This month, Dream Town Supports Small is celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! Support some of our city’s most culturally diverse and rich communities as you enjoy the flavors, wares and services of these small businesses, all owned by Asian and Pacific Americans who call Chicago home.
The Golden Triangle
goldentriangle.biz | 2035 W Grand Ave, Chicago
After 14 years in River North, this iconic destination for furniture and design is preparing to open this summer in its new 10,000-square-foot showroom in the emerging Grand Avenue Design District. What’s not new is their refined collection of Asian antiques, British Colonial furniture, and European Art Deco along with contemporary pieces by the finest Chicago artisans.
Aloha Eats
alohaeats.com |2534 N Clark St, Chicago
Since 2004, this diminutive eatery has been serving authentic Hawaiian street food, including the traditional “Plate Lunch” that traces its history to the islands’ 19th-century plantation laborers. With tasty barbecued meats taking center stage, you’ll also find curries, egg plates and that Hawaiian favorite – Spam sushi!
Mizuya
mizuya.com | Online
Founded by longtime Chicago resident Risa Sekiguchi and her husband Kirk Vuillemot, this online gallery presents an expertly curated collection of fine ceramics including Edo-era Bizen artifacts and beautiful Nabeshima plates. Textiles, lacquer and bamboo ware will also bring a bit of Japan into your home and life.
Jennivee’s Bakery
jenniveesbakery.com | 3301 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago
This LGBTQ+ owned and operated bakery showcases American and Filipino sweets in a casually elegant setting. It’s open late so even after a night out, you can still enjoy their tempting variety of cakes, cookies, bars, brownies and pastries. Elaborate custom cakes can be ordered to celebrate any occasion!
Chicago for Keeps
chicagoforkeeps.com | Online
With its mission to provide “tangible goods for tangible impact in the community,” this online boutique offers a stylish variety of their ‘Chicago for Keeps’ logo wear – from tee shirts and hoodies to hats and totes. Half of all profits go to local non-profit organizations including Night Ministry and My Block, My Hood, My City.
The ART Gallery
artchgo.com | 211 W 23rd St, Chicago
In the heart of Chinatown, this inviting gallery reflects owner David Moy’s refined aesthetic sensibilities and his passion for contemporary art. Representing a rich variety of artistic styles, the gallery’s featured local artists include Paul Chang, Hai S. Lam, Rich Lo, and Rahmaan Statik.
Building Blocks Toy Store
buildingblockstoys.com | 3306 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago
Katherine Nguyen opened her Lakeview store in 1996 and has since expanded to locations in Wicker Park and Lincoln Park. Embodying the “more is more” style of the best old-fashioned toy stores, you’ll find every nook filled with toys, games and books that reflect Katherine’s belief in the power of play.
Mom’s x Marz Kitchen
marz.beer | 3630 S Iron St, Chicago
Choose from the 24 craft-brewed libations on tap at Marz Community Brewing and enjoy the Japanese comfort food of Mom’s, brought to you by chef-owners Kelly Ijichi and Randi Howry. The pork belly ramen and Katsu pork sandwich are just two of the standouts available Friday to Sunday when the kitchen is open.
Rise and Shine Apparel
riseandshinechicago.com | Online
Founded by two moms living in the Chicago suburbs, this online boutique offers an enchanting collection of children’s clothing in sizes from newborn to 5T. Guided by their shared values, all items are gender-neutral, well-priced and durable – and thoughtfully fun.
Jade Court
jadecourtrestaurant.com | 1516 E Harper Court, Chicago
Born into the legendary culinary family that helped to bring Hong Kong-style dim sum to Chicago, Carol Cheung’s latest restaurant is located in Hyde Park’s Harper Court. Focusing on authentic freshly-prepared Cantonese specialties, the menu also includes spicy Szechuan dishes and traditional seafood favorites.
Qideas Nursery & Gardening
Follow Qideas on Facebook | 1134 W Argyle St, Chicago
This small family-owned business in Chicago’s Uptown district offers a surprisingly diverse inventory. Whether you’re a casual gardener or a bonsai enthusiast, you’re sure to find something to love – from miniature junipers and lucky bamboo to succulents and fragrant blooming plants like Jasmine and Gardenia.
Coffee Lab
coffeelabevanston.com | 910 Noyes St, Evanston
Since 2010, this specialty coffee shop and art exhibit space has been delighting Evanston residents and Northwestern University students with its pour-over style coffees. Their selection of tempting, fresh-baked treats includes house-made artisan pastries influenced by Filipino, Korean and Japanese recipes.
In light of the recent nationwide rise in hate crimes and violent attacks against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, you may be looking for other ways to support the AA/PI community. One way to help right now is a direct donation to Asian Americans Advancing Justice – Chicago. Founded in 1992 as the Asian American Institute, they bring leadership, advocacy and civic engagement to the ongoing work toward racial equality.
