Chishuru: The Soul of West Africa in the Heart of Fitzrovia

Chishuru was born from the culinary vision of Adejoké “Joké” Bakare, a self-taught Nigerian chef who went from running supper clubs to earning one of London’s most coveted honours: a Michelin star. In 2019, she won the Brixton Kitchen competition, launching Chishuru as a three-month pop-up in Brixton Village that quickly became a local hit. And its 2023 move to Fitzrovia marked both an evolution and a bold statement.

Chishuru’s impact on London’s African community can’t be overstated. It’s proof that African flavours can hold their own in fine dining without being watered down or “westernised.” Bakare’s food celebrates heritage boldly, and each dish tells a story of place and memory, presented with the kind of skill that makes you stop mid-sentence. For many West Africans in London, dining at Chishuru feels like seeing their culture take a well-deserved bow on a global stage. And for those new to the cuisine, it’s an education wrapped in comfort and surprise.

Why We Love Chishuru

The Menu Feels Like a Journey
Their dinner tasting menu is a sensory adventure. You might begin with Àbàchà, a cassava salad tossed in pickled daikon and plantain ash, before moving on to Móìn-móìn, a bean cake paired with scallop and cod boudin blanc.

Then comes Pepper Soup, rich with uziza spice, torched mackerel, and shrimp oil, followed by mains like Ekwang, brill fillet stuffed with smoked haddock, or Ayamase, a fiery stew of hogget leg with pickled chillies and iru. And then there’s dessert; a showstopping Ègúsí ice cream (yes, ice-cream!) with meringue sponge and blackberries that somehow manages to be both nostalgic and completely unexpected.

For lunch, they have a lighter lineup: Sinasir, Asun, and Èbìrìpò (char-grilled guineafowl with bitter leaf sauce and egusi cream). Each dish balances heat and comfort with spice and sweetness, a real testament to Bakare’s mastery of flavour.

Drinks That Match the Story
Their drinks are just as thoughtful. You can go classic with French wines, or explore house cocktails that reimagine tradition like the Spiced Okra Martini, the Yaji Pineapple Margarita, or the Delta Negroni, all infused with ingredients that are a nod to home.

The Atmosphere
The Fitzrovia space feels stylish yet very warm, with earthy tones, an open kitchen, and a sense of intimacy. It’s elevated without being intimidating; and is exactly the kind of setting that encourages conversation.

Representation and Pride
Seeing a West African restaurant in central London, led by a Black female chef with a Michelin star, means something profound. It’s a cultural statement as much as a culinary one, and every dish carries that significance.

Things to Consider

Pricing
Chishuru isn’t a casual outing; the dinner menu is £105 per person, and lunch is £50 per person (before drinks). It’s more of a fine-dining experience price-wise, than a regular weekday meal, but for special occasions or food lovers looking for something extraordinary, it’s worth every penny.

Bookings and Availability
They’re open Monday to Friday only (unfortunately not on weekends), with the last seating at 1:45 pm for lunch and 9:30 pm for dinner. You can book up to 60 days in advance, or even walk in if you’re feeling spontaneous.

Dietary Requirements
Chishuru is accommodating but with clear boundaries. They can handle most dietary needs like gluten-free, nut-free, no pork or shellfish, and always offer vegetarian options. However, they cannot cater to vegans, lactose-intolerant vegetarians, or diners with multiple or severe allergies. Also, if you’re completely intolerant to spice, this isn’t the place for you, and they’re refreshingly upfront about that.

Opinion

Contact Details

Chishuru is located at: 3 Great Titchfield Street, London W1W 8AX

For reservations and enquiries please contact:

• Email: website@chishuru.com
• Make a Booking Here