Mom and pop shops line Western Avenue in the South Side. The Beverly neighborhood remains one of the few in Chicago where store owners still share their parking lots and greet one another with a smile.
“We’ve got a really close-knit neighborhood,” said Jim Quigley, co-owner of Beverly Bakery & Cafe, “Everybody works together and it makes it all worth it.”
Jim opened the restaurant with his wife, Jean Marie, 19 years ago. Beverly Bakery & Cafe is known among locals as one of the best bakeries on the South Side. The family business is a staple in the neighborhood, especially during the St. Patrick’s Day season.
“We’ve been making soda bread forever,” said Megan Quigley, manager of Beverly Bakery & Cafe.
The Quigleys go through about 60 loaves of Irish soda bread a day during the St. Patrick’s holiday season. They say their secret ingredient is buttermilk — and love.
“My mom taught me how to make Irish soda bread when I was seven years-old,” said Megan.
Megan shared childhood photos of her and her sister making her family's Irish soda bread. The sweet bread is native to Ireland. For centuries, Irish families have shared their own recipes among generations. In the 19th century, Irish soda bread grew in popularity as baking soda became widely available in Ireland. The Quigleys serve their bread year-round but say there is an increase in sales during the St. Patrick’s Day season.
“St. Patrick’s Day is really important for our family,” said Megan.
Like many families in Beverly, the South Side Irish Parade is a big deal for the Quigley family. Megan said it’s the one time of the year their family is able to come together across state lines to be with one another. Jim smiled as Megan shared the memories of their family and the restaurant. He said he’s excited for his daughter to take over the shop.
“My daughter’s doing a great job,” said Jim.
Beverly Bakery & Cafe serves many other freshly baked goods alongside their Irish soda bread, including scones, donuts, cookies and more. The restaurant also serves full meals including a traditional Irish breakfast stacked with bangers, white pudding and rashers. You can learn more about the restaurant by visiting their website: www.beverlycoffeeroasters.com.