Top 25 African Restaurants in London: A Taste of Africa

The Top 25 African Restaurants

1. Ikoyi

Ikoyi is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in St. James's Market in central London. It was opened in 2016 by chefs Jeremy Chan and Ire Hassan-Odukale. The restaurant takes inspiration from the chefs' West African heritage, particularly the flavors and techniques of Nigeria, and blends them with modern European cooking.

The menu at Ikoyi features inventive and elevated takes on Nigerian and West African staples, using high-quality seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes include the jollof rice with smoked goose, the yaji spice-crusted turbot, and the plantain dessert with tamarind and peanut. The wine list also highlights bottles from lesser-known regions in Africa.

Ikoyi has received widespread critical acclaim since its opening. It was awarded a Michelin star in 2018, just two years after opening, and has retained it since. The restaurant has also been praised for its minimalist but elegant decor and intimate, 28-seat dining room.

Overall, Ikoyi offers diners a unique and refined exploration of West African cuisine in the heart of London. It has helped bring greater awareness and appreciation for this vibrant culinary tradition on the global stage.

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2. Chuku's

Chuku's is a Nigerian-inspired restaurant located in Tottenham, North London. It was founded in 2018 by siblings Emeka and Ifeyinwa Frederick, who were inspired by their Nigerian heritage and the lack of accessible Nigerian cuisine in the city.

The menu at Chuku's features a modern interpretation of classic Nigerian dishes, using high-quality seasonal ingredients. Signature items include the jollof rice with chicken, the suya-spiced fries, and the chin chin (fried dough bites) for dessert. The restaurant also offers a selection of Nigerian-inspired cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks.

Beyond the food, Chuku's aims to create a convivial, social dining experience that celebrates Nigerian culture. The space features vibrant decor with Afrobeat music playing in the background. The restaurant also hosts regular cultural events, such as Nigerian movie screenings and music nights.

Since its opening, Chuku's has received praise for bringing the flavors of West Africa to a wider London audience in an approachable and accessible way. It has been recognized for its commitment to promoting Nigerian cuisine and culture, as well as its welcoming, community-focused atmosphere.

Overall, Chuku's offers Londoners a unique opportunity to explore the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Nigeria within a contemporary, laid-back setting.

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3. The Ethiopian Coffee Company

Ethiopian Coffee Company Restaurant is a family-owned eatery located in Shepherd's Bush, West London. It was established in 2017 with the goal of introducing Londoners to the rich coffee culture and cuisine of Ethiopia.

The restaurant's menu highlights authentic Ethiopian dishes and coffee preparations. Signature items include the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, where coffee beans are roasted, ground, and brewed tableside; the injera (spongy flatbread) served with a variety of vegetarian and meat-based stews known as wat; and the kolo (roasted barley snacks).

Beyond the food and drink, the Ethiopian Coffee Company aims to create an immersive cultural experience for its guests. The dining room is decorated with vibrant Ethiopian artwork, textiles, and handicrafts, transporting diners to the Horn of Africa. The staff are knowledgeable about Ethiopian culinary and coffee traditions, providing educational insights to customers.

Since its opening, the restaurant has garnered acclaim for its authenticity and for helping to popularize Ethiopian cuisine in London. It has been praised for its warm hospitality and for fostering a deeper appreciation for Ethiopia's rich gastronomic heritage.

The Ethiopian Coffee Company represents an important hub for the city's Ethiopian diaspora community, while also introducing the flavors and customs of this ancient coffee-producing nation to a wider British audience. It offers Londoners a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant food culture of Ethiopia right in the heart of the city.

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4. Momo Restaurant

Momo is a Moroccan-inspired restaurant and bar located in the Mayfair neighborhood of central London. It was opened in 1997 by Moroccan entrepreneur and designer Mourad Mazouz, who aimed to bring the flavors and ambiance of traditional Moroccan hospitality to the UK capital.

The restaurant's interior is designed to evoke a Moroccan riad, with ornate tilework, twinkling lanterns, and plush, low-slung seating. This transports diners to the bustling souks and intimate courtyards of Marrakech.

The menu at Momo features a wide range of Moroccan specialties, from classic tagines and couscous dishes to more modern interpretations. Signature items include the lamb shank with prune and almond tagine, the grilled octopus with chermoula, and the baklava dessert. The drink selection also highlights Moroccan influences, with a focus on mint tea, Moroccan wines, and creative cocktails.

Beyond the dining experience, Momo also houses a lively bar and lounge area, where guests can enjoy Moroccan-inspired mixology and live music performances in the evenings. The restaurant has become a popular gathering spot for London's fashion, art, and entertainment communities over the years.

Since its opening over 20 years ago, Momo has firmly established itself as one of London's premier destinations for authentic Moroccan cuisine and culture. It has been praised for its commitment to transporting diners to the vibrant heart of Morocco, right in the center of the UK capital.

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5. Shaka Zulu

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of South Africa at Shaka Zulu, a lavish restaurant in Camden Market. Alongside their sumptuous cuisine, enjoy live entertainment and awe-inspiring Zulu-inspired architecture.

6. Kiln Soho

Kiln Soho takes you on a culinary journey through Eastern Africa with its Kenyan-inspired dishes. Located in Soho, this restaurant focuses on seasonal and sustainable ingredients, creating a delightful fusion of flavors.

7. Addis Restaurant

Embark on a culinary adventure to Ethiopia at Addis Restaurant in King's Cross. Savor the diverse flavors of Ethiopian cuisine, from injera (spongy flatbread) to doro wat (spicy chicken stew), all served with warm hospitality.

8. Jollof Box

Indulge in the beloved West African dish, Jollof rice, at Jollof Box. With locations in Brixton and Shoreditch, this vibrant restaurant offers a range of Jollof rice variations paired with delicious sides and grilled meats.

9. New Africa

Located in Elephant and Castle, New Africa is a hidden gem for West African cuisine. Feast on hearty dishes like jollof rice, fried plantains, and suya (spiced grilled meat), all made with authentic flavors.

10. Mama Calabar

In the heart of South London, Mama Calabar brings the flavors of Nigeria's Calabar region to your plate. Expect a fusion of Nigerian and Caribbean dishes that reflect the area's history and culinary traditions.

11. Zoe's Ghana Kitchen

Zoe's Ghana Kitchen, a vibrant pop-up turned permanent fixture in Brixton, serves up delightful Ghanaian dishes bursting with flavor. From jollof rice to Ghanaian peanut soup, each dish is a celebration of West African cuisine.

12. Marhaba Restaurant

Discover the tastes of North Africa at Marhaba Restaurant in Euston. Enjoy a variety of Moroccan and Algerian dishes, including couscous, tagines, and flavorful mezze platters.

13. Nando's

A household name in the UK, Nando's brings the flavors of Portuguese-African cuisine to London. With various locations across the city, indulge in their famous peri-peri chicken and delectable sides.

14. Asmara

Located in Brixton, Asmara offers an authentic Eritrean and Ethiopian dining experience. Explore the diverse flavors of the Horn of Africa through injera, stews, and grilled meats, all meant to be shared and enjoyed.

15. Bbar

Situated in Victoria, Bbar combines South African cuisine with a touch of sophistication. From ostrich fillets to Cape Malay curries, their menu showcases the diverse culinary heritage of South Africa.

16. Chishuru

Chishuru, a Nigerian-inspired restaurant in Brixton, delights food enthusiasts with its contemporary take on West African dishes. With a menu that changes with the seasons, expect an innovative twist on familiar flavors.

17. Nkono

Experience the fusion of West African and Caribbean cuisine at Nkono in Camden. From Ghanaian fufu to Jamaican jerk chicken, this vibrant eatery celebrates the culinary connections between the two regions.

18. PickyWops

For a taste of African-inspired vegan pizza, head to PickyWops in Fulham. Their creative menu includes unique toppings like plantain, jollof rice, and African-inspired sauces, catering to both vegan and non-vegan diners.

19. Mamasons Dirty Ice Cream

Indulge in Filipino-inspired ice cream creations at Mamasons in Chinatown. While not strictly African, this spot draws influence from the exotic flavors found in Filipino cuisine, offering a delightful and refreshing treat.

20. Casa do Frango

Casa do Frango brings the flavors of Portugal's Algarve region to London. Enjoy succulent piri-piri chicken and other Portuguese delights in a rustic, vibrant setting in London Bridge.

21. Sambal Shiok

Discover the aromatic and fiery flavors of Malaysian and Singaporean cuisine at Sambal Shiok in Holloway. While not African per se, this spot's menu showcases the vibrant and diverse culinary scene of Southeast Asia.

22. The Savannah

Located in Euston, The Savannah introduces diners to the flavors of Zimbabwe. From traditional dishes like sadza to barbecued meats, this restaurant provides an authentic taste of Zimbabwean cuisine.

23. Nile Ethiopian Restaurant

Step into a little corner of Ethiopia at Nile Ethiopian Restaurant in Stoke Newington. Delight in a variety of Ethiopian stews, vegetarian dishes, and injera, all served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

24. Alounak

Alounak, with locations in Kensington and Westbourne Grove, specializes in Persian cuisine. While not African, it offers an opportunity to explore the flavors of another part of the continent, with aromatic dishes and traditional hospitality.

25. WAKA

Situated in the heart of West African culture in Finsbury Park, WAKA presents a vibrant menu inspired by West African culinary traditions. Indulge in a range of dishes from Ghana, Nigeria, and beyond, all served with a warm smile.

Conclusion

London's African restaurants provide an exciting culinary journey through the diverse flavors and traditions of the continent.

Whether you're craving West African jollof rice, Ethiopian injera, or Moroccan tagines, these top 25 African restaurants in London promise an authentic experience that will leave you longing for more.

Embark on a gastronomic adventure and savor the taste of Africa in the heart of this cosmopolitan city.