3434 Northeast Sandy Boulevard, Portland, Oregon 97232, United States
About Us
Our Story
The Heart of TapTap Cuisine
At TapTap Cuisine, our journey is one of resilience, love, and unwavering determination. My name is Dieuson Alix, and this business is a tribute to the incredible strength of my mother, my family, and the Haitian community. Growing up in Haiti, I witnessed my mother’s extraordinary sacrifices. She would wake up as early as 1 a.m., prepare meals, and carry a heavy container filled with pots of food on her head, walking 60 to 70 miles a day to sell in different neighborhoods. She repeated this routine twice daily, all to ensure we had what we needed.
As a child, I couldn’t stand to see her endure this alone. Despite her insisting I focus on my studies, I would wake up early to help—fetching water, preparing spices, and cooking alongside her. With my notebook beside me, I juggled studying and supporting her, determined to excel in school. In Haiti, growing up poor with a single parent often meant a lack of respect, but I was driven to earn it through intelligence and hard work.
Those early days shaped my dream of building something greater—not just for my family but for my culture and community. I wanted to honor my mother’s sacrifices and transform her struggle into a legacy of celebration.
The Path to TapTap Cuisine
In 2016, I left Haiti to study in the U.S., starting at Chemeketa Community College in Salem, Oregon, before earning my bachelor’s degree in psychology at Buchnell University. The journey wasn’t easy. My absence took a toll on my mother, leading to depression and feelings of hopelessness. Her concern for my safety in the U.S., fueled by stories of racial violence, and her belief that I had no support system, weighed heavily on both of us.
But God had a plan. Shortly after arriving in Oregon, I was embraced by The Ofisa's family who treated me as their own, supporting me emotionally and financially as I pursued my education and dreams. Their kindness and the encouragement of the Haitian and Oregonian communities fueled my perseverance.
For seven years, I dreamed of opening a Haitian restaurant—not just as a business but as a platform to celebrate our culture and honor my mother. With the support of a government program, I was able to bring her to the U.S. This marked a turning point in our lives. Seeing her joy and pride in this new chapter reaffirmed my mission: to create a space where she could share her passion for cooking while inspiring others.
The Vision Behind TapTap Cuisine
TapTap Cuisine is more than a restaurant; it’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and cultural pride. Named after the iconic Haitian buses that bring people together, TapTap represents connection, community, and movement toward a brighter future. Our mission is not just to serve authentic Haitian dishes but to share the untold beauty of our culture with the world.
Through our food, we aim to inspire others, especially the younger generation, to overcome adversity and create paths of opportunity for their families and communities. From once being houseless and sleeping in someone else’s kitchen to now standing in our own restaurant kitchen, this journey is a testament to the power of dreams, faith, and hard work.
Gratitude and Community
We are profoundly grateful to the people of Portland, Oregon, who have embraced our vision and welcomed our flavors. Despite challenges, the community's support has been overwhelming, blending the Haitian and Oregonian spirits into a unique bond. TapTap Cuisine is committed to giving back by providing employment opportunities and showcasing the richness of Haitian culture beyond stereotypes.
With every dish we serve, we honor my mother’s legacy, our family’s journey, and the resilience of the Haitian spirit. Together, we celebrate a story of hope, connection, and the unshakable belief that brighter days lie ahead.
Welcome to TapTap Cuisine—a place where food tells a story, and every meal is made with love and purpose.
Tap in
At Tap Tap Cuisine, we believe that food should be an experience, not just a meal. Our journey began with a passion for cooking and a love for bringing people together through delicious food.
Our Commitment
Sustainability is at the heart of what we do. Tap Tap Cuisine is dedicated to using locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices to minimize our impact on the environment.