Maryam M Chaanda: Plymouth Jollof Kitchen

Learn all about Plymouth Jollof Kitchen and how the owner has turned her restaurant into a thriving hub for culture and community.

We have an exclusive “inside look” into the fascinating life of Mrs Maryam M. Chaanda. Director and Founder of Plymouth Jollof Kitchen, Maryam is passionate about sharing her culture with people from all walks of life.

Her story begins in Northern Nigeria, where she enjoyed traditional home cooking from a young age. She has always believed that food has the power to bring people together, and this has belief followed her to Plymouth in 2011. This is why she opened a vibrant restaurant in the heart of the city.

“When I first came to Plymouth, I realised how much I loved cooking. I wanted to get involved in the community and learn more about women and families here. At my children’s school, parents would gather and I’d bring food and snacks. People would ask me: ‘Maryam, what are these things you’re making?’ and I’d say: ‘This is jollof rice!’ They loved trying something new. Soon, everyone was looking forward to the next meeting – excited to taste more. Not everyone was used to spice… I thought everyone loved spice! So I learned to tone it down a little, and that’s when I really began to understand how to share my food with the community.”

Of course, Plymouth Jollof Kitchen is more than just a restaurant. It’s a place of community engagement and culture. Maryam is committed to delivering leftover food to homeless shelters and the local mosque. This way, she can make sure nothing goes to waste. She creates a welcoming environment to help BAME and Muslim communities feel supported.

“One of our biggest aims is to give everyone who approaches us a strong point of contact. We reach out as much as we can, as well! We want everyone to feel comfortable in these spaces.”

Maryam’s dedication extends to young people, too. By taking groups of children on trips across Devon, she can introduce them to new experiences; while also celebrating their own cultural heritage. She believes these opportunities are essential for building confidence and a sense of belonging.

“It’s important that young people feel integrated and settled in the South West. People from the Muslim community can feel quite isolated, so we take the time to listen and fully understand their background.”

Looking to the future, Maryam is passionate about opening doors for young people when it comes to career opportunities. She connects young people with organisations that offer guidance on wellbeing, employment, and personal development. Her vision is to get role models from the Black community to show young people that they can succeed in a wide range of professions.

We are proud to celebrate Maryam as part of Black History Month 2025. Her leadership and generosity have made her an inspirational figure for Plymouth and beyond.