Oyate Group kicks off “Taste of Mott Haven” to boost local businesses

oyate group
Attendees inside of Beatstro enjoying food and drinks.
Photo by Jewel Webber

The Oyate Group, a Bronx-based social services organization, launched its “Taste of Mott Haven” event series last month, a neighborhood initiative aimed at supporting local businesses and celebrating the vibrant culture of Mott Haven.

The first of three events took place on Wednesday, Oct. 30, drawing enthusiastic crowds to various local establishments.

Attendees at the Lit Bar, a participant in the event, looking at all of the books on offer. Photo by Jewel Webber
Attendees lined up in front of the Chocolate Y Cafe (Chocobar Cortés) waiting to receive their tickets to go in. Photo by Jewel Webber

In addition to the Oyate Group, other organizations that partnered for this series of events include Mott Haven Rising, The Hoodspitality Group, Canon Strategy Group and others.

Canon Strategy Group Principal Tony Billups (fourth from left), Oyate Group Founder Tomas Ramos (fourth from right), Canon Strategy Group Founder and Principal Michael Brady (third from right), Assembly Member Chantel Jackson (right) and her son TJ (second from right) and others. Photo by Jewel Webber

Attendees who registered for the first event received up to three $25 tickets to purchase items, including food, drinks and books, from stores of their choice. Among the participating establishments represented were 787 Coffee, Bar 47, Beatstro, Bricks and Hops, Charlies Bar and Kitchen, Chocobar Cortés, Hudson Smokehouse, iNine Bistro, Mae Mae Cafe, Maisonetta, Rosa’s at Park, Sobro Garden, Sobro Juice, Talavera Cantina and The Lit. Bar.

A line of patrons wait to receive their tickets to go into Beatstro as Tomas Ramos looks on. Photo by Jewel Webber
Carlos Cortés, Owner of the Chocolate Y Cafe (Chocobar Cortés) inside serving his customers. Photo by Jewel Webber

Oyate Group Founder Tomas Ramos was on hand for the first event. He talked about the initiative and his goal to boost foot traffic and business across Mott Haven. The goal is not just to help these businesses survive, but also to thrive.

The next two Taste of Mott Haven events are scheduled to be held on Wednesday, Nov. 20 and Wednesday, Dec. 11. Both events will take place between 5-9 p.m. Attendees are asked to register at Mott Haven Rising – Oyate Group.

“Mott Haven Rising focuses on neighborhood services, marketing and emergency funding for South Bronx small businesses,” the Oyate Group said in a statement. “These events will showcase the community’s diverse food scene. Together, they aim to revitalize the area and celebrate its unique culture.”

Photo by Jewel Webber