Phoenix Spotlight: LATHA

LATHA in Phoenix is a truly unique culinary destination. The name “LATHA” is a variation of the Swahili word ladha, meaning flavor, and the restaurant embodies that by celebrating the rich and diverse cuisines of Africa and the African diaspora.

Here is a comprehensive overview of LATHA:

🌍 What Makes LATHA Unique?

LATHA is more than just a restaurant; it’s an immersive cultural experience and a “culinary tribute to the African diaspora.”

• Pan-African Cuisine Concept: The menu is a “journey of discovery along the trails of our ancestors,” honoring the interconnected foodways and culture of Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean, and the Southern US. This contemporary approach illuminates the historic culinary connections between these regions.
• Location and Ambiance: LATHA is housed in the historic Silva House in Heritage Square, a charming Victorian cottage built in 1899. The design captures a vibrant, warm spirit, featuring African art, woven baskets, a large map of Africa in the foyer, and Afrobeats music setting a lively mood.
• The Diaspora Collective: The restaurant is part of a multi-concept space called “The Diaspora Collective,” which also includes the Soko market that sells handcrafted African designs, apparel, and home decor. This creates a community-driven hub for culture and commerce.
• Black-Owned Spirits Program: The bar program, curated by General Manager Will Brazil, features a selection of wine, beer, and spirits that are owned or developed by Black artisans, such as Uncle Nearest whiskey and Bayab African Rose gin.

📜 History and Founding

LATHA was opened in 2023 by CEO and Founder Evelia Davis.

• Inspiration: Davis’s vision was sparked by a profound experience during her first visit to Africa, where she felt a deep sense of connection and belonging. She initially launched The Diaspora Collective as an e-commerce site to share what she discovered while traveling in Africa.
• Restaurant Realization: The restaurant was always part of the vision to share the narrative of the African diaspora. Davis partnered with Chef Digby Stridiron, a culinary ambassador from the U.S. Virgin Islands, to translate this narrative into a menu of authentic, seasonal dishes.

🍽️ Highlight Menu Items

The menu focuses on historical recipes crafted with thoughtfully sourced seasonal ingredients. Highlights include:

💬 Customer Feedback and Acclaim

LATHA has been met with significant positive feedback and has quickly gained recognition in the Phoenix dining scene.

• The Vibe: Customers consistently praise the lively atmosphere, the positive energy, the Afrobeats music, and the beautiful, inviting decor of the historic Silva House. Many reviews note that it feels like a “celebration.”
• The Food: Dishes are described as flavorful, unique, and comforting. The focus on connections (like the shrimp moqueca playing on Southern shrimp and grits) is often highlighted as an “edutainment” experience.
• Service & Cocktails: The service is often described as attentive, and the cocktail program is a major draw, featuring colorful, inventive drinks made with unique spirits.
• Acclaim: It has been recognized by publications like PHOENIX Magazine as a Best New Restaurant and is frequently listed among the “Hottest New Restaurants in Phoenix.”

🎉 Significant Events

While specific historical events outside of its 2023 opening are not widely detailed, LATHA is designed as an event space and a hub for culture:

• Regular Live Music: LATHA features live music or a DJ on weekends, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights for dinner and Sunday for brunch, often playing R&B, soul, Afrobeats, and jazz from the diaspora.
• Community Events: The multi-concept space is intended to be a gathering place for events like book signings, art exhibits, and private parties (they have indoor rooms and outdoor patio areas for events).

📞 Location and Contact Information