Chef Bangaly Kaba

My name is Bangaly Kaba, and I have been a chef in Ann Arbor, Michigan, for the past 12 years. During my culinary journey, I have had the privilege of creating menus and cooking for renowned restaurants such as Sava’s, Aventura, Taste Kitchen, Café Zola, Knight’s SteakHouse, Parc, Mani, and The Portage Yacht Club.

I have found every aspect of the service industry to be rewarding, and I strongly believe that a great chef serves as the perfect ambassador. Interacting with people from diverse backgrounds has been a source of joy for me, and it has deepened my understanding of culture and globalization through the lens of food.

My culinary style is diverse and encompasses haute cuisine, Italian cuisine, Spanish tapas, Indian cuisine, Western African cuisine, Northern African cuisine, various Asian cuisines, Creole cuisine, Cajun cuisine, Mediterranean cuisine, and cuisines from South America. Through my exploration of different foods and spices, I have observed a consistent influence of Western African cuisine across various culinary traditions, particularly in the use of spices.

The name "HighWay 10" is inspired by the Western African transatlantic highway and aerial route that connects West Africa to South America, known as the 10th parallel. This route has historical significance as it was used by slave ships and merchants, linking 12 Western African countries with colonial histories involving France, England, Spain, and Portugal. Growing up in Guinea Conakry, a vibrant coastal capital on the Atlantic Ocean, has shaped my perspective and contributed to my fluency in seven languages.

My goal with HighWay 10 is to create dishes that not only tantalize taste buds but also touch hearts and tell stories. I strive to offer a contemporary and global culinary experience that reflects my passion for food and cultural connections.