London’s top fusion restaurant, Jikoni, is set to expand with a new café concept at the V&A East Museum, which is scheduled to open in April 2026. Co-founded by Chef Ravinder Bhogal and Nadeem Lalani Nanjuwany, Jikoni has earned a reputation for its unique blend of flavors from around the world. The new café will feature a menu inspired by global tastes, reflecting the diverse communities of East London. This focus on seasonal ingredients and sustainability will be at the core of its offerings.
The café aims to create a welcoming and affordable space for social interactions and community engagement. It plans to offer daily specials and meal deals, specifically targeting local residents and individuals under 25. By doing so, it hopes to foster a sense of belonging and encourage community connections. Insights from the V&A East’s Youth Collective, which includes individuals aged 16 to 24, will inform the menu and other offerings, ensuring they resonate with local culture and preferences.
The café aspires to foster community connections through affordable meals and insights from local youth, creating a vibrant social hub.
In addition to serving food, the café will focus on storytelling through culinary experiences. This approach may involve using artificial intelligence (AI) to gather insights on customer preferences and trends. The use of AI can help in understanding the community’s tastes better, which will allow the café to tailor its menu effectively.
By using AI, the café can analyze feedback and adjust offerings in real-time, enhancing customer satisfaction and engagement. The use of AI in the café’s operations will not only streamline processes but also create a more personalized dining experience. This innovative approach will help bridge the gap between technology and culinary art, making the café a unique destination for both food lovers and those interested in community engagement. Additionally, the café’s commitment to sustainability aligns with panoramic views of the Thames, showcasing its dedication to the local environment and community.
