Q&A with Tanya Holland

Tell us about your company - What makes it unique?

Brown Sugar Kitchen is a restaurant I opened in 2008, in the West Oakland neighborhood of Oakland, California. My brand is unique because we have always had a mission of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Everyone is welcome here. The food is really accessible. We like to extend the highest standards of hospitality and food quality using sustainable, organic, and local ingredients whenever possible.

Why the San Francisco Bay Area?

I chose to open my business in the Bay Area because it’s really supportive of entrepreneurs. When I arrived here, I found that there was a niche to be filled for a restaurant that served quality food that represented African-American culture, as well as quality service, and an experience in which everyone is welcome.

What challenges have you faced as an entrepreneur?

I’ve faced a lot of challenges in building my business. Being a Black woman, it has been challenging for me to access capital and real estate, and to create the kind of team I need to really move my business forward.

How have you pivoted during the Covid-19 pandemic?

Covid has provided me with a great opportunity to pivot. I’ve been able to establish more of a company culture that supports me, and I’ve been able to hire people that support my goals and mission for the company. We’ve also been able to increase business through take-out services and outdoor dining. Now, post-Covid, we’ll have another revenue stream in place because we’re doing more take-out and more pick-up. We just hope that we can survive in this challenging time for our industry.

How has your partnership with GlobalSF been valuable?

GlobalSF has supported me and my business by allowing me to increase my platform and by giving me exposure to international markets, as well as local media and press. One of the most valuable things has been reaching people through food on an international and national level– bringing people together over food and finding solutions to impact our industry in terms of sustainability, equity, and access.

What does the future hold for Brown Sugar Kitchen?

If I’m lucky, our business will continue to grow. Hopefully, we will get past this Covid period, people will dine in again, and I can extend the hospitality that I love to give!

Do you have any words of wisdom for other entrepreneurs?

The best thing I can tell other people in business is to look hard at what’s important to you. What kind of culture do you want to create in your business? What place do you want in your community? Find like-minded allies.