Akoko London - Restaurant Review & Guide

Akoko London is a West African Fine Dining restaurant in London. This guide to Akoko London covers the menu, the vibe, the location and how to book a table at Akoko London.

Akoko is a Michelin starred London restaurant offering refined West African fine dining with bold flavours and contemporary technique.

Read on for our review of Akoko London, what makes Akoko London stand out among restaurants in London, and how to book Akoko London on ReelTrip.

About Akoko London

About the restaurant

Akoko London is a significant addition to the landscape of London restaurants, offering a precise and thoughtful interpretation of flavours from across Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal. Since opening its doors at 21 Berners St, London W1T 3LP, United Kingdom, it has established itself as a leading example of how regional heritage can be translated through modern technical skill. The kitchen focuses on high quality British produce, matching seasonal ingredients with traditional spices and preservation methods found throughout the West African coast. Unlike many other venues in the United Kingdom, this establishment prioritises the depth of heat and umami found in indigenous seasonings, presenting them in a way that respects their origins while acknowledging its place in the internationally diverse city of London. This mid-range establishment has earned critical acclaim, including a Michelin star, for its dedication to storytelling through food.

The food and menu

The culinary output at Akoko reflects a deep research into ancient recipes and modern textures. Patrons can choose between a full tasting menu or a shorter lunch selection. One of the definitive highlights is the smoked jollof rice, which is prepared with a rich carrot terrine and is widely regarded as some of the best West African Fine Dining in London. The kitchen uses wood-fire cooking to impart a specific charred profile to many of its proteins. You might find grilled octopus with black eye bean stew or tender mutton served with a spiced broth that concentrates the essence of the meat. Other notable dishes include Gambian style tiger prawns and a unique take on moin moin, a steamed bean pudding that here achieves an incredibly smooth consistency. The use of scotch bonnet chillies is handled with care, providing warmth and complexity rather than overwhelming heat. For dessert, the kitchen often explores African grains or fruits, such as fonio or baobab, served with goat milk or honey to balance the palate. It is a destination where to eat in London if you want to understand the potential of grains like millet and sorghum in a fine dining context.

Drinks and wine list

The beverage programme is designed to complement the bold and often spicy profiles of the dishes. The wine list is global, featuring selections from small producers in France, South Africa, and Portugal, with a focus on bottles that have the acidity or residual sugar necessary to stand up to scotch bonnet and ginger. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, the restaurant provides house-made infusions and juices that utilise ingredients like hibiscus, tamarind, and fermented ginger. These drinks are refreshing and act as a functional bridge between the courses. Cocktails are equally inventive, often incorporating spirits infused with West African botanicals. The service team is knowledgeable and can suggest specific pairings that enhance the smokiness of the grilled dishes or the richness of the stews, ensuring the drink selection is as much a part of the West African Fine Dining restaurant experience as the food itself.

Atmosphere and design

The interior of the restaurant avoids common design tropes, opting instead for a minimalist and earthy aesthetic. The walls are finished with a textured clay plaster that mimics the soil of the Sahel, creating an organic and grounded feel. Ceramics, specially commissioned for the space, play a central role in the presentation, with each bowl and plate adding a tactile element to the meal. The lighting is soft and focused, drawing the eye to the open kitchen where the team works with quiet efficiency. It is a sophisticated space that feels intimate, making it suitable for both business lunches and private dinners. The choice of materials, from dark wood to terracotta, reflects a commitment to authenticity and craft that mirrors the philosophy in the kitchen. In the competitive world of London restaurants, the design here stands out for its calm and intentional simplicity.

Location and setting

Situated in the heart of Fitzrovia, the restaurant occupies a prime spot in one of the most vibrant areas of London. This neighbourhood is known for its blend of media offices, art galleries, and historic residential streets. Being located in the United Kingdom capital means the restaurant is easily accessible from several major transport hubs, including Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road. The surrounding streets are home to an eclectic mix of independent boutiques and established dining rooms, yet the specific focus of the menu here provides a distinct alternative to the more traditional European fare found nearby. For those exploring the city, this location offers a quiet retreat from the busy shopping districts of the West End, providing a space where the pace of the meal allows for genuine reflection on the flavours being served.

Why book here

Akoko London offers an experience that is difficult to replicate elsewhere in the city. It succeeds by balancing the intensity of West African spices with the refinement required of a Michelin starred kitchen. This is a West African Fine Dining restaurant that feels both educational and deeply satisfying. It is an ideal choice for diners who are looking for something beyond the standard tasting menu format and want to explore the diverse food cultures of West Africa. Whether you are coming for the signature jollof rice or the specialist wine pairings, the level of detail is consistent throughout. Because seating is limited and the restaurant has a loyal following, making a reservation in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend dinner service. For anyone seeking the best West African Fine Dining in London, a table at Akoko is essential to understanding the evolution of the city's modern food scene.

Explore more in London

Other restaurants nearby: Casa Fofo, The Harwood Arms, Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, Akoko, Helene Darroze at The Connaught.

Explore the area: London travel guide, York, Edinburgh, Manchester, Liverpool.

Practical Information for Akoko London

Address: 21 Berners St, London W1T 3LP, United Kingdom

Opening hours: Lunch Wednesday to Saturday 12pm – 4pm, Dinner Monday to Saturday 5:30pm – 11pm, Closed Sunday

Frequently Asked Questions about Akoko London

Where is Akoko London?

Akoko London is located at 21 Berners St, London W1T 3LP, United Kingdom.

What cuisine does Akoko London serve?

Akoko London serves West African Fine Dining in the heart of London.

How do I book Akoko London?

You can book a table at Akoko London directly through ReelTrip using the booking link below.

Book Akoko London

Ready to dine at Akoko London? Book Akoko London on ReelTrip.