Atlanta’s Southwest side is getting a vibrant culinary and cultural boost thanks to two native sisters, Nako and Narie Roberson. They’ve opened BOSK, a unique burger spot and cafe that’s not just serving delicious food but also fostering a sense of community and honoring the area’s rich heritage. This venture is more than a restaurant; it’s a revival.
Honoring Roots with ‘Big Oomp Studio Kitchen’
The Roberson sisters established ‘Big Oomp Studio Kitchen’ as a tribute to a legendary record shop that was once a cornerstone of Atlanta’s Southwest side. As new entrepreneurs, they recognized the need to create a space that celebrates the community, especially in an area undergoing rapid development. Their menu is thoughtfully curated to center the residents and their homegrown roots, infusing local flavor into every recipe.
The buzz around BOSK is palpable, with notable Atlanta figures like Kandi Burruss and Mayor Andre Dickens already stopping by to experience the offerings. The sisters shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE how their eatery came to life, driven by a deep dedication to Southwest Atlanta.
From Hairdressing to General Contracting: A Sister’s Vision
Narie Roberson, who has a background in hair styling, felt a calling for a career change. Driving past the available space, she saw an opportunity not just for herself but for her neighborhood. ‘I’ll stop doing hair. I’ll see it through full throttle,’ she recalls telling her father, who ultimately invested in their vision without loans, making it a true family business. Narie took on the immense task of overseeing the construction from the ground up, even learning the ins and outs of general contracting while pregnant with her son.
Beyond the main restaurant, BOSK Cafe, the sisters’ second venture, is a testament to their love for reading, community, and sisterhood. With over $1 million invested, they have ambitious plans, aiming to expand their menu beyond traditional Southern fare with offerings like wine tastings, cigar smoking, and tapas, showcasing their culinary versatility.
A Million-Dollar Investment in Community Pride
While some might question investing a million dollars in a neighborhood with a perceived stigma, the Robersons view the Southwest Atlanta location as crucial to BOSK’s identity. ‘We’re SWATS. We’re ATL for real,’ Nako stated proudly. ‘We wouldn’t have put this nowhere else.’ They aim to evoke a sense of nostalgia and prove that the Southwest side offers a vibrant, elevated experience without needing to travel far.
Their menu has already gained a reputation for its creative burgers, like the ‘Cascade,’ ‘Dirty South,’ and ‘AUC,’ alongside soul food delights such as the ‘Sobu’ salad. The welcoming, familial atmosphere draws a diverse clientele, from postal workers to local politicians, reinforcing BOSK’s role as a community hub.
Keys to Success: Presence and Persistence
The sisters emphasize the importance of being present in their business. Narie advises new owners to ‘face on the place,’ meaning being physically present, especially in the crucial first five years. ‘You need to be right here… every single day,’ she stresses, noting that customer visibility and investment are key to sustaining a new business.
As BOSK continues to thrive, Nako gets emotional seeing the restaurant filled with people, feeling they’ve helped ‘bring community back to Southwest Atlanta.’ Their journey is a powerful beacon of representation and pride for their community.
Have you visited BOSK or another amazing Black-owned restaurant in Atlanta? Share your favorite spots and experiences in the comments below!
