Meet the Founders
Gill Arukpe
Gill brings over four decades of leadership in community-focused service delivery. Her recognition with an MBE reflects her lifelong dedication to supporting people and strengthening communities. At Ebony Table, she ensures that every guest experience reflects warmth, professionalism, and care.
Cardinal Arukpe
Cardinal brings more than 30 years of hospitality experience, including involvement in Nigerian dining establishments. His passion for food, music, and cultural celebration shapes the vibrant atmosphere guests enjoy today.
Our Story
After retiring as CEO of the Social Interest Group, Gill was ready for a new chapter. When an opportunity arose to establish an African restaurant in Hatfield, we saw the chance to fulfil a long-held dream.
Cardinal had supported Gill throughout her career. It was now our turn to build something together. We combined our shared love of entertaining, our Nigerian heritage, and decades of customer-focused service to create Ebony Table.
From day one, our vision was clear. We wanted to deliver authentic West African cuisine while building a vibrant social hub rooted in culture, music, and inclusion.
Our Food Philosophy
Our menu reflects traditional Nigerian recipes passed down through generations, combined with a carefully developed grill offering that welcomes both familiar and new diners.
We honour cultural integrity while adapting to modern hospitality standards. Every dish is prepared with authentic spices, balanced seasoning, and attention to quality.
Our chefs are trained in food hygiene and bring experience from African restaurants in Nigeria and London, strengthening the authenticity behind every plate we prepare in our African restaurant in Hatfield.
Our Values
Everything we do is guided by four principles:
Vibrancy
We bring energy, celebration, and music into the dining experience.
Inclusivity
Everyone is welcome. We celebrate diversity in culture, cuisine, and community.
Customer Centred Excellence
With over 45 years of recognised service experience and an MBE awarded for lifetime achievement, hospitality and care remain at the heart of our approach.
Cultural Integrity
We honour Nigerian and African-inspired traditions while delivering professional and consistent service.
What Makes Ebony Table Different
- The only dedicated African restaurant in the area
- Authentic Nigerian heritage recipes
- Fusion grill options that welcome broader tastes
- Fortnightly music nights featuring Soul, Reggae, and Afro Beats
- A husband and wife-led business built on community values
We are committed not only to serving exceptional food but to creating a space where culture and community thrive together.
Our Vision for the Future
As an established African restaurant in Hatfield, Ebony Table continues to evolve into a vibrant hub where food, music, and community connect. Upcoming initiatives include festive live music events, therapeutic art and wellbeing breakfasts, and the development of apprenticeship training programmes for young people entering hospitality.
Our goal is to set new standards of hospitality excellence while remaining deeply rooted in heritage and inclusivity.
