Carver 47
Author: Madeline Mahoney
Photographer: Karina Mak
The Carver 47 Food and Wellness Market is located in the Bronzeville neighborhood, just a twenty-five minute walk from the North end of the University of Chicago’s campus. It reopened in late 2020 after closing earlier in the year due to the pandemic. I’ve been making an effort to visit local businesses on the Southside and Carver 47 is a great option that did not disappoint.
Carver 47 is named after George Washington Carver, a prominent Black agricultural scientist and inventor from the early 20th century. The cafe is a collaboration between Southside business leader Monica Haslip and chef and jazz vocalist Lizz Wright. Ms. Haslip is the founder of the Little Black Pearl, located next to Carver 47. Little Black Pearl is a high school and cultural arts center that provides opportunities in arts and entrepreneurship to the community.
Stepping inside Carver 47 feels like entering a combination of a greenhouse, gift shop, and cafe that surpasses the sum of its individual parts. The space is fun and thoughtfully designed: lush plants fill every corner, a mix of various light fixtures hangs from the ceiling, an interesting black and white mural covers the back wall. The space in the front of the store is dedicated to a couple of seating options and the wellness market which sells pantry items, artwork, books, and apparel.
The counter is located toward the back of the store with pastries beautifully displayed. Carver 47 offers an assortment of beverages, pastries, breakfast, and lunch items. They also offer a weekly dinner option that can be ordered online. I tried the Jade smoothie ($8), margherita flatbread ($12), and apple danish ($3). The Jade smoothie was a perfect consistency and a refreshing blend of mango, pineapple, and basil. The margherita flatbread was simple yet flavorful. The flatbread was generous with parmesan and mozzarella, making a filling choice that could easily feed two people. The apple danish was a solid choice as well. It satisfied my sweet tooth without being overly sweet. I recommend taking the employee up on their offer to heat your pastry!
From left to right: Margherita flatbread, Jade smoothie, and apple danish
As spring arrives and students begin to venture off campus more frequently, I would highly recommend checking out Carver 47. I know I will be back soon - whether it be grabbing a coffee with friends, something more substantial, or searching for a gift.
