Afrikana Ilford
Afrikana Address: Clements Rd, Ilford, IG1 1BP
Tel: 020 3336 7553
Website: https://afrikanakitchen.com/
Nearest Station: Ilford Station (Elizabeth Line)
African-inspired restaurant Afrikana brings the heat to Ilford. Ilford has begun to get many bougie restaurants along Clements Road. They have brought another branch of its own to the scene.
Following their recent opening last month. I managed to visit the restaurant, at the new Ilford branch and try out their food. Although, I have tried their diverse menu at their Lakeside Shopping Mall. However, dining at the restaurant itself gives a completely different experience. Showcasing authentic flavours and vibrant spices inspired by Africa, Afrikana Ilford promises to transport diners on a culinary journey like no other.
The restaurant's interior design reflects Africa's rich cultural heritage, offering a warm and friendly environment that allows customers to immerse themselves in the continent's various traditions.
Afrikana Experience
After deciding a date and time with the team at Afrikana. I was finally able to visit during the afternoon period. This was an ideal timing as they were not many people dining. This was around 4'o clock and it gave me plenty of room and time to shoot pictures and video's.
The first thing we did was speak with the individuals at the front desk. Who seated us in an area with great lighting and props. Once we'd decided what to have, I decided to capture some videos and photos around the restaurant. Then came the mocktails, followed by the food.
Afrikana Menu: A Culinary Tour of Africa
The menu takes you on a delightful tour through Africa's various flavours. The restaurant takes pleasure in serving authentic cuisine made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through the centuries. Here's what we ordered from their delicious menu:
Afrikana Starters, Mains, Drinks & Desserts:
- We'll Have it All £23.95
- Slide in the DM's £13.95
- Beauty & The Beast £7.45
- Island Dream £6.95
- You're So Lavly £9.95
We'll Have It All
We chose to try all of the starters at once. At the very least, this allowed us to try everything on their menu. This contained the Grilled Wings with Afrikana Sauce. Three fried hot and honey wings and chicken tenders. Lady Fingers, Hummus, Bread, and Halloumi Fries. Served with mango salsa.
Slide in The DM's
Three sliders made with grilled chicken, fried chicken, and pulled beef. Of the three, I thought the grilled and fired chicken were the most tasty. These little sliders were small burgers stuffed with sauce and lettuce.
Beauty & The Beast and Island Dream Mocktails
These drinks were quite refreshing. The island fantasy tasted mixture of minty and mango. Whereas Beauty and the Beast tasted like strawberry daiquiri slush. However, everything was stunningly prepared and tasted wonderful.
Beauty and the Beast contained Strawberry, Pomegranate, coconut milk and apple blended together for a sweet and tangy taste. What's more, Island Dream contained exotic mango, lynches, fresh lime, mango and mint.
You're So Lavly
Rich, hot molten chocolate cake with ice cream and Oreo crumbs. This was great! Soft chocolate cake with sauce streaming inside, ready to be scooped up with a spoon. The presentation was delicious, with oreo crumbs surrounding the cake and ice cream.
Food: 8.5 out of 10
Pricing: 8 out of 10
Atmosphere: 9 out of 10
Presentation: 10 out of 10
Experience: 10 out of 10
Overall, I will give this place a rating of 9 out of 10
All their meats are Halal as stated on their menu.
Conclusion
Afrikana Restaurant is a true gem, offering an authentic taste of Africa. Whether you're a seasoned fan of African cuisine or a curious newbie. This establishment offers to provide a wonderful and enriching gastronomic experience. With its inviting atmosphere, broad menu, and dedication to ethnic celebrations.
The food was wonderful from what we ordered; we absolutely liked the platter, drinks, and dessert. The price was excessive, but the portion provided was sufficient for two persons. Depending on your choice. The atmosphere is usually busy here, as I spoke with the owner, and they go in the evening, and at night, there are people waiting outside since it becomes so full. However, when I went, it was half empty because it was about mid afternoon.
The presentation was appetising, with items including small burgers, platters, and drinks that were photogenic. Finally, I have to admit that the experience was positive. I thoroughly liked my time and space when I dined here because I was presented to a short ice show alongside the cuisine and was served well by the personnel.
If you're ever in the Ilford area and searching for a meal. Then head down to Afrikana for a lovely supper with your family or friends.
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