For Nigerians in the UK, food is more than just sustenance—it’s a connection to home, a bridge to nostalgia, and a celebration of culture. That’s exactly what SUYAMAN, founded by Tunde Tejumola, embodies. What started as a personal passion has blossomed into a dynamic culinary movement, bringing the bold and vibrant flavors of Nigeria to London’s food scene through exciting pop-ups. From the smoky aroma of Suya-spiced BBQ to the comforting embrace of Jollof rice, SUYAMAN invites food lovers to experience the richness of West African cuisine in a fresh and innovative way.
The Journey of Tunde Tejumola
Babatunde Tejumola, better known as Tunde or TJ, is not just a food entrepreneur—he’s also a pharmacist by profession. But long before he was dispensing prescriptions, he was whipping up meals inspired by his childhood in Nigeria. Growing up, he was fascinated by his family’s chef and spent countless hours in the kitchen watching culinary magic unfold. By the age of 12, after attending cooking classes in school, he was finally entrusted with his mother’s kitchen, eager to experiment with flavors and ingredients.
His love for food didn’t stop in Nigeria. When he moved to the UK for university, he introduced his friends to Nigerian cuisine through themed dinner parties. Traditional outfits, Fela Kuti’s music, and homemade dishes created a warm and immersive experience that left his guests craving more. Though pharmacy remained his career path, his passion for food never faded. In 2019, he took a bold step to share his culinary heritage with a wider audience—thus, SUYAMAN was born.
A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
What makes SUYAMAN unique is its fusion of indigenous Nigerian ingredients with European cooking techniques. Tunde’s background in pharmacy also plays a role, as he experiments with precision, balancing flavors in a way that elevates classic dishes while maintaining their authenticity. Some standout creations include:
- Akara with White and Brown Crab – A reimagined take on the beloved spiced bean cake fritter, blending the deep, rich flavors of French-style crab bisque with the comforting nostalgia of a Nigerian breakfast staple.
- Jollof Rice and Suya – A celebration of the ultimate Nigerian party food, served with indulgent accompaniments while staying true to its roots, wrapped in a moin-moin leaf for authenticity.
- Smoked Mackerel Efo Riro on a Bed of Pounded Yam – A hearty and power-packed dish served in a traditional calabash, bringing a taste of home to the UK with its rich, savory flavors.
- Vegan Guru and Epa – A creative twist on the Lagos street snack of popcorn and groundnuts, transformed into a delectable vegan cashew nut cheesecake, inspired by memories of childhood traffic jams in Nigeria.
The Ultimate Nigerian Drinks: Zobo and Stout
No Nigerian feast is complete without the perfect drinks to complement the flavors. SUYAMAN proudly offers Hibiscus-infused Zobo Pale Ale and a uniquely crafted Suya Stout, both designed to elevate the experience of enjoying Nigerian cuisine.
- Zobo Pale Ale
- Kakao African Cacao Stout
These drinks not only pay homage to Nigeria’s culinary heritage but also offer a bold, modern twist for adventurous food lovers. Ready to taste? Order your Zobo Pale Ale and Kakao African Cacao Stout here: Suyaman Drinks on Delli Market.
Taking Nigerian Cuisine Global
Tunde’s journey with SUYAMAN is just beginning. He has big plans to explore the African diaspora’s influence on global cuisines, starting with a trip to Bahia, Brazil, where Nigerian food traditions have evolved over centuries. Through food review videos and culinary storytelling, he aims to bring these global influences back to SUYAMAN, creating even more opportunities to celebrate Nigerian culture in the UK and beyond.
For Nigerians in the UK longing for a taste of home, SUYAMAN is more than a restaurant—it’s a movement. It’s about keeping our culture alive, sharing our food with the world, and proving that Nigerian cuisine deserves a prominent place on the global culinary stage. Whether you’re a foodie, an entrepreneur, or simply someone who misses the flavors of home, Tunde’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the richness of our heritage.
So next time you’re craving a taste of Nigeria, dare to taste SUYAMAN. Because no matter where we go, our food will always bring us home.
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