Story
This is my love letter to New York
Written with the flavors, aromas and textures of my childhood, inspired by my culinary muse (and beloved sister) Tatiana.
Kwame's big sister looked after him while their mother worked as a chef in New York City. As the loving caretaker of his early food-wishes and dreams, Tatiana serves as the inspiration for this restaurant, and will forever hold a special place in Kwame's heart.
With an upbringing rooted in and around the Bronx and the old neighborhood of San Juan Hill, there was no shortage of culinary inspiration for Chef Kwame to draw from: Italian bakeries, Chinese takeout, Caribbean roti shops, corner stores and local bodegas – which is why Tatiana's menu reflects those proud and diverse origins, served with equal measures of care and love.
Tatiana is a tribute to the neighborhoods of Chef Kwame's youth
These fond memories – steeped in a melting pot of New York City's diverse culinary influences – serve as the foundation of Tatiana's "story" – one written in the romance language of food, inspired by his Afro-Caribbean-by-way-of-the-Bronx heritage. And while Kwame's first love is most certainly cooking, that love extends beyond the kitchen and into the community, where he nourishes local causes with philanthropic contributions – not only to honor and nurture his roots, but to inspire the next generation of talented chefs to do the same.
Tatiana Gives Back
"Restaurants are supposed to be the cornerstone of the community; with ‘Tatiana Gives Back’ we're able to enrich the lives of the people who need it most.” – Chef Kwame Onwuachi
Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, and Restaurant Associates support the Public Housing Community Fund’s beautification and culinary arts initiatives at the New York City Housing Authority’s Amsterdam Addition, Amsterdam Houses, and Harborview Terrace. This is one element of an ongoing commitment to supporting neighbors and nearby communities.