Scattered throughout Chicago are minority-owned restaurants that provide a dining experience unlike any other. Minority-owned restaurants in Chicago add culture and flavor to the city from all over the world that you don’t want to miss. Below is a list of a few to start with, but this is by no means a complete or full list. There are just too many to name in one article! Leave us a comment and let us know which businesses we should feature next.
Black-owned
Batter and Berries is world-famous. Literally. The black owned brunch restaurant has had visitors from all over the world. The restaurant uses fresh ingredients and adds life to the Chicago brunch scene with its colorful decor and even more colorful meals. Batter and Berries works with local artisans, craftspeople and purveyors to support the community and provide a unique Chicago experience. Stop in and try its limited time Pina Colada French Toast for a delectable summer breakfast treat!
Try something new at Vee-Vee’s African Restaurant. You can often find them at the Taste of Chicago, but if you’re looking to try African Food this summer, you’ll have to visit their location in Edgewater. The restaurant offers goat head for those looking to be more adventurous, but it also has jerk chicken for those looking for simple African spice, making it one of the most unique minority-owned restaurants in Chicago.
Hispanic-owned
Chef Diana Dávila of Mi Tocaya Antojería believes in authentic Mexican comfort food- something she finds is misunderstood in America. Her cuisine is rooted in Spanish traditions with some African and Middle Eastern influence reflecting the wide variety of food and tradition throughout all of the regions in Mexico. If you’re looking for a true Mexican dining experience, stop in this Logan Square restaurant that is recognized by some of the culinary world’s most renowned chefs and food critics.
Established in 1983, El Nuevo has been bringing fresh Mexican food to Chicago for nearly 40 years. In recent years, Maria Rodriguez took over the family restaurant and has introduced vegetarian and vegan options. El Nuevo’s rooftop makes for a perfect summer spot to enjoy a fresh-squeezed lime margarita.
Asian-owned
Saigon Sisters is deeply rooted in family history. Owner Mary Nguyen Aregoni came to America as a baby with her family seeking to escape the Vietnam War. Mary alongside her sister Theresa, husband Dan, and mother Suu run three casual Vietnamense restaurants in Chicago. Saigon Sisters shares family recipes with Chicago and traditional meals from Vietnam, Loas and Thailand. Stop by their location at Northwestern Memorial to support one of many minority- owned businesses in downtown Chicago.
With its spacious restaurants and 6 locations in Chicago and its surrounding area, you can’t go wrong with Minghin Cuisine. Minghin owner Phil Chen emigrated from China many years ago and has brought a modern dim sum experience to Chicago. Each restaurant has bold yet beautiful decor and a menu full of variety. You don’t want to miss this contemporary yet traditional dim sum restaurant.
Middle Eastern-owned
Khan BBQ isn’t like traditional BBQ that most Americans think of. If you are unfamiliar with Pakistani food, Khan BBQ is a great place to get to know it. Chef Amjad Khan of Khan BBQ in Rogers Park grew up in Pakistan. After immigrating to America, Khan worked his way up in the restaurant industry and eventually opened a restaurant of his own. With meat kebabs and vegetarian dishes, Khan BBQ has something for everyone.
Indian-owned
Kick it up a notch at this female, Indian-owned restaurant in Little India. Owner Hema Potla has been providing Chicago with an authentic Indian dining experience for more than 25 years, and her exotic flavors and spicy cuisine won’t disappoint.
LGBTQ+-owned
This vibrant tex-mex restaurant in Lakeview serves creative tacos and burgers guaranteed to light up your taste buds. Founded by Stu Zirin and John Dalton in the heart of boystown, D.S. Tequila Co. is a popular LGBTQ friendly restaurant with a large rooftop to enjoy summers in Chicago.
Intended to be pronounced “Our” Public House, Renee Lebrana’s restaurant in Roger’s Park is truly a place for the community. Besides its delicious food and many local craft beers, R Public House has set out to fundraise for local organizations and support its community. The restaurant fundraisers for causes like the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, Test Positive Aware Network and several others.
Written By: Kelly Pawlak