Esther Boakye Danquah, based in Somerset, New Jersey, has lived in the United States for over 25 years. Before moving to America, she worked at Christian Home Restaurant near the Motorway Roundabout in Ghana. Esther learned a lot about cooking, especially the traditional Ghanaian dishes, from her mentor, who is A fante. Esther’s aunt also encouraged her to pursue an education and better her life, which ultimately led to opening a restaurant and a hotel in Ghana. The business flourished for about 10 years before Esther relocated to the U.S. due to her husband’s move there.
In America, Esther recognized the potential of the restaurant industry and decided to pursue her passion for cooking full-time. She stopped working in corporate jobs about eight years ago and focused on her restaurant. Reflecting on her journey, Esther mentions that it’s important to focus on your passion and create your own time when you have a skilled job. She says, “If you have a skilled job, it’s the best way to manage your time and even take vacations whenever you want.”
Esther’s restaurant, 5 Loaves African Restaurant, offers a wide variety of Ghanaian dishes such as Konkonte, Tuozafi, Hausa Kooko, tilapia, grilled fish, Banku, and Acheke. The restaurant has become a favorite among diverse communities, including whites, black Americans, Ghanaians, Indians, and even Chinese customers who enjoy trying new foods. She shares that Ghanaians sometimes feel shy about eating out, fearing others will think they don’t cook at home, but many still come and enjoy the food.
Esther employs a diverse team, including seven people: five Ghanaians and two Nigerians. She sources her ingredients directly from Ghana, working with distributors, and ensures they meet food safety standards. The restaurant also caters for events such as weddings and funerals. She highlights that, despite the challenges, America offers great opportunities if you work hard, especially when it comes to starting your own business.
Looking back, Esther acknowledges that her husband has been a major source of inspiration. She used to sell Mary Kay products, but her friend encouraged her to pursue her love for cooking and open an eatery. While success is important, Esther believes in having fun and enjoying life while earning money. She also warns that some friends may envy your success and try to spoil your marriage by offering bad advice. Her advice is to keep personal matters, especially financial ones, private.
5 Loaves African Restaurant is open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM, except on Sundays. They have a strong presence on social media under the handle @5LoavesNewJersey and TikTok: 5Loaves.
In an interview with DJ Nyaami on Svtv Africas business link, Esther shared how she is passionate about her work and her community. She emphasized the importance of building a strong relationship with your partner, as some marriages fail due to envy and lack of patience from friends and family.
Esther concludes by expressing her love for Ghana, stating, “I love Ghana, its food, and its people. I visit often and cherish the connections I have with my roots.”
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