The Legacy of Silany: A culinary Journey
A video Interview with Wadler Dieujuste, owner of silany's rest. lakay
january 2025 | By hyppolite calixte
Wadler Dieujuste, affectionately known as Wally, is a man deeply rooted in family and culture. Growing up in New Jersey and now calling Atlanta home for the past 19 years, he carries with him a profound sense of purpose and passion. “I’m a family man,” Wally shares with a warm smile. His voice carries the weight of both responsibility and joy, reflecting the life he has built alongside his wife and children. His path has always been guided by a desire to bring people together and create moments of happiness, a trait that would one day become the cornerstone of his entrepreneurial journey.
For over two decades, Wally worked in the food industry, honing his skills and cultivating a love for the craft. From barbecues at church gatherings to experimenting with unique culinary styles, his passion for cooking grew organically. “The spiritual bent since I was growing up, I’ve always enjoyed cooking or trying different things,” he explains. Yet, despite years of experience, something was missing. He had worked on countless projects, but none truly represented his culture or personal story. That realization sparked the beginning of something extraordinary.
Initially, Wally envisioned launching a franchise with a couple of partners. The plan was ambitious: pizza catering and a well-structured network of operations. However, fate had other plans. “We were supposed to have three partners,” he recalls. “But one pulled out unexpectedly, and another decided to focus on other priorities, like buying the condo he was living in. Suddenly, I was left on my own.” What might have felt like a setback turned into a pivotal moment of clarity for Wally. “I thought to myself, there might be a reason for this.”
For over two decades, Wally worked in the food industry, honing his skills and cultivating a love for the craft. From barbecues at church gatherings to experimenting with unique culinary styles, his passion for cooking grew organically. “The spiritual bent since I was growing up, I’ve always enjoyed cooking or trying different things,” he explains. Yet, despite years of experience, something was missing. He had worked on countless projects, but none truly represented his culture or personal story. That realization sparked the beginning of something extraordinary.
Initially, Wally envisioned launching a franchise with a couple of partners. The plan was ambitious: pizza catering and a well-structured network of operations. However, fate had other plans. “We were supposed to have three partners,” he recalls. “But one pulled out unexpectedly, and another decided to focus on other priorities, like buying the condo he was living in. Suddenly, I was left on my own.” What might have felt like a setback turned into a pivotal moment of clarity for Wally. “I thought to myself, there might be a reason for this.”
It was then that Wally turned to his roots for inspiration, and the idea for Silany’s Restaurant Lakay was born. Silany is more than a name; it’s a tribute to his grandmother, a woman whose influence shaped his values and passion for life. “Silany is my grandmother’s name,” he says proudly. Through this venture, Wally sought to honor her legacy by weaving cultural traditions into the fabric of his business. Every recipe, every dish, and every moment spent in the kitchen became a testament to her memory.
Wally’s journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t without its challenges, but he approached each obstacle with an unyielding sense of determination. “I don’t believe in challenges,” he says. “Do challenges exist? Yes. But I think things happen for different reasons.” He entered the world of business knowing it wouldn’t be easy. Having seen countless food establishments rise and fall over the years, Wally was acutely aware of the risks. Yet, his vision remained steadfast. “I dove into this with the understanding that hard work and resilience would be key. This isn’t just a business; it’s my passion and my story.”
Building a dream from the ground up requires resilience, passion, and an unwavering belief in your purpose. For the owner of a restaurant known for its beloved Haitian dishes like Lalo, oxtail, and snapper, the journey to success is a testament to these qualities.
Wally’s journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t without its challenges, but he approached each obstacle with an unyielding sense of determination. “I don’t believe in challenges,” he says. “Do challenges exist? Yes. But I think things happen for different reasons.” He entered the world of business knowing it wouldn’t be easy. Having seen countless food establishments rise and fall over the years, Wally was acutely aware of the risks. Yet, his vision remained steadfast. “I dove into this with the understanding that hard work and resilience would be key. This isn’t just a business; it’s my passion and my story.”
Building a dream from the ground up requires resilience, passion, and an unwavering belief in your purpose. For the owner of a restaurant known for its beloved Haitian dishes like Lalo, oxtail, and snapper, the journey to success is a testament to these qualities.
The restaurant's menu, with 10 to 15 dishes, offers diners the freedom to choose what speaks to them on any given day, creating an experience that leaves them satisfied and eager to return. Among the top picks, Lalo, oxtail, and snapper stand out—not merely as dishes but as cultural statements, representing the heart and soul of Haitian cuisine.
Opening the restaurant was no small feat. The space wasn’t originally designed as a restaurant, so every element, from securing permits to physical construction, had to be built from scratch. It took a full year of dedication and overcoming challenges, but the result was a space that now welcomes guests from all over. One loyal customer routinely drives two hours from Greenville, South Carolina, just to enjoy the food—a gesture that speaks volumes about the impact the restaurant has on its patrons.
Wally credits his perseverance not only to his passion for food but also to the unwavering support of his family. Before the restaurant even opened, his two eldest children encouraged him to follow his dream. Today, they continue to help whenever possible, making the business a true family effort. Balancing work and family life is a daily priority, with mornings spent with his children and evenings dedicated to his wife and the restaurant.
Through it all, the lesson is clear: hard work, dedication, and love for one’s craft can overcome any obstacle. For this restaurateur, making people happy, whether through food or family will always be the ultimate reward.
Opening the restaurant was no small feat. The space wasn’t originally designed as a restaurant, so every element, from securing permits to physical construction, had to be built from scratch. It took a full year of dedication and overcoming challenges, but the result was a space that now welcomes guests from all over. One loyal customer routinely drives two hours from Greenville, South Carolina, just to enjoy the food—a gesture that speaks volumes about the impact the restaurant has on its patrons.
Wally credits his perseverance not only to his passion for food but also to the unwavering support of his family. Before the restaurant even opened, his two eldest children encouraged him to follow his dream. Today, they continue to help whenever possible, making the business a true family effort. Balancing work and family life is a daily priority, with mornings spent with his children and evenings dedicated to his wife and the restaurant.
Through it all, the lesson is clear: hard work, dedication, and love for one’s craft can overcome any obstacle. For this restaurateur, making people happy, whether through food or family will always be the ultimate reward.
Wally and his wife are frequently found in the restaurant, engaging with customers and ensuring their experience is enjoyable. The rich aroma of Caribbean spices drifts through the air, symbolizing the path that led him here and the heritage he strives to honor. For Wally, Silany represents more than just a business—it’s the fulfillment of a dream, a heartfelt homage to his family, and a vibrant celebration of his culture. As dishes leave the kitchen and the sound of happy customers fills the space, one thing becomes evident: the essence of Silany, much like the legacy of Wally’s grandmother, is destined to endure for generations.
Silany’s Restaurant Lakay is located at 965 Duluth Hwy, Lawrenceville, GA 30043.
Website: Click here
Facebook: SilanysRestaurant Lakay
Photo Credit: Darien Calixte and Silany's