Things to do to celebrate Black History Month in London

Dark Sugars is renowned in London as a top spot for delicious handcrafted artisan chocolates, vegan sweet treats, and hot chocolate made with the finest Ghanaian chocolate. It was founded by Nyanga, an African woman passionate about sharing the cocoa journey from tree to mouth. Nyanga's quest for cocoa knowledge led her to dedicate several years to research on her family's West African farm before making her mark in Greenwich, where Dark Sugars boasts an ice cream parlour and flagship store, and also in the buzzy heart of Brick Lane.

London's Caribbean food scene is in a constant state of change, ranging from street-side giant drum grills dishing out mouthwatering jerk chicken to upscale Jamaican dining establishments. Since the 1970s, yard shops have been offering beloved classics like beef-stuffed patties and lamb rotis across the city. In our guide, we've curated a list of the top Caribbean restaurants in London that are a must-add to your culinary bucket-list.

In 1966, New Beacon Books made history as the UK's pioneering Black publisher and bookshop. It remains a vital cultural institution offering a selection of titles spanning Africa, the Caribbean, Asia, African America, Europe, South America, and Black Britain. In recent years, its significance was underscored when it faced closure but was rescued through a successful crowdfunding campaign, enabling it to thrive and evolve.

The venture of Nigerian owner Clement Ogbonnaya, Prince of Peckham, stands as a community pub where you can eat, drink and socialise in a warm and welcoming space. Enjoy street food by White Men Can't Jerk, who serve up jerk chicken, Caribbean roasts and stacks of wings, throughout the week or enjoy live music, art exhibitions, and all other events on the top floor. 

Although we've alreadymentioned a few Black-owned restaurants, the city is an excellent place to sample African restaurants that celebrate both time-honoured dishes and contemporary culinary creations. African cuisine in London is a kaleidoscope of fragrant flavours, spanning Morocco's spices to Ethiopia's plant-based recipes. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of African cuisine or looking to delve into it for the first time, our guide to the best African restaurants in the capital will assist you in finding your next African meal.

Tottenham-based Chuku's, owned and run by brother and sister duo Emeka and Ifeyinwa Frederick, offers a contemporary Nigerian tapas experience that promotes community and sharing. With a relaxed vibe, it's perfect for trying authentic Nigerian dishes, from yam dumplings to suya meatballs. They also host brunch and intimate supper clubs.

12:51, by acclaimed chef James Cochran, celebrates his joint Vincentian and Scottish heritage. The restaurant offers ever-evolving five-course tasting menus and mouthwatering Sunday roasts. Diners can choose between the standard tasting menu and a vegetarian alternative, showcasing seasonally inspired options such as Jersey Royal risotto and smoked eel rarebit. Round off your meal with drink pairings.

We may have already shone a spotlight on Chuku's, but Nigerian and West African cuisine in London boasts an abundance of decadent flavours and comforting dishes, and there are many places you can sample it around the city. Whether you're new to this culinary tradition or it's been a lifelong favourite, you can indulge in a delightful Nigerian meal at one of the many restaurants listed in our guide.

Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine and flavours at Wolkite, a welcoming family-owned restaurant in Hollway that, while unassuming, has maintained popularity. Engross yourself in Ethiopian culture through the aromatic and hearty dishes served here, featuring both traditional meat and vegetarian options, all enjoyed atop injera you get stuck into with your hands. The drinks menu consists of various Ethiopian beers and the traditional honey wine called tej.

On 24th October, during the half-term week, Islington Central Library is putting on a free afternoon of family-friendly activities to celebrate Black History Month. Kids and adults of all ages can get involved with drumming, African chanting, painting, crafts, and workshops. The event is being run in partnership with the Go Africa community hub.