Tucked away on the top floor of Peckham Levels, a former car park turned social space, is the Senegalese pop-up restaurant Little Baobab. This unique culinary gem is nestled in Peckham Levels, a vibrant hub for various cultures and arts. The modern industrial vibe, colourful strobe lighting, and diverse activities like ice hockey and snooker create a lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to visit on a weekend with your mates after a long week.
As my friend and I walked up to the pop-up, Afrobeats were playing on the speakers, and we saw the pop-up being tended to by a singular woman. My friend ordered the vegetarian Mafe (£10) and I the Dibi (£16), as well as the Felafel Fataya (£6).
Little Baobab offers a variety of seating options, from sofas to barstools and low tables, creating a cozy and comfortable environment for your dining experience.
The Mafe reminded me of a Sierra Leonean dish called ‘groundnut stew’, both consisted of a peanut butter stew served with rice and various meats and/or vegetables. It has a nice smoky flavour to it and was very filling, the sweet potato was a particular standout in the dish.
The Dibi was my favourite; it came as grilled meat and onion in a black pepper blend with fried plantain. The sweetness of the plantain complimented the spiciness of the meat perfectly, and the onions provided an extra crunchy texture to the softness of the meat and plantain.
The Falafel Fataya flavours weren’t particularly strong on its own; however the tomato onion sauce it came with elevated the dish a lot more and complimented the pastry. Maybe next time I’ll get the lamb option.
Overall, the food at Little Baobab is not only delicious but also comes at a very reasonable price point. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a taste of Senegal without breaking the bank. I highly recommend a visit to this lively spot at Peckham Levels, especially if you’re on a budget.
Alexander Koroma
Address: Unit 504, Peckham Levels, 95A Rye Ln, London SE15 4ST