Maria Marszewski: A Chicago Food Icon

Kim Yong Soon, known to Chicago’s bar regulars as Maria, embarked on a remarkable journey from South Korea to Chicago’s South Side. She arrived 60 years ago with her new husband and soon faced the challenge of becoming a widow with two young sons. Maria took on the responsibility of running her late husband’s bar just 13 years after settling in the city.

Before this, Maria worked as a beautician in South Korea and earned her cosmetology license in Chicago in the early 1970s. She opened a beauty shop in her home basement in the Mount Greenwood neighborhood, focusing on haircuts, color, and perms.

Maria’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished as she made her mark in real estate. She purchased a strip mall in Bridgeview, opening her restaurant, House of Kim, which offered a diverse menu featuring Korean and Japanese cuisine. Her restaurant briefly operated in the mid-’80s, entertaining diners with a sushi bar, tea rooms, and even a pond with a turtle inspired by a Japanese monster film.

Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar

Maria bought a building in Bridgeport 40 years ago, taking over an existing bar and liquor store. Her sons transformed the space into Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar in 2010, dedicating it to their mother. The establishment has since become a beloved community hub.

The bar is renowned for its signature items, such as Marz Beer and the innovative Korean Polish sausage, crafted using chef Won Kim’s recipe. The KoPo sausage features in their menu’s Maria’s Standard, topped with seasonal kimchi, soju mustard, and scallions, served on a brioche bun with a side of fries.

Maria’s Legacy

Maria reflects on her journey, with her most memorable achievement being the ability to feed and educate her children through her business. She continues to visit the bar regularly, maintaining her presence in the community she helped shape.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Maria shares a simple piece of advice: “In order to run a good business, do not drink too much.” Despite owning a bar, Maria abstains from alcohol and instead enjoys hot black tea or coffee.

You can visit Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar at 960 W. 31st St., or learn more at their website.