This Restaurant in South Shore Chicago Offers ‘Elevated’ Soul Food
If you have been craving soul food with a modern twist, Nafsi is the name you need to know. Nestled in the historic South Shore Cultural Center, this Black-owned gem is serving up “elevated” soul food that’s equal parts nostalgic and innovative.
Open at 7059 S. South Shore Drive, Nafsi’s soft opening has already created a buzz, and the full grand opening slated for October 9 promises even more.
However, this is not your ordinary soul food spot. Nafsi brings a refined touch to beloved classics, offering dishes that honor tradition while embracing creativity. From lobster bucatini to fried catfish and grits, Nafsi is redefining what soulful dining means in Chicago’s South Shore.
The Vision Behind Nafsi
At its heart, Nafsi is more than just a restaurant. It is a story. The word “nafsi” means “soul” in Swahili, and this ethos is woven into every detail, from the menu to the ambiance. The restaurant occupies the former Parrot Cage, a space once operated by Washburne Culinary and Hospitality Institute.
GTN / Now, with its fresh identity, Nafsi carries the legacy of the South Shore Cultural Center forward, bridging history and contemporary culture.
The restaurant’s vibe matches its culinary ambitions. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, and the all-season patio offers stunning views of the cultural center’s sprawling grounds. It is the perfect backdrop for a dining experience that feels as special as the dishes on your plate.
‘Elevated’ Soul Food at Its Finest
Nafsi’s menu is a love letter to soul food with a modern flair. Classics like mac and cheese get a premium upgrade, while dishes like fried green tomato Caprese salad showcase a blend of bold flavors and artistic presentation. The attention to detail doesn’t stop at dinner; cocktails are equally inventive.
The Metra Express martini, a rich mix of cognac, Bailey’s, and Tia Maria coffee liqueur, has already become a fan favorite.
However, what sets Nafsi apart is its dedication to quality and creativity. Entrées like Atlantic salmon with honeyed sesame glaze ($29.50) or fried catfish and grits ($19) cater to those who appreciate comforting flavors with a hint of sophistication. It is soul food reimagined for today’s palate, and it is earning praise for its balance of familiarity and surprise.
Brunch at Nafsi
While Nafsi’s dinner offerings steal the show, brunch lovers will soon have something to cheer about. Following the grand opening, management plans to roll out an inventive brunch menu. Though details are still under wraps, you can expect the same elevated approach to morning classics.
The Talks / Be it sweet, savory, or a bit of both, Nafsi’s brunch will undoubtedly become a South Shore weekend staple.
This expansion signals more than just a new menu. It is a commitment to making Nafsi a cornerstone of the community. By offering something for every palate and occasion, the restaurant is positioning itself as a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike.
The Cultural Center Connection
Nafsi is not just a place to eat. It is a reflection of the South Shore community’s resilience and pride. The South Shore Cultural Center itself has a storied past, transforming from an exclusive country club to a hub for Black cultural expression.
The building stands as a testament to the organizing power of South Shore residents, who fought to preserve it from demolition.
Today, the center is an anchor for the predominantly Black community, hosting everything from weddings to art exhibitions. With Nafsi at its heart, the center is adding a culinary experience that complements its cultural and historical significance.