Maria Marszewski: A Chicago Food Icon

Kim Yong Soon, better known to regulars in Chicago as Maria, is a distinguished figure in the city’s hospitality scene. Maria Marszewski’s journey from South Korea to becoming a celebrated bar owner in Chicago is nothing short of remarkable. She arrived on the South Side with her husband 60 years ago. Tragically, she became a widow with two young sons and inherited her husband’s bar just 13 years later.

Initially a home beautician, Maria transitioned to real estate, purchasing a strip mall where she opened her dream restaurant. Later, she acquired a building in Bridgeport, taking over an existing bar and liquor store 40 years ago. When it was time for another reinvention, Maria passed the business to her sons. In 2010, they launched Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar, redefining its role in the community.

The following interview, assisted by her younger son Ed Marszewski, explores Maria’s life and career.

Early Life and Journey to Chicago

What is your full name (birth and now)?

Maria was born Kim Yong Soon. A Catholic priest gave her the name Maria at her confirmation around age 11.

When were you born?

“Feb. 7, 1937.”

Where were you born?

“Pusan, Korea,” now known as Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city.

When did you come to Chicago?

Maria moved to Chicago in 1966 after marrying James Marszewski in 1964 in Chuncheon, South Korea.

Professional Evolution

What was your first job?

Maria began her career as a beautician. After relocating to Chicago, she earned a cosmetology license and operated a beauty shop from her home basement, specializing in haircuts, color, and perms.

Following her husband’s death in 1979, she managed his bar, Jim’s 31st Street Inn, before selling it. Her real estate ventures included purchasing a strip mall and opening the House of Kim, a restaurant offering Korean and Japanese cuisine with unique features like a sushi bar and tea rooms.

Legacy of Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar

What is your business’s full name?

“Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar.” This establishment, originally Kaplan’s Liquors, was purchased by Maria in 1986. Regulars knew it as Maria’s, and it was transformed by her sons into a community hub.

What was your business title?

“Owner.” Maria is affectionately regarded as Mom, The Boss, and The Duchess of Bridgeport. Her older son, Mike Marszewski, currently owns Maria’s.

What is your bestselling or signature item?

“Marz Beer and the Korean Polish sausage.” The bar serves the ‘Maria’s Standard’ with a KoPo sausage topped with kimchi, soju mustard, and scallions. Marz Community Brewing, co-founded by Ed Marszewski, provides popular beer options like Jungle Boogie and Chug Life.

Memorable Moments and Advice

What is your most memorable moment?

Maria finds joy in knowing she provided for and educated her children through her business efforts. Even today, she visits her bar four days a week.

As a Chicago food icon, what are a few words of wisdom you could share with the next generation?

Maria advises against excessive drinking for anyone hoping to run a successful business, as she has never consumed alcohol herself.

Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar is located at 960 W. 31st St., and more information can be found at community-bar.com.