Shakara: Where West African Heritage Meets London Style
Shakara is a celebration of African culture, craft, and creativity. Its bold vision and warm atmosphere help it carve out a unique space in London’s dining scene, proving that heritage and innovation can thrive side by side.
London has always had a soft spot for food that tells a story, and with the rise of African cuisine across the city, a new player has stepped onto the scene to keep things exciting.
Shakara isn’t just another fine dining spot, it’s a love letter to West Africa, plated with elegance and served with warmth. After it opened in early 2025, this stylish restaurant started to draw attention for its ability to celebrate heritage while pushing culinary boundaries. From its name, which loosely translates to “to show off” in Nigerian Pidgin, to its chic interiors and adventurous menu, Shakara is London’s latest reminder that African food deserves the global spotlight.
Why We Love Shakara
There’s plenty to adore about Shakara. For starters, it’s the brainchild of chef Ayo Adeyemi, formerly of Michelin-starred Akoko, and entrepreneur Victor Okunowo; a duo determined to elevate African flavours beyond just the familiar jollof and suya. Their menu takes the soul of Nigerian, Ghanaian, and Gambian kitchens and reimagines it through fine-dining techniques.
The menu is pure magic: Shakara’s kitchen takes West African staples and transforms them into something truly amazing. You’ll find playful nods to tradition like peppered goat croquettes with smoked marrow, or suya mushroom skewers paired with pickled onions that make familiar flavours feel brand new.
Then there are the showstoppers: a lobster Scotch egg with crayfish emulsion, crispy tiger prawns with egusi and sea herbs, or even peppersoup linguine topped with grilled native lobster.
Sides lean into comfort, with jollof rice, yam chips with ata dindin, and kelewele plantain, while desserts include surprises like plantain bread with caramelized banana and white chocolate ice cream, or date and tamarind ice cream.
It’s the kind of menu that makes you want to order everything just to see what magic the chefs have worked with each dish.
Inclusivity: Vegetarian and vegan options are also provided, so there’s something for everyone no matter what you prefer.
The space feels like home and gallery in one: Designed by Red Deer architects, the restaurant is warm, earthy, and alive with modern African art. It has natural textures, muted tones, and carefully chosen details that scream warmth. It’s also stylish enough for a special night out, but still welcoming enough that you don’t feel out of place.
It’s about more than just food: Shakara celebrates culture as much as cuisine. From its name (a nod to Nigerian Pidgin for “showing off”) to its unapologetic spotlight on African heritage, the restaurant makes a statement: African food belongs at the highest table, and it’s here to stay.
What to Consider
Fine dining means fine-dining prices: Shakara isn’t trying to be your quick jollof spot. It’s an elevated experience, and the bill reflects that. Worth it for a special night out, but definitely something to keep in mind before booking.
Portions are elegant, not hefty: The artistry on the plate is stunning, but if you’re expecting the kind of generous servings you’d get at a family-style African feast, you might be a little surprised.
Reservations are a must: As one of Marylebone’s hottest new openings, Shakara’s tables don’t stay empty for long. Weekend bookings especially can be tricky, so planning ahead will save you from disappointment.
Opinion
Contact Details
Shakara is located at: 66 Baker St, London, United Kingdom W1D 7DJ
For reservations and enquiries please contact:
- Tel: 02030028181
- Make a Booking Here
- Email: reservations@shakaraldn.com