Nafsi Brings ‘Elevated’ Soul Food To South Shore Cultural Center
A Black-Owned Restaurant at the Center of the South Side’s Cultural Hub
SOUTH SHORE — South Shore Cultural Center visitors can get a taste of what’s to come at the center’s new Black-owned restaurant as it prepares for its grand opening in early October.
Nafsi, an “elevated soul food” restaurant, is now open at the South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Drive. A soft opening, featuring a limited “friends and family hour” menu, will continue through the restaurant’s grand opening and ribbon-cutting Oct. 9.
Fried green tomato caprese salad ($17), a caesar salad ($14.95) and a bowl of mac and cheese ($11) from Nafsi, at a table with a view of the South Shore Cultural Center’s exterior.
Nafsi takes over the former location of the Parrot Cage, which was an enterprise of the Washburne Culinary and Hospitality Institute. The restaurant features plenty of natural light, with the bar and some seating in an all-seasons patio with views of the cultural center grounds.
Owner Donnell Digby wanted to bring an elevated soul food experience to the community. “I always wanted to see more in the space and the place where I live and grew up,” Digby said. “We should be able to have a great dining experience and food experience within the [boundaries] of our home.”
The menu is a nod to the name Nafsi, which means “soul” or “spirit” in Swahili and Arabic. “I poured my spirit and soul into this menu. Some are concepts from my 19 years of culinary experience, and some things are new,” said executive chef Dondee Robinson, who was previously the executive sous chef at Bronzeville Winery.
Culinary Mission and Plans for the Future
Nafsi’s mission goes beyond just serving food. “We want to create an ecosystem where we’re giving out free game, and helping young, Black culinary professionals get their start,” Robinson said. The restaurant also plans to host a live music series, with Digby stating that they want to circulate around different genres of music and create a space for various live artists.
Digby mentioned that the incubator idea is still in development, but it’s a key part of Nafsi’s vision. “Beyond bringing a sit-down restaurant to South Shore, where residents have called for more such options, a successful opening could lead to the creation of an incubator for young, Black culinary professionals,” Robinson said.
Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Event
Nafsi will officially open its doors on October 9th, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to follow. The soft opening will continue through that day, with the full menu available. Reservations are available by clicking the provided link.
Conclusion
Nafsi brings a fresh perspective to the South Shore Cultural Center, with a focus on elevated soul food and a commitment to empowering young, Black culinary professionals. As the restaurant moves forward, it will continue to be a hub for community engagement, cultural programming, and delicious food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the address of Nafsi?
A: 7059 S. South Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60649
Q: What is the restaurant’s hours of operation?
A: Nafsi is open Tuesday through Sunday from 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm. A limited “friends and family hour” menu will be available during the soft opening.
Q: Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, Nafsi is wheelchair accessible and offers seating options with accessible entrances.
Q: Do they offer take-out and delivery?
A: Nafsi will offer take-out and delivery services through partnering platforms. A menu is available online, and online ordering will be available in the near future.
Q: Can I reserve a table?
A: Yes, reservations can be made by clicking the provided link.
