How Afrikana Kitchen Began in Aldridge

Discover why Afrikana Kitchen is the UK's leading African-inspired restaurant franchise. From a £260,500 investment, 18+ locations, a proven business model, and comprehensive support await.

How Afrikana Kitchen Began in Aldridge

In 2018, after working with brands such as Nando’s and gaining experience in Dubai’s hospitality scene, Omair Ali returned to the UK, determined to launch a restaurant reflecting his heritage. He opened the first Afrikana Kitchen in Aldridge, Walsall, combining signature flame-grilled chicken, plant-based options, and fully halal menus with a warm, culturally rich atmosphere.

That initial site established the blueprint for what today includes 18 locations, from Birmingham and Cardiff to Glasgow and London, each offering vibrant flavours, creative mocktails, and décor celebrating African art and music.

Franchise Models to Fit Every Market

Afrikana Kitchen offers 3 formats designed for diverse investment levels and locations:

  • Lil Afrikana Express: 600 to 1000 sq ft delivery-focused venues with up to 20 covers

  • The Afrikana Restaurant: 1,500-1800 sq ft dine-in venues seating 30-50 guests

  • Afrikana XL: More than 2,000 sq ft flagship destinations with more than 50 covers

Each model includes site-selection support, design guidance, initial training, and ongoing operational assistance to ensure consistency and profitability.

Performance Metrics That Count

Established Afrikana franchisees report weekly takings of around £18,000 and an average spend of £27 per customer. These figures reflect steady demand across dine-in, takeaway, delivery, and private events, backed by targeted marketing and a strong brand identity

Why Entrepreneurs Choose Afrikana Kitchen
  • Proven concept: Rapid growth from one site to 18 locations in seven years demonstrates market demand and brand strength

  • Cultural connection: Each restaurant features African drumming at openings, art-filled interiors, and playlists that immerse guests in African heritage.

  • Broad appeal: Menus cater to halal, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets without diluting bold flavour profiles

  • Dedicated support: From territory mapping to lease negotiations and staff training, franchise partners receive hands-on guidance

Expansion Roadmap and Opportunities

New sites are planned for Liverpool, Leeds, Southampton, Bristol, and Sheffield, with confirmed openings in Walsall, Uxbridge, and Rushden Lakes scheduled for 2025. Territory availability remains limited, offering the chance to establish Afrikana Kitchen in high-demand regions before the market saturates.

Culture, Community, and Connection

Afrikana Kitchen franchises unite communities around shared meals that celebrate African heritage and modern dining. To explore franchise opportunities and discuss available territories, please contact us at franchise@afrikanakitchen.com.

Join us in building culture, community, and connection, one exceptional meal at a time.



How Afrikana Kitchen Began in Aldridge

Discover why Afrikana Kitchen is the UK's leading African-inspired restaurant franchise. From a £260,500 investment, 18+ locations, a proven business model, and comprehensive support await.

How Afrikana Kitchen Began in Aldridge

In 2018, after working with brands such as Nando’s and gaining experience in Dubai’s hospitality scene, Omair Ali returned to the UK, determined to launch a restaurant reflecting his heritage. He opened the first Afrikana Kitchen in Aldridge, Walsall, combining signature flame-grilled chicken, plant-based options, and fully halal menus with a warm, culturally rich atmosphere.

That initial site established the blueprint for what today includes 18 locations, from Birmingham and Cardiff to Glasgow and London, each offering vibrant flavours, creative mocktails, and décor celebrating African art and music.

Franchise Models to Fit Every Market

Afrikana Kitchen offers 3 formats designed for diverse investment levels and locations:

  • Lil Afrikana Express: 600 to 1000 sq ft delivery-focused venues with up to 20 covers

  • The Afrikana Restaurant: 1,500-1800 sq ft dine-in venues seating 30-50 guests

  • Afrikana XL: More than 2,000 sq ft flagship destinations with more than 50 covers

Each model includes site-selection support, design guidance, initial training, and ongoing operational assistance to ensure consistency and profitability.

Performance Metrics That Count

Established Afrikana franchisees report weekly takings of around £18,000 and an average spend of £27 per customer. These figures reflect steady demand across dine-in, takeaway, delivery, and private events, backed by targeted marketing and a strong brand identity

Why Entrepreneurs Choose Afrikana Kitchen
  • Proven concept: Rapid growth from one site to 18 locations in seven years demonstrates market demand and brand strength

  • Cultural connection: Each restaurant features African drumming at openings, art-filled interiors, and playlists that immerse guests in African heritage.

  • Broad appeal: Menus cater to halal, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets without diluting bold flavour profiles

  • Dedicated support: From territory mapping to lease negotiations and staff training, franchise partners receive hands-on guidance

Expansion Roadmap and Opportunities

New sites are planned for Liverpool, Leeds, Southampton, Bristol, and Sheffield, with confirmed openings in Walsall, Uxbridge, and Rushden Lakes scheduled for 2025. Territory availability remains limited, offering the chance to establish Afrikana Kitchen in high-demand regions before the market saturates.

Culture, Community, and Connection

Afrikana Kitchen franchises unite communities around shared meals that celebrate African heritage and modern dining. To explore franchise opportunities and discuss available territories, please contact us at franchise@afrikanakitchen.com.

Join us in building culture, community, and connection, one exceptional meal at a time.



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