Mama Seledonia

On a recent trip to Cusco, Peru, I hosted a final dinner for a group of women I was leading. My goal was to find a restaurant that not only served good food but also supported a good cause! Mama Seledonia's provided the perfect combination! The restaurant's menu offered a variety of entree choices. Group members were excited about the bacon wrapped alpaca rolls, quinoa crusted chicken and trout served with a passion fruit glaze. No one was disappointed with their choice. Each of the entrees was delicious and presented beautifully. The Pisco Sours were delicious and the wine and beer choices did not disappoint! Dinner was memorable but the rest of the story enriches the experience beyond just having a meal. Mama Seledonia graciously spoke to our group after dinner. She shared that early in her life, she was a single mother. Working in various restaurants and a couple of private homes helped hone her skills as a chef. Her dream was to have her own restaurant and help other women in difficult situations. A local banker's willingness to loan Seledonia money enabled her to open her own restaurant - Mama Seledondia. Beyond the delicious food Seledonia serves her guests, her dream involves providing employment to single mothers. From personal experience, Seledonia understands how difficult it is to work when child-care is an issue. Therefore, her mission is not only to provide women with work but also to assist in providing quality childcare. Seledonia's smile, hospitality, culinary gift, leadership skills and compassion for others creates a dining experience that is unforgettable! I can't wait to return in 2019 with Ripple Effect Journey travelers for my next meal at Mama Seledonia!