Words by Chanelle Goddard
Eat Out to Help Out may be over, but there’s still a lot of brilliant restaurants to visit.
As part of the Black Lives Matter movement, Black Pound Day was created – it gives us all an opportunity to support Black-owned brands and businesses.
So, in light of Black Pound Day and the upcoming Black History Month in October, we thought you’d like to know of some amazing restaurants with fantastic atmospheres and great menus. Here are 5 Black-owned food spots you need to try:
Only Jerkin’
Located in Camden Market, Only Jerkin’ brings all the flavours and spices of Jamaica straight to London; and it’s definitely a spot you don’t want to miss out on. Only Jerkin’ prides itself on the variety of Caribbean flavours incorporated into their dishes which have been inspired by traditional family recipes – and their delicious homemade marinades. From their succulent chilli mango Jerkin Burger to their triple dipped ginger beer-battered chicken nuggets, Only Jerkin’ has the Caribbean food game covered. They’ve got something for everyone – for vegetarians, a jerk fried cauliflower is available. And if you have a special occasion that you want delicious food for, Only Jerkin’ is able to provide catering and tailored menu’s to suit.
Etta’s Seafood Kitchen
This delicious seafood spot has taken Brixton by storm and has provided mouth-watering, high-quality seafood at an affordable price to customers since opening. Etta’s Seafood Kitchen serves sustainable fresh fish daily and provides a delectable wide range menu for everyone to enjoy. Seafood curry, ackee and saltfish, plantain chips, and Etta’s famous mac and cheese are all available to order, as well as many other delectable dishes that will leave you wanting more. The founder of the restaurant, Etta, prides herself on making people feel at home—and treating them like family and friends. Head down to Etta’s Sea Food Kitchen for the some of the best food and service around.
I Go Chop
I Go Chop brings the delicious authentic flavours of Nigeria straight to London. Located in Camberwell, South East London, the owners of I Go Chop pride themselves on celebrating Black African food and culture and encouraging people from all backgrounds to join in on the celebration too! I Go Chop’s menu works as a ‘build it yourself’ style process, and you have full control over what Nigerian base, toppings and sides you want as part of your meal. With a large variety of food and drink options, I Go Chop is a great staple spot and one of the best Nigerian restaurants in London, so give it a try!
Little Baobab – monthly pop up restaurant
This Senegalese soul food pop-up restaurant has brought culture, music and great food all to one spot. Little Baobab isn’t your regular sit down – at the start of evening dinners, diners can enjoy live authentic African music and relaxing acoustic sets whilst enjoying traditional, healthy and delicious Senglease dishes cooked by talented chefs. Little Baobab also provides a handy catering service if you ever need some amazing quality food for special occasions or events. Little Baobab with its vibe, food and authenticity really stands out from the crowd and provides a unique experience for food lovers to enjoy. Visit their next monthly pop up to enjoy!
Red Rooster
Located in Shoreditch, famous New York chef and restauranteur Marcus Samuelsson has opened his first restaurant, Red Rooster, in the UK. Red Rooster provides delicious American cuisine and southern soul food straight to the streets of London and gives customers the classic American dining experience. With live music every week, late-night drinks and amazing authentic food, Red Rooster is definitely a spot you need to try. Chicken and Waffles, Cornbread, Shrimp ‘N’ Grits are all available to try on the menu, as well as many other tasty American dishes you can’t miss out on.
Now that you’ve got some restaurants to visit, you’ll need something to wear – here are some style lessons to learn from ASAP Rocky.