Savor the Culture: 10th Annual Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week Serves Up Flavor, Heritage and Excellence
Black History Month is marked by many celebrations rooted in tradition, nostalgia and love. Among Chicago’s many cultural offerings, its renowned cuisine stands out. People from around the world experience the city’s diverse culinary scene, where eateries serve everything from authentic flavors to innovative fusion dishes.
One of the newer traditions hailing the city’s dynamic Black cuisine is the 10th annual Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week, which starts Sunday, Feb. 9, and lasts until Feb. 23. BLACK Restaurant Week honors the best Black restaurateurs across Chicago, showcasing their delicious foods and the experience, atmosphere, and cultural influence they bring to the city. Black-owned businesses have long shaped Chicago’s identity, and that impact extends deeply into its food scene.
Founded by Lauren A. Smith, BLACK Restaurant Week allows participants to enjoy cuisines communities across the African diaspora have cherished for generations, from everyday comfort food and gourmet desserts to sports bars and high-end steakhouses. Black entrepreneurs have been making waves in the city’s dining landscape for years, and BLACK Restaurant Week has become the signature showcase for their talents.
While the official list of participating restaurants offers a great starting point, the full spectrum of Black-owned eateries across Chicago is vast and worth exploring. Supporting BLACK Restaurant Week is a meaningful way to uplift Black-owned businesses, discover new cuisines, and celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Chicago.
The 2025 List of Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week Eateries
2048 Non-Alc Wine Shop
All Star Seafood & Sports
Bronzeville Hoagie & Panini
Bronzeville Soul
Caviar Dream (retail brand)
Chemistry Chicago
CheSa’s Bistro (Photo Credit: Instagram)
Chick-Fil-A South Loop
D’s Cookie Dough Co.
D’s Roti & Trini Cuisine
Divan Chicago
Dock’s
Erin’s Cup
Fork Fantasy
Gaijin Chicago
Haire’s Gulf Shrimp
Homewood Brewing Company
Ja’Grill Hyde Park
Jerk Yard Chicago
Juiced By Shic
Jus Sandwiches
Lior’s Cafe
LoveLuvv (retail brand)
Lynn’s Chicago Pizza
Mosaics Boutique & Tea
MiMi’s Craft Kitchen
Native Foods Chicago
Peach’s Restaurant
SmallCakes Evergreen Park
Soul Prime
Stussy’s Diner
Taste 222 (Photo Credit: Instagram)
The Black Vegan Restaurant
The Bistro On Sterling
The Bureau Bar & Restaurant
The Duplex (Photo Credit: Instagram)
The Retro Grill On Stony
The L Station (Photo Credit: Instagram)
TNT Rooftop Restaurant
To Be Served
Your Organic Inner G
Savor the taste of food made with love and crafted with dedication. Experience the perfect blend of professionalism and hard work.
This Black History Month—and for years to come—celebrate the cuisines passed down through generations, embedding their roots in Chicago. These dishes create unforgettable experiences today and lasting memories for tomorrow.
Conclusion
Savor the Culture: 10th Annual Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week Serves Up Flavor, Heritage and Excellence is the perfect opportunity to experience the rich culinary heritage of Chicago. Join the city in celebrating the best of Black-owned businesses and the delicious flavors they bring to the table.
FAQs
Q: What is the focus of BLACK Restaurant Week?
A: BLACK Restaurant Week is a celebration of the best Black-owned eateries across Chicago, showcasing their delicious foods and the experience, atmosphere, and cultural influence they bring to the city.
Q: Who founded BLACK Restaurant Week?
A: Lauren A. Smith founded BLACK Restaurant Week.
Q: What is the duration of BLACK Restaurant Week?
A: BLACK Restaurant Week will take place from February 9 to 23.
Q: What is the purpose of BLACK Restaurant Week?
A: BLACK Restaurant Week is designed to uplift Black-owned businesses, discover new cuisines, and celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Chicago.
