Thursday, Aug 27, 6-8pm. Member $85, Non-member $94

LENGTH: 2 hours

FORMAT: Five-course seated dinner with historical storytelling and discussion.

WHAT TO EXPECT: As a fifth-generation New Englander, Chef Nyanyika Banda grew up at the intersection of Black American culture and traditional New England cuisine. Inspired by family traditions—from her great-grandmother smoking littleneck clams in the backyard to baked fish topped with buttery cracker crumbs prepared by her grandmother—this dining experience explores the often-overlooked story of Black foodways in Massachusetts and Cape Cod.

Through storytelling and a thoughtfully curated menu, guests will discover how African American traditions have shaped the culinary landscape of New England while enjoying dishes inspired by local seafood, seasonal produce, and historical recipes.

This experience blends culinary history, personal storytelling, and contemporary cuisine to create a deeper understanding of the region's diverse food heritage.

EXTRAS: Chef Nyanyika is also offering classes and a pop-up cafe on concert nights here at the Center.

DON'T FORGET: The Center is BYOB and you are encouraged to bring the beverage of your choice.

SAVE: Save $9 on this class by purchasing a membership for only $65 and get discounts on classes and events year-round at the Center.

INSTRUCTOR: Chef Nyanyika Banda is an award-winning chef, culinary historian, educator, and author of The Official Wakanda Cookbook. Her work explores the intersection of food, culture, history, and community, using food as a vehicle for storytelling, education, and connection.

A fifth-generation New Englander with roots in both Massachusetts and Malawi, Chef Nyanyika brings a unique perspective to the American table—one that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the African Diaspora while honoring the local ingredients and cultural influences that define Cape Cod and New England.

Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, NPR, Food52, and Resy. Through immersive dining experiences, hands-on cooking classes, and community-centered pop-up events, Chef Nyanyika seeks to create programming that is both educational and engaging while fostering meaningful connections through food.