BERWYN BUSINESS DISTRICT SPOTLIGHT:
ROAD
The streets you walk and drive everyday house so many shops and restaurants people near and far love. They may also have centuries of stories worth hearing. Take Cermak Road, long heralded as Berwyn’s Main Street. Today, Berwyn’s Cermak Road corridor boasts locally owned small businesses, national favorites, a rich history, and a bright future.
Cermak Road honors Chicago’s mayor from 1931-1933. On February 15, 1933, an assassin took aim at then-President Franklin Roosevelt during a rally in downtown Miami. Killed instead was Chicago’s mayor, Anton J. Cermak, who was in Florida visiting the President while he vacationed before his inauguration. Anton J. Cermak, a Czech immigrant, helped create a diverse Democratic party. In his honor, the city renamed 22nd street as it passed through Czech-American neighborhoods in Pilsen and Lawndale on its way west to Cicero and Berwyn, both home to large Czech populations at the time. Stop by the Chicagoland Czech-American Community Center and see how it keeps the active Czech community connected.
Cermak Plaza 1957
Anton J. C ermak
Today, Berwyn is home to a growing Latinx, African-American, and Asian-American population - everyone’s taste buds benefit! Guadalajara Grill & Bar is a prime location for residents looking to enjoy the Cermak Corridor. With daily beer and lunch specials, karaoke nights, live Mariachi, and sports entertainment - you’re sure to indulge yourself every visit. Test out their delicious and authentic menu items today!
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