A place to enjoy a mouthful of hearty cassava meals …
by: Natasha Green
The term ‘Tilou Kanawa’ may be a tongue twister to many.
Still, for its owner, it is a term promoted with pride, a step towards supporting the revitalization of a lost Kalinago/Karipuna language. Easily translated to mean ‘The Little Canoe, ’ the name extends far beyond just an indigenous language. It exemplifies the rich cultural patrimony of the Kalinago people.
Once nomads, the Kalinago traveled throughout the Caribbean in dugout canoes handcrafted from the Gommier tree, a tradition still visible in contemporary Kalinago life.
Tilou Kanawa or the Little Canoe comprises a restaurant and souvenir brand, uniquely situated in the heart of the Kalinago community of Dominica. Officially launched in late 2020, the restaurant offers a savory blend of cassava treats, complemented by other local healthy meal options.
Its signature cassava tacos, are the highlight of the experience, carefully curated to include seafood flavors in line with the name, ‘the Little Canoe’.
The Tilou Taco is a must while sitting in the fresh open breeze, overlooking the picturesque Atlantic seascape and clear view of the neighboring French islands on the horizon.
Keeping It Simple & Healthy
Imagine savoring a freshly prepared Cassava taco, being mindful that the cassava burger and pizza are just as delightful, served alongside fresh garden salads and freshly squeezed local fruit juice.
Even its menu has been designed to capture the Kalinago language, with simple words and phrases used to define the food options, indeed a unique way to keep the language alive.
Beyond serving as a healthy culinary experience, cassava has remained a staple of Dominica’s indigenous people, not only because of its rich cultural significance but also for its economic value and as a major source of food security beyond community borders.
The Kalinago Culture & Heritage Is Alive
Apart from its food, the Tilou Kanawa promotes a diverse selection of souvenir items that not only form part of its vision, but also share a key component of the Kalinago culture and heritage. The Tilou Kanawa t-shirts, keyrings, and wristbands are among its popular items promoted through digital marketing and at the restaurant venue.
Business in Dominica doesn’t come without its challenges; however, for Tilou Kanawa, the future is hopeful. New national efforts in tourism and the emergence of more health-conscious eaters and foodie influencers mean that the market will expand, and more visitors will come to the community.
In the meantime, Tilou Kanawa is still growing, adjusting, and re-adjusting to improve its positioning as a female-owned indigenous business and brand, while also being used as a cornerstone for helping to elevate other female-owned businesses and encouraging other indigenous brands.
You Can Find Tilou Kanawa on IG @ Tilou_Kanawa
Author Bio: Natasha Green – is an experienced community development practitioner, freelance project coordinator, and an entrepreneur in the heart of the indigenous Kalinago community of Dominica. With deep roots in the Kalinago Territory, she brings a passion for sustainable tourism and Indigenous empowerment.
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