Sikia, Englewood’s Only Fine Dining Restaurant, Reopens After Five-Year Hiatus
Renovated Restaurant Offers Enhanced Dining Experience
Englewood’s only fine dining restaurant, Sikia, has made its long-awaited return. Like many other businesses, Sikia, a student-run restaurant inside Kennedy-King College’s Washburne Culinary and Hospitality Institute, shut its doors during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Thursday morning, students watched with pride as school leaders officially reopened the restaurant, unveiling its newly redesigned dining room.
A Pillar of the Community
Sikia, located at 740 W 63rd St., has been a staple of the Englewood community since it first opened its doors almost two decades ago. "To be able to sit down and have a conversation over a meal and … having a fine dining experience right here on the corner of 63rd and Halsted is so important," said Cecile De Mello, of community organization Teamwork Englewood. "Prior to the hiatus, I was a regular here, lunch, dinner — sometimes lunch and dinner on the same day."
A "Living Laboratory" for Culinary Students
More than a restaurant, Sikia serves as a "living laboratory" for Washburne culinary students, according to Kennedy-King College President Katonja Webb Walker. "It is a hands-on learning experience, and it’s a stepping stone for the next generation of culinary professionals," Walker said. "Our students have transformed their education into an experience that will prepare them for thriving careers. The dishes served here not only showcase their skills but also their creativity and passion."
New Menu and Renovations
Thanks to a grant from billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, the interior of Sikia has been reimagined and refreshed over the past few years, with more modern furniture and new floors. While the inside may look different, prices have not changed much since before the pandemic. Sikia’s three-course signature lunch costs about $17 per person. The seasonal lunch menu includes crab cake and carpaccio for starters, skirt steak and branzino for entrees, and s’mores and creme brulee for dessert.
Student Achievements
Adrienne Gordon, 44, of Pullman, is set to graduate in May with honors and a degree in pastries. "I contemplated on actually enrolling here, not only because I’m older than probably most here, but … with having a full-time job and holding a full-time position here in school didn’t seem possible, but here I am, four years later," Gordon said. "I’m excited for what’s to come."
Michael Jasper, another student set to graduate this May, also plans to develop a private chef business and maybe his own restaurant someday. "I have family that has been pestering me to get them a reservation here," Jasper, 18, said. "I very much love this restaurant, love the area that it’s in, and love that it’s a very good community for growing."
Reservations and Hours
Sikia is open for lunch service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Reservations are required and must be made by credit or debit card. Reservations can be made by calling 773-602-5200.
FAQs
- What is the menu like at Sikia?
The menu includes crab cake and carpaccio for starters, skirt steak and branzino for entrees, and s’mores and creme brulee for dessert. - Are reservations required?
Yes, reservations are required and must be made by credit or debit card. - What are the hours of operation?
Sikia is open for lunch service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday.
