Joké Wins Big as Michelin Recognises Chishuru

Adejoké Bakare, known affectionately as “Joké” has become the first black female Michelin-starred chef in the UK and only the second in the world.

Joké is the founder of Chishuru restaurant which opened in its new location in Fitzrovia last autumn having had a run in Brixton. The cuisine is West African.

Interestingly, a second West African restaurant Akoko, also in Fitzrovia, was also awarded with a star.

 “It hasn’t sunk in yet,” Bakare told The Guardian. “Until this morning I was just focused on enjoying the accolade itself, which I’m hugely honoured by. But seeing reactions on social media today, I’m starting to feel a weight of responsibility on my shoulders too, it’s lovely.”

The menu includes dishes such as sinasir (fermented rice cake), moi moi (bean cake) and ekoki (corn cake).

Denise Charles

“We make our own rules,” Bakare continued. “We answer to no one, we do our own thing. As a black female chef I’m not totally sure I could have done it any other way.”

Chefs’ Forum favourite Denise Charles, Head of Curriculum at West London College, said of the news:

“Congratulations Adejoké Bakare on being the first black woman to achieve a Michelin star, breaking through the ceiling and ensuring that there is a path for others to follow. Well done. I will look forward to booking and eating the delicious cuisine.”

We echo those words. A fine achievement demonstrating that patience and belief are the keys to success.