Esperance Muginga-Kaigi found her new home lacking in African fare, but not for long

The smell of simmering garlic, bay leaves, rosemary and basil have escaped through the cracks in the door, luring passers-by into the restaurant.

Vibrant table covers and curtains in red, blue and yellow enhance the warm and vibrant atmosphere inside the cafe.

But it is the woman behind the counter, in the kitchen, who is the soul of the establishment.

“I’m Esperance Muginga-Kaigi, I’m a refugee from Congo and I’m running Mama’s Caf in Ravenswood.”

“Esperance Muginga-Kaigi was born in Congo in Africa. I make smoked fish, chicken, I make…