Willows and Pine is a legacy restaurant. Chef Michauxnée’s vision is inspired by her family history of culinary talent, hospitality, and self-sufficiency.
Will and Estelle Joseph came to Oakland, California, in the
late 1930’s/early 1940’s, as part of the Great Migration from the South looking to escape oppression imposed by Jim Crow laws, racial injustice, bigotry and the inhumane treatment of Black people in this country, specifically in the state of Louisiana. Will Joseph, Sr. had been a mill worker in Shreveport and had lost an arm in a work-related accident before making the journey to a better life experience. He set out alone to California to make a way to bring his family of 12.
The family bought their first home on Willow Street in West Oakland. One of the first brick and mortar businesses they opened was on Pine Street. “Save Yourself Market” was a thriving business that helped open the door of opportunity, and “The Barn” was brought to life in the same space. The Barn still has the reputation for some of the best soul food that could be found in Oakland.
Willows and Pine is dedicated to the descendants of the Joseph family and our Ancestors.
Established:
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