The Heartland Cafe

Located in Chicago, IL, he Heartland Café began short, on both money and experience, but it was a long range dream...a picture vision of a wonderful place where people would gather to enjoy good wholesome food for the mind and body. It has been a staple in the community since 1976, providing first and foremost food, but a variety of entertainment in several genres of music, in addition to several political events, gatherings to raise consciousness of political injustices and social injustices. Preferred genres: World, reggae, country, bluegrass, funk, jam, folk, jazz, blues, singer songwriters, and Americana.



Music generally starts around 10 pm, after the Kitchen closes. Typical sets are around 40 minutes for openers/supporting acts, and 1 hour + for headliners. Since The Heartland Café is a restaurant and does not receive a lot of foot traffic after the kitchen closes, bands playing here should have a local draw.

Compensation varies from the standard door deal to guarantee's, depending upon the act. No backline is provided, but the Heartland Cafe provides a full PA, with mic's, stands, and monitors.



Mentionable acts include Alison Cornell (Cyndi Lauper/Cher), Tom Dundee, Hamid Drake, Peter Lang, David Rovics, Ken Vandermark, Edgar Gabriel (Cirque Du Soliel), Pete Special (Big Twist and The Mellow Fellows), Charles Schmidt, Jefferson Airplane, and more.