Akara Restaurant Menu Guide to Dishes, Prices, and Reviews
London is home to many amazing places to eat, but few capture the soul of West African cuisine like Akara Restaurant.
This popular dining spot has drawn attention for its unique menu, fresh ideas, and welcoming energy.
It is part of a new generation of restaurants reintroducing African flavors to global audiences with pride.
Much like the Ave Mario Menu Guide to Dishes, Prices, & Dining Experience, Akara provides a deep look into one region’s food story through taste and texture.
This article explores the akara restaurant menu, reviews, timings, and everything you should know before visiting.
The Story Behind Akara
The name “Akara” comes from the West African snack made with black-eyed beans. In Nigeria, “akara” refers to fried bean cakes often served for breakfast or as street food. This simple dish has inspired the restaurant’s identity and its signature recipes.
Akara Restaurant was founded by Aji Akokomi, the same creative mind behind Akoko, another top London restaurant. Akokomi wanted Akara to feel more relaxed, offering bold but approachable dishes inspired by the African diaspora. The restaurant is located at Arch 208, 18 Stoney Street, Borough Yards, London SE1 9AD, near Borough Market.
The interior has a warm, rustic design that reflects African craftsmanship. Soft lighting and wooden tables make the dining experience intimate and comfortable. Every part of the space tells the story of Africa through art, color, and texture.
Location and General Information
The akara restaurant menu is available only at the London location. Currently, Akara has not expanded beyond the UK, but its success may lead to more branches in the future.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Akara Restaurant |
| Owner | Aji Akokomi |
| Address | Arch 208, 18 Stoney Street, Borough Yards, London SE1 9AD |
| Cuisine | Modern West African |
| Contact | info@akaralondon.co.uk |
| Website | akaralondon.co.uk |
| Google Rating | 4.5 / 5 based on customer reviews |
The restaurant has been featured in the 2024 Michelin Guide, a mark of culinary excellence. Many reviews highlight the balance between comfort and sophistication. Guests love the friendly service and the attention to detail in every plate.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
The akara restaurant menu receives high praise from both critics and diners.
Google Reviews rate the restaurant 4.5 stars, and customers often mention the flavorful food and cozy setting.
TripAdvisor also lists Akara among the best modern African dining spots in London.
People describe Akara as a “hidden gem” with “incredible food that feels authentic yet new.”
The portion sizes are fair, and presentation is beautiful.
Every dish is served with care, showing the chef’s respect for tradition and innovation.
Professional critics from the Evening Standard and Time Out London have also praised the restaurant.
They highlight the creativity in pairing African ingredients with European techniques.
Akara has quickly become one of the must-visit spots for anyone exploring Borough Market’s food scene.
The Akara Restaurant Menu Overview
The akara restaurant menu focuses on seasonal and regional West African dishes. It blends traditional cooking with modern presentation, offering a sensory experience. Each section of the menu—starters, mains, sides, and desserts—shows a deep respect for African heritage.
The dishes are made with locally sourced ingredients and authentic spices. The chefs prepare everything fresh, from the akara fritters to the pepper relishes.
Let’s take a closer look at each section of the menu in detail.
Drinks and Cocktails
Akara begins every meal with vibrant drink options. The cocktail list is small but perfectly curated to match the spice and heat of the food.
| Drink | Description | Price (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Cacao Negroni | A twist on the classic Negroni with cacao bitters | 12 |
| Chapman | A sweet and fruity African cocktail | 6 |
| Soft Drinks | Includes fresh juices and sodas | 4 – 5 |
These drinks are designed to refresh the palate and complement bold flavors. Chapman, a Nigerian party favorite, is a guest favorite at Akara. The bar also serves a small list of African wines and locally brewed beers.
Snacks and Akara Variations
The akara restaurant menu wouldn’t be complete without its signature fritters. These come in several creative versions, from seafood to vegan options.
| Dish | Notes | Price (£) |
|---|---|---|
| BBQ Prawn Akara | Served with light chili sauce | 8 |
| Crab Kulikuli Akara | With nutty crunch and herbs | 9 |
| BBQ Celeriac Akara (vg) | A vegan twist using roasted celeriac | 7 |
| Marinated Tomato Akara (vg) | Fresh and tangy version | 6 |
| Sinasir Rice Pancake | Served with bean hummus | 6 |
Each fritter captures the essence of African street food in a gourmet way. They are crispy on the outside, soft inside, and full of earthy aroma. Pairing them with spicy sauces elevates the flavor even more.
Main Dishes
Main courses at Akara bring together textures and spices beautifully. From meats grilled over charcoal to plant-based creations, there’s something for everyone.
| Dish | Description | Price (£) |
|---|---|---|
| BBQ Cod Collar | Served with moqueca sauce and Swiss chard | 19 |
| Lagos Chicken | BBQ poussin with citrus hot sauce | 20 |
| Short Rib Suya | Beef ribs with suya seasoning and pepper sauce | 24 |
| Grilled Pork | With yam sauce and fermented chili | 21 |
| BBQ King Oyster Mushroom (vg) | Smoky mushrooms with spice glaze | 17 |
| Cabbage Abunu-Abunu (vg) | Cabbage with Ghanaian green sauce | 15 |
Each main dish reflects the creativity of Chef Akokomi’s kitchen. The suya seasoning, a mix of roasted peanuts and African spices, adds deep flavor. Vegans and vegetarians will find plenty of satisfying choices here.
Desserts and After-Dinner Drinks
The dessert section on the akara restaurant menu is small but flavorful. It changes frequently depending on the season and ingredient availability.
| Dessert | Description | Price (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate & Tamarind Tart | Rich, tangy finish to a spicy meal | 7 |
| Coconut Ice Cream | Smooth and creamy, dairy-free | 6 |
A small list of digestifs, herbal teas, and coffee is also available. The staff often recommend ending with a cocoa-based dessert and espresso. Each bite closes the dining experience with warmth and satisfaction.
Pricing and Value
Compared to similar restaurants, Akara’s prices are moderate. Starters range from £6 to £9, mains from £15 to £24, and desserts around £6–7. Cocktails average £10–12, making Akara an excellent value for the quality.
Most guests spend between £40–£60 per person, including drinks. Given its central London location and Michelin recognition, that’s reasonable. The quality of presentation, service, and ingredients make it worth every penny.
Just as food lovers read the Subway UK Menu Guide to Subs, Wraps, Salads, & Reviews to understand variety,
diners visit Akara to experience the diversity of African tastes through texture and spice. The restaurant shows how a menu can act as both an introduction and a cultural bridge.
Opening, Closing, and Delivery Timings
If you plan to visit, it helps to know when Akara is open. The restaurant offers both lunch and dinner service on most days.
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time | Service Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 5:00 PM | 11:00 PM | Dinner Only |
| Tuesday – Saturday | 12:00 PM | 3:00 PM / 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Lunch & Dinner |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM | 10:30 PM | Lunch & Dinner |
Lunch is served Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Dinner begins again at 5:00 PM, running late into the evening. Sunday service continues from lunch until dinner without a long break.
Akara currently does not offer home delivery from its main restaurant. However, some sister locations and pop-ups partner with Uber Eats for limited dishes. For the best experience, visiting in person is recommended.
Why Akara Stands Out
Akara stands out for its storytelling through food. Each plate is both personal and cultural, celebrating Africa’s global influence. The menu reminds diners that food is not just about taste—it’s about identity.
The open kitchen allows guests to see chefs preparing meals over charcoal grills. This adds excitement and authenticity to the dining experience. Every dish carries the warmth of African hospitality, making it unforgettable.
The akara restaurant menu also balances health and flavor. Many items are naturally gluten-free and rich in plant-based proteins. It’s a dining experience that satisfies both body and soul.
Conclusion
Akara is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cultural experience. The akara restaurant menu brings West African flavors to London in a way that feels both modern and familiar. From its signature fritters to its creative mains and desserts, every bite tells a story of heritage and innovation.
Whether you’re a local Londoner or a traveler exploring Borough Market, Akara deserves a spot on your food map. Its calm atmosphere, friendly staff, and memorable food make it a must-visit destination. Like the classic street dish it’s named after, Akara represents joy, sharing, and flavor.
If you’re seeking a taste of Africa in the heart of London, this restaurant is where tradition meets creativity.
Next time you crave something extraordinary, explore the akara restaurant menu—you’ll taste a journey across continents and cultures.
