Head Chef Victor Okunowo and Michelin-starred Chef Ayo Adeyemi to serve authentic West African dishes with a contemporary twist.
Modern West African restaurant, Shakara, is the latest addition to London’s vibrant dining scene. Nestled in the heart of Marylebone, this first iteration of Shakara provides exclusive private dining with a thoughtfully curated menu of exceptional African cuisine and fine mixology. With Shakara’s resident DJs and live performances of Afrohouse, Afrobeats, R&B and house music, diners are invited to an electric late-night dining experience.
Spanning 6,000 square feet, the space is designed by award-winning architect, Red Deer, and interior design agency, Tola Ojuolape Studio. Inspired by the design of West Africa, Shakara’s earthy-coloured terracotta tiles are designed to resemble Nigeria’s red soil, while abstract artwork showcases artists from leading gallery focused on African contemporary art, Red Door Gallery. From the brand’s logo reflecting a culturally-inspired ‘K’ and talking drum graphic elegantly stamped into wax, the launch of Shakara honours Africa’s culture of homely hospitality while simultaneously incorporating timeless sophistication and exclusivity.
At the helm of Shakara’s kitchen is Head Chef Victor Okunowo, previously of West African restaurant Talking Drum and Semi-Finalist of BBC MasterChef: The Professionals 2020, paired with Consultant Executive Chef Ayo Adeyemi, formerly of Michelin-starred West African restaurant Akoko. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant ingredients of Nigeria, Ghana and The Gambia, Chef Ayo Adeyemi’s carefully crafted menu showcases authentic African dishes through a modern lens.
Set over two floors, the space will open up to the main restaurant before leading through to a cocktail bar, stage, and private dining area. Situated one level below will be two spacious private dining rooms; the larger space has an overall capacity of 110 standing and the smaller space accommodates 30 seated and 40 standing. The ground floor has a total of 76 covers whilst the lower ground floor has a total of 21 covers.
Jolly Cole, Founder of Shakara, states, “Shakara was born from a simple concept– to export the African palette to the world whilst maintaining international standards. Our aim is to simultaneously entice the five senses– taste, sound, smell, sight, and touch– to provide our guests with the most memorable experience. Shakara offers a twist on contemporary dining, with carefully curated ingredients, ambience, and entertainment from Afro culture.”
Shakara is open from 31st January 2025