Harlem And London Are Getting A Brand New African Food Hall, Alkebulan

Harlem And London Are Getting A Brand New African Food Hall, Alkebulan

Only days into the new year, two major cities are slated to get even more delicious. Harlem-based Chef Alexander Small, the James Beard award-winning visionary of The Cecil and its sister restaurant Minton's, is opening the world's first African food hall, Alkebulan. Small, a former opera singer turned culinary activist, debuted the concept at Expo 2020 Dubai in October 2021. Following an extremely positive global reception, Alkebulan will remain permanent in Dubai, with expansions in both Harlem and London. Alkebulan, which is the oldest name for Africa, is envisioned as a cultural and culinary movement that celebrates the untapped cuisine of the African continent. Smalls curated the Alkebulan location in Dubai to offer elevent African chef-led concepts showcasing the diverse cuisines that Africa has to offer, from gourmet dishes and street bites to fusion fare. Local art and live music also amps up the cultural immersion at the food hall. "Despite its rich culinary heritage, African cuisine has been overlooked and underestimated for many years," said Chef Smalls. With Alkebulan, we look forward to bringing its diverse and spectacular culinary palates to the forefront by introducing a unique dining concept to two of the world's most thriving food destinations." The