This February, we are shining a light on the Black-owned businesses in Lakeview East. These businesses and their leaders are integral parts of the Lakeview East Community, and we are honored to have their thriving businesses in our neighborhood.
The Den Hotel and The Blind Wolf Speakeasy | 3404 N Clark St
If you love spaces that feel a little transportive, a little mysterious, and very thoughtfully designed, The Den Hotel and The Blind Wolf Speakeasy are about to become your new favorites.
Led by Phil Joseph, The Den Hotel is a boutique hotel experience that blends modern comfort with a warm, intimate feel. It’s the kind of place where every detail feels considered, from the design to the guest experience, making it just as appealing for visiting friends and family as it is for locals looking for a staycation moment.
Tucked inside is The Blind Wolf Speakeasy, a hidden cocktail bar that leans into moody lighting, elevated cocktails, and a sense of discovery. Walking in feels like stepping into another world in the best way. Expect well-crafted drinks, cozy corners, and an atmosphere that’s perfect for date nights, quiet catch-ups, or lingering over one more round.
Together, these two concepts bring a unique layer of hospitality to the neighborhood, offering both a beautiful place to stay and an unforgettable place to sip. It’s stylish without being stuffy, elevated without losing its soul, and a true standout in Lakeview East.
LVE Insider Tip: Every Wednesday night they host Blind Wolf Comedy, which is a free standup showcase every Wednesday at 8PM!
Truth Training | 3232 N Sheffield Ave
Truth Training is all about showing up for yourself and your community. Founded by Antonio Norman, this training-focused gym was built on the idea that fitness should feel empowering, supportive, and accessible, not intimidating.
The studio offers personal training, small group classes, and strength-based programming designed to meet people where they are, whether you’re brand new to fitness or looking to level up your routine. You’ll find a strong emphasis on proper form, sustainable progress, and building real confidence, not quick fixes.
What really sets Truth Training apart is the culture. It’s welcoming without ego, motivating without pressure, and rooted in accountability, encouragement, and consistency. People come for the workouts, but they stay for the community.
If you’re looking for a gym that feels human, inclusive, and genuinely invested in your success, Truth Training is that place.
LVE Insider Tip: If you’re nervous about starting, book a personal training session first with the owner himself! It’s a great way to ease in and get comfortable!
Dat Donut | 947 W Wellington
If you thought donuts were just donuts, Dat Donut will change your mind. Originally a beloved staple on Chicago’s South Side in Chatham, Dat Donut has expanded to Lakeview with a location right by the Wellington Brown Line station — and already people are lining up for it.
Known for hand-cut doughnuts that are as classic as they are craveable, Dat Donut serves up everything from perfectly glazed rings to puffy Boston creams and its famous oversized “Big Dat” pastry. The Lakeview shop leans into the sweet side first — espresso, cappuccino, cold brew, and those signature doughnuts — making it an ideal stop for breakfast or a midday treat.
Unlike the original South Side spot, this location currently focuses on coffee and donuts, though breakfast sandwiches with ham, egg, and cheese on croissants are on the way soon.
What sets Dat Donut apart isn’t just the deliciousness, it’s the history and personality behind it. The shop’s Chatham roots and community reputation bring a sense of pride to each glazed bite, and the Wellington location is already becoming a favorite local routine: grab a morning coffee and donut, watch the bakers roll dough in the front window, and start your day a little sweeter.
LVE Insider Tip: Go early for the best selection and grab an extra donut “for later.” You’ll thank yourself.
Comfort’s African Cuisine | 2835 N. Broadway
Comfort’s African Cuisine is exactly what the name promises. Comfort. Owned and operated by the Afolarin Family, this Broadway gem serves bold, soulful African dishes that feel both deeply traditional and joyfully comforting. It’s the kind of place where every plate feels intentional, flavorful, and made with heart.
The menu is packed with rich stews, perfectly seasoned meats, hearty sides, and classic West African favorites that showcase generations of culinary tradition. If you’re newer to African cuisine, Comfort’s is an incredibly welcoming place to start. If you already love it, you’ll feel right at home.
Beyond the food, Comfort’s has a warm, family-forward energy that makes dining here feel personal. You’re not just stopping in for a meal. You’re being welcomed into a space rooted in culture, care, and pride.
Whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeout, or introducing a friend to their new favorite spot, Comfort’s African Cuisine is one of those neighborhood restaurants that sticks with you, in the best way.
LVE Insider Tip: If you’re new to African cuisine, ask the staff for recommendations. They’re great at guiding first-timers toward something you’ll love.
Culver’s Wrigleyville | 1111 W. Addison St
Culver’s Wrigleyville is serving way more than ButterBurgers and frozen custard. Owned by Baron Waller, this location is part of a powerful local success story rooted in entrepreneurship, mentorship, and community impact.
Baron is the largest Black franchise owner of Culver’s, with 11 locations, and he’s been widely recognized for using his platform to create opportunity, support young people, and invest back into the neighborhoods he serves. That bigger mission is something you can feel the moment you walk in.
Of course, you’ll still find all the classics people love. Juicy ButterBurgers, crispy crinkle-cut fries, cheese curds, and frozen custard that somehow always hits. But there’s an extra layer of pride knowing the business behind those comfort food staples is locally owned and community-driven.
It’s familiar, feel-good food with heart.
LVE Insider Tip: They have rotating seasonal custard flavors at this location! Be sure to try them while supplies last.
Coffee, Hip Hop & Mental Health |1051 W Belmont Ave
Coffee, Hip-Hop, & Mental Health is one of those places that instantly feels different in the best possible way. Founded by Christopher LeMark, this Belmont-based café and cultural hub blends coffee, music, and conversation into a space that’s rooted in connection, creativity, and care. You can come in for a great cup of coffee, sure, but you’ll probably leave feeling a little more seen than when you walked in.
The concept was born from LeMark’s own mental health journey and his desire to create a space where people can talk openly about wellness without stigma. The café regularly hosts conversations, workshops, and programming centered around mental health, self-expression, and community building, all layered with a deep love for hip-hop culture and storytelling. It’s equal parts café, gathering space, and movement.
Beyond the mission, the vibes are strong. Expect thoughtfully sourced coffee, cozy seating, and a soundtrack that sets the tone for slowing down, connecting, and just being. It’s the kind of spot where you might pop in solo with a laptop and end up staying for a conversation you didn’t know you needed.
Coffee, Hip-Hop, & Mental Health isn’t just a place to grab caffeine. It’s a space intentionally designed to hold people, ideas, and healing, and Lakeview East is better for having it.
LVE Insider Tip: Check their calendar or socials before you go. They often host talks, workshops, and community conversations you won’t want to miss.
Laugh Factory | 3175 N Broadway
Boasting as one of the best Comedy clubs in Chicago, Laugh Factory’s President of Operations is Curtis Shaw Flagg. Flagg began as an intern and worked his way up to become an integral figurehead for the company. He is extremely dedicated to the neighborhood, and serves as a member of the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Laugh Factory has become a well-known comedy club and numerous comedic legends have walked through their doors. As well as hosting comedic legends, Laugh Factory prides itself on being a place where lesser-known comedians have a chance to catapult their career. Curtis Shaw Flagg’s leadership and creativity has solidified Laugh Factory’s successes, so stop into Laugh Factory on N. Broadway and see the iconic venue in action!
LVE Insider Tip: If you go to the show at 7:30 on Tuesdays, stick around for their free open mic at 9PM right after which is a mix of new commedians and their regular rotation of talent!
Ancient Grounds Coffee | 1022 W. Belmont
Ancient Grounds Coffee is the kind of place that turns a “quick coffee run” into a whole little moment. Co-founded by Joshua Fields, this Belmont favorite has built a name for itself by pairing genuinely great coffee with big community energy and a menu that covers your whole day, from breakfast and lunch sandwiches to smoothies and bowls.
And yes, we have to talk about the flights, because they are basically the main character. Ancient Grounds offers in-house coffee flights at the Belmont location Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 3 PM, designed for anyone who loves trying a little bit of everything. Their “Cereal Flight” is exactly what it sounds like, featuring flavors like Biscoff, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Honey Nut Cheerio, and Lucky Charms.
At its core, Ancient Grounds is aiming to be more than a coffee shop. Their stated mission is all about building community through good coffee, good food, and genuine hospitality, and it really shows in the way the space is positioned as a neighborhood hangout, not just a grab-and-go counter.
