Café in Woodlawn Offers Healthy Food from Shipping Container

CHICAGO (CBS) — A unique café housed in a shipping container is making waves on Chicago's South Side by providing healthy meal options to a community long considered a food desert. The 7323 Chicago Café, located at 6600 S. Woodlawn Ave., stands out with its bright yellow exterior and commitment to offering nutritious food choices in an area where such options have been scarce. Owner Marquinn Gibson transformed a 20-foot shipping container into a functional kitchen, driven by a desire to improve local food access. Gibson, who undertook the project largely on his own, drew inspiration from the prevalence of shipping containers in various businesses. He emphasized the importance of providing healthier alternatives to the typical fried foods that dominate the local culinary landscape. The café aims to offer quality meals at affordable prices, with a menu that includes fresh smoothies and juices, alongside more traditional fare. Gibson's vision was to create a space where residents could enjoy nutritious food that is often hard to find in their neighborhood. The café has sparked curiosity among locals, with some even asking about unfamiliar ingredients like arugula. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, the 7323 Chicago Café not only serves food but also fosters community engagement, with Chef Q available to discuss the menu and educate patrons about healthy eating. This innovative venture represents a significant step toward addressing food insecurity in the area.