Pilsen is a neighborhood heavily marked with corner stores for its residents' convenience. Soy Organic caters to the predominantly Latino population in much the same fashion, offering refrigerated beverages and snacks. But you will find one major difference between it and other groceries.

Adjacent to the bottles of Jarritos and Takis corn chips are multiple flavors of Kambucha, bags of spinach chips, and boxes of Envirokidz cereal. All of these reflect owner Sonia Ya?ez’s intention of providing Pilsen residents with healthier alternatives when shopping for groceries in her native Chicago neighborhood.

A flag with an aerial view of the earth hangs from the 19th Street window. The rest of the snug store is decorated with photographs of cashier Rosie Torres' excursion to Chiapas, Mexico, dolls handcrafted by a local artist, shelves full of Dr. Bonner soaps and Suave shampoos, or refrigerator units housing organic yogurts and vegan products. This all encircles a selection of bread from local bakeries and bulk organic nuts.

For those in need of organic fruits and vegetables, staples such as garlic, bananas, apples and onions are offered. Tomatillos, baby yams, and pomegranates are thrown in to remind everyone Ya?ez has taken the extra step to make this a special shop. Hot coffee and tea are offered daily for patrons who don't care to go out of their way to find a corporate chain in the morning. And for those who would rather make their cup of joe at home, Soy Organic sells fair trade coffee by Cafe Rebellion. It's the first thing you'll see as you enter the store, just underneath the moccasins and sandals.

Centerstage Reviewer: Nola Akiwowo