HEART + SOUL

our story 

BJ Chester-Tamayo opened Alcenia’s in 1997 to heal her heart after the untimely death of her son. She wasn’t a cook and had never worked in a restaurant. She used her mother’s recipes and called her mom in Mississippi often to make sure preparations were right.

Alcenia Chester-Clark (1921–2019) was an amazing cook, a loving mother and friend, and an all-around phenomenal person. She—along with BJ’s granddaughter, Alcenia Tamayo—is our restaurant’s namesake and constant inspiration, and will remain in our hearts and souls forever.

Today, more than 20 years later, Alcenia’s continues to bring people together, fill their bellies and put smiles on their faces. Our mission:

1. Welcome guests warmly—BJ’s famous for her hugs

2. Serve delectable soul food in a cozy, colorful setting

3. Keep the love flowing—you arrive a stranger, but you leave part of The Alcenia’s Family and, we hope, sated and happy

We can’t wait to meet—and feed—you!