01/02/2023
There's no easy way to say this, so it's important to begin with the reason for this post: Tanám is closing.
It is no exaggeration to say that Tanám has been my raison d'être these past four years. Resiliency and joy in abundance, wild growth that I nourished and was nourished by in turn. I've been immensely proud of this little food and art space that's challenged the 'it is what it is' narrative of hospitality.
I won't lie and say the pandemic was not the worst roadblock to a space that looked to connect strangers across a table. It has been difficult in ways you may only truly know if you're in this industry. My heart is breaking -- how could it not when you're still in love? Tanám still demonstrates over and over to me how community lifts up and makes radical dreams a reality. Much love to Boston Ujima Project, Boston Center for Community Ownership, Seed Commons: A Community Wealth Cooperative, Local Enterprise Assistance Fund and Cooperative Fund of the Northeast. Some local standouts that were with us from the beginning: Mei Mei Dumplings, Brassica Kitchen + Cafe, Comfort Kitchen (opening soon!). Endless gratitude to staff who are staying through to the end: respectyourlder, Chris Ashley and Gabriele Preston. With our collective effort and the guests who got what we were putting down, we accomplished what many said could not be done. Let's continue to do things in a different way.
We return from break on January 5th with advanced reservation only private dining and kamayan to go (check out our Tock). Beverage service is limited and we will not be serving walk-ins.
January 14th is our last day, but I hope this virtual space is a place we can continue to challenge norms that do not serve us. Tanám can grow beyond the four walls that contained it. Hello, 2023!
Some thoughts from me:
Consider labor when you think about sustainability. People who work in hospitality deserve a living wage (hint: it is not $15 an hour). Ask where your vegetables came from AND how much the staff is being paid.
If there are restaurants you love and want to see thrive, make a reservation now. Tip generously. Tell the world you love them.
Cooperation is our heritage and our future. Support BIPOC cooperatives and the efforts to sustain them.
With love,
Ellie
cc: Rita Tinega
