Talya Miller—chef, entrepreneur, and HomeSight board member—shares how she blends community outreach, healthy Southern cuisine, and small-business success.
Talya Miller first opened The Comfort Zone, a Seattle soul food restaurant, in The Royal Esquire Club—a nonprofit club serving Seattle’s Black community since 1948. Miller’s fresh, healthy take on traditional Southern fare has helped her business grow to an independent location in the Central District.
For Women’s History Month, and to celebrate 2025’s Plate of Nations, HomeSight sat down with Miller to discuss healthy Southern cuisine, small business ownership and HomeSight’s hyperlocal approach to community development.
HomeSight: Why did you choose to open your restaurant in the Royal Esquire Club?
Miller: Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and both sides of my family have a tradition of showcasing culinary skills. Encouraged by family and friends—especially my mother, one of seven siblings who are all excellent cooks—I pursued this path. My grandmother and my father’s younger brother are also exceptional cooks.
Established in 1948 by Black men to support the community, The Royal Esquire Club has always held significant meaning for my family. Being part of an organization that uplifts the community resonated deeply with me, as our core values align. I was thrilled at the chance to serve them. I wanted The Royal Esquire Club to be more accessible to the public. As a private club, its reach was limited. Introducing The Comfort Zone restaurant within its space allowed the broader community to engage with the club more frequently.
HomeSight: What is it like cooking with your daughter?
Miller: Cooking with my daughter at The Comfort Zone is incredibly rewarding. Together, we craft soul food that blends tradition with health-conscious choices. We honor classic Southern dishes while accommodating various dietary needs by using fresh, local ingredients. For example, we substitute turkey for pork, streamline recipes, and offer vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free options. Our goal is to balance rich flavors with nutrition, ensuring each meal is both delicious and nourishing.
HomeSight: You’ve participated in Plate of Nations for several years now. How did this experience shape your business?
Miller: Participating in Plate of Nations has been transformative for The Comfort Zone. Events like Plate of Nations are vital as they unite the community by celebrating cultural diversity and introducing small businesses to new patrons, boosting economic growth. Beyond showcasing our restaurant, I enjoy discovering and supporting fellow local eateries, enriching my culinary perspective and strengthening community bonds.
HomeSight: You serve as secretary on HomeSight’s board. How has your board tenure been, and what are your goals—both for HomeSight and your business?
Miller: My involvement with initiatives like Plate of Nations inspired me to join the board and it’s been deeply rewarding. On the board, I contribute to strategic decisions that enhance our neighborhoods. My goal is to promote inclusive growth and ensure our programs meet community needs. Looking ahead, I plan to expand The Comfort Zone’s offerings, deepen our local partnerships, and collaborate with community partners to establish a food bank.
HomeSight: What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs hoping to start a restaurant or business?
Miller: Start by visiting HomeSight’s website and exploring their Resources page to find programs that align with your business needs. If you need assistance during the application process, HomeSight offers support—don’t hesitate to reach out for clarification. For Plate of Nations, express your interest by contacting the event coordinators through the Plate of Nations website.
Talya Miller, Owner of The Comfort Zone and HomeSight’s Board Secretary
