers and hosting events to build a global community through art and culture. Find jewelry, apparel, accessories, apothecary and more in a showroom experience that introduces you to a unique arrangement of goods, sounds and events.
1506 E. 53rd St. thesilverroom.com
Third Coast Comics
Mainstream and independent comics, graphic novels and pull lists –matching your taste is their superpower!
6443 N. Sheridan Road thirdcoastcomics.com
Gallery Guichard
Event Spaces
Absolutely Anything Essential
Three-story brownstone is a community market, entertainment space and gift shop run by entrepreneurs and small business owners. Find an array of public and private events, classes, as well as gifts, soaps, candles, natural teas, herbs and wellness products, tasty treats, home decor items, apparel, jewelry and 3521 S. King Drive absolutelyanythingessential.com
On August 10, after 15 years as a restaurant for one-of-a-kind, whole-animal dining feasts, Frontier is transitioning to chef pop-ups and private events. Its two-story, lodgeinspired space, complete with all-weather beer garden and stone fireplace, will be available to groups ranging from the intimate to 350 guests.
1072 N. Milwaukee Ave. thefrontierchicago.com
Gallery opened in 2005 with the mission to expose patrons to multicultural artists specializing in the art of the African Diaspora, thus creating platforms for artists and collectors to meet. Through fine art exhibitions, experiential events, and art tours, Gallery Guichard gives emerging underrepresented talent and mid-career artists an opportunity to develop their imagination and creativity. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York now holds Gallery Guichard’s virtual exhibition catalogs in what is considered the world’s largest collection of contemporary art catalogs.
436 E. 47th St. galleryguichard.com
The Little Black Pearl
Little Black Pearl is a creative learning and leadership ecosystem rooted in art, design, food, and culture. Through youth programs, leadership development, workforce training, and cultural experiences, it connects creativity to real-world pathways and economic opportunity.
1060 E. 47th St. www.blackpearl.org
The Quarry Event Center
Located in Chicago's South Shore, the Quarry is a premier cultural hub. It features a large hall with a stage, a commercial kitchen, a retail storefront, and a patio, serving as a vibrant center for community empowerment, local entrepreneurship, and live entertainment.
2423 E. 75th St. www.thequarrychi.com
Galler y G uichard
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Black Ensemble Theater
Founded in 1976 by actress/producer/ playwright Jackie Taylor, BET is known for high-caliber productions related to African American culture, especially musicals depicting Black musicians and performers; for community outreach through the arts; and for theatrical and technical theater training opportunities for youth. It has a mission to eradicate racism and in 2011 it opened the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, the theater’s first permanent home in the heart of Uptown.
4450 N. Clark St. blackensembletheater.org
Buddy Guy’s Legends
Premier Blues club owned by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, who was a major influence on Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, and who is a pioneer of Chicago’s fabled West Side electric blues.
700 S. Wabash Ave. buddyguy.com
Chicago Mahogany Tours
“Everything Dope About America Comes from Chicago,” says TikTok historian Sherman “Dilla” Thomas. Take his tour of Bronzeville, Chatham, Englewood, Pullman-Roseland, Bridgeport/Stockyard, Chatham, North Lawndale or Pilsen/ Little Village. chicagomahogany.com
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
Named for Chi cago’s first settler, the 62-year-old DuSable is the nation’s oldest independent African American museum, a Smithsonian Institution affiliate and a place to explore the landscape of Black history across the Diaspora.
740 E. 56th Place dusablemu seum.org
eta Creative Arts Foundation
Incorporated as a nonprofit in 1971 to give training and performance opportunities to youth and adults, eta has a commitment to the production of new works that “tell our story” in the first voice. It is a major institution for the preservation, perpetuation, and promulgation of African American aesthetic in the city, state and nation. Now located in a former abandoned storm window factory, its 16,000-square-foot building holds a state-of-the-art 200-seat theater, a library, gallery, classrooms, workshop space and offices.
7558 S. South Chicago Ave. etacreativearts.org
NYCH Gallery
The NYCH Gallery is where contemporary art meets comfort and relatability. Not your typical art gallery – it strives to provide an innovative and interesting blend of creative media that inspire and speak to a diverse audience.
2025 S. Laflin www.nychgallery.com
Pose Cultural Art Gallery
A welcoming platform for artists in the community who desire to soar and a meeting place for the community to explore the richness that the local arts have to offer. 2136 W. Chicago Ave. https://poseculturalartgallery.godaddysites.com/
Red Clay Dance Company
Chicago’s premier Afro-contemporary dance company was founded in 2008 by Ar tistic Director & CEO Vershawn Sanders-Ward. Its award-winning ensemble of versatile Artivists tours and performs locally, nationally, and internationally; it elevates Black dance traditions and thus harnesses the transformative power of dance to address social issues and inspire change. With classes and studios, its Woodlawn location is an arts hub. 808 E. 63rd St. www.redclaydance.com
Craft Breweries, Spirits & Dispensaries
Alexander James Whiskey
Chicago-based, Black-owned premium whiskey brand was founded by Jesse Steward Jr. in 2021. Inspired by the legacy of his grandfathers and named after his son, the brand celebrates family, storytelling, and connection through a thoughtfully crafted collection of bourbons and rye whiskeys. www.alexanderjames whiskey.com
Bull Young Bourbon
Bull Young Bourbon is a premium, chefcrafted whiskey founded by Chef Danny Bullock, whose culinary expertise and passion for exceptional spirits inspired the brand.
Launched in 2020, Bull Young Bourbon is committed to quality, innovation, and creating memorable experiences with a smooth, approachable bourbon crafted to bring Bullyoungbourbon.com
Funkytown Brewery
Inspired by Chicago's vibrant craft beer scene and the sounds of '90s hip-hop and R&B, Funkytown Brewery began as a homebrewing passion in a family garage before launching in 2021. Today, the brewery is dedicated to expanding access to craft beer in underserved communities, educating consumers about beer styles and flavors, and increasing diversity and representation on the shelves of retailers across the region. www.funkytownbeer.com
Grasshopper Club
Dispensary
The Grasshopper Club made history as Chicago's first independent, Blackowned dispensary. Located in the heart of Logan Square, the family-owned business is led by co-owners Matthew Brewer, Chuck Brewer, and their mother, Dianne Brewer. 2551 N. Milwaukee Ave. Grasshopperclub. com
Ivy Hall Dispensary
Ivy Hall is a premier recreational cannabis dispensary with locations throughout the Chicago area, recognized for its innovative "sensory
dispensary" concept. Blending boutiquestyle design with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Ivy Hall offers a thoughtfully curated shopping experience that encourages exploration, education, and connection.
1720 N. Damen
3115 W. Armitage ivyhalldispensary.com
Love Cork Screw Wine Company
Black-owned and woman-owned wine brand seeks to make wine more accessible to everyone by breaking down the myth that it has to be fancy or expensive to be good, and that there are stiff rules about serving it. Chrishon Lampley’s award-winning premium red, white, and rosé varietals are more than wine, they’re a whole mood. In stores and online. https://lovecorkscrew.com
Michael Lavelle Wines
Premium award-winning wine company featured on menus of Michelin-starred and acclaimed restaurants was created with a mission to solve the glaring void in fresh, culturally relevant wine craftsmanship marketed to millennials and minority audiences. Launched in June 2020 by Howard University alum Aaron "Michael" Coad and Terrence "Lavelle" Low along with their partners, Sommelier Devin M. Kennedy and Brandon L. Crump, it is the youngest Black-owned wine company, according to its Linked In profile. Find its California wines at Whole Foods, Binny’s and its website. sipmichaellavelle.com
Moor’s Brewing Company
Moor's Brewing Company is a Blackowned Chicago craft brewery founded in 2021 by Jamhal Johnson and Damon Patton to bring greater diversity and representation to the craft beer industry. Named in honor of the Moors of North Africa, the brewery is known for its approachable, flavorful beers that celebrate culture, community, and craftsmanship. Moorsbeer.com
Renard Whiskey
Renard American Whiskey is dedicated to crafting whiskey that embodies smooth sophistication and bold character. Rooted in tradition, quality, and connection, the brand creates a spirit designed to bring people together—whether for intimate moments, lively gatherings, or memorable nights at their favorite tavern. www.renardwhiskey.com
Spark’d Dispensary
Spark'd Dispensary South Loop is a Black woman-owned cannabis dispensary founded by sisters Loretta Foster, a
Navy veteran, and Priscilla Foster, a social services professional with more than 30 years of experience serving people experiencing homelessness and those in recovery. Guided by a commitment to community, Spark'd offers a welcoming retail experience while honoring veterans and older adults through special discounts. 2114 S. Wabash Ave. 1212 N. Ashland Ave. www.sparkdcannabis.com
Sway Dispensary
Sway Dispensary is a historic, all-minority, LGBTQ+, and veteran-owned cannabis establishment. Rooted in social equity, it offers curated craft products, exclusive collaborations, and a welcoming, inclusive space. 3340 N. Halsted everybodysway.com
Turner Haus Brewery
Turner Häus Brewery is a microbrewery focusing on creating a fun, welcoming environment for craft beer enthusiasts and homebrewers alike. It specializes in brewing premium high gravity beers with the ancestors in mind. All of its beers are named after women in its family. 78 E. 47th St. www.turnerhausbrew.com
Local Media
BLAC Chicago
A lifestyle and culture media brand focusing on Black-inspired home, fashion, skin care representation, and local events. https://chicago.blac.media
BLK Chicago
A localized media platform and cultural infrastructure to find the best pop-ups, parties, art shows and food. Whether you’re visiting or outside every weekend, there's something to do. Explore. Experience. Repeat. www.blkchicago.com
Chicago Defender
Historic online African-American newspaper focusing on local and national news. chicagodefender.com
The TRiiBE
An award-winning, independent digital media company reshaping the narrative of Black Chicago through truth, liberation, and multimedia storytelling. thetriibe.com
95.1 FM Chicago
Owned by Tracey Bell, this is recognized as the city's only Black-owned and woman-owned broadcast radio station https://chicago.blac.media/
Book Stores
Afriware Books
Black-owned mobile bookstore and resource center with a customer pick-up location (by appointment only) in the Chicago suburb of Oak Park. Since 1993 AfriWare Books has served the community by providing a platform to showcase authors, artists and advocates who infuse the community with cultural pride. www.afriwarebooks.com
Beyond the Book
Its mission is to create a vibrant platform for writers to showcase their exceptional skills, while inspiring the next generation of storytellers. Join them as they build a thriving literary enterprise that focuses on personal growth, leadership, and a passion for storytelling across a diverse range of topics. 18063 Dixie Hwy., Homewood http://beyondthebook.online
Call & Response
Call & Response is a Black woman-owned neighborhood bookstore in Chicago’s Hyde Park/Kenwood community dedicated to fostering a love of reading, connection, and the exchange of ideas across cultures and backgrounds. The bookstore centers voices from the global majority, creating an inclusive space that celebrates diverse perspectives, deepens understanding, and strengthens community through literature and conversation. 1390 E. Hyde Park Blvd. www.callandresponsechi.com
Da Book Joint
Da Book Joint is a Black woman-owned bookstore on Chicago’s South Side offering a diverse collection of African American literature across genres. In addition to providing access to books, the bookstore hosts curated events that bring readers and authors together to celebrate storytelling, culture, and community. 6900 S. Stony Island Ave. www.dabookjoint.com
Honey & Hue Bookstore
Honey & Hue Bookstore is a Chicago-based independent bookstore founded by Raven R. White, a welcoming space where books, culture, and community come together. Located on the South Side, the bookstore offers a thoughtfully curated selection of titles while hosting events, author experiences, and literacy programming that celebrate diverse voices and inspire connection. 1804 W. 103rd St. www.honeyandhuebookstore.com
Salty Books & Beans
Salty Books & Beans is a family-owned, independent bookstore located in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago. The community shop offers a wide variety of books for all ages, alongside freshly roasted coffee, tea, and local gift items 2134 W. 95th St.
