Like a Phoenix: Sérénité Restaurant rises again in Medina

Opened in March 2018 and closed in February 2025, the future of Sérénité Restaurant and Culinary Institute was uncertain. Behind the scenes, however, newly appointed Recovery Center of Medina board president Tony Bianco, along with a new slate of board members, was quietly planning its rebirth. Their vision was clear: rebuild Sérénité as a professional, self-sustaining restaurant, with strong financial controls, experienced culinary leadership and standards that could stand shoulder to shoulder with any high-quality dining establishment in Northeast Ohio.

“Students in recovery deserve to train in a real restaurant with real expectations,” Bianco said. “That means consistency, quality and accountability.”

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, and through countless hours of work by the new board and many dedicated volunteers, Sérénité Restaurant and Culinary Institute reopened in mid-October. A critical piece of that rebirth was hiring a seasoned executive chef, and they found that in Chef Niko Courey. Trained at Le Cordon Bleu and experienced in three previous restaurant openings, Courey led efforts ranging from deep cleaning and menu development to assembling the right team and delivering the level of quality guests expect.

Courey has worked in high-end restaurants in New Orleans, Las Vegas, Tampa and St. Augustine and said he was ready to bring that experience and culinary craft to Medina.

Asked about his biggest takeaway from the first 12 weeks, including the busy holiday season, Courey said preparation and teamwork made the difference.

“I had six weeks to prepare, and then we were open for business,” he said. “What I’m most proud of is the unity and culture of my kitchen. The staff is focused on organization and accountability, which is exactly my goal.”

Courey said some returning guests expected the classic, French-forward cuisine from the restaurant’s previous iteration, creating a challenge as the team introduces a new approach.

“Our goal is to build a relatable menu,” he said, “using thoughtful research to encourage guests to try new flavors while still connecting them to ingredients they already know. We still keep a nod to our French roots.”

That balance was evident in Pommes Max, a decadent French potato dish featured as a New Year’s Eve special.

Looking ahead to 2026, Courey said he is optimistic.

“It’s only uphill from here,” he said. “You’ll see some New Orleans and Cajun influences start to creep onto the menu as we approach Mardi Gras. Of course, we’ll have Valentine’s Day specials, and maybe even some fun tableside presentations.”

Sérénité’s reopening adds another strong presence to Medina’s dining scene, restoring a historic location while advancing the mission of the Recovery Center of Medina. Beyond the restaurant’s ambiance and food, the institute’s role in workforce training and recovery-focused education continues to be a meaningful asset to the community.

Sérénité Restaurant and Culinary Institute is located at 538 W. Liberty St. and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 4:30-9 p.m. More information is available at sereniterestaurant.com or by calling 330-952-2611.

As always, eat fresh, dine local and be happy!