What Ikoyi and the Tower of London are
London’s cultural landscape includes Ikoyi, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant redefining West African cuisine, and the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with nearly 1,000 years of royal and historical legacy.
Ikoyi is not a London district: it is a restaurant named after the affluent Ikoyi area of Lagos, Nigeria. The name pays tribute to West African heritage and reflects the founders’ intention to bring the region’s culinary depth into London’s cosmopolitan setting (Ignant; Michelin Guide).
History
Ikoyi
Iré Hassan-Odukale and chef Jeremy Chan established Ikoyi in 2017, aiming to elevate West African flavours using the finest British seasonal ingredients. Hassan-Odukale brings a personal connection to Nigerian culture, while Chan’s global culinary background informs the restaurant’s approach. Ikoyi earned its first Michelin star in 2018 and a second in 2022. It began in St James’s Market and now occupies a location on the Strand (GQ Magazine; Michelin Guide).
Ikoyi challenges longstanding stereotypes about West African cuisine, bringing ingredients such as Scotch bonnet peppers, egusi seeds and plantain into London’s fine-dining spotlight. Its cooking combines West African flavours with modern techniques, prompting conversations about authenticity, innovation and cultural representation. Its Michelin stars have marked a milestone for African cuisine in the UK and internationally, inspiring chefs to explore their heritage and contributing to greater appreciation of African culinary diversity and African-inspired dining in London (GQ Magazine).
Tower of London
Founded by William the Conqueror in 1066, the Tower has served as a royal palace, fortress, prison and treasury. The White Tower is its oldest part and exemplifies Norman military architecture. The Tower has housed the Crown Jewels and witnessed events ranging from royal intrigues to executions (Historic Royal Palaces).
What to see and experience
Ikoyi
Designed by Studio Ashby, the restaurant’s interior features custom elm tables, mid-century chairs and Danish ceramic crockery. The result is a warm, intimate and tactile setting (Ignant).
Ikoyi serves a blind tasting menu that changes daily, guided by British micro-seasonality and West African spice traditions. Chef Jeremy Chan’s dishes reflect local producers and the boldness of African flavours. Menus typically unfold over 12+ courses, bridging Nigerian heritage and contemporary fine dining (Ignant; The Luxury Inspector).
Menu highlights include:
- Smoked Jollof Rice with Bone Marrow, a take on a West African classic (The Luxury Inspector).
- Smoked jollof rice with crab custard, illustrating the restaurant’s blend of tradition and innovation (GQ Magazine).
- Plantain and Peppers, with plantain served alongside a vibrant, spicy sauce.
- Mussel Custard, Saffron, and Caviar, combining British seafood and African spice (Design Anthology UK).
- Hibiscus and Fermented Scotch Bonnet, highlighting fermentation and floral notes.
Ikoyi is recognised for its innovative approach to West African cuisine and its influence on the wider acceptance of African flavours and chefs in the UK’s gastronomic community (Michelin Guide; GQ Magazine).
Tower of London
Visitors can see:
- The Crown Jewels, displayed in the Jewel House.
- The White Tower, home to the Royal Armouries.
- The Medieval Palace, with reconstructed royal lodgings.
- Yeoman Warder tours, included with admission and offering historical storytelling.
- The ravens, the legendary guardians of the Tower.
Practical visiting information
Ikoyi
- Lunch Monday to Saturday, 12:00–15:00.
- Dinner Monday to Saturday, 17:30–23:30.
- Closed Sundays (Ikoyi Official Website).
- Reservations Required; walk-ins are not accepted. Reservations are released monthly on the 1st at noon (GMT), and can be made up to two months in advance via the official website or by phone at +44 (0)20 3583 4660.
- Accessibility The Strand location offers step-free entry and facilities for guests with mobility needs. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.
- Events Occasional tasting events and collaborations are announced on the official website and social media.
Tower of London
- Opening hours
- March–October: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM; last entry 5:00 PM.
- November–February: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM; last entry 4:00 PM.
- Closed December 24–26 (Historic Royal Palaces).
- Tickets Adults £29.90; children £14.90. Family and combination tickets are available. Purchase online in advance (Official Tower of London Tickets).
- Location Tower Hill, London EC3N 4AB, near Tower Hill tube.
- Accessibility Step-free access is available to most areas; free wheelchair loan is available, and assistance dogs are welcome.
Tips
- Ikoyi reservations open monthly and fill quickly, so book as early as possible.
- Public transport is recommended for Ikoyi, where parking is limited.
- For the Tower, public transport is also best because parking is limited.
- The best lighting for Tower photography is in the morning or late afternoon. Flash and tripods are restricted in some areas.
- Download the Audiala app for guided tours and audio commentary.
Nearby places
Near Ikoyi are the Royal Courts of Justice, Somerset House and the Southbank. The restaurant is near Temple, Charing Cross and Covent Garden tube stations.
Near the Tower of London are Tower Bridge, St Katharine Docks and The Shard.
FAQ
Ikoyi
How far in advance should I book at Ikoyi?
Reservations open monthly and fill quickly; book as early as possible, up to two months in advance.
Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, with advance notice.
Is there a dress code?
Smart and elegant attire is recommended (Alotea).
Are non-alcoholic pairings available?
Yes, a curated selection is offered.
Tower of London
Can I see the Crown Jewels?
Yes, they are included in admission.
Is the Tower suitable for children?
Yes, educational activities are available.
Is parking available?
Parking is limited; public transport is best.
Can I bring pets?
Only registered assistance dogs are allowed.
