Powering the Community: Black-Owned Businesses to Know in the Champaign-Urbana Area
Black history is deeply rooted in Champaign-Urbana. One of the earliest chapters begins along the North First Street Corridor, the oldest business district in Champaign, dating back to the 1850s. From the very beginning, African Americans lived, worked, and built businesses here. Barbershops, skilled trades, taverns, and small restaurants lined the street, and by the 1940s the area had become the heart of Black commerce, known proudly as “the Black Downtown.”
Across town in Urbana, Shelton Laundry stood as another powerful example of Black entrepreneurship. What began as a humble family operation during the Great Depression grew into a multimillion-dollar enterprise—proof of resilience, vision, and determination. In fact, owner Albert Shelton was named Illinois Small Business Person of the Year in 1981.
Today, Champaign-Urbana is home to a vibrant mix of Black-owned businesses that span food, retail, wellness, and creativity. Each one reflects excellence, community, and love—and together they make our region richer in every sense of the word.
Here are just a few examples.
Neil St. Blues
301 N. Neil St., Champaign
Owned by Ms. Gayle Starks, Neil St. Blues is a celebration of Southern soul food done right. This beloved downtown spot is known for its Sipping Saturday Brunch Buffet (with bottomless mimosas), Soulful Sunday Brunch Buffet, and live DJs. The menu is packed with favorites like fried chicken and catfish, charbroiled oysters, fried green tomatoes, shrimp & grits, and slow-roasted oxtails smothered in gravy. Vegan diners are just as welcome, with options like jambalaya, red beans and rice, BBQ jackfruit sandwiches, and an “oyster” mushroom po’boy that even meat-eaters swear by. And dessert? The banana pudding and peach cobbler speak for themselves.
Enchantment Alley
123 W. Main St., Urbana
When Tina Stover opened Enchantment Alley, her goal was to create a space where everyone feels welcome, safe, and supported. Part spiritual shop, part sanctuary, Enchantment Alley offers crystals, incense, candles, tarot and oracle decks, and more—tools for reflection, healing, and personal journeys. The storefront is shared with Bow Tie Games, a community-minded space for tabletop gaming and anime fans, complete with daily events, collectible cards, and gaming supplies. Together, they’ve created a place where curiosity, creativity, and self-expression thrive.
Sepelas
510 N. Cunningham Ave., Urbana
In 2023, owners Kennedy and Kety—who emigrated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2013—realized a long-held dream with the opening of Sepelas. Every dish celebrates Congolese cuisine and family traditions passed down through generations. Expect lovingly grilled chicken, goat, and fish, comforting soups, and classic sides like kwanga, fufu, and fried plantains. Sepelas is a heartfelt invitation to experience culture, flavor, and family at the table.
Plant Mode
520 N. Neil St., Champaign
Plant Mode began as a pop-up in owner Matthis Helmick’s apartment and has since grown into a thriving Neil Street storefront in downtown Champaign. Matthis is known for his deep plant knowledge, honest advice, and community-first approach. Beyond selling plants, Plant Mode hosts workshops, uplifts local makers, and shares space with Prism Community Art School. Matthis also provides plant care and maintenance for clients across Champaign-Urbana—including local cafés, nonprofits, and businesses—helping greenery thrive all over town.
Wood N’ Hog
101 W. University Ave., Urbana
At Wood N’ Hog, owners Michael McDonald and Okema Battle serve slow-smoked, Chicago-style BBQ infused with family, warmth, and legacy. Rib tips and hot links are fan favorites, but their Soul Food Weekends—held Fridays through Sundays—are all about bringing people together. Think smothered chicken and pork chops, homestyle meatloaf, soul food spaghetti, mac & cheese, Southern cabbage, and potato salad. It’s comfort food with heart.
Nothing Bundt Cakes
408 W. Town Center Blvd., Champaign
Owned and operated by Dr. Mila Thomas Fuller, this Champaign bakery is as inspiring as it is delicious (confetti, carrot, cookies & cream, chocolate chip…). A trailblazer in educational technology with nearly two decades of experience, Dr. Fuller’s journey into entrepreneurship reflects perseverance and passion. At Nothing Bundt Cakes, that dedication shows up in every perfectly baked, joy-bringing cake—whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just need a sweet pick-me-up.
RiPoppedIt
Various locations throughout Champaign-Urbana
RiPoppedIt turns popcorn into a bougie gourmet experience. RiRi serves up colorful, freshly popped flavors like cinnamon roll, banana pudding, s’mores, and salted caramel pecan. You can find her popcorn at the CU Flower House in Champaign and Olive & Orchard in Urbana, order custom popcorn favors for birthday parties, baby showers, and other events (clients include the University of Illinois and Franklin STEAM Academy), or pick up a bag or two or three on Saturdays at Urbana’s Market at the Square this spring. It’s playful, delicious, and made to share.
This Black History Month—and every month—we invite you to explore, support, and celebrate the Black-owned businesses that shape Champaign-Urbana. Their stories, past and present, are woven into the fabric of our community, and their creativity and care continue to make this place feel like home.