Entrepreneur and cultural curator T’yanna Wallace is merging hip-hop royalty with high-end hospitality. Over the weekend, Wallace hosted an intimate private tasting in Midtown Manhattan to preview the menu for Big Poppas Steakhouse, a restaurant set to open this fall in honor of her father, The Notorious B.I.G.
Choosing the anniversary of her father’s passing (March 9, 2026) to host the event, T’yanna transformed a day of mourning into a celebration of life and vision. The restaurant fulfills a long-held dream of Christopher Wallace, who often spoke of opening his own eatery before his untimely death. The evening brought together a carefully curated team to execute the experience, including Chef Harley, who prepared the tasting menu, Celebrity Event Curators Alyi V & Marie Ann of The Alyi V Experience, Celebrity Publicist, Chasity Cox of Chasity Cox Public Relations LLC, and bartender Chyna, who crafted cocktails for the evening’s guests.
The Experience: Flavors of Brooklyn and Beyond
The featured menu crafted by Chef Harley blended elevated steakhouse staples with Caribbean-inspired flavors, paying homage to Biggie’s roots and lyrics.
Starter Highlights:
- Lil Ceasar Salad
- “Sky’s the Limit” Tuna Tartare
- Mango-Pineapple Jerk Wings
- Ackee & Saltfish Spring Rolls
Signature Entrées:
- Big Poppa Burger
- Mo Money Mo Problems Lobster Tails
- Brooklyn Strip Steak
- Bed-Stuy Stew Chicken
Guests also enjoyed cocktails and spirits provided by several premium partners via wine and spirit specialists Devin Monti & Nick Storm. Marcel, Gran Coramino Tequila by Kevin Hart, The Producer Mezcal by Swizz Beatz, Reif Rum, Edmond’s Honor Bourbon, and fruit punch provided by Pat’s Exotic Beverages.
A Family Affair
The guest list read like a roll call of hip-hop history and family. Joining T’yanna were her brother CJ Wallace, Lil’ Kim, Lil’ Cease, and members of Junior M.A.F.I.A. Notable media personalities like Kazeem Famuyide, Mecca, Rory Farrell and journalist Courtney Brown were also in attendance, alongside T’yanna’s mother and daughter.
Looking Ahead to Fall 2026
Located in the heart of New York City, Big Poppas Steakhouse aims to be more than a dining destination; it is a cultural landmark. When it officially opens in Fall 2026, it will offer fans and foodies alike a chance to experience the legacy of Big Poppa through elevated dining and storytelling…