As the opening of my debut restaurant, Shwen Shwen, approaches, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey that has brought me to this point. It’s hard to believe that after years of catering, hosting supper clubs, publishing my cookbook Sweet Salone, and sharing my passion for Sierra Leonean cuisine with so many, the time has finally come to open the doors to my very own restaurant in the heart of Sevenoaks. I can’t wait to share my food, my heritage, and my story with all of you.
Shwen Shwen isn’t just another restaurant, it’s a place where my roots meet my future. The name Shwen Shwen comes from the Krio word for “fancy,” but for me, it’s about much more than that. It’s about bringing the richness and depth of Sierra Leone’s food culture to life, while also allowing room for creativity and innovation. This fusion of traditional Sierra Leonean dishes with contemporary influences is something I’ve always been passionate about, and it’s what will make Shwen Shwen stand out.
Growing up in Freetown, Sierra Leone, I learned to cook at a young age alongside my mother and grandmother. The flavours, the ingredients, and the rituals of cooking have stayed with me throughout my life. Now, I want to bring those experiences to you. When you dine with us, you’ll be able to taste the essence of Sierra Leone, flavours like tamarind, moringa, fonio, and peanut butter that form the foundation of West African cooking.
Of course, opening a restaurant in Sevenoaks was a bold choice, and I’ve had my share of questions and challenges along the way. But I’m a firm believer that you have to trust your instincts. Sevenoaks is a community that has shown genuine curiosity about what we’re doing here, and that curiosity excites me. It’s time for people to experience the diverse and dynamic food of Sierra Leone, and I couldn’t be more excited to introduce it to a new audience.
One of the most exciting aspects of Shwen Shwen is the design. We’ve created a space that reflects the warmth and vibrancy of Sierra Leone, with rich colours, fabrics inspired by our traditional textiles, and an atmosphere that’s both intimate and welcoming. Our beautiful courtyard, which we’ve named Cotton Tree Courtyard, is another special touch. When I saw the protected red maple tree in the space, it reminded me of the Cotton Tree in Freetown, which has stood for centuries. It felt like a full circle moment, and I can’t wait for guests to experience it for themselves.
The opening of Shwen Shwen is also about changing perceptions of African cuisine. I’ve had so many conversations about spice and what West African food really is. People tend to think of African food as overwhelmingly hot, but it’s so much more than that. It’s about depth, balance, and layers of flavour. We use spices like grains of paradise and kankankan, and ingredients like peanut butter, palm oil, and coconuts, foods that are familiar, but that come together in surprising ways to create something unique. I want guests to feel at home, to feel welcomed, and to enjoy a relaxed, fun dining experience. And yes, of course, the food will be delicious!
There’s so much I’m excited to share at Shwen Shwen, from the incredible food to the design and atmosphere. But more than anything, I’m excited to see the community that will form around this space. Whether you’re here for a special occasion, a casual meal, or a quick bite, I want you to feel like you’re part of the family. My dream has always been to create a place that feels like home, where people can enjoy good food, good company, and a little piece of Sierra Leone.