What happened

A popular Ghanaian eatery in Massachusetts has been shut down by the state’s authorities due to unpaid taxes. The restaurant, Accra Girls, was seized by the Department of Revenue (DOR), as indicated by two official notices displayed on its windows.

The exact timing of the enforcement has not been confirmed, and the Department of Revenue has yet to release an official statement regarding the closure.

Known for its authentic West African cuisine, Accra Girls opened its doors in 2017 and quickly became a cultural and culinary hotspot in the city. Its Instagram bio described the experience it offered as “hospitality on a plate,” reflecting its dedication to both good food and warm service.

OPINION: Why the Closure of Accra Girls Is More Than Just a Tax Issue

The shutdown of Accra Girls, a Ghanaian restaurant in Worcester, is a loss that goes far beyond tax enforcement. While unpaid taxes must be addressed, this situation highlights the uphill battles immigrant-owned businesses face in the U.S. — especially those rooted in culture and community.

Restaurants like Accra Girls are more than places to eat. They serve as cultural bridges, preserving traditional recipes, creating jobs, and offering a sense of home for immigrant communities. For the Ghanaian diaspora in Worcester, Accra Girls wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a connection to identity and heritage.

Its closure due to tax issues is unfortunate, but also not uncommon. Many immigrant entrepreneurs step into business ownership with drive and talent, but often lack access to affordable legal or financial guidance. Navigating complex U.S. tax laws can be overwhelming, especially without institutional support or proper mentorship.

This isn’t an excuse for non-compliance, but rather a call for more proactive solutions. Instead of only enforcing penalties, the state and local governments could implement early intervention programs. Workshops on taxes, small business clinics, or even grace periods could make a huge difference. A little support could have kept Accra Girls open and kept the culture it represented alive in the community.

The loss also reflects a bigger issue: how vulnerable culturally significant small businesses are. If we don’t create better support systems for them, more places like Accra Girls will continue to disappear, not because the food isn’t good or the community doesn’t care, but because the system makes it hard to survive.

Worcester is a diverse city, and its food scene reflects that. But diversity only thrives when it’s nurtured. Hopefully, this closure is a lesson and a spark for change.