Heartwarming Story How Suya Joint Restaurant Got Its Name in Roslindale

Editor's note: The following was posted by chef Cecelia Lizotte of Suya Joint on Suya Joint's Facebook page on Monday, Dec. 3, 2012. 

Today I lost my grandmother. The greatest inspiration behind my restaurant and here is my story. 

Growing up as a little girl in the sleepy village of Qua’an Pan in beautiful Plateau State in Nigeria, I would often help my grandmother with simple tasks while she worked away in the kitchen of her small village restaurant.

It was a small, rustic place, a true "joint" in the old Nigerian tradition. But seeing the way the people would flock to the restaurant daily when the food was ready to be served was my first inspiration that led me down the path to where I am today.

Seeing the smiles, the laughter, and the camaraderie that were the fruits of my grandmother’s labor fills me with warm memories to this day. After coming to the States over a decade ago, and following a long and winding road that has been sometimes rocky and sometimes smooth, I stand here today ready to fulfill a childhood dream. 

To my grandmother, my great inspiration, I dedicate Suya Joint. My aspiration is to create the same feelings here in Roslindale that she created back in Qua’an Pan those many years ago.

Thank you Grandma, and May the warmth of my hospitality and the comfort of your meal give nourishment to both your body and soul.