Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with these 10 Latine-owned Chicago businesses

The National Museum of Mexican Art showcases one of the largest Mexican art collections in the U.S., featuring over 22,000 pieces. With exhibitions that have traveled across the U.S. and Mexico, and events like the annual Sor Juana Festival and Dia De Los Muertos event, this museum is a vibrant hub for art, history and culture. While in the neighborhood, stroll through Harrison Park and check out the local street vendors for yummy fruit snacks and elote en vaso (corn in a cup). Also nearby, Novel Pizza is redefining the cafe and pizzeria experience, blending Chicago's iconic pizza styles with the bold flavors of Filipino and Mexican heritage. 

Escándalo takes over iO Theater on Fridays, bringing a rush of energy, laughter and culture to the heart of Chicago. This Latine variety show is more than just laughs—it's a celebration of identity, with a cast that proudly represents the queer community and the diversity of Latinidad. Whether you're fluent in Spanish or just learning, Escándalo connects Latinos from all walks of life, uniting the audience through shared stories and experiences.

When summertime Chi rolls around again, check out the summer Latine comedy festival Antojitos Fest.

Fresh off an electrifying collaboration with the Chicago White Sox for Hispanic Heritage Night, Gente Fina is poised to make waves in the fashion scene with even bigger plans ahead. This innovative brand, known for its bold aesthetic and cultural authenticity, is ready to elevate the conversation around identity and style.

From the vibrant streets of Durango, Mexico to Chicago, Gente Fina is redefining the fashion landscape with dynamic a evolution from streetwear to high-end luxury. The brand made its mark at New York Fashion Week and is set to shine at the The Curio Chicago's Fashion Week. It also partners with local businesses like J.P. Graziano and Carnitas Uruapan, further showing its commitment to blending fashion with community.

Head to the heart of Little Village to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Latine culture at Kiubo. Home to three different concepts, this curated collective beautifully embodies the essence of Mexican duality—celebrating both tradition and modernity. Whether you're savoring a cup of "Confleis" at Bueno Days, exploring unique homeware at Comercio Popular or picking out your favorite flowers at Campo Santo, visiting Kiubo is not just about shopping; it's about engaging with a space that amplifies the evolving Mexican-American identity.

Venados Running Club has been a beloved fixture in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood for decades, bringing families and runners together under the banner of community. The Chicago run club hosts weekly runs every Wednesday, starting from Monochrome Brewing. After conquering three or five miles, runners or walkers gather to unwind and enjoy a well-deserved beer. With a welcoming atmosphere for all paces, Venados is not just about the run; it's about building connections and celebrating the joy of movement together.

Another way to stay active while enjoying Latin culture is to join Tortugas Hiking Club or The Latina Sweat Project, a yoga collective. 

Semillas Plant Studio is a vibrant plant studio in Pilsen, and should be your go-to destination for all things green. This community favorite has expanded to offer a stunning variety of plants, flowers and custom arrangements. At the flower bar, you can experience the joy of creating your own floral masterpieces.

Semillas is a pillar of the Pilsen community, often offering its space to host community-focused workshops and programming to enrich other entrepreneurs and businesses. After you pick up your new plant babies, stop by Gracias Maria right next door for a healthy drink and snack. 

Chicago isn't just home to great Latino food—it's a living, breathing celebration of Latin American culinary traditions. Walk through different Latine neighborhoods, and you'll experience generations of recipes passed down with pride. 

Here is a non-debatable stop that will have you coming back for more: In Back of the Yards, stop by Mexican grocery store La Internacional Supermercado for some of the best tacos in Chicago. Paco's Tacos is located in the back of the market and there's usually a line that wraps through the store, but it moves fast! Two corn tortillas, chopped onions and cilantro—while simple garnishes—are absolute essentials when crafting the perfect taco, and they're accompanied by your choice of meat. Your stomach will thank us.

While in the Back of the Yards neighborhood, stop by a new community-focused hub, Southside Social. It hosts community Monday Mixers and programming for youth.

From crispy tostadas topped with yellowfin tuna and creamy avocado to a smoky, juicy burger that challenges the reign of the trendy smash burger, the kitchen at Diego doesn't miss. The West Town bar and restaurant is from chef Stephen Sandoval, the mastermind behind the Baja-inspired Sueños x Soho pop-up that operated out of Soho House in 2022. Diego's food goes beyond typical bar fare, offering an unfussy but flavorful experience well worth your time. Stop by for brunch or one of the many events celebrating Latine heritage, like BandAsada, when a dance instructor leads dances and you can listen to live music. 

After five years in Pilsen, La Luna is gearing up to open a new location in Logan Square. The restaurant also stays up late on "Estrella Saturdays" and transforms into a dancing space, complete with DJs and a dance floor, so stop by to check out the new late-night spot and sip on delicious drinks. 

For nonalcoholic options, In Good Spirits' new bottle shop and bar is a must-visit for anyone curious about alcohol-free drinks. It offers curated a wide selection of nonalcoholic beers, wines, aperitifs and handcrafted cocktails, perfect for sipping on site or bringing home. 

Latine-focused party collectives are redefining Chicago's nightlife, bringing fresh energy, culture and community to the scene. They create inclusive spaces celebrating Latine music, art and identity while amplifying underrepresented voices. The nights are often filled with dances like cumbia and salsa. 

These collectives aren't just throwing parties—they're building movements. Groups like Sorry Papi, Agua Chicago, Fresa, Noche De Cumbia, Pachanga, and Kombi all host events and pop-ups throughout the city.