LGBTQ+ Roundtable at Asempe Kitchen

Looking for a supportive space to share ideas, get advice, and connect with mentors? The LGBTQ+ Roundtable is the perfect platform for queer professionals to cultivate relationships, explore topics relevant to their professional journeys, and advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in Tompkins County. 

Thank you to Chef Kuukua Dzigbordi Yomekpe of Asempe Kitchen for hosting us this quarter! Though the brick and mortar location we will be meeting in will see it's final meal served February 1st, Chef Kuukua is continuing Asempe Kitchen cooking classes and Airbnb Experiences. Please continue to reach out to them for catering and stay tuned for upcoming pop-ups!

A note from our host:
Here are the next important details to know about Asempe Kitchen:
Our last day of service will be Sunday, February 1, 2026. We will go out in traditional Asempe style with our final Afrobeats in our Press Bay space from 11am-3pm.
Tickets are $20 or $25 at the door for a combo meal purchased ahead via venmo (@asempe kitchen). Sobolo drink as well as other drinks via Open Spaces Cider extra.
We will also have an auction on Sunday, February 8th, 2026 from 12pm-4pm.

There is a GoFundMe for Asempe to support this transition. Your contribution will help create a clean slate for the future by covering final closing costs and provide the staff with some security as they transition to what’s next and keep the dream alive. Let’s come together to show our gratitude for all the comfort and joy Asempe has given us, and help them step into their next chapter with hope and strength. 

Thank you to our Roundtable Series Sponsor: M&T Bank!