Kim Yong Soon, widely known as Maria Marszewski, has established herself as a beloved figure among her bar’s patrons in Chicago. Originally from South Korea, Maria moved to the South Side of Chicago with her husband 60 years ago. Thirteen years later, she became a widow with two young sons and inherited her husband’s bar to run.
Maria first made her mark as a licensed home beautician before venturing into real estate. Her investments included acquiring a strip mall, where she opened a whimsical restaurant. Later, she purchased a building in Bridgeport, taking over an existing bar and small liquor store 40 years ago. Her entrepreneurial spirit eventually led to her sons revamping the establishment into Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar in 2010.
An interview with Maria, assisted by her younger son Ed Marszewski, provides insights into her life and career.
What is your full name (birth and now)?
Maria was born Kim Yong Soon. Her Christian name, Maria, was given by a Catholic priest upon her confirmation at age 11.
When were you born?
February 7, 1937.
Where were you born?
Pusan, Korea, which is now known as Busan.
When did you come to Chicago?
1966. Maria met James Marszewski in Chuncheon, South Korea, and they married in 1964.
What was your first job?
Maria worked as a beautician in South Korea. After earning her cosmetology license in the U.S. in the early ’70s, she opened a home beauty shop in Chicago.
Following her husband’s passing, she managed Jim’s 31st Street Inn. Her real estate ventures included a strip mall purchase where she opened ‘House of Kim,’ offering a varied menu including Korean, Japanese, and prime rib dishes.
What is your business’s full name?
Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar. Originally Kaplan’s Liquors, Maria took over in 1986. The bar, affectionately named Maria’s by patrons, was later updated by her sons.
What was your business title?
Maria was known as the Owner, as well as The Boss and The Duchess of Bridgeport. Her older son, Mike Marszewski, currently owns the business.
What is your bestselling or signature item?
The bar is celebrated for Marz Beer and the Korean Polish sausage. The sausage, crafted by Makowski’s Real Sausage Co. using chef Won Kim’s recipe, is a highlight at Kimski, an adjoining restaurant. Marz Community Brewing provides the bestselling beers, with popular varieties like Jungle Boogie and Chug Life.
What is your most memorable moment?
Maria cherishes the ability to feed and educate her sons through her business.
As a Chicago food icon, what are a few words of wisdom you could share with the next generation?
She advises against excessive drinking for successful business management. Maria, who does not consume alcohol, enjoys hot black tea or coffee instead.
The legacy of Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar continues, with Maria involved in the community at her namesake bar four days a week.