In this inspiring talk, Abiola Akanbi, also known as Chef Stone, shares his remarkable journey of grit and vision that reshaped Nigeria's culinary industry. Chef Stone, a culinary pioneer with an exceptional gift for creating world-class cuisine, has risen as one of Nigeria’s most influential chefs and food entrepreneurs.
With a fierce commitment to excellence and innovation, Chef Stone has transformed the local culinary scene, establishing top-tier culinary academies and redefining Nigerian cuisine for a global audience. From his unique approach to modern Nigerian flavors to his dedication to empowering aspiring chefs, he has built a legacy rooted in the power of vision and an unyielding drive.
His culinary expertise and entrepreneurial spirit have led him to establish multiple highly acclaimed ventures, including The Burgundy, a pan-African fine dining establishment in Abuja, Red Dish Chronicles culinary school, and West Africa's First Food Truck Park, Truck Central.
Beyond his culinary achievements, Chef Stone is known for his philanthropic efforts. He actively supports charitable causes such as hunger relief, skill acquisition, and education through the Red Dish foundation. His dedication to making a positive impact on society extends beyond his culinary endeavors. As an author, Chef Stone shares his knowledge and passion through a series of insightful cookbooks. These publications, including "The Bar Bible By Chef Stone," "Chef Stone Takes Africa," and "101 with Chef Stone," not only feature recipes but also provide readers with a glimpse into his culinary philosophy, techniques, and invaluable lessons learned throughout his career.
Through his story, Chef Stone sheds light on the resilience needed to challenge industry norms, creating a ripple effect of change that goes beyond the kitchen. Recognized for his industry-shaping influence, Chef Stone is celebrated as a true trailblazer in African cuisine.
Chef Stone is a renowned Nigerian chef and restaurateur who has achieved great success in the food industry. His culinary expertise and entrepreneurial spirit have led him to establish multiple highly acclaimed ventures, including The Burgundy, a pan-African fine dining establishment in Abuja, Red Dish Chronicles culinary school, and West Africa's First Food Truck Park, Truck Central. Chef Stone's business ventures have been widely recognized for their exceptional quality and attention to detail, solidifying his position as a leader in the industry.
As an author, Chef Stone shares his knowledge and passion through a series of insightful cookbooks. These publications, including "The Bar Bible By Chef Stone," "Chef Stone Takes Africa," and "101 with Chef Stone," not only feature recipes but also provide readers with a glimpse into his culinary philosophy, techniques, and invaluable lessons learned throughout his career. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at