North Lawndale
A neighborhood in Chicago
North Lawndale, on Chicago's West Side, is known for its rich African-American cultural heritage. Its live-music scene is small but rooted in soul and blues, spread across two very different rooms. The Soul Food Lounge is a globally-inspired soul-food spot that brings fine-dining ambiance and live music into the community. Located at 3804 W. 16th St., it is Black-owned, veteran-owned, and seats up to 30 guests. Yelp ranks it among the city's top live jazz and soul food destinations, with reviewers noting the live jazz, the service, and the food. The Water Hole Lounge, at 1400 S. Western Ave., runs deeper into blues territory. Through a back room described as the bar's best-kept secret, the stage has hosted serious local talent, with live music on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Wednesdays bring a blues jam hosted by Low-reen with the Maxwell St. Market Blues Band. A back room lined with photos and encased records of old blues and soul music includes work the owner himself participated in. The free jukebox runs deep with classic soul and blues.
Venues2
- The Soul Food Lounge3804 W 16th St
- Water Hole Lounge1400 S Western Ave
