BLACK-OWNED LONDON RESTAURANTS & CAFÉS TO VISIT

As a cook, I couldn’t let Black History Month pass by without showcasing some Black-owned eateries in London whose menus have caught my eye. Times are hard for the restaurant industry, but at time of writing, we can still show them our support by dining out with members of our households, and of course by ordering takeaway (I’m marking the ones that offer takeaway or delivery for ease). I haven't had the chance to try any of these restaurants yet — I see Big Town must have opened just after I moved from Walworth (bummer!). I’ve got my eye on a few and hope to get to them this side of Christmas. If you’ve tried any of these places and rated them please do leave them reviews to help spread the love and encourage others to try them — small business and the hospitality industry need us right now!!

Blank Brixton - Brixton (collection and delivery available)

At this friendly Brixton café, come for the hearty brunch-style fare — from fancy avocado toast to fluffy pancakes. They also offer a range of toasted sandwiches for the ultimate comfort food.

Eat of Eden - Clapham, Brixton, Shepherd’s Bush, Lewisham (collection and delivery available)

This Caribbean-European fusion eatery brings delicious and inspired vegetarian food to several neighbourhoods around London. Pumpkin curry, lentil stew and mushroom burgers are all on the menu.

Ikoyi - Piccadilly (dine-in only)

Ikoyi imagines spice-based dishes around seasonal, sustainably sourced ingredients for a truly elevated dining experience. The inspiration for their menu comes from their repertoire of mostly sub-Saharan West African spices.

Chuku's - Tottenham (dine-in only)

Two words: Nigerian tapas. Need I say more? I will anyway: come to Chuku’s to share some jollof quinoa, honey suya prawns or yam and smoked mackerel croquettes. Yes, please!

1251 - Islington (dine-in only)

At 1251, chef James Cochran draws from his Caribbean and Glaswegian heritage as well as his Kentish upbringing to imagine a menu unlike anything else in London.

Survivors Food - Dalston and Camden (collection and delivery available)

At its two locations, Survivors serves Caribbean classics such as jerk chicken, curry goat, fried plantain, as well as a selection of cakes.

Big Town - Walworth (collection and delivery available)

Big Town is home to a Nigerian and West African menu featuring all the classics: jollof rice, suya, egusi, pounded yam... An authentic experience perfect for the whole family.

Three Little Birds - Brixton and Clapham Junction (collection and delivery available)

Three Little Birds offers a mouthwatering modern Caribbean menu with traditional fare (curry goat, rice and peas) and inventive takes (jerk hummus, banana pancakes with rum sauce). Their brunch offering is a real winner.

Beza Vegan Food - Elephant and Castle (collection and delivery available)

Beza is an authentic vegan Ethiopian restaurant with fresh, flavourful food. Dig into some mung beans cooked with red onions, garlic and turmeric — I know I would.

Ayannas London - Canary Wharf (collection and delivery available)

This Jamaican restaurant will not disappoint if you’re looking for those much-loved Caribbean flavours: jerk chicken, curry goat and ackee & saltfish all feature here. Ayannas also offers a vegan menu, with a delicious vegetable curry, ackee and callaloo.

West Indian Bake Co. - Shoreditch (dine-in only)

West Indian Bake Co. builds on family recipes to bring you great bakes — that is a Caribbean fried bread filled with delicious patties and other ingredients, lovingly marinated, seasoned and cooked.

For more great places to eat, check out @independentblackbusinesses on Instagram.

Jasmine HemsleyOctober 21, 2020