The acclaimed Nigerian restaurateur Aji Akokomi has partnered with the Tate Modern to put on a special menu inspired by the groundbreaking new Nigerian Modernism exhibition.
Akokomi, the man behind the Michelin-starred Akoko in Fitzrovia, will collaborate with the gallery on a three-course menu at the Tate’s top floor restaurant.
Nigerian Modernism, at the Tate Modern until May and featured in the Standard’s pages, is set against the backdrop of cultural and artistic rebellion in the West African country.
The exhibition celebrates the achievements of Nigerian artists working before and after the decade of national independence as the nation freed itself from British colonial rule in 1960.
In turn, Akokomi has created a modern menu inspired by the works on show, paying homage to Nigerian artists, the collective movement, and his home country.
The chef has a particular penchant for ceramics and he is to explore these themes in his menu. He name-checked the Nigerian potter Ladi Kwali, whose work has influenced him for many years.
His menu will begin with crispy plantain with aubergine yassa sauce, before a barbecue prawn akara — served at his more casual restaurant in Borough, Akara — with sosu kaani, a Senegalese chilli sauce.
The main course will be Akokomi’s Lagos chicken, a street-style dish with crispy skin and a green pepper sauce, and dessert will be guava sorbet with pineapple sauce.
To drink, Chapman non-alcoholic fruit punch — hugely popular in West Africa — and a jollof bloody Marys.
“The Nigerian Modernism exhibition speaks to a spirit of innovation and identity, which is also at the heart of my cooking,” said Akokomi.
“I have long been inspired by the artistry of Ladi Kwali, whose ceramics embody both tradition and modernity.
“In the same way, I want these dishes to tell a story that bridges heritage and creativity, offering diners a chance to experience Nigerian culture not just through art on the walls, but also on the plate crafted the menu in direct response to themes explored in the exhibition.”
Hamish Anderson, the CEO of Tate Enterprises, added: “We want every part of a visitor’s journey to connect with the art on our walls.
“Working with Aji Akokomi and his team is an absolute pleasure, his food reflects the same creativity, cultural depth, and innovation that defines Nigerian Modernism, and together we are offering something truly unique — an exhibition that can be explored not only visually, but also through taste.”
The set menu will be available from October 17 for a limited period — length to be determined and presumably dependent on popularity — and priced at £36. There will also be the option to buy an exhibition ticket with lunch for £56.
Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG, tate.org.uk
