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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