Naama Tamir’s love for hospitality started in Manhattan’s most vibrant restaurants, but her vision truly came to life when she and her brother opened Lighthouse in Williamsburg. What began as a small neighborhood spot quickly blossomed into a community-driven hub, recognized for its warmth, delicious food, and commitment to sustainability. Today, Naama continues her journey with exciting new ventures, including MESSY and Birds, furthering her mission to connect people through food, music, and shared experiences.
1. Naama, how did your entrepreneurial journey begin?
For nearly a decade, I worked in some of Manhattan’s coolest restaurants. What fascinated me wasn’t just the food—it was the energy, the sense of belonging, and the connections made around the table. I realized I wanted to create that experience in my own neighborhood.
In 2010, my brother Assaf and I opened Lighthouse in Williamsburg with the dream of making it a home away from home for anyone who walked through the doors. We envisioned a space where you could grab a drink solo or share a lively dinner with friends. It had to be warm, welcoming, and rooted in community—and, of course, serve amazing food made with care.
2. What challenges did you face in building Lighthouse, and how did you overcome them?
Balancing multiple priorities—sustainability, creativity, employee well-being, and profitability—was one of our biggest challenges. Running a restaurant means managing more than just food and service; it’s about creating efficient systems, building strong teams, and navigating financial hurdles.
We stayed true to our values and found strength through collaboration. Our team, local partners, and sustainable initiatives have all played a role in helping us grow. We also embraced adaptability because the hospitality world is unpredictable.
I’ve learned that success isn’t just about profit—it’s about the community you build and the positive impact you have. By staying rooted in our mission, we’ve been able to overcome challenges and create something meaningful.
3. When times got tough, what helped you stay motivated?
Support has been key. My brother Assaf, who is also my best friend, has been my rock through every challenge. Our loving family gave us strength, and our friends and regulars lifted us during tough times, especially during the pandemic.
I remember when Covid hit—like most restaurant owners, I faced immense doubt. But the outpouring of support from our community reminded me why we started. It wasn’t just about food; it was about creating a space where people felt seen and cared for.
Resilience, I’ve learned, isn’t about going it alone—it’s about leaning on those around you and believing in what you’re building together.
4. What advice would you give to new entrepreneurs?
First, find a good partner. Entrepreneurship is a tough road, and having someone to share the journey with—someone who complements your strengths and shares your vision—makes a huge difference.
Second, hire a good accountant early. Managing cash flow, taxes, and budgets can be overwhelming, so having a financial expert from the start can save you stress.
Lastly, take care of yourself. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Surround yourself with supportive people, stay curious, and remember that every challenge is an opportunity to learn.
5. What’s been a proud moment in your journey so far?
Winning the Slow Food USA Snail-Blazer award in 2019 was incredible. It recognized our commitment to sustainability, local sourcing, and workplace culture. But some of my proudest moments are more personal—like seeing regulars feel at home or watching staff grow and thrive over the years.
We’ve had team members who’ve been with us since day one, and knowing that Lighthouse is a place where people want to stay and build their careers is incredibly rewarding. Those quiet, everyday moments are a reminder of why we do what we do.
6. What is your vision for the future?
We’ve always aimed for more than just running a restaurant. Lighthouse is a model for a sustainable, community-driven business, and now, we’re expanding that vision with new ventures.
We recently launched MESSY, a fast-casual Japanese-Mediterranean-inspired skewer-sandwich shop in Soho. It’s designed to be affordable, craveable, and perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal. We’re also opening Birds, a piano bar and listening room centered around intimate, music-driven experiences.
In the future, I want to deepen our commitment to sustainability, explore new opportunities for collaboration, and create a platform for education within the industry. I’m excited to share what we’ve learned with others looking to build value-driven businesses.
7. What impact do you hope to create through your work?
I want to show that businesses can be both profitable and socially responsible. Through Lighthouse, MESSY, and Birds, I hope to connect people, foster meaningful conversations, and promote sustainability in the industry.
Beyond that, I want to provide opportunities for education, collaboration, and growth—both for our team and the community. By creating spaces where people feel connected, inspired, and supported, I hope to leave a legacy of purpose, kindness, and impact.
To learn more, visit: lighthousebk.com.