Galleries
Blanc Gallery
Championing Bronzeville, Blanc Gallery is a black-owned gallery and "center for ideas" that uplifts the black creative community. Owner Cliff Rome retains an unwavering dedication to Chicago’s Black and Brown multi-generational voices, showcasing frequent film screenings, music events, and performances. All of their programming feels cutting edge and innately tuned into the now and future of art and culture. Their openings and events always feel vibrant and welcoming; you’re left with a deeper appreciation for art and new friends. Definitely check their website or Instagram for their upcoming events.
Tala
Tala is a one of a kind art space with incredible architectural design, art curation, and atmosphere. Owned by Francine Almeda, there’s a deep felt intention that permeates the space and its programming. Tala is divided into three spaces: A bright, sun room store front with smaller pieces available for purchase, a traditional art gallery that has shown star-studded talent from Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Puerto Rico, and a cozy community library and Hi-Fi listening room. I admire Tala’s ability to dually be both an earnest, sharp art gallery and a care-based community third space for community programming, co-working, and gathering. Tala feels ahead of the curve in many ways and is a true standout as West Town’s newest gallery.
Institutions
Hyde Park Art Center
HPAC holds it down for Hyde Park. Community driven programming, resource accessibility, and showcasing Chicago’s incredible local ecosystem are at the heart of their ethos. These three values culminate into a space that feels welcoming and engaging, a reminder that art is essential and a right. Their rotating exhibits are striking and thought provoking. They offer a plethora of free programming for all ages ranging from poetry readings, film screenings, weaving workshops, and music events. HPAC is a champion of the community and must visit when on the South Side.
Local businesses
A Listening Space
Kicking things off in Hyde Park, you get a special two for one combo with these gems. The former, owned by cultural powerhouse Theaster Gates and Rebuild Foundation, is a beautiful vinyl listening space meant for gathering. A pop up only open for this year, it impressively holds more than 8,000 vinyl records belonging to the late Dinh Nguyen. It ranges from Reggae, Jazz, Caribbean music, and British R&B. The space is an audiophile’s, foodie’s, and art enthusiast’s dream with Hi-Fi speakers, a culinary menu by Kyoto-Based, Michelin-recognized chef Tatsuya Ueda, and striking contemporary art curated by Gates. It’s free and open to the public Thursdays-Sundays, 12pm-6pm.
Miyagi Records
After listening to incredible records over Japanese tea, you can head next door to Miyagi Records to shop for your own record collection. Miyagi is one of the best in the city and holds an impressive collection of Soul, Funk, Disco, House, Hip Hop, and 45s. The deals are top notch, with classics for unbeatable prices ($3-$15), especially compared to price gouged shops like Reckless Records. If you’re looking to dig, there’s plenty of rare gems to keep you clamoring. The owners Nigel Ridgeway and Marco Jacobo have impeccable taste and are very helpful; you’re guaranteed to walk out with your next favorite record or ten…
Flour Power
West Town’s food scene has been exploding with favorites over the past four years. Flour Power is among the top of that list for me. My favorite pasta in the city. Next door to Tala, it’s a very intimate restaurant that fits max 15 people. Chef Wilson Baurer is a no frills culinary master. With a rotating menu of 2-3 dishes and a few staples, each dish is unique, delicious, and very reasonably priced. His bread is made in house. Definitely order it with a side of honey and burrata. A must. If you’re looking for a classic pasta dish, the vodka sauce is to die for. It’s BYOB which is always a plus. Important thing to note: His hours are only open until he sells out (which happens often). Early arrival HIGHLY suggested. No RSVPS.
Cara Cara Club
A shameless plug. A mix between a listening bar/dance club (custom Hi-Fi sound system and DJs on the weekends) and a tropical Aperitivo & Amaro cocktail lounge (drinks are beautifully done with a diverse mix of classics and unique options). Voted #2 in both Chicago Magazine’s and Chicago Reader’s "Best New Bars In Chicago '25", Cara Cara has quickly become the destination in Logan Square. You can’t go wrong with the Mezcal Negroni, Espresso Martini, or the Aperol Spritz. If you’re looking for something special, get the Midnight In Milan. Great for a date night or a night out with friends. Awesome place for Disco, Funk, Soul, Boogie, House, Italo, Downtempo, Jazz, and World Groove music. Never a cover, come to boogie.
