I’m lucky enough to live in London, one of the most cosmopolitan cities on the planet with over 300 languages spoken. For an adventurous eater there is something to eat from pretty much everywhere. However it’s always been a mystery to me why despite the significant African population in London, African cuisine is not very well known to others. I’ve noticed more pop-ups emerging, which I hope will change that. The food is just too delicious to keep to ourselves!

I recently attended the inaugural ‘Oya Come Chop’ Supper Club from Tokunbo’s Kitchen. Founded by  Nigerian-Brit and entrepreneur, Tokunbo Koiko, the supper clubs are designed to share the mouth-watering flavours of home-cooked Nigerian food with people from all cultures. On the night, Tokunbo was host with the most dishing out warm hospitality alongside the good eats.

Pre-dinner, there was the chance to meet and mingle with fellow guests over some nibbles and palm wine. If you’re nervous about going alone. Don’t be. There was a mix of people including several attending solo and the convivial atmosphere makes it easy to chat. I’m sure the palm wine helps to get things flowing!

Fellow guests at Tokunbo’s Kitchen

pre-dinner plantain crisp nibbles, Tokunbo’s Kitchen

Palm wine, made from the sap of palm trees, cheers!

Aperitif of Nigerian palm wine, made from the sap of palm trees – Tokunbo’s Kitchen ‘Oya Come Chop’ Supper Club. Credit: TokunbosKitchen.com

The food is not fancy, fine dining style rather more informal, home-cooking, as you would enjoy in someone’s home. It is BYOB as far as drinks go, though on this occasion we enjoyed complimentary wonjo from Chosan (you can read more about the company here). The healthy, Gambian hibiscus drink really works well with spicy flavours. Some of you might know a similar drink known as zobo in Nigeria, bissap in Senegal, and sorrel in the Caribbean.

If I had to pick three words to describe Nigerian food, I’d say “healthy, hearty and spicy” which is what was served up by the belly full. The menu changes at each supper club but here’s a peek at what we chopped.

pre-dinner nibbles, Tokunbo’s Kitchen

Dambu nama, dried meat floss traditionally eaten in Northern Nigeria, Tokunbo’s Kitchen

Undeniably, Nigerians are generally big meat eaters however many of the traditional dishes are plant-based and naturally gluten-free so it’s easy to cater for all dietary requirements. I don’t eat meat and feasted as well as everybody else.

Assortment of pies, Tokunbo’s Kitchen

Yaji (aka suya) butternut squash soup (vegan) starter, Tokunbo’s Kitchen

Eating pounded yam and egusi stew the traditional way at Tokunbo’s Kitchen

Whether you’re looking to take your tastebuds globetrotting on a new food adventure or seeking some comfort food like you enjoyed at home, you’re in for a tastebud tantalising treat at Tokunbo’s Kitchen.

The next Tokunbo’s Kitchen ‘Oya Come Chop’ Supper Club is on 25 June 2016. For further information on the menu and tickets, visit www.tokunboskitchen.com