As 2025 comes to a close, we here at The TRiiBE are highlighting some Black-owned spots to check out in 2026. Though supporting Black-owned businesses is a practice that should take place every day of the year, the 2025 boycott against Target and other big brands for abandoning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies emphasized the importance of shopping local and Black.
Whether you want to sit down for a meal with your bestie or lover, grab an insightful read or have a new spot to root for Da Bears as the NFL playoffs get underway, here are some Black-owned spots that opened this year that you can put on your list for 2026 – there’s even a Black-owned grocery store!
Park Manor 75 | 600 E. 75th Street
Park Manor 75 opened its doors in October. The South Side wine and charcuterie bar is the brainchild of married couple Jacare Thomas and Charlette Stanton. According to its website, the business is “the realization of a lifelong dream, built on love, community, and an unwavering commitment.” The bar offers a third space in Chatham and serves as a unique spot on the South Side.
Honey & Hue Bookstore | 1804 W. 103rd Street
With Honey & Hue, owner Raven White joins the storied history of Black-owned bookstores in Chicago. White opened the bookstore in November of this year after previously opening a bookstore in Texas, which was the subject of racist vandalism in 2024. After experiencing the attack, White opened the bookstore and community space in Beverly with a mission to specifically uplift Black and Indigenous communities.
Southern Chicago | 2000 S. Wabash Avenue
First announced in 2023, Southern Chicago officially opened its doors in the South Loop over the summer. The Black-owned restaurant boasts its elevated southern cuisine. Business partners Troy Vivrett and Xavier Vance provide a space for those who want an elegant experience with various steak cuts and seafood offerings. The restaurant is open Tuesday throughThursday from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Brulée Chicago | 2036 S. Michigan Avenue
For those who want more options in the South Loop, Brulée offers breakfast and brunch with a modern twist from Chef Emani Roberts. Roberts, who made her name as a private chef, opened the spot with encouragement from her mother. The restaurant is open every day — except Wednesdays — from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The Staley | 1736 S. Michigan Ave
Former Chicago Bear defensive lineman Isreal Idonije has been making waves with his restaurant ventures. As a South Loop sports bar, The Staley has become a dedicated spot to watch the Chicago Bears games, partake in trivia nights and party with legends like former Chicago Bear cornerback Charles “Peanut” Tillman.
Spot Bistro | 7323 S. Halsted Street
Spot Bistro opened in May, offering a sit-down option in Englewood. The menu spans from southern breakfast offerings, from shrimp and grits and as well lunch options like the po’boy sandwich and cocktails. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Diversey House | 2601 W. Diversey Avenue
This Logan Square brewery and sports bar opened in February. The establishment is a collaboration between Steep Reavine Brewery and the Black-owned craft beer company Moors Brewing. Diversey House offers menu selections from three-time Chopped champion Chef Marc Anthony Bynum, with options from wings, ribs and mac and cheese to entrees like fish and chips and grilled salmon.
Forty Acres Fresh Market | 5713 W. Chicago Avenue
After years of anticipation, the independent Black-woman-owned grocery store finally opened its doors over the summer. The grocer prioritizes selling high quality options in the Austin neighborhood and is said to be part of the city’s healthy food access movement. Forty Acres offers recipes on its website along with weekly sales ads, the store also accepts SNAP.
Honorable mentions:
These spots opened in 2024 but have become significant to the Black Chicago experience this year.
Monday Coffee | 3243 W. 16th Street
Though Monday Coffee has made a name for itself in 2020 through its online coffee sales, the Black-owned cafe opened its first brick-and-mortar location on the West Side in North Lawndale in November 2024. The space acts as more than a café by being a place that the community can frequent for events and even become a member for exclusive access.
O’Rourke’s Office | 11064 S. Western Avenue
Establishing itself as “the only Black-owned bar on Western,” O’Rourke’s Office in Beverly came under new ownership in 2024. The bar has become associated with its free Jell-O shots that are passed out anytime the Bears score a touchdown. The establishment allows outside food, various events and themed nights throughout the week.
