February is Black History Month. However, it’s not the only four weeks of the year that we should all be focusing on how to support our Black neighbors, friends, and businesses. One of our favorite ways to show support is by indulging in some of the best eats in the city. Keep reading for the most delicious Black-owned restaurants in Hyde Park, Chicago!
Love and Light Cafe
1429 E Hyde Park Blvd, Chicago, IL 60615
With perhaps the most endearing name, the Love and Light Cafe came from owner Kiley Russel’s childhood in Hyde Park. She and her friends would host bonfires at Promontory Point, which she nicknamed “Love and Light” bonfires. When she opened up the cafe to support the dietary needs of the daycare she owns, the name was a natural fit. Russel, also a Hyde Park native, focuses on staffing her cafe with workers from the community.
Love and Light Cafe is connected to Ivy at Piccadilly. So if you’re looking for an easy and delicious breakfast spot on your way to work or school, look no further.
Virtue Restaurant
1462 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615
We’ve featured Virtue Restaurant before, but couldn’t help but do it again! Virtue is a staple Hyde Park fine dining restaurant. Located centrally on the bustling 53rd street, it is a great option for nice meals within walking distance from your apartment! Founder and Head Chef Erick Williams is a Chicago native who is determined to maintain a restaurant that leads with a culture of hospitality and kindness. Enjoy southern cuisine like short rib, gizzard, cornbread, and honey butter – all made using traditional heritage techniques.
“We didn’t get here… by ourselves. We stand on the shoulders of our ancestry both distant and near. The ones who gave birth to who we are and what we become. Without their struggles, their commitment to freedom, and their spirit of hope, we would have no place to dream, no place to explore, and no ambitions to follow. We are humbled and forever grateful for their tireless fight for equality.”
The Soul Shack
1368 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615
Continuing on the trend of Southern soul food, The Soul Shack is the perfect casual joint to get your faves. Co-owner Keisha Rucker is a born and bred Hyde Parker, and as such knows the value of her community. Every Wednesday, The Soul Shack provides the local homeless with free meals. As an advocate for education and participation, Rucker has spent time encouraging the Black community to vote, particularly in the 2020 election. She has also gone into schools to mentor students and help them to discover the world of entrepreneurship.
After appreciating Rucker’s dedication to the community, indulge in some soul rolls, jerked cornish hen, or lollipop lamb chops!
Litehouse Whole Food Grill
1660 E 55th St, Chicago, IL 60615
Litehouse Whole Food Grill was founded with a mission to prove that fast food can be healthy. Founder Erik Nance wanted to create a restaurant that would provide the perfect intersection for his vegan and non-vegan family members to both be able to enjoy high-quality foods. As a minister, Nance was also determined to provide food that is good for the body and the soul. As such the menu includes dishes like Caribbean Mango Jerk Salmon, Veggie Crumble Nachos, and Sir and Madam’s Tomato Pesto Pizza.
To support those struggling in their community, Litehouse Whole Food Grill offers an option for patrons to “go-premium”. This allows them to purchase an extra meal for members of the community who may not be able to afford one. The restaurant is determined to be always friendly, whole, organic, and always “really really good”.
B’Gabs Goodies
1450 E 57th St, Chicago, IL 60637
Following the trend of delicious vegan spots, B’Gabs Goodies was established to provide high-quality soy-free, gluten-free raw and cooked vegan foods. An interesting facet of B’gabs Goodies is their commitment to being a judgment-free zone. The restaurant encourages patrons to come as they are and provides a variety of transition foods to ease the process of integrating more fruits, veggies, and nuts into one’s diet.
The restaurant also commits to feeding the Hyde Park community by establishing a donation program where a box of produce is given to someone in need.
14 Parish Restaurant & Rhum Bar
1644 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615
In their own words, 14 Parish did in fact come to play! This upscale Caribbean fusion joint in Hyde Park is the perfect place to leave your worries at the door. Focus instead on trying their innovative cuisine and learning the difference between Rhums, Rums, and Rons. Founder Racquel Fields is committed to giving your everyday life a glimpse of paradise.
Fields is a Hyde Park native. So, when she created her restaurant, she was determined to situate it within the Hyde Park community.
“We shouldn’t have to go outside our community to have hand-crafted cocktails, quality dining, feel safe, and have a good time in a predominately Black space supporting our business and us being able to give back and create an experience for our customers.” (Via Chicago Defender)
Have you tried any of these out? Let us know your fave! And if we didn’t get to it, drop your go-to Black-owned restaurants in Hyde Park, Chicago in the comments!
