The age-old debate over who makes the best jollof rice —Nigeria or Ghana—might have seemed as if there would never be a unanimous answer. For years these two West African countries have passionately argued over the superior version of this beloved rice dish. Each claiming their recipe reigns supreme. In fact, this Jollof rivalry has even dominated Western African cultural conversations often sparking discussions at family gatherings, festivals and on social media. And that’s because, in West African cuisine, Jollof rice is more than just food. Whether at home or in restaurants. It’s also a source of national pride and cultural identity for both countries.
And now, London’s two Michelin star restaurant Ikoyi —listed among the world’s 50 best restaurants —may too have entered the fray. Thanks to their, (you guessed it ) Crab Jollof Rice. A dish that has sparked lively debates among food enthusiasts online. Those who have tried Ikoyi’s Jollof rice rave about its innovative twist and rich flavours, while those who haven’t are left curious and eager to experience it themselves. However, some prefer the traditional version and think the modern twist is like adding pineapple to pizza—interesting, but not for everyone!
Regardless of which side of the Jollof debate you’re on, you have to give it to Ikoyi for landing among the top 50 best restaurants in the world for 2024. That’s three years in a row! Maybe it’s the Jollof rice… or perhaps they’ve finally cracked the secret ingredient that makes theirs the undisputed champion? Time will tell.
Anyway, now that the list has spoken—can we stop the Jollof debate now?
Meanwhile, this recognition is not just a win for Ikoyi but a significant milestone for African cuisine as a whole thanks to the brains behind this culinary magic, Jeremy Chan and Iré Hassan-Odukale. Two childhood friends who are invested in blending scientific precision and cultural heritage to create a unique gastronomy-Oscar-worthy dining experience. Someone should do a movie on them.
©Ikoyi / Facebook
Now that their crab jollof rice is so good, that it’s earned them this world-class recognition (3 times), it might just be able to end the age-old debate between Nigerians and Ghanaians. A peace treaty we never saw coming. Even the Gambians at the back agree, right guys?
Since its establishment in 2017, Ikoyi has quickly gained recognition for its bold and inventive approach to West African cuisine. Thanks to two friends who have made sure every bite, respects tradition while daring to innovate– one forkful at a time. From its early days, this central London restaurant has challenged preconceptions and set new standards for African cuisine. I suspect being named one of the world’s best restaurants marks a high point in Iré and Jeremy’s journey with Ikoyi.
Ultimately, as one of the top 50 best restaurants it has to be a huge achievement for Ikoyi and African cuisine, paving the way for other African chefs and restaurants to champion the rich culinary traditions of Africa.
Thank you and well done guys!
See The Full List of The world’s 50 best restaurants 2024
1. Disfrutar (Barcelona, Spain)
2. Asador Etxebarri (Atxondo, Spain)
3. Table by Bruno Verjus (Paris, France)
4. Diverxo (Madrid, Spain)
5. Maido (Lima, Peru)
6. Atomix (New York City) – Best restaurant in North America
7. Quintonil (Mexico City, Mexico)
8. Alchemist (Copenhagen, Denmark)
9. Gaggan Anand (Bangkok, Thailand)
10. Don Julio (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
11. Septime (Paris, France)
12. Lido 84 (Gardone Riviera, Italy)
13. Trèsind Studio (Dubai, UAE)
14. Quique Dacosta (Denia, Spain)
15. Sézanne (Tokyo, Japan)
16. Kjolle (Lima, Peru)
17. Kol (London, England)
18. Plénitude (Paris, France)
19. Reale (Castel di Sangro, Spain)
20. Wing (Hong Kong) – Highest New Entry Award
21. Florilège (Tokyo, Japan)
22. Steirereck (Vienna, Austria)
23. Suhring (Bangkok, Thailand)
24. Odette (Singapore)
25. El Chato (Bogotá, Colombia)
26. The Chairman (Hong Kong) – Highest Climber Award
27. A Casa do Porco (São Paulo, Brazil)
28. Elkano (Getaria, Spain)
29. Boragó (Santiago, Chile)
30. Restaurant Tim Raue (Berlin, Germany)
31. Belcanto (Lisbon, Portugal)
32. Den (Tokyo, Japan)
33. Pujol (Mexico City, Mexico)
34. Rosetta (Mexico City, Mexico)
35. Frantzén (Stockholm, Sweden)
36. The Jane (Antwerp, Belgium)
37. Oteque (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
38. Sorn (Bangkok, Thailand)
39. Piazza Duomo (Alba, Italy)
40. Le Du (Bangkok, Thailand)
41. Mayta (Lima, Peru)
42. Ikoyi (London, England)
43. Nobelhart & Schmutzig (Berlin, Germany)
44. Mingles (Seoul, South Korea)
45. Arpege (Paris, France)
46. SingleThread (Healdsburg, California)
47. Schloss Schauenstein (Fürstenau, Switzerland)
48. Hiša Franko (Kobarid, Slovenia)
49. La Colombe (Cape Town, South Africa)
50. Uliassi (Senigallia, Italy)