West African Entrepreneur Opens Baltimore's First Fine Dining Senegalese Restaurant

Hungry Baltimoreans don't have to travel far to experience authentic Senegalese cuisine. Nailah's Kitchen, the latest restaurant to open in the Mid-Govans neighborhood, unveils its new dining room on Sunday, July 10 at 5722 York Road, just a few blocks from Belvedere Square.

The fine dining section of the West African eatery features traditional and contemporary Senegalese cuisine, as well as many Halal offerings. Diners can enjoy Senegalese classics such as Thiebou Djeun, a stewed fish dish, Lamb Maffe, a peanut butter stew, and sample freshly squeezed juices made from popular African fruits. In addition to the traditional West African cuisine, Nailah's Kitchen also offers popular American dishes, including rotisserie chicken and pizza. Guests will enjoy an assortment of pastries, cakes, and cookies from renowned local bakery Pâtisserie Poupon.

The carry out portion of the restaurant has been open since May, but the newly finished dining room is the first of its kind in Baltimore. The 1,450 square foot contemporary space showcases Senegalese cuisine in a sophisticated setting inspired by West African culture. Designed by Curry Architects, the restaurant seats 112 guests and features comfortable booths and tables, an eye-catching mural depicting Senegal's rich history, a sleek bar serving non-alcoholic cocktails and fresh juices, and a stage for live Senegalese music and performances. Owner Mohammed Agbodjogbe plans to offer a Sunday brunch buffet beginning in August.

"We're so excited to bring our culture and cuisine to a new audience," Agbodjogbe says. "If you're from West Africa, this should taste like home."

In addition to the York Road location, Agbodjogbe plans to open another Nailah's Kitchen featuring carry out and casual dining at 306 N. Howard St. in the coming months. Nailah's Food Truck will also be hitting the streets soon and serving up shawarma wraps, sandwiches, and subs. The food truck is currently available to cater parties and events. Visit http://www.nailahskitchen.com for updates and more information.

About Mohammed Agbodjogbe:

Agbodjogbe is a West African entrepreneur who has lived in Baltimore for 17 years. His real estate development firm, Nine Jewels, aims to revitalize buildings on neglected blocks of Baltimore City. Alongside Curry Architects, the Baltimore Development Corporation and the Downtown Partnership, this effort will begin with the transformation of 400 N. Howard Street, a building that has been abandoned for nearly 20 years. The 15,000 square foot multi-use project will feature three floors of amenity-rich modern apartment units anchored by a street level cafe and farmer's market specializing in Halal meats.

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