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Hispanic & Latino culture in Chicago

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Chicago is home to a vibrant array of Latino and Hispanic cultures, from the thriving Puerto Rican community in Humboldt Park to the “Mexico of the Midwest” in Little Village.

The city’s neighborhoods are filled with rich cultural experiences waiting to be explored — acclaimed art museums, authentic recipes passed down through generations, powerful murals, and one-of-a-kind events you won’t find anywhere else.

Here are just a few of the many ways to experience Hispanic and Latino culture in Chicago, through the eyes of locals and long-time residents.

Explore Authentic Cuisine

Chicago’s Hispanic-owned restaurants specialize in everything from modern fusion at award-winning spots to traditional recipes at family-owned favorites.

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Discover Latinx art and culture In chicago

Experience the rich heritage and creativity of Chicago’s Latinx communities through museums, public art, dance, and more that embody the diversity of Hispanic culture in Chicago.

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Spend a day in Little Village

Known as the “Mexico of the Midwest,” Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood is home to nearly 1,000 local businesses, from family-owned restaurants to one-of-a-kind shopping options.

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DIVE INTO Puerto Rican culture In HUMBOLDT PARK

Chicago’s Humboldt Park neighborhood is bursting with Puerto Rican culture. Learn more about the history and heritage of this vibrant enclave from alifelong Humboldt Park resident.

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Dive into Hispanic cuisine in Chicago


La Catedral Cafe & Restaurant

Rooted in the culinary traditions of Guadalajara, this award-winning spot has locals lining up for their chilaquiles and beyond.

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Papa’s Cache Sabroso
This family-owned restaurant has earned a reputation for serving one of the city’s best jibaritos, a Chicago-born dish that pays homage to the flavors of Puerto Rico.

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Esmeralda’s
Island vibes, locally made art, and exotic craft cocktails come together to create a bar truly inspired by the community around it.

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Chicago's Hispanic communities

Chicago is home to some of the most dynamic Hispanic and Latino communities in the country. Come explore what makes these cultural enclaves truly special.

“Gentrification erases the
history of the community
that was there before.
The FlAGS represent the
community’s perseverance,
historic struggles and
our permanence.”

Eduardo Arocho, founder of
Paseo Boricua Tour Company

 

 

Explore Eduardo’s favorite spots in Humboldt Park

Spotlight on Chicago's Hispanic voices

Angélica Varela: Semillas Plant Studio

Angélica Varela: Semillas Plant Studio

“The day of the opening, the line was just wrapped around the block and I could not believe it. I think that it made a lot of the people in Pilsen happy to see a Latina open up a business here. I think that’s why Pilsen is such a popular neighborhood, because everybody looks out for each other.”

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Marco Rodriguez: Dulcelandia

Marco Rodriguez: Dulcelandia

“We expanded into Little Village because it was the center of Mexican heritage here in Chicago. Little Village has a very strong tradition of entrepreneurship. All the stores you see down 26th Street are typically small businesses that are owned by families. I think it’s a neighborhood that is open for everyone to come and visit, to explore and to support the local businesses and all of our neighbors.”

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Pablo Ramirez and Teresa Magaña: Pilsen Arts and Community House

Pablo Ramirez and Teresa Magaña: Pilsen Arts and Community House

“We were both raised in Pilsen and Little Village. Especially for kids growing up in neighborhoods like ours, we wanted to expose them to artwork that they would normally have to leave Pilsen to see. We want the community to know that this is more than just an art space. It’s a resource center for creators and a creative community.”

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Mike Moreno Jr.: Osito’s Tap

Mike Moreno Jr.: Osito’s Tap

“You come here and you’re getting a taste of Mexico — the music, the cocktails, the names of the food, the artwork that comes directly from a famous artist in Oaxaca. Everything is paying homage to our heritage and culture.”

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Visit Hispanic landmarks

Honor Hispanic and Latino heritage in Chicago through the city’s many museums, monuments, murals, and beyond.