London is home to some of the best Black-owned restaurants serving everything from traditional African and Caribbean dishes to modern, fusion-inspired plates. Whether you are craving bold West African flavors, soulful Caribbean comfort food, or elevated dining with a cultural twist, this list has you covered. These ten restaurants are not just about great food; they are about experience, culture, and community. Here are the must-visit Black-owned eateries in London.
1. Ikoyi – West African Fine Dining at Its Best
Location: St. James’s, Central London
Cuisine: Modern West African
Ikoyi is one of London’s finest Black-owned restaurants, boasting two Michelin stars and an innovative take on West African flavors. Founded by Iré Hassan-Odukale and Jeremy Chan, the restaurant offers a high-end tasting menu featuring smoked jollof rice, plantain dishes, and spiced meats infused with complex layers of heat and umami. The ambiance is sleek and sophisticated, making it perfect for a special night out.
2. Akoko – Elevating West African Cuisine
Location: Fitzrovia, Central London
Cuisine: West African Fine Dining
Akoko, founded by Aji Akokomi, is an elegant spot that brings the rich flavors of Nigeria and Ghana to the fine dining scene. With a focus on fire-cooked dishes and bold spices, the menu features suya-spiced meats, jollof rice, and expertly prepared seafood. The beautifully designed interior adds to the immersive dining experience.
3. Chishuru – A Rising Star in African Cuisine
Location: Peckham, South London
Cuisine: Contemporary West African
Chishuru, led by chef Adejoké Bakare, has quickly gained a loyal following for its unique and flavorful take on West African cuisine. With a menu that changes frequently, expect dishes like spiced goat, cornmeal cakes, and tamarind-infused sauces. The restaurant’s warm and intimate setting makes it an excellent place to enjoy a memorable meal.
4. Chuku’s – The World’s First Nigerian Tapas Restaurant
Location: Tottenham, North London
Cuisine: Nigerian Tapas
Chuku’s, run by siblings Emeka and Ifeyinwa Frederick, brings a fun and contemporary twist to Nigerian cuisine. The restaurant offers small plates meant for sharing, featuring dishes like jollof quinoa, egusi puffs, and honey-glazed suya prawns. The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for casual dining with friends and family.
5. Fish, Wings & Tings – Caribbean Street Food in the Heart of Brixton
Location: Brixton, South London
Cuisine: Caribbean
This vibrant eatery, located in Brixton Village, serves up some of the best Caribbean food in London. From flavorful jerk chicken to tender curry goat and saltfish fritters, every dish is packed with authentic island flavors. Chef Brian Danclair ensures that the food remains true to its roots while adding his own modern touch.
6. Wood & Water – A Stylish Fusion of British and Jamaican Flavors
Location: Brixton, South London
Cuisine: British-Jamaican Fusion
Wood & Water, founded by former Miss Jamaica Universe April Jackson, is a chic restaurant that blends British and Jamaican influences. The menu features creative dishes like honey-jerk wings, ackee and saltfish, and seafood curry. The stylish decor and crafted cocktails make it a great choice for both brunch and dinner.
7. Trap Kitchen – Hearty Soul Food and Seafood Platters
Location: Camden, North London
Cuisine: American Soul Food & Seafood
For those craving over-the-top, indulgent comfort food, Trap Kitchen is the place to be. Their famous seafood platters are loaded with lobster tails, Cajun shrimp, mac and cheese, and fried chicken. The casual, counter-service atmosphere makes it a great spot to enjoy a delicious meal with no fuss.
8. Kate’s Cafe – Home-Style Ghanaian Cooking
Location: Canning Town, East London
Cuisine: Ghanaian
Kate’s Cafe offers a homely and authentic take on Ghanaian cuisine, with dishes like fufu with light soup, chinchinga (spiced meat skewers), and banku with tilapia. The small, cozy space is perfect for enjoying traditional African comfort food in a welcoming environment.
9. Mosob – A Taste of Eritrean Tradition
Location: Westbourne Park, West London
Cuisine: Eritrean & Ethiopian
Mosob is a family-run restaurant that provides a truly authentic Eritrean dining experience. The menu features traditional dishes served on injera, including spicy lentils, doro wat (chicken stew), and tibs (sautéed meats). The restaurant also offers a traditional Eritrean coffee ceremony, making it a cultural as well as a culinary experience.
10. Limin’ – Caribbean Beach Vibes on London’s Southbank
Location: Southbank, Central London
Cuisine: Trinidadian Street Food & Bar
Limin’ brings the flavors and atmosphere of Trinidad to London’s Southbank. The casual beach-bar setting, complete with sand and palm trees, makes it the perfect place to enjoy Caribbean street food like doubles, roti, jerk chicken tacos, and creative rum cocktails. The lively, social ambiance captures the true essence of Caribbean liming.
London’s Black-owned restaurant scene is thriving, offering everything from upscale West African dining to casual Caribbean street food. These ten restaurants showcase the richness and diversity of Black culinary talent in the city. Whether you are looking for fine dining, comfort food, or something in between, these spots offer some of the best food experiences London has to offer.
