Michelin Star Finance. Launching amidst a global pandemic might seem like a bold move, but for Aji Akokomi, the visionary and Founder of Akoko, it was an opportunity to redefine culinary excellence. Fast forward four years and a Michelin Star later, Akoko stands as a testament to his culinary genius.
Nestled in London’s vibrant Fitzrovia neighbourhood, Akoko brings to life the rich and diverse flavours of West Africa. Aji’s menu showcases and encapsulates the essence of Nigeria, Ghana, The Gambia, and Senegal, taking diners on a gastronomic journey like no other.
His signature dish is thinly sliced tender Ox Tongue with spicy and smoky flavours from the firewood grill, it’s then served with a bone marrow emulsion. “This is the dish which customers find the most interesting, just cooking with the tongue is really important, using something that most people would usually throw away we have created something special, creative and delicious” Aji told me.
Michelin stars are awarded to restaurants around the world which offer “outstanding cooking”, its considered the barometer of culinary success and has taken Akoko up another level.“The Michelin star comes from chefs work, we continually improve with exceptional cooking, attention to detail and amazing service and we were so elated” Aji went onto say as the Akoko brand now attracts diners and chefs from around the world.
Across the River Thames, in Borough Market you’ll find Akara, a casual a la carte dining experience which captures the impact of West African cuisine around the world. With particular recognition for Brazilian and Indian cuisines, the market stall is shining light on the traditional West African dish, Akara, going back to its roots, using the same techniques whilst having culinary influences from around the world.
The Akoko and Akara projects have had an exceptional team behind them, all of which believed and shared the same hunger and desire to succeed and push through the challenging pandemic. “Everyone believed in what we were doing, from our terrific PR and marketing team to Johnson Reed who provided the finance for the projects”.
Johnson Reed’s hospitality and catering finance were instrumental in acquiring Michelin Star-level equipment while preserving cash reserves during the challenging pandemic. With affordable monthly repayments, Akoko and Akara soared to extraordinary heights, setting a new standard in culinary excellence.
If your business is ready to invest in new equipment or embark on a new venture, explore our flexible finance options before tapping into your own resources. At Johnson Reed, we’re here to help turn your hospitality dreams into reality.