Majani’s Vegan Village
CHICAGO—There’s a flavorful revolution simmering on the South Side, and its roots are planted in more than just delicious vegan cuisine. At the helm is Chef Tsadakeeyah “Chef T” Emmanuel, co-owner of Majani, a beloved plant-based restaurant celebrating eight years of serving soulful vegan fare at 72nd and Exchange.
Now, Chef T and his wife, co-founder Nasya Emmanuel, are expanding their vision: a Vegan Village on the historic corridor of 79th Street, just across from Rainbow Beach. This innovative project, already supported by $50,000 in early investment, aims to transform the property at 3110 E. 79th Street into a multi-restaurant food hall with indoor and outdoor seating, parking, live music, and mentorship opportunities for future vegan chefs.
In a report from ABC 7 Chicago, Chef T described his motivation: “I still feel like it’s not enough… We’re not doing enough to make an impact in the community.” The Vegan Village represents more than business—it’s a cultural and economic revival rooted in wellness, access, and ownership.
Majani, which means “green” in Swahili, has become a cornerstone of South Shore’s culinary scene, offering favorites like jerk tofu, black-eyed pea burgers, and BBQ cauliflower—all made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. “People will travel for good food, whether it’s plant-based or not,” Chef T told ABC 7.
The Emmanuels envision the Vegan Village as a space where community and culture converge. It will host up to four independent vegan restaurants, including a vegan pizza shop and juice bar. The goal? To support and franchise new chefs while creating a destination that attracts visitors and encourages local spending.
“We want community investment—like that’s important,” Chef T said. “Ideally, you have 100 or 200 folks that feel like they are invested and that they become ambassadors.”
Tanya Trice, executive director of the South Shore Chamber of Commerce, sees the project as a timely intervention in a neighborhood poised for resurgence. “Along 79th, we’re attracting younger people into the community,” she said. “We just need to find ways for them to come into the corridor and spend their dollars and play and shop and be active.”
The Vegan Village also aims to create economic equity through culinary empowerment. A majority of funds raised—81%—will go toward purchasing the property, while the remainder covers demolition, environmental reports, architectural planning, and working capital. Majani’s mission extends beyond food; it’s about building a walkable, self-sustaining community that exemplifies health, unity, and Black economic self-determination.
As someone who’s been nourished by Majani’s meals and mission, I’m excited for what’s next. The Emmanuels aren’t just opening restaurants—they’re creating a sanctuary of culture, nutrition, and pride. The Vegan Village is more than a food hall; it’s a movement.
If crowdfunding continues successfully, Chef T hopes to open the Vegan Village by this fall. For more information or to contribute, visit www.majanivegan.com or their official GoFundMe page https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-majanis-vegan-village-in-south-chicago
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“We’re not just building restaurants,” Chef T says. “We’re building a village.”
Portions of this article include reporting from ABC 7 Chicago.
