Sandy's African Food Hub: A Taste of Africa in Derry

The 2024 Ethnic Minority Business, (MIRANI), award-winning Sandy’s African Food Hub is set to embark on a new chapter. After a successful 18 months operation at its original location in Bonds Street, Derry, the restaurant is moving to a larger space at 169-171 Spencer Road.

Since its opening in May 2023, Sandy's African Food Hub has quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the community, offering a vibrant array of rich flavours of authentic African foods, using locally sourced ingredients, while blending this with some she acquires from African.

Sandra Agoha, the visionary behind Sandy's African Food Hub, is passionate about sharing her love for African food and culture. Her dedication and hard work have been recognised with prestigious awards, including the highly commended business person of the Year at the 2024 Derry Journal People’s award and the 2024 Ethnic Minorities Recognition Awards NI in Hospitality.

Sandy said: “This nomination wouldn’t be possible without the incredible community that has supported my vision from the very beginning.”

Beyond the restaurant, Sandys actively participates in community events including African Day events, The African Caribbean Community Network’s Christmas Day celebration 2023, black history month, birthdays, and school intercultural events, where the community comes together to share in African food, music, and arts & culture.

Welcoming atmosphere

Sandy can’t wait to bring her unique flavours to Spencer Road and its offerings by providing a more comfortable dining experience.

The new location will accommodate up to 40-50 guests, creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers to enjoy delicious African cuisine. The new location will be open from Wednesday to Saturday, 3pm to 9pm. Additionally, a special Sunday buffet will be introduced, offering a unique dining experience for customers.

Sandy's success is a testament to the support of her husband, Kingsley, who recently finished his PhD in rural tourism development at Ulster university and their four children has been phenomenal.

One of the challenges she had was getting the appropriate staff, our food is quite different, so she had to train her staff specifically for that. Sandy’s dedication to staff training is paramount, ensuring the authenticity of the dishes is guaranteed .

She said: “My deepest gratitude to all our customers, friends for their unwavering support and loyalty. I am incredibly thankful to those who took the time to nominate me for these prestigious awards.

Sandy's African Food Hub received recognition at the Ethnic Minority Business Awards, winning Hospitality award.

“We look forward to continuing our journey and bringing even more exciting offerings and events to our customers.”

Call now for reservations 07938550211 or 02871164424. Or visit their website on www.sandysafricabfoodhub. com, Instagram @Sandys African Food Hu and Facebook @Sandys AFH.