After closing to revamp last summer, Wilko has finally re-opened. The hip little shop located at North Park Avenue and East University Boulevard is an interesting mix of ideas. It’s a coffee shop, mini-convenience store and restaurant all rolled into one. Don’t allow its more upscale décor to deter you — Wilko is serving up delicious dishes at reasonable prices.
Wilko ditched a lot of the artsy merchandise it was selling to make room for a small kitchen and seating area. The open-air kitchen that is lined by a bar where patrons can sit is cozy. Guests can watch their meals being prepared as they sip of refreshing cucumber-infused water.
Wilko’s menu includes jazzed up versions of classics like mac and cheese made with gruyere and white cheddar, an icebox tuna sandwich with toasted almonds and a burger made of grass-fed beef. An array of cheese plates, starters that consist of almonds and nuts and pizzas are also featured. Wilko also offers an array of white and red wines as well as beers.
With prices ranging from $6 to $12, Wilko won’t break the bank but will leave you full. While this may not be an eatery you will frequent on a daily basis, Wilko’s sandwiches cost just a touch more than they would at someplace like On Deck Deli on campus.
I opted for the grilled Brie sandwich that consisted of a blend of turkey pastrami, cucumber, melted Brie and apple butter on thick, crusty bread slices. The sandwich was a fantastic blend of bold and delicate flavors.
My eating companion Kim opted for a similar grilled chicken sandwich that boasted grilled pineapple and a rich garlicky aioli. The sandwiches came with a choice of herb fries, a salad or a slaw. We chose the salad and a flavorful lemon vinaigrette as the dressing. Each of our sandwiches and salads rung in at $8.
The décor is pleasant and simple with large eye-catching light fixtures that hang from the ceiling. Fresh flowers in small jars sit on each wood table and line the bar. The staff is friendly and fast.
Although Wilko’s feel is substantially different from what it once was, the new set up is pleasant and college-student friendly. A step above much of the quick food available on campus and University Boulevard, Wilko offers a nice atmosphere and good food. So grab your glass of cucumber-infused water, order some grub and relax at the new Wilko.
