Ikoyi Restaurant, London: A Bold West African Culinary Journey
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Ikoyi is a two-Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant in London’s Temple district, celebrated for its innovative West African-inspired tasting menus. Located at 180 Strand, it offers a unique culinary adventure blending bold spices with British ingredients in an elegant, modern setting. The restaurant is known for its artful presentation, intense flavors, and attentive service, making it a standout destination for adventurous food lovers seeking a refined yet vibrant dining experience.
A brief summary to Ikoyi Restaurant
- 180 Strand, London, Temple, WC2R 1EA, GB
- +442035834660
- Visit website
- Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 6 pm-8 pm
- Tuesday 6 pm-8 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-1:30 pm
Local tips
- Reserve well in advance due to limited seating and high demand for the tasting menu experience.
- Consider the expertly curated wine or tea pairings to enhance the complex flavors of the dishes.
- Prepare for a multi-hour dining experience as the tasting menu is paced deliberately to showcase each course.
- The atmosphere is modern and elegant but can feel minimalist; focus on the culinary artistry unfolding on your plate.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Ikoyi Restaurant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ikoyi Restaurant
Origins and Culinary Philosophy
Ikoyi, named after a wealthy Lagos suburb, was founded by chefs Jeremy Chan and Iré Hassan-Odukale in 2017. It has quickly risen to prominence with its distinctive approach to fine dining, marrying West African spices and ingredients with British produce and modern techniques. The restaurant’s philosophy centers on a category-defying cuisine, often described as a "journey through bold heat," where each dish layers complex flavors and textures in a tasting menu format. The evolving menu reflects seasonal availability and the chefs’ creative vision, challenging conventional expectations of African and British culinary traditions.Atmosphere and Design
Situated on London’s bustling Strand, Ikoyi’s interior offers a striking contrast to the city’s energy. Designed by David Thulstrup, the space features warm terracotta tones, charred timber, brushed stone, and copper accents, creating an elemental, contemplative environment. The open kitchen runs along one side of the dining room, glowing like an altar to fire and flavor. The decor is deliberately understated and elegant, focusing attention on the food as the centerpiece of the experience. The layout balances intimacy and comfort with a modern aesthetic that avoids ornamentation.Signature Dishes and Menu Highlights
Ikoyi offers a 12-14 course tasting menu that is both surprising and meticulously crafted. Signature dishes include the smoked jollof rice cracker topped with aged beef and fermented scotch bonnet emulsion, aged turbot with saffron koshō and confit lemon, and deep-fried plantain with umami-rich raspberry salt. The menu is notable for its bold yet balanced use of spices such as suya and Scotch bonnet, combined with British ingredients like crab and veal sweetbread. Desserts continue the spicy narrative, incorporating elements like Scotch bonnet to maintain the restaurant’s distinctive flavor profile.Service and Dining Experience
Ikoyi’s service style is subtle and unobtrusive, led by Iré Hassan-Odukale, allowing the food to speak for itself. The staff is highly knowledgeable and attentive, ready to explain the complex flavor profiles and ingredient origins upon request. The pacing of the meal is deliberate, designed to let each dish unfold fully, though some diners have noted it can feel slow. Wine and tea pairings are expertly curated to complement the intense spices, often featuring natural and minimal-intervention producers. The overall experience is immersive, engaging multiple senses beyond taste.Reception and Recognition
Ikoyi has earned two Michelin stars and won the Highest Climber Award in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025, ranking at number 15 globally. It is praised for its creativity, technical precision, and the boldness of its flavors. While some critics mention a sterile atmosphere or slow pacing, the restaurant remains a landmark for innovative dining in London, attracting a clientele eager for a unique and memorable culinary adventure.Location and Practical Details
Located at 180 Strand in the Temple area of London, Ikoyi occupies a discreet yet accessible spot in the city’s cultural heart. The restaurant operates primarily in the evenings with a focus on reservation-only dining. The price point reflects its fine dining status, with tasting menus around £300 per person. The venue is suitable for special occasions and adventurous diners seeking a sophisticated yet unconventional experience that celebrates West African heritage through a contemporary lens.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.1 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
The Old Watch House
0.1 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
St Clement Danes Church
0.1 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
0.3 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Prince Henry's Room
0.3 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Strand
0.4 km
Historic London thoroughfare linking Westminster and the City, famed for grand hotels, cultural landmarks, and hidden historical treasures.
Hare Pl
0.4 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Waterloo Bridge
0.4 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Richard D’Oyly Carte Monument
0.5 km
A sculptural homage to Richard D’Oyly Carte’s theatrical and hospitality legacy, nestled in the serene Victoria Embankment Gardens.
Bow St
0.5 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Henry Fawcett Monument
0.5 km
A serene Victorian fountain memorializing Henry Fawcett’s pioneering spirit in social reform and women’s suffrage, nestled in tranquil Embankment Gardens.
Plaque: David Garrick
0.5 km
Honoring David Garrick, the 18th-century actor and theatre innovator, with a commemorative plaque in London’s historic theatre district.
Huntfun Covent Garden
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Huntfun Covent Garden, a premier tourist attraction in London filled with unique shops, local stalls, and street performances.
Cleopatra's Needle
0.6 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Major-General Lord Cheylesmore Monument
0.6 km
A serene stone tribute in Victoria Embankment Gardens honoring Major-General Lord Cheylesmore’s military and civic legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Trust - Strand Lane "Roman Bath"
0.1 km
Discover London’s hidden Tudor-era cold bath beneath the Strand, where myth and history intertwine in a unique urban relic.
King's College Chapel
0.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich history of King's College Chapel, a must-visit Gothic masterpiece in the heart of London.
King's College London
0.1 km
Historic riverside campus blending classical architecture with modern academia in central London’s vibrant cultural heart.
St Mary le Strand Church
0.1 km
Discover the exquisite Baroque beauty and rich heritage of St Mary le Strand Church, a tranquil sanctuary and landmark in the heart of London’s Strand.
Temple Station
0.2 km
Step into history at Temple Station, a Victorian-era gateway to London’s medieval Knights Templar district and legal heritage.
Royal Courts of Justice
0.2 km
Explore the Royal Courts of Justice, a stunning Gothic architectural masterpiece in London, showcasing the city's rich legal history and vibrant culture.
The Courtauld Gallery
0.2 km
Discover world-class art masterpieces from the Middle Ages to Impressionism in the historic Somerset House setting.
Somerset House
0.2 km
Historic neoclassical landmark and vibrant cultural hub on the Thames, blending art, performance, dining, and innovation in central London.
Two Temple Place
0.2 km
Discover Two Temple Place, a neo-Gothic Victorian mansion blending literary grandeur and architectural mastery on London’s iconic Victoria Embankment.
Aldwych Theatre
0.3 km
Experience timeless elegance and captivating performances at London’s historic Aldwych Theatre, a West End treasure with Art Deco charm.
Middle Temple Venue Hire
0.3 km
A stunning Elizabethan hall at the heart of London’s legal heritage, blending history, architecture, and tradition in a serene riverside setting.
Temple Bar Memorial
0.3 km
Uncover the historical significance of Temple Bar Memorial, a captivating landmark in the heart of London, reflecting the city's rich heritage and culture.
Peacock Theatre
0.3 km
A dynamic West End venue dedicated to contemporary dance and innovative performances in a historic yet modern setting.
The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple
0.3 km
Discover the historic heart of English law and royal heritage at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, home to stunning Elizabethan architecture and centuries of tradition.
Mamma Mia!
0.3 km
Experience the joyous ABBA musical Mamma Mia! at London’s Novello Theatre, a timeless West End celebration of love and laughter.
Essential places to dine
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.0 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Sarastro
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Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
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Balthazar
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Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
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Margot
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Chez Antoinette
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Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.6 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Inamo Covent Garden
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A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Rules
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Wahaca Southbank
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Cora Pearl Covent Garden
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Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Palm Court Brasserie
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Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
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Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Flat Iron Covent Garden
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Savor expertly crafted flat iron steaks in a historic Covent Garden setting, complete with rustic charm and a signature ice cream treat.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Store X
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A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Twinings - The Strand
0.2 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.5 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.5 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
London Silver Vaults
0.6 km
The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
Sugar And Style
0.6 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
not just a shop
0.6 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.7 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
0.7 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.7 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.7 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.7 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.7 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Floral Street
0.7 km
Contemporary floral fragrances crafted with purpose, sustainability, and joy in the heart of London.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.4 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Plume Wine Bar
0.4 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.4 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Beaufort Bar
0.4 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
American Bar
0.4 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.5 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Crusting Pipe
0.5 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.5 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
The Understudy
0.5 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Upstairs At Rules
0.6 km
Discover Upstairs At Rules, a refined cocktail bar above London’s oldest restaurant, where Edwardian elegance meets expertly crafted drinks in Covent Garden.
Mrs Riot
0.6 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Mr Fogg's Society of Exploration
0.7 km
Step into a Victorian explorer’s world with inventive cocktails, immersive storytelling, and a mechanical mixologist in Covent Garden’s unique speakeasy.
All Bar One Covent Garden
0.7 km
Stylish Covent Garden wine bar serving shareable plates, extensive wines, and cocktails in a lively West End setting—ideal for pre-theatre drinks or group gatherings.
Blame Gloria - Cocktail Bar in Covent Garden
0.7 km
Dive into Blame Gloria’s neon-lit retro cocktail haven in Covent Garden, where legendary rock vibes and wild themed brunches electrify your night.
Princess Louise
0.7 km
Step into the Princess Louise, a stunning Victorian gin palace in Holborn, where opulent interiors and rich history blend in a timeless London pub experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Proud Late
0.4 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
Carwash Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.6 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.8 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
The Roxy
0.8 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Heaven
0.8 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
0.9 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
The Ivy Club
0.9 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.0 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
1.0 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
The Penthouse London
1.1 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Club49Soho
1.1 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
Cirque Du Soul
1.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.1 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
La Capannina Club
1.2 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly