

The Secret Behind Tanya Holland’s Famous Cornmeal Waffles
Apr 15, 2025
Tanya Holland, a celebrated chef and U.S. Culinary Diplomat, shares her passion for food and hospitality, rooted in her family's tradition of hosting gourmet supper clubs. She discusses the significance of her Oakland restaurant, Brown Sugar Kitchen, and the cultural heritage behind her famous cornmeal waffles. Tanya reflects on how personal experiences and community shape her culinary journey while addressing the evolution of soul food and the emotional ties that food fosters among people.
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Origin of Famous Cornmeal Waffles
- Tanya Holland's famous cornmeal waffles were a unique invention born from her desire for a yeast-risen waffle with the texture of cornmeal.
- Demand grew so high that she had to manage multiple industrial waffle makers to serve hundreds daily.
Gourmet Club Creates Culinary Community
- Tanya's parents founded the Gourmet Club with six couples mixing black and white families to create culinary and cultural exchanges.
- It built community and broadened cuisine exposure for everyone, including Tanya as a teen involved in the dinners.
Summers in Southern Kitchens
- Tanya spent summers visiting grandmothers in Virginia and Louisiana, experiencing traditional Southern kitchens and foods.
- She recalls a penny candy store and homemade pralines, with cooking from scratch and strong community presence.