Bronzeville Coffeehouse Inc.   

528 E 43rd St
Chicago, IL 60653
773-536-0494

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Richard Chalmers and partners Jurl Richardson and Trez Van Pugh III have a possible hit on their hands with this community-oriented cafe on the South Side. Bronzeville Coffeehouse Inc. is the latest to arrive in this thriving neighborhood boasting a sudden economic boom. Like its predecessors Blu 47, Afrocentric Bookstore and the Spoken Word Cafe (all within walking distance), Bronzeville Coffeehouse caters to the upwardly mobile African-Americans in the area. The setup is ideal for customers to come in and relax for hours with a book, laptop or just good conversation. The lounge-like atmosphere (with a bar-style countertop and cushy furniture) sets it apart from the average coffeehouse, and the soulful grooves cranking from the satellite radio keep heads nodding. Bronzeville Coffeehouse also promotes a healthy interactive environment as customers are encouraged to participate in the book exchange program. The family-friendly atmosphere also features a special area for children's books. The menu is heavy on specialty coffee drinks and light on food. Teas, smoothies (including the Dreamsicle with orange juice, white chocolate powder and whipped cream) and hot chocolate are also featured. The in-house bakery offers specialty cakes, muffins, cookies and pies, as well as a limited selection of daily soups. A book club and spoken-word events are in the works; community artists' work is on display and for sale.