Introduction to Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week
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.
The Significance of Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week
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. Chicago 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.
The Founder and Purpose
Founded by Lauran A. Smith, Chicago 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 Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week has become the signature showcase for their talents.
Exploring the Full Spectrum of Black-Owned Eateries
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 Chicago 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
The following is a list of participating restaurants in the 2025 Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week:
- 2048 Non-Alc Wine Shop
- All Star Seafood & Sports
- Bronzeville Hoagie & Panini
- Bronzeville Soul
- Caviar Dream (retail brand)
- Chemistry Chicago
- CheSa’s Bistro
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
Taste 222 (Photo Credit: Instagram).
- The Black Vegan Restaurant
- The Bistro On Sterling
- The Bureau Bar & Restaurant
- The Duplex Chicago
The Duplex (Photo Credit: Instagram).
- The Retro Grill On Stony
- The L Station
The L Station (Photo Credit: Instagram).
- TNT Rooftop Restaurant
- To Be Served
- Your Organic Inner G
Conclusion
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.
FAQs
- When does the 10th annual Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week start and end?
- It starts on Sunday, Feb. 9, and lasts until Feb. 23.
- What is the purpose of Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week?
- It honors the best Black restaurateurs across Chicago, showcasing their foods, experience, atmosphere, and cultural influence.
- Who founded Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week?
- It was founded by Lauran A. Smith.
- How can one support Black-owned businesses during this event?
- By participating in Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week, discovering new cuisines, and celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Chicago.
- Where can I find the list of participating restaurants for the 2025 Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week?
- The list is provided in the article, including eateries such as CheSa’s Bistro, Taste 222, The Duplex Chicago, and many more.
