Riot Fest Community Spotlight: Mi Corazòn Cafe

Our Community Spotlights feature all the wonderful food, nightlife, and local businesses found in proximity to Douglass Park, home to Riot Fest. Join us throughout the year as the Riot Fest staff recommends their favorite spots in the neighborhood on a continuing basis—in hopes that you’ll make a stop in the neighborhood before, during, and well after the fest concludes.

Mi Corazòn Cafe is located in Pilsen. I immediately fell in love with this Latina-owned / women-owned restaurant. It is easily recognizable for its vibrant indigo wall and pink neon light that reads, “Hola, Mi Corazòn,” which translates to “hello, my darling” (literal translation, “hello my heart”). Decorated with cards from the Latinx game Lotería* on the walls, colorful perforated paper garland, also known as papel picado, hanging from the ceiling, this cozy spot gives a portrait of family unity. Which is not surprising as the owner, Xiomara Casas, cites her own Abuelita as the inspiration for everything! (See the photo below of owner Xiomara Casas and her father, Artemio Casas).

Primarily a breakfast and brunch spot, open from 10a-6p most days, Mi Corazòn’s major draw is its unique agua fresca, served in vitroleros, which are super fun barrel-shaped traditional Mexican glasses (see below). During my first visit, I opted for the Pepino (cucumber) agua fresca and the Mexican mocha; both were delicious. For the second time, I chose a cheeseburger: beef patty, fresh romaine lettuce, tomato, crispy bacon, and American cheese, served in a bolillo (variation of a Mexican/Central American baguette). You have the choice between plain or Valentina fries. Live a little and choose Valentina fries, especially if you love a bit of spice in your life. And be sure you have cash when you stop by since this spot does not accept cards.

*Lotería is a Latino-American game, similar to American Bingo. Instead of stamps, coins or frijoles (beans) can be used to cover the image. Each card has a different image: La Mano (The Hand), El Diablito (The Devil), El Corazòn (The Heart).

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Nancy Polanco

Nancy loves connecting with people through music. She believes in inspiring people with the ideology that dance music helps spiritual growth. You can spot her in almost any electronic music event in Chicago.