The beginning of June saw the opening of Shwen Shwen in Sevenoaks - the sophisticated debut restaurant from award-winning author and chef, Maria Bradford.
Born and raised in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Maria Bradford developed her passion for food at a young age, cooking alongside her mother and grandmother. Since moving to Kent as a teenager, she has pursued her dream in the culinary industry - first through her own private catering company, and then with the release of successful cookbook, Sweet Salone.
Now, the acclaimed chef is bringing the bold and vibrant flavours of Sierra Leone to this historic corner of Kent. Shwen Shwen sets out to redefine fine dining with Maria’s distinctive take on Afro-fusion cuisine, whilst celebrating the culture and heritage of West Africa.
We chatted to Maria about what guests can expect from a dining experience at Shwen Shwen, and how the immaculately designed and immersive restaurant is a love letter to her her homeland.