25 Best Black-Owned Restaurants in Chicago, IL in 2025
Discover the rich cultural history of black-owned restaurants in Chicago. With a plethora of innovative businesses, parks and historical architecture, Chicago is a cultural hub in the Midwest. As the third-largest city in the United States, this city boasts a diverse culinary scene made up of many black-owned restaurants.
From soul food to award-winning fine dining, there are many great options for local foodies and tourists to explore. Discover the innovative cuisine of the windy city with this deep dive into the best black-owned restaurants in Chicago and make your next trip delicious.
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The 25 Best Black-Owned Chicago Restaurants
1. The Soul Food Lounge
Experience an authentic taste of Chicago foods when you visit The Soul Food Lounge. This vibrant black-owned restaurant in Chicago offers a taste of global dishes with a fusion of Italian, Mexican, American and Asian cuisine.
Founded by Chicago native Chef Quentin Love, The Soul Food Lounge was a trailblazer in the community as the first and only upscale dine-in restaurant in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighborhood.
The Vibe
The Soul Food Lounge has an elegant upscale atmosphere perfect for a romantic date night or a glitzy gathering with friends. Keep in mind that this restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays so plan accordingly. If you are looking for black-owned restaurants in Downtown Chicago, The Soul Food Lounge is a great option.
What to Order
Treat yourself to the decadent Italian flame-broiled lobster Alfredo with shrimp, garlic purée, potatoes and fresh asparagus tips.
The Soul Food Lounge | 3804 W. 16th St., Chicago, IL 60623 | $$$
2. Ina Mae Tavern and Packaged Goods
Looking for fun date ideas in Chicago? Ina Mae Tavern and Packaged Goods is a fun and flirty eatery where you can grab a late-night drink or delicious brunch with your date. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago is a trendy joint making waves with its Southern flavors.
The Vibe
Ina Mae is where the Windy City meets the Big Easy with interiors decorated with colorful Mardi Gras beads and vibrant live music playing. With a laid-back atmosphere and menu loaded with Southern comfort fare, Ina Mae is a spot you don’t want to miss.
What to Order
Order the maw maw’s beef tips featuring slow-cooked sirloin meat with beef gravy. Don’t miss out on the famous buttermilk drop biscuits or the fried chicken either.
Ina Mae | 3422 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago, IL 60624 | $
3. Provaré
Experience a divine taste of Creole and Italian Fusion at Provaré. This upscale black-owned restaurant in Chicago is the go-to spot for sumptuous fare. Provaré was also featured on Gordon Ramsey’s Food Stars and is known for its fresh pasta made in-house daily.
The Vibe
With sleek black interiors and artisan Italian fare, Provaré is a neighborhood hot spot for chef-crafted pasta. This restaurant is closed on Mondays and has varying hours throughout the week.
What to Order
You can’t go to Provaré and not order the pasta. Try a sampling of three different plates of pasta when you order the seafood trio. With a portion of Signature Cajun “Trio Spice” that comes with alfredo sauce, shrimp, lobster and crab meat over rotini noodles, this is a dish you don’t want to miss.
Provaré | 1523 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60642 | $$
4. Bell Heir’s BBQ
Experience the joy of time-tested recipes when you visit Bell Heir’s BBQ. Inspired by the time-honored dishes from the founder's great-grandmother Luella, this black-owned restaurant in Chicago does comfort food like no one else.
The Vibe
Bell Heir’s is a no-frills barbecue joint that is great for a quick lunch with friends or a hearty dinner. This counter-service eatery serves mouthwatering baskets of barbecue in a casual relaxed atmosphere.
What to Order
Slow-cooked brisket is the name of the game at Bell Heir’s BBQ. Try the loaded brisket nachos, the brisket mac and cheese or the savory barbecue brisket pizza.
Bell Heir’s BBQ | 704 W. 47th St., Chicago, IL 60609 | $$
5. 14 Parish Restaurant and Rhum Bar
14 Parish Restaurant and Rhum Bar is a vibrant Black-owned restaurant in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, known for its Caribbean-inspired menu and extensive rum selection. The weekend brunch and weekday happy hour make this a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The Vibe
This black-owned restaurant in Chicago has a sleek atmosphere with fun pops of tropical flair. The wooden accents and greenery give diners a taste of the island without leaving Chicago.
What to Order
One standout menu item is the Island Baby Back Ribs which features tender smoked baby back ribs grilled in the restaurant’s signature rub and served with barbecue corn and corn muffin. This delicious nod to Caribbean street food is a dish you don’t want to miss.
14 Parish Restaurant and Rhum Bar | 1644 E. 53rd St., Chicago, IL 60615 | $$
6. Batter and Berries
Discover a world-class brunching experience like no other at Batter and Berries. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago offers an eclectic breakfast, brunch and lunch menu that has made it a local favorite. Batter and Berries are dedicated to using quality ingredients and make the majority of their dishes fresh, in-house every day.
The Vibe
If you are looking for a vibrant brunch spot then Batter and Berries is the place for you. This eatery hosts local influencers, live music and has drink specials to make your brunch unforgettable.
What to Order
Order the famous French toast flight and enjoy a sample of strawberry, blueberry, lemon and caramel French toast with fresh maple syrup.
Batter and Berries | 2748 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60614 | $
7. Chemistry
Experience an elevated take on brunch at Chemistry. As one of the premier black-owned restaurants in Chicago for brunch, this upscale establishment is the perfect spot to enjoy a swanky Sunday meal.
The Vibe
With the formal dress code, live music and dazzling interiors Chemistry is one of the most romantic restaurants in Chicago. Treat your date to an unforgettable night out on the town when you visit this upscale eatery. Keep in mind that brunch is 21 plus, so this isn’t a family-friendly brunch spot if you have small children.
What to Order
Brunch is served buffet-style with features like salmon bites and grits, cinnamon rolls and lamb chops. Bottomless mimosas are available as well as made-to-order steaks for the bougie bruncher.
Chemistry | 5121 S. Harper Ave., Chicago, IL 60615 | $$$
8. Dawn
Are you looking for family-friendly restaurants in Chicago? Then Dawn is a great option. Satisfy Southern cravings at this cute black-owned restaurant in Chicago while spending quality time with your loved ones.
The Vibe
Dawn is a light and bright breakfast eatery with delightful pops of color that make rising with the sun worth it.
What to Order
Enjoy an unforgettable brunch feast with the pot roast and jalapeño grits served with bell pepper, carrots and onion. Or, if you’re feeling like a twist on a Southern classic, the fried chicken and cornbread French toast will not disappoint.
Dawn | 1642 E. 56th St., Chicago, IL 60637 | $$
9. Luella’s Southern Kitchen
Experience Southern-style comfort food like never before at Luella’s Southern Kitchen. This popular black-owned restaurant in Chicago is famous for its down-home cooking and excellent weekend brunch menu.
The Vibe
Luella’s Southern Kitchen has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where everyone can spend quality time together while enjoying a home-cooked meal.
What to Order
For a classic, Buttermilk biscuit with andouille sausage and tasso ham gravy, fried chicken tenders and jalapeños.
Luella’s Southern Kitchen | 4609 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60625 | $$
10. CheSa’s Bistro & Bar
CheSa’s Bistro & Bar is bringing elevated comfort food to life with its stunning brunch menu. The weekend brunch is a must-have for foodies looking to support black-owned restaurants in Chicago.
The Vibe
CheSa’s is an elegant bistro with upscale décor and French influences. This eatery is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays so plan before you visit.
What to Order
Enjoy the hearty catfish skillet with smothered potatoes, two eggs and crispy catfish filets.
CheSa’s Bistro & Bar | 3235 W. Addison St., Ste. C, Chicago, IL 60618 | $$
11. Bronzeville Winery
Experience an immaculate conversion of arts, culture and hospitality at Bronzeville Winery. This upscale black-owned restaurant in Chicago boasts a bespoke drink menu and an elegant dinner selection.
The Vibe
Bronzeville Winery is a vibrant social house with craft cocktails, live music and an upscale culinary selection. They also showcase local artists for an unmatched experience.
What to Order
Order the Bronzeville Winery Signature Burger featuring a fluffy brioche bun stuffed with two Angus beef patties, tomato, smoked Gouda, onion-molasses jam and garlic aioli. The staff recommends pairing this burger with a glass of Aslina Wines ‘Usasane’, a red blend from South Africa.
Bronzeville Winery | 4420 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Chicago, IL 60653 | $$$
12. Taste 222
Looking for an upscale black-owned restaurant in downtown Chicago offering lunch and dinner? Then head to Taste 222, an eatery making waves with its elegant environment and tasty menu.
The Vibe
Taste 222 is a ritzy restaurant known for its intimate atmosphere and top-notch service.
What to Order
Don’t miss the Korean chicken sandwich featuring fried chicken breast with kimchi, sweet chile aioli, dill pickle slices, havarti cheese and Korean barbecue sauce all on a fresh potato roll.
Taste 222 | 222 N. Canal St., Chicago, IL 60606 | $$$
13. Virtue
Virtue offers a unique upscale taste of Southern American cuisine. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago is a sophisticated dinner establishment, making it a great place to plan a celebratory birthday dinner in Chicago or other special events.
The Vibe
This upscale eatery has an understated neutral color scheme that invokes a sense of luxurious, peaceful dining. The spacious dining room and large windows provide an amazing view of the city.
What to Order
Order the succulent pork steak with smothered cabbage, apples, celery and a house barbecue sauce.
Virtue | 1462 E. 53rd St., Chicago, IL 60615 | $$$
14. The Delta
The Delta is a love letter to the Mississippi Delta with its wide array of upscale comfort food from the South. This innovative eatery has a playful menu and a unique atmosphere.
The Vibe
This swanky black-owned restaurant in Chicago blends upscale dining with the vibrant Chi Town nightlife. Expect to enjoy drink specials, live music and tasty bites.
What to Order
Don’t miss out on the Nashville Hot Plate which features large boneless chicken thighs fried to perfection and tossed with signature Nashville hot sauce. This plate is served with Kool-Aid, pickles and white bread on the side.
The Delta | 3422 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago, IL 60624 | $
15. Soul Prime
Experience elevated soul food at Soul Prime. This upscale black-owned restaurant in Chicago puts a fine-dining spin on comfort food classics.
The Vibe
The interiors of Soul Prime are elegant and sleek, with gold accents and lush green seating.
What to Order
Indulge in the center-cut smothered pork chops topped with rich onion gravy and served with a side of Southern creamy grits.
Soul Prime | 1969 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614 | $$$
16. Turner Häus Brewery
Turner Häus Brewery doesn't necessarily fit the description of a restaurant, with minimal food on the menu in place of a focus on excellent brews, yet it definitely deserves a mention. This black-owned brewery in Chicago specializes in brewing unique and high-quality beers, which are served up in a welcoming space.
The Vibe
This lively venue is casual and friendly with an industrial vibe. Live music and other events are often hosted as well, adding a unique twist to each visit.
What to Order
Try the house-brewed Helen beer, which is a refreshing grapefruit lager named after the founder's grandmother. The Lola, with interesting notes of peanut butter, basil and jalapeño, is also a great pick for those who like trying new flavor profiles.
Turner Häus Brewery | 78 E. 47th St., Chicago, IL 60653 | $$
17. Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Icecream
Treat yourself to a frozen delight at Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago is known for its handmade ice cream and a wide choice of delectable flavors.
The Vibe
This is a casual ice cream parlor with modern interiors and fun accent colors.
What to Order
Try the old-school Southern pound cake topped with the parlor’s famous “Slap Yo Son” peach cobbler and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Icecream | 46 E. 47th St., Chicago, IL 60653 | $
18. Justice of the Pies
Indulge your sweet tooth at Justice of the Pies. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago is a standout bakery selling homemade sweet and savory pies.
The Vibe
This modern Chicago bakery boasts exposed brick and a homey, casual dining atmosphere.
What to Order
Try the salted caramel peach pie or the savory tomato and basil quiche.
Justice of the Pies | Multiple Locations | $
19. Daisy’s Po’ Boy and Tavern
Sink your teeth into an authentic po’ boy at Daisy’s Po’ Boy and Tavern. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago offers affordable sandwiches, gumbo and other Louisiana classics.
The Vibe
Daisy’s has a casual feel accented with New Orleans flair.
What to Order
Savor the 12-inch fried oyster po’boy topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise and pickles.
Daisy’s Po’ Boy and Tavern | 5215 S. Harper Ave., Chicago, IL 60615 | $
20. Buddy Guy’s Legends
Experience showstopping live music and unforgettable cuisine at Buddy Guy’s Legends. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago is a hot spot for dinner and a show.
The Vibe
Buddy Guy’s is a fun venue and restaurant that is great for catching a live music show with friends or a date.
What to Order
Savor the Legend’s Chicken Sandwich with fresh salad vegetables and your choice of cheese.
Buddy Guy’s Legends | 700 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, IL 60605 | $$
21. Majani Restaurant
Discover delectable vegan fare at Majani Restaurant. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago specializes in plant-based soul food for a hearty meal.
The Vibe
Majani has a beautiful rustic interior with an earthy, casual feel.
What to Order
Order the black eye pea burger with lettuce, tomato, garlic and barbecue sauce.
Majani Restaurant | 7167 S. Exchange Ave., Chicago, IL 60649 | $
22. Demera
Discover premier Ethiopian cuisine at Demera. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago offers authentic fare passed down to owner and Chef Tigist Reda through family and tradition. Eat in for a truly communal dining experience.
The Vibe
This elegant eatery has an upscale casual vibe and classy interiors studded with African-inspired décor.
What to Order
Dig into the Chef’s Selection Messob, featuring a family-style feast including eight chef-crafted dishes the whole family will love.
Demera | Multiple Locations | $$
23. Frontier
Discover elevated New American cuisine at Frontier. Experience a unique taste of fusion at this popular black-owned restaurant in Chicago. This restaurant serves an interesting assortment of wild game and offers whole-animal roasting experiences.
The Vibe
Frontier honors its American heritage with Western-inspired décor and Native American motifs.
What to Order
Experience the slow-smoked and braised elk shank served with a red wine demi-glace.
Frontier | 1072 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60642 | $$
24. Koto Hibachi
Dive into the fresh flavors of authentic Japanese fare at Koto Hibachi. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago is a fresh new restaurant making headlines for its exciting menu.
The Vibe
The sleek and shiny dining room makes Koto Hibachi perfect for a romantic date night or a birthday dinner with friends.
What to Order
Discover the hearty Koto Combo with fried rice, eggs, mixed vegetables and signature sauce.
Koto Hibachi | 258 W. 31st St., Chicago, IL 60616 | $$
25. Soul & Smoke
Dig into slow-cooked barbecue at Soul & Smoke. This black-owned restaurant in Chicago is known for its signature smoked meats and traditional sides.
The Vibe
The sun-soaked dining room is the perfect casual atmosphere to enjoy a messy barbecue platter while socializing with friends and family.
What to Order
Treat yourself to a slow-smoked feast with the meat sampler featuring brisket, pulled pork, rib tips, ‘nduja sausage, housemade pickles and your choice of sauces.
Soul & Smoke | Multiple Locations | $$
Other Foodie Experiences in Chicago
Learn to make authentic Chicago foods at home with cooking classes in Chicago. These classes offer a fun way to explore gourmet cooking under the watchful eye of experienced professional chefs in a hands-on environment. Master new skills in the kitchen either in person or in the comfort of your own home and explore a wide variety of cuisines when you book your class today.
Looking for authentic black-owned restaurants in Chicago to try while on vacation? Explore food tours in Chicago and get the insider scoop on all the local hot spots.
From down-home soul food to elegant fine dining, black-owned restaurants in Chicago offer something for everyone. So, next time you’re feeling peckish in the Windy City, dine with intent and enjoy the warmth, community and flavour that these wonderful restaurants have to offer.
For even more ways to explore Chicago and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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