James Beard Award winner
Mamba Hamissi
- Discipline
- James Beard Award winner
Portrait of Mamba Hamissi
i. Biography
Co-owner and chef at Baobab Fare in Detroit since 2021, Mamba Hamissi works in East African food, specifically the Swahili region. He describes the role plainly: "I'm the coowner and chef here at Baobab Fare." The work is direct and specific, built around dishes he frames through design and place.
The Sunday email
Get new Made By stories every Sunday.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.
The Essentials Hamissi has led the kitchen and ownership side of the restaurant since 2021. His focus is East African food, with special attention to the Swahili region, and he says, "it's East African food, specifically Swahili region food." He also brings a designer’s eye to the plate: "I would call myself a designer; I design dishes." That approach links food to a larger idea of representation, expressed in his aim to change how people think about food, African food, and Detroit.
In Their Words “I would call myself a designer; I design dishes.” “I'm the coowner and chef here at Baobab Fare.”
FAQ
Asked of Mamba
What is Mamba Hamissi's current role?
As of 2026, Mamba Hamissi is Co-owner and Chef.
What is Mamba Hamissi known for?
East African food, specifically Swahili region food.
What recognition has Mamba Hamissi received?
James Beard Foundation nomination for Baobab Fare.
The Sunday email
Get new Made By stories every Sunday.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.