The Diaspora Collective

- 628 E Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85004

For those in Arizona seeking an enriching culinary and cultural experience, look no further than The Diaspora Collective in historic Heritage Square, Phoenix. More than just a restaurant, this establishment is a multi-faceted hub designed to celebrate and honor the food, art, culture, music, and people of Africa and the African diaspora. It operates with a friendly and professional tone, aiming to create a safe and inclusive space where guests can connect, discover, and celebrate the rich heritage.

At the heart of The Diaspora Collective is **Latha Restaurant and Bar**, with "Latha" meaning "flavor" in Swahili. Latha offers a contemporary Pan-African dining experience, weaving together the diverse cuisines of the African diaspora, including influences from Brazil, the Caribbean, and the Southern United States. This approach honors the interconnected journey of these foodways and cultures, with a menu rooted in authentic, historical recipes, crafted from thoughtfully sourced seasonal ingredients.

Beyond the exceptional dining, the collective includes **Soko**, an African market or boutique that specializes in selling handmade goods from Black artisans from Africa and the African diaspora. This unique combination of a restaurant, bar, and market makes The Diaspora Collective a true destination in the heart of Arizona for authentic cultural immersion.

The location of The Diaspora Collective in Phoenix's historic Heritage Square places it in a beautiful, accessible setting. Housed in a charming house, the establishment offers a distinct atmosphere that customers have likened to "walking into a friend's home." The building's lovely decor, which includes hardwood floors and African accents, enhances the warm, cozy, and trendy atmosphere.

The address is clearly defined, making it simple for local Arizonans and visitors alike to find this unique spot in downtown Phoenix. The accessibility features are a thoughtful detail, ensuring that the space is welcoming to all members of the community. Being situated on East Adams Street in the 85004 zip code ensures a central location within the Phoenix metropolitan area.

The full contact and location details are:

• Address: 628 E Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
• Phone: (480) 640-6183

The Diaspora Collective, through its restaurant Latha and the Soko market, offers an extensive range of services to its Arizona patrons. The focus is on providing a comprehensive cultural experience that goes beyond simply serving a meal. The different facets of the business work together to create an environment that encourages discovery and connection.

• Restaurant Service (Latha): Offering a full-service dining experience that celebrates Pan-African cuisine with influences from Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean, and the Southern US.
• Dining Options: Available for Brunch, Dinner, and Dessert, with seating both indoors and a huge, inviting outdoor patio.
• Bar Service: A full bar onsite offering a selection of alcohol, including great cocktails, with a specific focus on wine, beer, and spirits owned or developed by Black artisans.
• Market/Boutique (Soko): Retail space selling African goods, clothing for men, women, and children, jewelry, home decor, bath & body products, coffee, and other items handmade or designed by Black artisans.
• Private Dining/Events: The venue features a full-service restaurant and bar, two indoor rooms, and two outdoor patio areas, making it an ideal location for private events such as celebratory brunches, business dinners, wedding receptions, or cocktail parties for groups over eight.
• Accessibility: Features include a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot.
• Payments: Accepts Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments for convenience.

The experience at The Diaspora Collective is marked by several key highlights that make it a standout choice for dining and culture in Arizona. From the moment customers approach the nice house with its huge patio, they are entering a space intentionally curated to be authentic and empowering.

• Authentic Pan-African Cuisine: The food, described by customers as 'amazing' and 'delicious,' is crafted by a professional chef who is dedicated to cooking "with love." Menu items like the whipped goat cheese appetizer, described as "the best ever," and flavorful burgers highlight the quality and unique spice of the offerings.
• Live Music and Atmosphere: The establishment features live music, often on Friday and Saturday nights, and a DJ for Sunday brunch, creating an energetic and vibrant atmosphere with music that represents Africa and the diaspora, such as Afrobeat, soul, and R&B. Live Caribbean music has also been a featured event on the patio.
• Great Cocktails: The bar is known for its excellent cocktail menu, with drinks like the old fashion having a "nice spice" to it, and the mojito being "very refreshing."
• Exceptional Customer Service: The owner is known to stop by tables to ensure guests are enjoying their experience, reinforcing the feeling of walking into a friend's home and demonstrating a commitment to great customer service.
• Black and Women-Owned: The business proudly identifies as both Black-owned and women-owned, driving a vision to empower people and change the narrative surrounding Africa and the African diaspora through food, art, and culture.
• Casual, Cozy, and Trendy Atmosphere: The indoor and outdoor seating areas are designed to be comfortable and stylish, attracting a crowd that includes groups and tourists, and popular for dinner and solo dining.

What truly makes The Diaspora Collective worth choosing for an Arizona resident is the unique and meaningful experience it provides. It is far more than just a place to eat; it is an immersive cultural journey. Guests can savor delicious, thoughtfully crafted Pan-African dishes, enjoy cocktails, and browse the Soko market for authentic, handmade goods, all in one welcoming location.

The blend of fast service, great food (like the hummus and bread or the perfectly grilled burgers), and the opportunity to engage with the culture through art, decor, and live music, offers a holistic experience. Furthermore, by supporting this establishment, patrons are directly supporting a Black-owned and woman-owned business dedicated to empowering a positive narrative and fostering community connection in the Phoenix area. The comfortable, inclusive atmosphere, complete with a gender-neutral restroom and both indoor and intimate outdoor seating, ensures that everyone feels welcome to celebrate, connect, and discover the rich flavors and spirit of the African diaspora.

Whether you are seeking a place for a cozy dinner, a lively Saturday night with live music, or a vibrant Sunday brunch, Latha at The Diaspora Collective provides an unforgettable dining experience right in the heart of Arizona's capital city.

The Diaspora Collective

628 E Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA