Two East Macon women aim to transform an area classified as food desert into a culinary oasis with a sit-down spot, offering fresh food and community connection.
MACON, Ga. — Two East Macon women are preparing to open a new restaurant they hope will bring fresh food, a community gathering space and economic growth to an area long considered a food desert.
The East Side Cafe, set to open in June on Shurling Drive, is being launched by Towanda Diadill and Shawntae Brown, both lifelong East Macon residents who say the neighborhood has lacked healthy dining and sit-down restaurant options for years.
This story continues below.
New restaurant in East Macon aiming to offer healthier alternatives to the community
National restaurant rush for Cinco De Mayo | How Mexican restaurants are preparing
Federal data identifies East Macon as a food desert, meaning many residents live far from supermarkets or stores offering fresh produce and healthy food choices. While the area has several fast-food chains, the owners say there are few locally owned sit-down restaurants.
Diadill said the idea for the cafe came from witnessing those challenges firsthand.
“A more purpose now — a more purpose to help East Macon,” Diadill said. “I’ve seen the restaurants come and go in this community. I’ve seen the dry desert of food in this area.”
Diadill, who was born and raised in East Macon, will oversee the cooking, while Brown will help manage the business.
Brown said she immediately believed in her friend’s vision.
“East Macon does need a good place to go eat,” Brown said. “When you don’t have that place to cook or no one to cook you that Sunday dinner, Mrs. Wanda can provide you with that.”
Residents said the need for more healthy and community-centered food options is clear.
Y/O Latimore, who lives in East Macon, said access to grocery stores and fresh produce remains limited.
“Anything that is healthy, like a Panera, we don’t have that on the East Side,” Latimore said.
Latimore also said the restaurant could help address broader issues in the community, including neighborhood blight and a lack of gathering spaces.
“Food has always been the way we came together, no matter whether it’s race or class,” Latimore said.
The owners plan to host one of their first public events Saturday with a Mother’s Day-themed soft opening featuring menu tastings and community activities.
“A tasting of what East Side Cafe will have on their menu throughout the week,” Diadill said. “You also will experience gathering and great friendship.”