INUVIK - It's her "kingdom," a quaint little kitchen at Arctic Foods with a perfect view of the cashiers.

That's the way Susan Kovacs likes it, being able to have a conversation with people buying her hot lunches while she prepares them.

Susan Kovacs poses proudly in her kitchen at Arctic Foods on Friday. - Andrew Rankin/NNSL photo

From her kingdom comes about 24 different breads, from whole wheat to alpine to outback. Her hot lunches are a hot ticket in town, especially her garlic and alfredo chicken meals, not to mention her salads and fresh strawberry and apple cake desserts.

"My secret is it's fresh," she said. "I give a little bit of my heart and everybody's happy. I love my job. I love to cook. I see a happy face and I get very excited and happy."

Dan Heilbrunn is one of those with happy faces.

"You should see her stuffed cabbage rolls packed with meat and rice, and her goulash is a thick beef soup with dumplings," he said. "There's nothing like it; the taste is wonderful."

Originally from Hungary, Kovacs immigrated to Windsor, Ont., in 2000, after getting a divorce. In search of a new life but unable to speak English, the former university economics professor began working in restaurants. With an enviable work ethic and a love of cooking she rose through the ranks, from dishwasher to prep cook to first cook.

After learning enough English, the mother of two went to college and earned her red seal chef certificate.

After that she opened up her own restaurant and ran it for three years. Then it was time for another adventure. She set off for Inuvik to work at the Mackenzie Hotel. Three years ago she got hired to take over Arctic Foods' kitchen.

Her son Adam has since moved here to work with her. The pair take on any catering project, big or small; simple or fancy. They even once made 1,500 hotdogs for one party.

"I like the challenge; I never get scared," Kovacs said. "When I conquer a challenge, I feel I grow up more."

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