Hussein

Hussein was born and raised in Belize, but has been a Chicago resident for the last 19 years, since the age of 7.  He is manager of Garifuna Flava Caribbean Restaurant in Marquette Park, which features cuisine from Belize as created by his mother, Yolanda.

What is the best way to explore Marquette Park? 
While definitely walkable, bike-riding or by car would be great way to see everything Marquette Park has to offer. Some sights are a little distance away from others, so bike-riding or carpooling would make everything more accessible.

What would you consider to be not-to-be-missed restaurants in Marquette Park?

Garifuna Flava of course! Stop by soon and grab a nice home cooked meal. There’s also a nice Puerto Rican restaurant called KapeeKoo at 63rd & Pulaski. Also, you should make sure to check out The Niles for some Middle Eastern bites (3259 W. 63rd St.). Palmero’s is well known for its excellent pizzas and other Italian dishes (3751 W. 63rd St).

Are there any big festivals or popular public events that take place in the neighborhood? 
Takin’ It To the Streets was a free festival featuring hundreds of artists & vendors from around the world, as well as a focus health, wellness, faith, family & justice that took place in Marquette Park this past June.  This year's main act was Mos Def! There’s also the 79th St. Renaissance Festival, which takes place Saturday, Sept. 11th in Renaissance Park (79th & Racine) and features local vendors, artists, school bands and family friendly activities.

What is a popular gathering place in the neighborhood? 
SWYC (Southwest Youth Collaborative) and IMAN (Inner City Muslim Action Network) are great hangouts for the youth of Marquette Park. They provide a great atmosphere for young people, as well as programs and internships specializing in community organizing, workforce development, technology and other opportunities to help usher them onto a righteous path of self development.

Now, for some more general Chicago-related questions, what is your favorite thing about the city? 
I love the overall diversity of Chicago. I also appreciate the fact that it is a first-rate city, which means you are constantly exposed to worldly cultural events, whether it involves music, art, cuisine, theater, festivals, etc.

What is your favorite season, and seasonal Chicago activity and/or event? 
I love summertime in Chicago and the fact that the city comes alive with a plethora of activities to keep you busy and involved. From neighborhood festivals to free salsa lessons and movies in Grant Park, there’s something unique occurring every week. If only the Bears season games were in the summer, it’d be perfect!

What’s the best place to view the city skyline? 
My favorite locations would be from the beaches on the South Side. Promontory Point, 39th St. Beach & 63rdth St by the Museum of Science & Industry provide excellent views. The bridge east of Canal on Roosevelt also provides a worthy photo-op of the skyline.

Where do you like to bring visiting friends or out-of-town guests? 
I definitely take them to Millennium Park and the Museum Campus, then Rooftop at the Wit for some late night fun. I also make sure they get to sample Chicago style pizza and do some shopping on State Street/Michigan Ave.