People don’t typically think of Scotland as a very diverse place. While it’s true that the U.K. constituent country remains largely White, it has been growing more diverse over the last decade. In larger cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh especially, it is becoming less and less rare to see people of color.
Among these citizens of color are Black members of the Scottish community who contribute to the vibrancy of the country’s culinary scene by bringing the unique flair of their African and Caribbean heritage. Here are four Black-owned eateries in Scotland that are definitely worth supporting.
111 By Modou
Located in Glasgow’s West End, 111 By Modou offers innovative contemporary fare. Thursday through Saturday evenings, owner and chef Modou Diagne offers an immersive dining experience inspired by his personal journey from his roots in Senegal to the present. With the 10-course “Inspire” tasting menu, he shares the tale of his life through special dishes made with heart and soul.
Bantaba Afro Caribbean Restaurant
Bantaba is a family-run Afro-Caribbean restaurant located in the Bridgeton district of Glasgow. This hidden gem is all about quality, ensuring that only the finest ingredients find their way into their dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for red jollof rice with chicken, grilled jerk fish, curry goat with rice and peas or peri peri chicken, their menu is full of plenty of tantalizing options guaranteed to transport you either to the Continent or a scenic Caribbean island.
Akara Cafe and Bakery
Akara Cafe and Bakery is the brainchild of Lewa. This Black-owned Glasgow, Scotland eatery started as a humble home cake business back in 2016. Now it has blossomed into a beloved neighborhood bakery and cafe. Lewa’s unique twist on classic flavors and textures has earned Akara Bakery a reputation for delectable bakes. Visit the cafe for lunch and indulge in a sausage roll, frittata, sandwich or piping hot bowl of soup. Pair it with one of their loose teas or locally roasted coffees. Don’t forget a slice of their famous red velvet cake to top it all off.
Apocom Kitchen
Glasgow’s Apocom Kitchen serves mouthwatering Nigerian cuisine. Offering a cozy and warm ambiance, the restaurant fosters a welcoming environment in which friends and family can gather and enjoy great eats that remind them of home-cooked meals. From classic dishes like abacha and ugba to mouthwatering catfish pepper soup and hearty yam porridge, Apocom Kitchen gives you a taste of West Africa in Scotland.