Waka, the East African food truck that has tantalized taste buds across the city, is planting its roots firmly in the heart of Eastern Market. This isn’t just a culinary expansion—it’s a story of perseverance, innovation, and community building, all set to the rhythm of Detroit’s beating heart.
Hamissi Mamba and Nadia Nijimbere, the dynamic duo behind Waka and Baobab Fare, have a story that is as compelling as the flavors they bring to the table. Immigrating from Burundi in 2014, they arrived with dreams that have since blossomed into reality. From humble beginnings as a pop-up in 2017, to establishing Baobab Fare in New Center, their journey has been marked by a relentless drive to share the rich culinary traditions of East Africa with their adopted city.
Waka’s transformation from a beloved food truck into a brick-and-mortar establishment is a testament to the couple’s vision and determination. The new location at 2465 Russell Street, the former home of the iconic Russell Street Deli, symbolizes a passing of the torch in Detroit’s culinary landscape. With a lease on the 2,056-square-foot space, Waka is set to seat 30 people and offer a fast-casual dining experience that promises to be as inviting as it is flavorful.
The estimated renovation cost of $600,000 reflects the ambition and commitment of Mamba and Nijimbere. They’re not just opening a restaurant; they’re crafting a space where culture, community, and cuisine converge. The expectations are high, with projected annual revenue for the new location estimated at a cool $1 million—a significant leap from the $150,000-$200,000 annual revenue of their food truck.
At Waka’s Eastern Market location, diners can expect a menu that’s a harmonious blend of the familiar and the novel. Signature dishes like brochette, chapati, and East African flatbread will be complemented by new street food offerings such as grilled meat kabobs and convenient “to-go” meals. Additionally, the couple’s retail line, Soko, will be available, offering coffee, beverages, and chocolate that capture the essence of East Africa.
Employing 20 people, this new venture isn’t just about business growth—it’s about creating opportunities and fostering a sense of community. It’s about building bridges between cultures and making the flavors of East Africa a staple in Detroit’s diverse food scene.
The expansion into Eastern Market is part of a broader vision for Mamba and Nijimbere. In March, they purchased a building at 16900 E. Warren Ave. in East English Village, signaling their commitment to spreading the Baobab Fare experience across Detroit. Their accolades are many—multiple James Beard Foundation award nods, a Food Network “Chopped” victory for Mamba, and being named Crain’s Newsmakers for 2023—yet they remain grounded and focused on their mission.
Waka’s journey from a food truck to a storefront in Eastern Market is more than a business expansion; it’s a narrative of resilience and innovation. It’s about a couple who dared to dream and, through hard work and dedication, are now enriching Detroit’s culinary landscape. As they prepare to open their doors, Mamba and Nijimbere are not just serving food—they’re serving a piece of their heritage, a taste of their journey, and a slice of what makes Detroit so extraordinary.
In a city that knows how to rise, Waka’s new home in Eastern Market stands as a beacon of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Here’s to a future filled with delectable flavors, vibrant community connections, and the indomitable spirit of Detroit.
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