From the murals and photographs on the wall to the restaurant decor and menu, Carver 47 Food and Wellness Market in the Bronzeville neighborhood pays homage to inventor and scientist George Washington Carver and the work of America's Black farmers. It's more than a cafe. This place is a work of art and a history lesson.
Carver 47 Food & Wellness Market is more than just your average neighborhood cafe. It is a hidden gem tucked away within the Little Black Pearl Arts Organization. It is also a warm tribute to the innovative work of George Washington Carver and Black farmers of the rural South. It is also a part of The Little Black Pearl Art and Design Academy, a Level 1 high school that focuses on art and design studies.
At the corner at 47th and Greenwood, you'll see a vivid Afrofuturistic mural featuring the life of George Washington Carver. When you walk in the door, multiple images of his likeness is displayed in the style of Andy Warhol's famous 'Marilyn Diptych' silkscreen painting. The cafe takes the observer on a journey from Carver's beginnings as a farmer in Kentucky to a scientist and educator at Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.
Several photos of Carver and the farmers, books resting on wood shelves, plant grow boxes, a large wooden cart filled with items, a table full of goodies, flowers, items for the home, and a glitzy light installation covers the space. On the Greenwood side of the Little Black Pearl, the building features a lovely, intimate outdoor patio that doubles as a growing garden for the delicious organic, healthy meals that are served fresh daily during warmer weather. All of the meals are made to order, so there is a short wait. While you are waiting, grab a coffee, tea, fresh juice, or a sweet treat. It's worth the wait, but I promise that you won't mind. You might be even lucky enough to catch a performance from various local artists. Take in the sights, sounds and scents, and enjoy the chill vibe at Carver 47 Juice and Experiment Bar, 1050 E. 47th Street.
Photos by Tracy Brown
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