Hidden Gems: Meet Emily Tanski of Santé Supper Club

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Tanski.

Hi Emily, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
After spending over a decade in hospitality, I realized that I was still searching for a ‘third space’ in Cleveland that felt truly intentional—somewhere with big-city energy that didn’t rely on cocktails to create connection. Molly Cheraso and I realized we shared this same hunger for a social life rooted in clarity, celebration, and community care, so we decided to build the table we couldn’t find. We started Santé Supper Club in 2024 because we believe the ritual of a shared meal should be a stage where our city’s incredible small businesses, creatives, and nonprofits can truly thrive and be seen. By removing alcohol from the equation and replacing it with soul-level conversation, we’ve created a way for our guests to directly see their impact on the local makers and missions that define Cleveland. What started as a small, organic partnership has grown into a beautiful village of people who want their social lives to reflect their values. As we move into our 2026 season, our goal remains the same: to create a sanctuary where we can all come together, grow our roots, and make this city a place that supports all of its neighbors.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In many ways, the journey has felt incredibly smooth because of the overwhelming generosity and spirit of the people around us. Santé has always been a collaborative community effort; we are so lucky to work alongside local small businesses and creatives who pour just as much heart into these experiences as we do. Of course, bringing these intricate events to life takes an immense amount of energy and intention, but that labor is constantly rewarded by the lasting memories we see being made at the table. We’ve made so many new friends along the way, and seeing those connections grow into a real support system is what keeps us moving forward. We are heading into this next season with so much gratitude, excited to continue growing this vibrant, welcoming space where everyone feels they have a place to belong.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Santé Supper Club?
At its heart, Santé Supper Club is a mission-driven dinner series born from a simple desire: to create a space where the ritual of a shared meal can actually change our city. We’ve become known for our long-table, community-style dinners that feel like a sanctuary—a place where the ‘big city’ energy is high, but the connection is deep and grounded. What sets us apart is our commitment to intentional, alcohol-free evenings. We pour so much love into our mocktail pairings because we believe that being fully present is the greatest luxury we can offer our guests; we want you to leave feeling more connected to yourself and your neighbor, not less.

That sense of care extends directly into the kitchen. My own journey as a private chef has taken me all over the world, from local organic farms to kitchens across different continents. I’ve spent years learning the art of cooking from the source, and I love applying that global knowledge right here in Cleveland as I curate our tables and menus. Every dish is a reflection of those travels—bringing together international techniques and flavors with the fresh, seasonal produce grown by our own neighbors.

More than anything, I am so proud of the ‘village’ feel that has grown around our table. We’ve created a space where everyone—whether you’ve lived in Cleveland forever or just moved here yesterday—is genuinely welcome and where every seat directly supports the local makers and nonprofits that make our community thrive. We also love bringing this same warmth to private parties and boutique catering, helping our clients celebrate their own special moments with the same heart and intentionality. When you join us, it’s about so much more than just a beautiful meal; it’s about the person sitting next to you, the mission we’re supporting together, and the belief that we can all play a part in making Cleveland a place that is impossible to leave.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Looking back, I think I was always meant to spend my time in the kitchen or in a garden. Growing up, my world was shaped by the hands of my mother and great-grandmother; they taught me that feeding people is a love language and a way to care for a village truly. I spent my childhood soaking up their passion, learning the rhythm of the seasons and the quiet magic of preparing a meal that makes someone feel seen.

I was an incredibly curious kid—the type who always had a book in one hand and was ready to explore the world. I had this restless need to learn, to taste new things, and to see what was beyond the next horizon. That same curiosity is what eventually led me to travel and cook across the globe, but no matter how far I went, I always carried those early lessons with me. Today, when I’m curating a menu or setting a long table, I still feel like that same curious girl—just now, I’m using everything I’ve learned on my travels to bring people together and recreate that same sense of home and wonder for our community.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.santesupperclub.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sante.supperclub/