Calumet Fisheries, a cherished local smoked fish shack on Chicago’s Far South Side, has reopened its doors after being shut down due to an electrical fire in November 2023. Co-owner Mark Kotlick expressed his gratitude to the loyal customers who supported the family through the struggle, calling their efforts “phenomenal.”
The restaurant, which has been a Kotlick family tradition for 76 years, saw eager patrons waiting months for its return. Employees were hard at work early in the morning, frying pounds of shrimp and serving up a variety of fish dishes to the hungry customers who had missed their favorite spot.
For many, like customer Jody Healy and her son who came from Frankfort, Calumet Fisheries holds fond memories and delicious flavors. The smoked fish and shrimp are favorites among regulars who have been visiting for years, and the return of the iconic spot was worth the trip for loyal fans like the Gonzales family.
John and Melissa Gonzales, who grew up eating at Calumet Fisheries, were thrilled to see the community staple back in action. The long-awaited reopening brought joy to the neighborhood, with locals and visitors alike celebrating the return of the beloved fish shack.
The resilience and dedication of the Kotlick family, alongside the support of the community, have made the reopening of Calumet Fisheries a heartwarming success story. As customers enjoy their favorite dishes once again
