Kim Yong Soon, famously known as Maria, has become a cherished figure for her patrons at a Chicago bar. Her story began 60 years ago when she moved from South Korea to the city’s South Side with her husband. Tragedy struck as she became a widow 13 years later, left with two young sons and a bar to manage.
Maria, originally a licensed beautician, transformed her life. She pursued real estate, buying a strip mall where she established a distinct restaurant. Later, she acquired a building in Bridgeport, taking control of an existing bar and liquor store. Forty years later, her sons reimagined the space, establishing Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar in 2010, impacting the community significantly.
Interview with Maria Marszewski
Q: What is your full name?
A: Kim Yong Soon, known as Maria Marszewski. A Catholic priest gave me the name Maria when I was confirmed at 11.
Q: When and where were you born?
A: February 7, 1937, in Pusan, Korea.
Q: When did you come to Chicago?
A: 1966. I met and married James Marszewski in Chuncheon, South Korea, in 1964.
Career and Business Ventures
Maria’s initial career was as a beautician, earning her cosmetology license in the U.S. in the early ‘70s. Her transition into real estate led her to purchase a strip mall in Bridgeview, where she opened House of Kim, a restaurant offering Korean and Japanese cuisine.
Eventually, she took over Kaplan’s Liquors in 1986, now known by regulars as Maria’s. Her sons later formalized it as Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar, a tribute to her legacy.
Signature Offerings
The bar’s signature items include Marz Beer and the popular Korean Polish sausage. Makowski’s Real Sausage Co. produces the sausage based on chef Won Kim’s recipe, offered with house-made kimchi, soju mustard, and scallions at the bar’s restaurant, Kimski.
Marz Community Brewing produces their bestselling beer, rotating fan favorites like Jungle Boogie and Chug Life based on the season.
Words of Wisdom
Maria, nicknamed the Duchess of Bridgeport, shares her wisdom: “To run a successful business, avoid excessive drinking.” Despite her bar’s popularity, Maria herself abstains from alcohol, preferring hot beverages instead.
Maria remains a beloved presence at her bar, engaging with guests four days a week. Her enduring influence is evident in the thriving business she built and the community she helped shape.
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