Around this time last year, we were championing a new North London venue from YolanDa Brown OBE DL called Soul Mama that, thanks to some exuberant Kickstarting, was fundraising itself into record-breaking existence. Well, in terms of location, it now turns out that Islington’s loss is East London’s gain, with final confirmation of the venue’s opening in Stratford.
As much a live-music venue as a food concept, Soul Mama will occupy the ground floor of The Gantry hotel and is the place to catch jazz, soul, gospel, reggae from acclaimed performers. It will also hold special concerts as part of the London Jazz Festival. You can also visit for everything from fireside chats to concerts for children and comedy, so keep an eye on the entertainment program.
But what about the food, you say? The plan is still for a fusion of African, Caribbean and South American cuisines inspired by mamas around the world. The executive head chef has now been announced as Aleando Brown, who trained under Gordon Ramsay and previously worked with Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, not to mention Maze Grill, Sketch and The Ritz London. You can expect the likes of
- One pot creamy coconut chicken curry with rice and peas
- Mango jerk cauliflower
- Venezula-inspired cornbread arepas with a twist
- Ghanaian-style kelewele plantain
Drinks-wise, there’ll be local beers, a curated wine list, as well as signature cocktails to match the multicultural cuisine, like Soul Mama’s rum punch and ‘Sax on the Beach’. Keep your eye out for the initial soft launch of the Soul Mama Café, which will feature all-day pastries, coffee, exclusive previews and afternoon events.
More about Soul Mama
Where is it? The Gantry, 40 Celebration Ave, Stratford, London E20 1DB
When does it open? 5 September 2024
Find out more: Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @soulmamalondon
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