About

Lopè Ariyo stands as one of the UK's pioneering voices in West African cuisine, whose innovative approach to Nigerian food earned her The Observer's Rising Star in Food award in 2017. Through her distinctive culinary style, she artfully marries West African flavours with contemporary cooking techniques, creating irresistible dishes that celebrate ingredients in ways that will have you licking your plate.

With a fascinating blend of analytical and creative talents, Lopè holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Loughborough University, where her academic journey took an unexpected but delicious turn. During her studies, she entered a cookery competition organised by Red Magazine and Harper Collins, where her unique interpretation of Nigerian cuisine thoroughly impressed the judges. This triumph culminated in a well-deserved cookbook deal with Harper Collins, marking the beginning of her culinary career in the public eye.

Lopè's professional experience includes a stint at the acclaimed Ikoyi restaurant in London. When not immersed in lines of code, Lopè expresses her love for West African cuisine through Okele and Jebu, her popular supper clubs, where she serves as both host and chef, creating memorable dining experiences that showcase the vibrant flavours of West Africa.