
66 Baker St, London W1U 7DJ, | Instagram | Phone
Still in the London spirit, I went to check out Shakara London Restaurant, the Nigerian restaurant that won Best New Restaurant of the Year at the British Restaurant Awards. I had to pull up to see if they truly lived up to the hype.
From the moment I walked in, Shakara felt different. The ambience was luxurious with colors that felt intentionally curated, warm tones, gentle lighting, and a sleek Afro-luxe vibe that screamed fine dining. It struck that delicate balance of feeling upscale but still familiar.
For starters, my date and I had the Agege Bread and Yassa butter (tangy caramelized onion butter inspired by Senegalese yassa) and it was bussing. The bread was so soft, warm, and comforting. It was the right tummy opener and the perfect way of starting before getting into the main meals.
When they said hot, they meant it. These wings were flavorful, spicy enough to leave a little sting on your lips, and came in generous portions. Definitely one of those meals you keep reaching back for without thinking.
These were just okay, although it was tender and juicy. But a small part of me wished they leaned into some of that fiery Nigerian suya spice, that would’ve taken them from good to mad unforgettable.
Mains
This was a moment. The jollof was smoky, well-seasoned, and full of that depth that keeps you scooping until the plate is empty. The plantain? Golden brown and sweet, just the way I like it.
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These Lamb chops at Shakara were a star on their own. They were so succulent, well-marinated, and grilled to perfection. I could taste the care in every bite.
This dish didn’t hit the same highs for me. It wasn’t bad, but compared to everything else we had, it felt just alright. Maybe my expectations were too high by this point, but still, it could’ve packed a little more punch.
This vodka-based cocktail did exactly what a cocktail should do, it tasted smooth, sweet, and hit all the right spots. If you’re a sweet tooth or you like your drinks playful yet punchy, this one’s your guy.
This mocktail had guava purée in it, it was refreshing and light. Nice, yes! but if I had to choose, Passion Fever easily takes the crown for me.
Shakara London is high-class dining done the Nigerian way. The service was accommodating, the staff were warm and attentive, and one thing I loved was that the meals just kept rolling out. They wasted no time, which made the dining experience flow seamlessly.
What stood out most was the way Shakara delivered on flavour and finesse. It’s the kind of place that makes you proud to see Nigerian and West African food plated at this level, elevated yet authentic.
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