Nigerian and West African food has long been a cornerstone of London’s culinary scene, especially in the South. Beyond bold flavours, rich spices and hearty dishes – the smoky heat of jollof rice and spicy kick of suya beef grilled over an open flame will always have a special place in our hearts!

Overview

Who is this for? 

Chefs, amateur cooks, menu planners / creators and anyone interested in experiencing this global trend from street food to restaurant offerings

Why should I take part?

As well as spending time with like minded colleagues from the industry, you will be touring South London with Jo and Jess, the Flygerians! You may remember them from the TUCO Winter Conference in Kent or their recent appearances on Channel 4s "Sunday Brunch". 

With time and rightfully so, contemporary Nigerian and West African restaurants are finding a more prominent space not only as neighbourhood spots and takeaways but fine-dining experiences across the city – offering not only homely dishes but reimagined classics. The business case for exploring this food trend is below and what better way to do this other than with our experts Jo and Jess!

  • Growing Nigerian Diaspora: London has a significant Nigerian diaspora, creating a strong demand for authentic Nigerian cuisine.
  • Increasing Popularity of Ethnic Cuisines: There's a growing trend towards exploring diverse ethnic cuisines, including Nigerian food.
  • Unique Flavors and Ingredients: Nigerian street food offers a unique combination of flavours and ingredients that are distinct from other cuisines.
  1. Authenticity: Authentic Nigerian street food, using traditional ingredients and cooking methods can be found in South London and some central London locations
  2. Accessibility: Food is accessible to a wider audience by offering options that cater to various dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, vegan).
  3. Fusion: Experimentation with fusion dishes that combine Nigerian flavours with popular British or global cuisine elements can be found in London and Greater London.
  4. Delivery and Takeout: convenient delivery and takeout options cater to busy lifestyles are increasing in popularity.

Nigerian Street Food Trends to explore

  • Suya: Grilled skewered meat marinated in a spicy blend of spices.
  • Akara: Deep-fried bean cakes served with pepper sauce.
  • Egusi Soup: A hearty vegetable soup made with egusi seeds, often served with fufu or pounded yam.
  • Jollof Rice: A flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
  • Puff Puff: Deep-fried dough balls similar to doughnuts.

The Flygerians

The Flygerians

Jess and Jo Edun, AKA The Flygerians, two larger than life sisters who are bringing the sweet taste of Nigeria to the streets of London! They first started cooking from the ages of nine and 10 – when our legendary grandma used to have us cooking up a Nigerian feast for the 5000. She used to host annual barbecues or ‘Mama’s cookouts’ that would bring together neighbours, family, friends and any random stranger that was strolling by and wanted in on the action.

She taught the sisters that food was for everyone and should hold no boundaries. She inspired them to always have a positive vibe and to share the love and bring people together!

How will it help me?

During the event, you will...

  • Sample authentic Nigerian food and ingredients
  • Pair food with EKO brewery produce (African inspired Vegan beers!) 
  • Understand Nigerian recipes and specialities
  • Develop your knowledge with authentic culinary experts
  • Engage with like-minded colleagues and immerse yourself in the food trend being taught the next day at UWL (if you are joining us there).

What’s included?

  • All food and drink during the tour with the TUCO representative
  • Travel during the tour
  • Overnight stay in London

What’s not included?

  • Travel to and from the study tour or the development day

Itinerary:

28th October

12-13:00 Group to arrive at London Holiday Inn Kensington

13:00 Travel to Peckham

14:00 Lunch and beer pairing followed by the tour for the rest of the day

Overnight in London

Travel to the Cooking class at UWL if you are joining the session

 

 

Pricing

Full Member
£199.00
Associate/Affiliate Member
£299.00
Other/Non-Member
£399.00

Location

Meeting point address: Holiday Inn, Wrights Lane, Kensington and Chelsea, London, W8 5SP

FAQs

  • I can’t see a particular course/training, can you run it?

    If you are interested in receiving training that is not already offered by TUCO Academy, pop us an email or give us a call and we will see if we can source it for you. By going through TUCO Academy you will be able to purchase the training at a subsidised rate and if you can offer the training to other members it will reduce the cost further. 

    Does this answer your question? If not, you can contact us directly.

  • Can I request a course or development day be held at my organisation?

    The TUCO Academy has worked hard to offer all training at a subsidised price, agreeing reduced corporate contract rates with hotels etc. - yet still understands the benefits of in-house training. To that end, working alongside the professional trainers, TUCO Academy can arrange for events to be held at your own institution, for no extra cost. 

    Does this answer your question? If not, you can contact us directly.

  • Who can use the training with TUCO Academy?

    All professional development events are available for ANY staff in institutions who are members of TUCO, not just employees in the hospitality, catering and commercial services department.

    Does this answer your question? If not, you can contact us directly.

  • Can I book on behalf of someone else in my organisation?

    Yes – the person making the booking doesn’t have to attend.

    Does this answer your question? If not, you can contact us directly.

  • How do I pay for my professional development event?

    You can opt to pay by credit card on the booking form directly or select to pay by invoice. If you need to submit a purchase order this can be entered in the booking form.

    Does this answer your question? If not, you can contact us directly.