There’s Restaurant Week, and there’s Chicago Black Restaurant Week.
Both events allow foodies to celebrate the diverse cuisine of the Chicago food scene. During these celebratory weeks, culinary art is showcased through creative displays of delicious foods and curated experiences, as many restaurants craft perfect menus inviting foodies to enjoy special meals at welcoming prices. Encouraging exploration, people plan to attend Restaurant Week’s many events, making it an opportunity for groups to share bites and great times.
During Chicago Black Restaurant Week, it’s a reminder to celebrate the journey to Black excellence and how far many Black business owners and restaurateurs have come!
Historically, Black-business owners have struggled with obtaining capital to support and fund their businesses. They’ve been locked out of doors caused by red tape, and when they’ve finally cut that tape, they are left contending with heavy competition, location constraints and limited exposure.
The celebration of Black Restaurant Week, established by Lauren Smith in 2015, was a way to elevate Black-owned businesses. The goal was to pay homage to Black people’s contributions to Chicago’s rich culinary history. Smith also aspired for Black Restaurant Week to occur in February in honor of the legendary historian, author, publisher and founder of Black History Month, Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson.
Despite a growing number of restaurants, data from the National Restaurant Association reveals that only 9% of restaurant owners in the USA are Black or African American. This percentage is even lower in Illinois and Chicago.
Black restaurateurs play a vital role in their communities and beyond, overcoming barriers by entering the market and providing memorable dining experiences. While some may still recall selling plates from home kitchens or serving up church chicken, there are now numerous options and experiences to explore.
See the complete list of participating restaurants, and remember this is Black History Month. Every day thereafter, let’s celebrate Black restaurant owners and their dedication to feeding the hungry and creating inclusive dining experiences for all.
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