Celebrate James Beard Foundation Awards + IPW Weekend in Chicago - w/Ximena & Friends Sponsored by Point of Difference Strategies + Choose Chicago!
Welcome to the Celebrate James Beard Foundation Awards + IPW Weekend in Chicago - w/Ximena & Friends sponsored by Point of Difference Strategies + Choose Chicago!
Meet at Dulcelandia (3253 W. 26th St, Chicago, IL 60623) on Sunday, June 15 from 2-4 p.m. for a guided cultural and culinary tour through Little Village, the heart of Chicago’s Mexican-American community and the city's second-highest grossing shopping district. Complete with mariachis, street food and stories of local entrepreneurship.
The sounds of Brenden Perez’s mariachi fusion band will let you know you’re at the right place.
Timed to coincide with the James Beard Foundation Awards + IPW Weekend, this event connects food and culture in a way that honors both the spirit of the industry and one of the neighborhoods that sustain the City.
There is no culinary scene (or Chicago) without its immigrant population. This event is designed to celebrate that. Through the generous support of Point of Difference Strategies and Choose Chicago we're going to treat you to the city's best gorditas, tacos de asada, paletas and mariachis.
Itinerary
Pick up your X sticker at Dulcelandia. That’ll be your ticket to:
Carniceria y Taqueria Aguascalientes (3132 W 26th St, Chicago, IL 60623): Come hungry. An abbreviated menu will feature bean and cheese gorditas, tacos de asada with the tortilla made by hand and your choice of an agua de horchata or jamaica.
La Michoakana Golden Paleteria Y Nieveria (3125 W 26th St, Chicago, IL 60623): Grab a sweet treat from the local paleteria that makes their desserts fresh and by hand. The cajeta is a stand out made with a propriety cream blend.
Grab a buddy and explore but be sure to make your way back to Dulcelandia at 2:45 pm for short remarks.
Don't want to go home once the event ends at 4 p.m.? Head to Osito’s Tap, Moreno's Liquors' speakeasy where tables are reserved. Moreno's has the largest agave collection in the nation and is known for their creative, craft cocktails.
Your hosts are Chicagoans who love the city and are investing in it at every level. Among them are:
Special guest, Asheville's Luis Martinez
Why Little Village?
26th Street is the second-highest grossing commercial corridor in Chicago, just behind the Magnificent Mile — a stunning achievement for a community with an average household income of $33,000 (compare to the Gold Coast/Mag Mile which is $177,478).
Home to 500+ family-run businesses, this two-mile strip draws visitors from across the Midwest and is anchored by an iconic designated landmark arch — the first designation for a structure by a Mexican architect.
With 77% of residents of Mexican descent, Little Village is a cornerstone of the city’s culinary and cultural identity — it deserves to be seen and celebrated.
Parking
Street parking is available but can be difficult. Allot time to find parking or consider rideshares (the CTA stop is a bit of a walk).
Misc.
This is a busy shopping district. Expect traffic, noise and delays.
Dress is come as you are!
The event is family friendly.
Graphic designs by Bianca Pastel. Hire local artists when you can!
Can’t attend and want to support local causes? Consider donating to:
Latinos Progresando which is providing free legal services and know your rights campaigns.
Block Club Chicago the local, non-profit newsroom serves the community and not shareholders.
