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Access to fresh, affordable food can still be limited in parts of Chicago—especially on the West and South Sides. That’s where Black-owned and community-centered grocery stores come in, offering everyday essentials while strengthening local business corridors and helping families shop closer to home.
Below are several Chicago markets worth knowing—plus how to support them in ways that make a lasting difference.
Related on WTW: More Chicago food stories | More Black-owned business spotlights
Forty Acres Fresh Market — West Side Fresh Food Hub
Address: 5713 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60651
Website: fortyacresfreshmarket.com
Forty Acres Fresh Market is one of the few full-service Black-owned grocery stores in Chicago, founded by Liz Abunaw with a mission rooted in neighborhood access and community wellness. The store offers produce, pantry staples, and everyday essentials—built for shoppers who want quality options close to home.
For added context on the store’s opening and community impact, see WTTW’s coverage: Two Locally Owned Grocery Stores Underway on West Side.
North Lawndale Meat & Fresh Produce Market — Neighborhood Market on the West Side
Address: 628 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60624
This West Side grocery option is known for fresh produce and meats in a neighborhood where full-service grocery access has often been inconsistent. ABC7 reported on the market’s opening and described it as a Black-owned grocery store serving North Lawndale residents with fresh food options near the Eisenhower Expressway.
Source: ABC7 Chicago (July 25, 2022)
Black Dollars Market, Inc. — Bronzeville Convenience & Groceries
Address: 509 E 47th St, Chicago, IL 60653
Website: blackdollarsmarket.com
Black Dollars Market in Bronzeville is a neighborhood convenience-and-grocery stop stocked with everyday essentials and pantry staples. For many residents, stores like this help fill the gap between major shopping trips—keeping necessities within reach and supporting local ownership in the process.
L’afrique Market — Cultural & Global Groceries
Address: 2001 S State St, Chicago, IL 60616
Website: lafriquemarket.com
L’afrique Market is a community staple for African, Caribbean, and international groceries—offering specialty ingredients and products that reflect Chicago’s global food culture. While not presented here as exclusively Black-owned, it remains a key destination for culturally specific items and everyday essentials.
EZ Market & Daveen African Food and Grocery — South Side Neighborhood Essentials
EZ Market Address: 6421 S Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Chicago, IL 60637
Directory: MapQuest listing
Daveen African Food and Grocery Address: 6421 S Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Ste B, Chicago, IL 60637
Directory: MapQuest listing
Smaller neighborhood markets like these often operate on tight margins, but they matter—especially for residents who rely on nearby grocery access for fresh items, pantry staples, and specialty products. Supporting them consistently helps keep neighborhood retail options stable and visible.
Why Supporting Black-Owned Grocery Stores Matters
When local grocery stores are owned and operated by people rooted in the neighborhood, the impact can extend beyond the checkout line. Shopping locally can help strengthen day-to-day access while supporting long-term community investment.
- Strengthen local economies by supporting neighborhood employers and suppliers
- Support entrepreneurs building sustainable businesses close to home
- Keep dollars circulating in the communities where they’re spent
- Improve access to fresh food and essential household items
Tips for Supporting These Markets
- Plan a weekly grocery run instead of only quick pickups
- Bring a friend or neighbor and make it a shared routine
- Share what you buy on social media and tag the business (when available)
- Leave a helpful review to boost visibility for local search
Note: Store hours and inventory can change. Check each store’s official website or listing before visiting.
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