Our Story
Meski offers a unique dining experience that celebrates Black culture and brings the community together through food, drinks, and music. The restaurant's menu features innovative dishes, such as Meski Yetsom Platter and Pollo Guisado Sambusas, blending Ethiopian and Dominican flavors. With a bar-forward concept, Meski is designed to be a lively gathering spot, offering curated cocktails and a soulful cuisine.
Behind
the Scene
Guma Fassil
Renowned entrepreneur and restaurateur, best known for owning Meski, a vibrant Ethiopian-Dominican fusion restaurant in San Francisco's Lower Nob Hill neighborhood. Born to an Ethiopian family, Fassil's connection to his heritage is deeply reflected in his culinary ventures. His mother, Meskerem "Meski" Tsegaye, opened Ethiopia Restaurant in Berkeley in 1993, which has been serving authentic Ethiopian cuisine for over 30 years .
Fassil's journey in the restaurant industry began at a young age, helping out at his mother's restaurant and learning the intricacies of running a business. He developed a passion for entrepreneurship and event promotion, eventually becoming a successful club promoter in San Francisco.
Chef Nelson German
a celebrated Dominican-American executive chef and owner of alaMar Kitchen & Bar and Sobre Mesa Afro-Latin Cocktail Lounge in Oakland, California. Born on February 4, 1981, in Washington Heights, New York City, German's culinary journey began with formal training at the New York Art Institute, where he mastered Mediterranean-style cooking with French techniques.
Early Career
German's rise to prominence started in New York City, where he worked at esteemed restaurants like Gramercy Park Hotel, Jerry's Café, and Joseph's Citarella. Under the guidance of Chef Yugi Wakiya, he refined his skills in Asian flavors and techniques. In 2010, German relocated to Oakland, California, and immersed himself in California cuisine, eventually joining Supper Club SF.
Restaurants and Style
alaMar Kitchen & Bar: German's Oakland-based restaurant, known for its Mediterranean-inspired seafood dishes with Cajun roots. Michelin-recommended and a staple in the Bay Area, alaMar showcases German's creative take on family recipes shaped by his travels through Spain, France, and Italy.
- Sobre Mesa: German's Afro-Latin cocktail lounge, launched in 2020, celebrates his Dominican heritage through vibrant tapas and craft cocktails. The term "Sobre Mesa" translates to "on the table," symbolizing the meaningful conversations that follow a meal.
Accolades and Recognition
- 2020 Chefs to Watch by Plate Magazine
- Best Chef 2022 by East Bay Express
- Contestant on Bravo TV's Top Chef Season 18
- Featured chef at the prestigious Pebble Beach Food & Wine Festival
- Participant in the James Beard Foundation's Summer Taste America culinary series
Draymond Green
The legendary Golden State Warriors forward, has added another title to his impressive resume: restaurant owner. Green partnered with Guma Fassil and Chef Nelson German to open Meski, a vibrant Ethiopian-Dominican fusion restaurant in San Francisco's Lower Nob Hill neighborhood.
Green's Vision
For Green, Meski is more than just a restaurant – it's about creating a space where people can come together and feel welcome. "I want to create a staple in this city that people can go to and regardless of their culture, feel that and feel welcome," he said. Green aims to revitalize San Francisco's culture and provide a new dining experience that showcases the city's diversity.
Impact and Future
Meski has quickly become one of San Francisco's hottest restaurants, attracting celebrities and foodies alike. With Green's dedication, Fassil's knowledge, and German's culinary talent, Meski is poised to make a lasting impact on the city's dining scene.