The world is still reeling from the death of culinary great Anthony Bourdain. In Buffalo, we fondly remember his visit to a number of establishments in 2009. We also still have an even greater connection to the renowned chef, thanks to the on-again, off-again presence of Bourdain’s Russian sidekick, Zamir Gotta.
These days, Gotta travels the world, reaching out to people who have been affected by the ravages of suicide. In September of 2022, Gottar’s own son committed suicide – a bewildering circumstance that compounded his grief from Bourdain’s tragic loss in 2018.
If there’s one thing that we can say about Gotta, who calls Buffalo his second home, it’s that he is a real fighter, through peaceful measures of course. His love for this city and the WNY region is relentless. Despite numerous setbacks, including the loss of his son, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Gotta makes numerous trips back to Buffalo… and to Ellicottville, NY.
Over the last few years, Gotta struck up a business relationship with Steelbound Brewery & Distillery, to produce small batches of his prized Zamir vodka, which he refers to as an “elixir of happiness.”
“Steelbound owners are peacemakers and understand my mission, so we are still producing small batch of my elixir of happiness,” says Gotta. “Zamir vodka is available thus far only at their locations in Springville, Ellicottville, and Dunkirk, as well as Queen City Wine & Liquor in Buffalo. My ideal plan is to promote peace with my Steelbound-like-minded-friends outside NY State – they are preparing distribution paperwork for Louisiana, Ohio, and Florida. Everything is possible, charting to peace!”
On Thursday, June 8, Queen City Popped Culture, Steelbound, and Gotta are co-hosting “A Toast to Anthony,” from 5pm-9pm at Steelbound – 6600 US-219, Ellicottville, NY 14731. This is a non-ticketed event, featuring food by celebrity Chef Om, with music by Primo – broadcasting on energyradiobuffalo.com. Free CBD massages by Jess – powered by iN:FuSD. There will be a live art auction (David Simpson and the artscollaborative.org) to support Mental Health Advocates of WNY.
For anyone who has ever been touched by Gotta’s jovial nature, kindness, and love for Buffalo, or who share his hope for a more peaceful and pain-free world, feel free to pay a visit to Steelbound, and raise a glass to the memory of Anthony Bourdain.
If you are feeling alone and having thoughts of suicide—whether or not you are in crisis—or know someone who is, don’t remain silent. Talk to someone you can trust through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call or text 988 or chat the lifeline.
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