Celebrate Black Liberation & Food

Welcome to Connie's Underground, where liberatory supper club meets cultural celebration! We're on a mission to further elevate and honor Black culinary heritage through innovative dining experiences, and we need your help to make it happen.

Who is Mariya Moore?

“I discovered my passion for cooking amid family gatherings where food was the heart of every occasion. Following my culinary dreams, I pursued culinary education at Le Cordon Bleu Chicago, immersing myself in fine dining for 15 years, earning a reputation for excellence. My journey led me to become Chef De Cuisine at Kumiko and Kikko, where my innovative approach earned Kikko its first Michelin star, making me the first Black woman to achieve this accolade. Despite this success, the demanding role led to burnout, prompting a transformative decision. Seeking balance and self-care, I embarked on a journey of introspection, leading to the birth of Connie’s Underground Supperclub—a manifestation of my culinary vision and newfound clarity.”

Connie's Underground is a liberation project based around living intentionally. Reconnecting with basic human needs and ancestral instincts, while focusing on nourishment, sustainability, and community. A labor of love and a tribute to the rich tapestry of Black culture. Named after Chef Mariya Moore's late beloved Aunt, Connie's Underground combines ancestral traditions and flavors with contemporary philosophies, creating a dining experience that's as unforgettable as it is delicious.

Why we need your help!

While our passion for preserving and elevating Black culinary heritage is unwavering, the reality is that launching and maintaining a pop-up as unique as this one requires significant resources. From securing accessible locations and sourcing sustainable ingredients, to hiring talented individuals who create a safe, warm welcoming atmosphere. Every aspect of Connie's Underground requires careful planning and financial investment.

By contributing to our crowdfunding campaign, you'll not only help us cover essential startup costs but also enable us to continue celebrating!

How your contribution will manifest:

- Securing a safe, accessible, equipped & prime location for Connie's Underground

- Purchasing sustainable, seasonal high-quality ingredients (when available) from local, POC/WOC-owned businesses

- Supporting our sustainable practices

- Hiring and training talented co-creators who share our commitment to excellence

- Crafting an ambiance that is both liberating, reassuring, and celebratory, resonating with the essence of communal bonding and connectivity

- Providing access to sustainable, holistic methods that encourage our communities to establish a nurturing relationship with food. Reconnecting with the land, in turn reconnecting to ourselves.

- Launching special events and initiatives to further enhance Black heritage

- Paying homage to our ancestors by incorporating their traditions

- Supporting our ability to be of service and receive adequate rest and care for ourselves.

Contributions:

$1000+ Invite to an intimate pre-dinner tasting, 2 tickets to Connie's Underground, plus one mystery gift box

$750+ Two seats to Connie’s Underground, and one mystery gift box

$500+ Two seats to Connie's Underground

$200+ Official Connie’s Underground merch and one recipe postcard

$100+ One recipe postcard

*all who contribute to these tiers of contribution, will receive access to Mariya’s recipe ebook and an in-depth look into Connie’s Underground!

Now that we have chosen one another, we can continue to make Connie's Underground a reality and prioritize our wellbeing for longevity. Creating a space where food, culture, and community converge. Whether you're passionate about food, a dedicated supporter of Black-owned businesses, or simply someone who believes in the power of human connection to unite and inspire, we invite you to join us on this journey.

Thank you for your generosity and support!