MENU
We prioritize purchasing from Indigenous food producers locally and nationally. We have removed colonial ingredients such as wheat flour, cane sugar and dairy. We are proud to present a decolonized dining experience.
DRINKS
Make ReservationsBEER + WINE
We choose to support and purchase from BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) and women producers for our alcoholic beverages. We are honored to present a primarily Indigenous- produced wine list featuring selections from native winemakers in California, Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe, and Maori wines from New Zealand. We source and elevate selections crafted by BIPOC producers in a largely non-diverse and privileged industry.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
The Indigenous perspective on the history of America is to acknowledge the centuries of intense violence, dislocation, forced assimilation, segregation and cultural erasure that has happened to our cultures and communities.
We reject the values that have been upheld by settler colonialism, such as the wanton destruction of environment, including mining, logging, and monoculture agriculture, all of which contribute to the enrichment of a select few while our beautiful Indigenous landscapes and the people who have traditionally lived on them are continually abused.
The goal of this restaurant is to showcase modern Indigenous foods. This means that we prioritize purchasing from Indigenous producers first, and build our seasonal menus to reflect region, culture, and Indigenous identities. Our menu reflects the work of our non-profit North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems (NATIFS)
We have cut out colonial ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, dairy, wheat flour, and cane sugar, instead highlighting true agricultural products of North America, such as corns, beans, squashes, wild game, birds, fish and Native plants. This approach offers a different story of American cooking than the Eurocentric one that is traditionally touted— instead celebrating the amazing Indigenous diversity of Turtle Island.
We hope you enjoy and Thank You for supporting our mission and vision!
STAFF EQUITY, WAGES + SERVICE CHARGE
We aim to operate a sustainable business and provide an above-standard work environment, wages, and benefits for our staff. We include an 13% service charge to support higher wages for our staff. This is not a gratuity pursuant to MN Statute R. 5200.0080. We have left you the opportunity to provide gratuity for your service staff. A combination of both allows us to hire and maintain staff in a competitive labor market.
NATIFS.ORG
Owamni is owned and operated by our non-profit 501c3, North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems, NATIFS.org. Please visit our website for more information on our work, and find out how you can help us create accessible Indigenous food and education for all.
Pilamayeyelo, Sean Sherman
Founder: NATIFS / Owamni / The Sioux Chef