Blackstone Bicycle Works celebrates 20 years of empowering youth on Chicago’s South Side through hands-on bike education and leadership development. From its roots as a retail shop to its youth-focused programming and advocacy, BBW fosters confidence, responsibility, and a culture of cycling beyond our shop walls.
2025 Increasing Food Access Report is now Available!
The 2025 Increasing Food Access Report highlights a year of strong impact, deep partnerships, and continued innovation—expanding access to fresh, locally grown food while laying the foundation for a more resilient and equitable food system amid growing challenges ahead.
Zeitlin’s Delicatessen: Love and Bagels
Since joining the 61st Street Farmers Market in 2022, Zeitlin’s Delicatessen has become a Saturday morning staple. Market-goers line up in anticipation for a taste of their signature bagels, artisanal breads, and baked goods. While the line moves quickly, the craft behind the counter is the result of years of intentionality, family history, and culinary rigor.
Chef Didier Durand:From France with Love
Bonjour aux gourmands! This week, we celebrate the culinary delights of Chef Didier Durand who founded Cyrano’s On-The Go to share traditional French dishes across Chicago.
A Winter Delight:Asian Pears from Oriana’s Orchard
Have you ever tried Asian Pears? The varieties that Oriana's Orchard, a 61st Street Market stalwart, grows are special. Besides its fresh and delicious taste that you cannot get from any grocery store pears, there is the dedication and resilience of Oriana Kruszewski, the farmer and owner.
A Winter Delight:Asian Pears from Oriana’s Orchard
Have you ever tried Asian Pears? The varieties that Oriana's Orchard, a 61st Street Market stalwart, grows are special. Besides its fresh and delicious taste that you cannot get from any grocery store pears, there is the dedication and resilience of Oriana Kruszewski, the farmer and owner.
Vendor Spotlight: J2K Capraio and Stamper Cheese
If your holiday gatherings call for something delicious, look no further than J2K Capraio and Stamper Cheese, our beloved 61st Street Farmers Market cheese vendors. With only two markets left this year, December 13 and 20, don’t wait to pick up handmade cheese for your holiday cheese board!
Made w/Love – Crafting Healthier Flavors, One Vinegar at a Time
Made w/Love was born from founder Karen J. Forte’s personal health journey. After facing challenges with inflammation, digestion, hair loss, and needing less salt and sugar in her diet, she discovered the healing power of ferments and nutrient-rich foods. What began as a hobby quickly evolved into a craft created to help others transform how they eat and feel.
Quarter Mile Sauce Runnin’ Hot – Family-Grown Heat
Looking for the perfect foodie gift? Quarter Mile Sauce Runnin’ Hot brings bold flavor and holiday warmth to every meal!
Our 2025 Impact
Experimental Station’s mission is to build independent cultural infrastructure by providing essential resources that respond to local needs. Our programs address food insecurity, strengthen Illinois’ food system, provide youth with enriching educational opportunities, foster creativity and the arts, and enhance community wellbeing.
Read our latest newsletter for more on our impact and the meaningful stories shaping our community.
