Soul Meets Spice: Miss Lou’s Afro-Caribbean Pop-Up

There’s a new flavor revolution simmering in the city—and it’s rooted in heritage, heat, and a whole lot of heart. Meet Miss Lou’s, an Afro Caribbean soul food concept restaurant that’s redefining comfort food by weaving together the rich flavors of the Caribbean, West Africa, and the American South.

Since its launch in early March, Miss Lou’s has so far only been available as delivery and pickup service. But now Nairobi is in for a treat as Miss Lou’s is staging a pop-up this Sunday 27 April, serving both Reggae Brunch and Dancehall Dinner.

The food concept is as personal as it is delicious. Miss Lou’s is the loving creation of American-raised Nigerian Executive Chef Eyitemi Popo. She has been inspired by her own culinary heritage and that of her Jamaican husband.

Miss Lou’s founder and Executive Chef Eyitemi Popo

Popo shared that she really wanted to bring both cultures together,

Since I grew up in the U.S., I’m also a huge fan of American soul food. It’s the ingredients, the history, the techniques that travel from West Africa through the Caribbean to the American Deep South. We’re celebrating that cultural heritage all in one place – where you can taste the African diaspora.”

Miss Lou’s is more than just a food concept; it’s a sensory journey that traces the movement of people, stories, and flavors—from West Africa to the Caribbean, and finally to the American Deep South. The menu is a scrumptious tribute to that journey, anchored by two star dishes that tell a powerful story on their own: Jerk Chicken and Jollof Rice.

If you’ve never had jerk chicken done right, Miss Lou’s version might just change your life. It’s smoky, spicy, and grilled to perfection—exactly the way it’s made in Jamaica, with a depth of flavor that lingers long after the last bite. Pair that with Nigerian jollof rice, a dish steeped in culinary legacy, and you’ve got something magical. “Our version is deep, bright red, full of flavor, and even has a bit of smokiness to it,” Popo explains. “It made perfect sense to pair it with jerk—that’s the base of our menu.”

But the journey doesn’t stop there. Miss Lou’s dives deeper into Southern comfort, offering soul food like mac’n’cheese and fried chicken.

Their first official pop-up event on Sunday is when you can sit down and feel the magic. “That’s when you’ll really get to experience the vibe of the brand,” she says. “The music, the warmth, the energy—it’s more than food, it’s culture.”

The pop-up will feature an incredible 12-dish tasting menu showcasing Miss Lou’s delicious fusion of bold Caribbean and West African flavours for both brunch and dinner. It will be a celebration of Afro-Caribbean soul food, including Miss Lou’s signature Jerk Chicken and Oxtail Mac & Cheese. You’ll also find Caribbean cocktail bar, plus vibes you won’t want to miss. They even cater to non-meat eaters with mouth-watering dishes like Mango-Plantain Salad, Caribbean Plantain Curry and Coconut Fish ‘N’ Creamed Corn Grits.

Reggae Brunch: The timing is a civilized 12 – 5pm, with plenty of time to get there after church service. Brunch will be a laid-back, vibrant family friendly affair. Kids are absolutely welcome. Picture your favourite brunch…now add a lively reggae flair and you’re vibing.

Dancehall Dinner: From 6 – 11pm Miss Lou’s goes 18+ and the remit is dinner and dancing, with dancehall classics and a pop of Afro-Caribbean hospitality to warm your soul.

Wondering about the dress code? Miss Lou’s suggests “Tropical Resort” or “Sunday Best” – and we know Nairobians will reach those peaks of fine dressing.

The pop-up is just the beginning. With eyes set on opening a permanent location soon, Miss Lou’s is poised to become a new staple for food lovers looking to explore the intersections of African and diaspora culinary tradition. Make sure you’re one of the ones who got to taste it first!

So, whether you’re craving something fiery, soulful, or straight-up nostalgic, Miss Lou’s is the kind of spot that feeds both stomach and soul. One bite in, and you’ll know: this is what home tastes like—no matter where you’re from.

Reservations are required for the pop-up and spaces are filling up. You can make yours on: Miss Lou’s Website